How to choose your first Ney?

The Ney, an end-blown flute prominent in Middle Eastern music, offers a unique sound that has captivated musicians for centuries, but how do you choose your first Ney? Selecting the right Ney is crucial for professional musicians and beginners who are about to venture into the rich tradition of Middle Eastern music. This article provides […]

A Beginner’s Journey to Playing the Setar

It is not difficult to play Setar. This delicate and nuanced Persian instrument is cherished for its rich tonal quality and expressive capabilities. Key points for playing the Setar include mastering right-hand plucking techniques, proper left-hand finger placement for clear intonation and smooth transitions, as well as consistent practice of rhythmic patterns and melodic structures. […]

An Introduction to the Gheychak

Introduction Gheychak is one of the traditional string instruments of Iran, which holds a special place in Iranian traditional and folk music. Due to its unique sound and specific structure, this instrument has always been of interest to musicians and enthusiasts of Iranian music. In this article, we delve into the specialized examination of the […]

What is the difference between the violin and the Rebab?

Introduction Who is in the world who does not know violin? One of the most famous instruments is known to produce the most similar sounds to human vocal cords. Despite its magical sound and tone, the violin is not an easy-to-play instrument. However, it is not just the violin that is hard to play. As […]

Most Famous Iranian Setar Players

The best Setar players   Although musical instruments are various and countless around the world, some of them are superior to others. It is not just the instrument’s competency that makes the difference, but the players’ influence on the fame of the instrument, too. Some of the most famous figures who have been effective in […]

The Santoor: A Journey Through History

What country is Santoor from? The presence of some similar instruments to Santoor all over the world makes it hard to identify the exact origin of it. According to Gifford (2001), Santur was first played by women in Iran before appearing in other countries such as Turkey and India. As we can see in the […]

Qanun Instrument Origin

Qanun is a string instrument mostly popular in Middle Eastern countries. It is an instrument played solo or in groups in most parts of Iran, the Arab East, and Arab regions of North Africa. As years went by, the instrument became more popular in some parts of West Africa and Central Asia because of the […]

All the details you need to know about how to tune a Persian tar

In the hands of a master, the strings of the Persian tar whisper secrets of ancient Persia, waving tales from a bygone era. Persian tar’s unique design and structure allow it to produce the delicate, intricate threads of sound it is renowned for. In this article, we will explore the main characteristics of this exceptional […]

Is learning to play Kamanche as hard as the violin?

Learning a new musical instrument is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. While experts often recommend starting with percussion instruments, many beginners are captivated by the allure of string-based instruments such as the guitar and violin or even more exotic options like the Persian tar and Kamanche. In fact, two instruments that frequently intrigue aspiring musicians […]

What are the different types of tar instruments?

The realm of string instruments is vast and diverse, with each instrument contributing its own distinctive tonal qualities and cultural heritage. Among these, the tar family stands out with its unique sound and design. Originating from the Middle East and Central Asia, tar instruments have evolved into several types, each with unique characteristics and history. […]