Types of Santur (Santoor): A Complete Guide to Persian, Indian, Iraqi, Turkish, Chinese, and Other Hammered Dulcimers

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of the santoor! This enchanting instrument, renowned for its sweet, melodic sounds, has captivated musicians and listeners for centuries. But did you know there are several types of santoor, each with its own distinctive voice and personality? Whether you’re a seasoned santoor enthusiast or just curious about this marvelous instrument, our guide will explore the different varieties of santoor. From their unique features to the cultural significance, let’s dive into the harmonious universe of santoor music!

Instrument	Country/Region	Approx. Strings	Bridges	Playing Mallets	Musical Tradition	Distinctive Features
Persian Santoor	Iran	72	18 (9 per side)	Mezrabs	Persian Classical (Dastgah)	Considered one of the oldest santurs; warm walnut body; movable bridges; delicate, expressive tone.
Indian Santoor	India (Kashmir)	90–100	25–31	Kalam	Hindustani Classical, Kashmiri Folk	Larger than the Persian model; wider range; tuned for specific ragas; bright, resonant sound.
Iraqi Santur	Iraq	80–92 (varies)	23–25	Wooden beaters	Iraqi Maqam	Designed for microtonal maqam music; rich, expressive accompaniment.
Turkish Santur	Türkiye	72–84 (varies)	18–24	Wooden hammers	Ottoman Classical (Makam)	Similar to the Persian santur but adapted for Turkish modal music; historically used in Ottoman courts.
Chinese Yangqin	China	120–150+	30–40+	Flexible bamboo beaters	Chinese Classical, Folk, Orchestra	Chromatic layout; highly versatile; modern versions include advanced tuning mechanisms.
Hungarian Cimbalom	Hungary	125–140+	35+	Padded mallets	Hungarian Folk, Classical	Largest hammered dulcimer; includes a damper pedal; powerful concert instrument.
Romanian Țambal	Romania	90–125	30–35	Wooden hammers	Romanian Folk, Romani Music	Available in portable and concert versions; bright, rhythmic sound.
Greek Santouri	Greece	90–115	25–30	Thin wooden mallets	Greek Folk, Rebetiko	Derived from Ottoman and Persian traditions; common in island and dance music.
German Hackbrett	Germany, Austria, Switzerland	60–100	15–25	Wooden hammers	Alpine Folk	Compact design; used in traditional Alpine music.
Appalachian Hammered Dulcimer	United States	60–100	12–18	Wooden hammers	American Folk, Celtic, Bluegrass	Descended from European dulcimers; available in diatonic and chromatic versions.
Belarusian Cymbaly	Belarus	70–100	20–25	Wooden beaters	Belarusian Folk	Bright tone; used in traditional folk orchestras and ensembles.
Ukrainian Tsymbaly	Ukraine	80–120	20–35	Wooden mallets	Ukrainian Folk, Classical	Produced in both folk and concert models; capable of virtuosic performances.
Slovak Cimbal	Slovakia	90–120	25–35	Wooden hammers	Slovak Folk	Similar to the Hungarian cimbalom but adapted to Slovak folk traditions.
Czech Cimbál	Czech Republic	90–120	25–35	Padded beaters	Czech & Moravian Folk	Widely used in Moravian folk ensembles; warm, resonant tone.

Different Types of Santoor

Santoor is a captivating instrument known for its delicate, resonant sounds that can enchant anyone who hears it. Throughout history, different cultures have embraced the santoor, each crafting their own version with unique features. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of santoor varieties to uncover their distinctive characteristics.

Indian Santoor

The Indian Santoor, especially associated with the tranquil valleys of Kashmir, is a gem in the realm of Indian classical music. Typically, it features over a hundred strings pleasantly resting on a flat, wooden trapezoid box. This instrument requires two lightweight mallets, known as “mezrab,” to create its magical melodies.

– Size and Shape: The Indian Santoor is known for its comparatively larger size, resulting in a robust and captivating sound. Its trapezoid form is both visually appealing and functional.

– Playing Style: Traditionally, the Indian Santoor is played while the musician is seated on the floor, with the instrument on their lap or a small stand. This allows for a serene, focused performance.

– Music Genres: It is commonly used in Indian Classical and Sufi music, bringing forth intricate ragas and soulful improvisations.

Persian Santoor

Crossing borders, we encounter the Persian Santoor, a significant component of Middle Eastern music. It resembles its Indian counterpart but has distinct features that make it stand out.

– Size and Design: The Persian Santoor is slightly smaller and typically has 72 strings distributed over nine bridges. Its frame is often made from walnut wood, providing a elegantly warm and sweet tone.

– Playing Position: This santoor is placed on a table or directly on the musician’s lap, allowing for more fluid hand movements.

– Cultural Influence: The Persian Santoor is essential in Persian classical music, known for its expressive and emotive tones that convey a wide array of feelings.

Iraqi Santur

Moving west into Mesopotamia, the Iraqi Santur plays an important role in the sophisticated tradition of Iraqi Maqam. It is valued for its subtle microtonal expression and refined accompaniment.

Size and Design: Similar in appearance to the Persian Santoor, it features multiple metal strings arranged over movable bridges to accommodate the modal structure of Iraqi music.
Playing Position: The instrument rests on a table or stand and is played with slim wooden beaters.
Cultural Influence: The Iraqi Santur is indispensable in Iraqi Maqam ensembles, where it supports vocalists and traditional instruments with expressive melodic lines.

Turkish Santur

Within the rich musical heritage of the Ottoman Empire, the Turkish Santur developed its own distinctive identity, blending Persian influences with the unique characteristics of Turkish makam music.

Size and Design: Comparable in size to the Persian Santoor, it incorporates a bridge layout and tuning adapted for Turkish modal music.
Playing Position: It is positioned horizontally on a table and played with lightweight wooden hammers.
Cultural Influence: Once popular in Ottoman court music, the Turkish Santur is experiencing renewed interest among musicians dedicated to preserving historical performance traditions.

Hungarian Cimbalom

In Central Europe, the Hungarian Cimbalom represents the largest and most sophisticated member of the hammered dulcimer family. It evolved into a full-fledged concert instrument during the nineteenth century.

Size and Design: Significantly larger than most santurs, it features a reinforced frame, numerous strings, and a pedal-operated damper system similar to a piano.
Playing Position: Supported by four legs, it is played while seated using padded wooden mallets.
Cultural Influence: The Cimbalom is central to Hungarian folk music, Romani ensembles, and classical orchestral repertoire.

Chinese Yangqin

Setting foot in East Asia, we discover the Chinese Yangqin, a modern embodiment of the ancient santoor. Unlike its Persian and Indian counterparts, the Yangqin boasts of its own flair.

– Distinctive Design: The Yangqin features a rectangular body, often with metal strings of varying thicknesses, which contribute to its vibrant tonal palette. Its hammers, traditionally made from bamboo or wood, are slightly softer than those of the Indian and Persian versions.

– Tonality and Sound: Known for its lively, crystal-clear sounds, the Yangqin can take you on a sonic journey. It’s worth noting that this instrument often complements traditional Chinese orchestras, adding depth and color to the ensemble.

– Musical Context: The Yangqin collaborates beautifully with other Chinese instruments like the erhu and pipa, enhancing cultural performances and modern compositions alike.

Romanian Țambal

The Romanian Țambal is a close relative of the Hungarian Cimbalom, prized for its versatility in Romanian folk and Romani musical traditions.

Size and Design: Available in both portable folk versions and larger concert models, it includes multiple string courses and an extended tonal range.
Playing Position: It is played on a stand or legs using lightweight wooden hammers.
Cultural Influence: The Țambal is an essential component of Romanian folk ensembles and remains one of the country’s most recognizable traditional instruments

Greek Santouri

Crossing into southeastern Europe, the Greek Santouri has become a beloved instrument in traditional Greek folk music, particularly on the Aegean islands.

Size and Design: Similar to the Turkish Santur but often larger, it features multiple bridges and metal strings designed for bright, resonant projection.
Playing Position: The instrument rests on a stand and is played with slender wooden mallets.
Cultural Influence: It is widely heard in island music, rebetiko, and festive dance performances throughout Greece.

German Hackbrett

In the Alpine regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, the Hackbrett has served as a cherished folk instrument for centuries.

Size and Design: Usually smaller than concert cimbaloms, it features fewer strings and a compact trapezoidal body.
Playing Position: It is placed on a table or stand and struck with small wooden hammers.
Cultural Influence: The Hackbrett remains popular in Alpine folk music and has recently gained attention in contemporary acoustic and crossover genres.

Appalachian Hammered Dulcimer

Across the Atlantic, European immigrants introduced the Appalachian Hammered Dulcimer to North America, where it developed into a hallmark of traditional American folk music.

Size and Design: Typically lighter and simpler than European concert instruments, it features diatonic or chromatic string arrangements.
Playing Position: It rests on a stand or tabletop and is played with two wooden hammers.
Cultural Influence: The instrument is widely used in Appalachian, Celtic, old-time, bluegrass, and contemporary folk music.

Belarusian Cymbaly

The Belarusian Cymbaly is a traditional hammered dulcimer that has long been associated with Eastern European folk music and dance.

Size and Design: Medium-sized with multiple string courses and a bright, resonant tone.
Playing Position: Played horizontally on a stand using wooden beaters.
Cultural Influence: Frequently performed in Belarusian folk ensembles and national orchestras.

Ukrainian Tsymbaly

The Ukrainian Tsymbaly is one of Eastern Europe’s most expressive hammered dulcimers, widely used in both folk and academic music.

Size and Design: Available in regional folk versions as well as large chromatic concert models.
Playing Position: Supported on a stand and played with lightweight wooden mallets.
Cultural Influence: It is a defining instrument of Ukrainian folk traditions and has become a respected solo concert instrument.

Slovak Cimbal

The Slovak Cimbal shares many characteristics with neighboring Central European hammered dulcimers while maintaining its own regional playing traditions.

Size and Design: Produced in both portable folk models and larger chromatic versions.
Playing Position: Played on a stand using wooden hammers.
Cultural Influence: Commonly featured in Slovak folk ensembles, weddings, festivals, and traditional dance music.

Czech Cimbál

The Czech Cimbál occupies an important place in Moravian and Bohemian folk traditions.

Size and Design: Similar to the Slovak and Hungarian instruments, with multiple strings and an extended tonal range.
Playing Position: Positioned on legs or a sturdy stand and played with padded beaters.
Cultural Influence: It serves as a centerpiece of Czech folk ensembles and regional cultural celebrations.

Features and Characteristics

The santoor family is diverse, yet each type shares core features that bring forth the enchanting music we’re accustomed to. Let’s explore the fundamental characteristics that define these beloved instruments.

Common Features Shared by All Santurs

Despite considerable regional diversity, nearly every member of the hammered dulcimer family shares several defining characteristics.

The body is typically trapezoidal, maximizing string length while maintaining a practical playing surface. Multiple strings are grouped together for each note, enhancing volume and resonance. Small wooden bridges organize the strings into playable courses. Finally, performance depends upon handheld hammers rather than fingers or plectra.

These shared design principles explain why musicians from different cultures can immediately recognize the familial relationship among instruments that otherwise appear quite distinct.

Construction and Materials

The craftsmanship of a santoor significantly affects its sound and performance. Here’s what you need to know about its construction:

– Frame Material: Typically constructed from walnut or maple wood, the choice of material impacts the instrument’s tonal warmth and resonance. High-quality wood is often selected to ensure durability and premium sound production.

– Strings: String composition varies, including steel, bronze, or sometimes a gut composite for a unique tonal effect. The number of strings can range from dozens to over a hundred, depending on the cultural variant.

– Bridges and Pegs: The santoor’s strings are supported by moveable bridges, allowing for minor tuning adjustments. Pegs near the edges hold strings in tension and facilitate broader tuning alterations.

Sound and Tonality

Each type of santoor creates a signature sound, shaped by cultural influences and design variations:

– Tone Quality: The Indian Santoor often delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with sustained notes, ideal for classical and folk renditions. In contrast, the Persian Santoor provides brighter, more defined notes, offering a delightful contrast in Middle Eastern music.

– Harmonics and Resonance: All santoors produce a captivating mix of harmonics, thanks to the sympathetic resounding of strings. This results in layered, ethereal soundscapes that can transform a simple melody into something extraordinary.

– Volume and Projection: The Yangqin, distinct for its volume, can easily cut through an orchestral setting with a clear, assertive voice, while the Indian and Persian versions prefer gentler, immersive sound experiences.

Tuning Patterns

Tuning a santoor is an art in itself, and each type follows unique patterns based on tradition and musical requirements:

– Indian Santoor Tuning: This version aligns with Indian classical ragas, often following specific scales that match the musician’s chosen raga. Frequent tuning adjustments are made to accommodate the microtonal nature of Indian music.

– Persian Santoor Tuning: Persian Santoor uses “Dastgah” as a modal foundation, allowing musicians to explore various modes and scales within Persian music. It offers flexibility for musicians to adjust to numerous traditional modes.

– Yangqin Tuning: It generally adopts a Western chromatic scale, facilitating harmony with other orchestral instruments. Musicians enjoy a wide range of tonal areas, making it adaptable for both traditional and modern compositions.

As you can see, the world of santoor is a rich tapestry of cultural influences and musical diversity. Whether you’re a curious music lover or an aspiring musician, understanding these unique instruments’ features and characteristics can deepen your appreciation for their enchanting sound. Hopefully, this exploration inspires you to discover and enjoy the melodious wonders of the santoor further.

Choosing the Right Santoor

Finding the perfect santoor can be both an exciting and daunting task, especially given the variety available. Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned pro, selecting a santoor that matches your needs and skills is crucial. Let’s break down the choices and considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Considerations for Beginners

If you’re new to the world of santoor, you’ll want to focus on a few key aspects that make learning easier and more enjoyable:

– Size and Weight: Beginners should look for a lightweight santoor, as it can be easier to handle and play. A smaller size might also be more comfortable for practice sessions.

– Number of Strings: The more strings a santoor has, the more complex it can be to master. For beginners, a santoor with fewer strings can be less intimidating and help you learn the basics without being overwhelmed.

– Cost: Santoors can range significantly in price. If you’re just starting, it’s wise to opt for a reasonably priced instrument. You’ll want to ensure you’re committed to learning before investing in a high-end piece.

Professional Preferences

For seasoned santoor players or those looking to step up their game, professional preferences might lean towards more advanced features:

– Sound Quality: Professionals often prioritize the tonal richness and sustain of the santoor. It’s important for the instrument to have a full sound that can fill a concert hall.

– Craftsmanship: The build quality, including the wood used and the precision of the carving, is crucial for professionals. High-end santoors are often hand-crafted with superior materials that can affect both playability and sound.

– String Count and Tuning Options: Advanced players might seek instruments with a higher number of strings, offering a broader range of notes and tuning options for complex compositions.

Maintenance and Care

Regardless of your experience level, proper maintenance is essential to keep your santoor sounding beautiful and lasting a long time. Here are some handy tips:

– Regular Tuning: Like most string instruments, the santoor requires regular tuning. Investing in a good-quality tuner will help keep your instrument in perfect pitch.

– Cleaning: Dust can affect the sound and longevity of the strings and wood. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the surface of the santoor after each use.

– String Replacement: Over time, strings can wear out and may need replacing. Keeping spare strings and learning to replace them yourself can save time and trips to the music shop.

– Storage: Always store your santoor in a cool, dry place to avoid damage from humidity and temperature changes. A sturdy case can protect the instrument from physical damage when not in use or during transport.

Purchasing the right santoor, maintaining it with care, and appreciating the unique sound it offers can bring a world of joy and musical fulfillment, whether you’re playing in your living room or on a grand stage. Happy playing!

Conclusion

In the enchanting world of santoor music, each type of santoor offers its own unique charm and sound. From the traditional Indian santoor known for its dulcet tones to the Persian santur with its deeper resonance, there’s a santoor for every musical preference. Understanding these varieties can enhance your appreciation and even guide you in choosing the right instrument for your musical journey. Whether you’re a musician or an enthusiast, the santoor’s diverse melodies promise an auditory experience like no other.