A Beginner’s Guide to Playing the Santoor

Introduction Welcome to the enchanting world of the santoor, a stringed instrument known for its angelic melodies and enchanting resonance! Whether you’ve seen a maestro strum its strings and felt compelled to learn, or you’re starting from scratch, you’ve come to the right place. Playing the santoor is a delightful journey that offers both musical […]

Tombak vs. Dumbek: A Comparison of Persian and Middle Eastern Percussion

Introduction If you’ve ever found yourself tapping along to the rhythmic beats of Middle Eastern music, you might have heard of two popular hand drums: the Tombak and the Doumbek. These percussion instruments add depth and vibrancy to any musical ensemble. But what makes them different from each other? Is it their shape, sound, or […]

Exploring the Differences: Turkish Ney vs. Arabic Ney

Introduction When you hear the melodious tones of Middle Eastern music, there’s a good chance the ney is at play. This iconic wind instrument brings a soulful, almost mystical, sound that transports listeners to distant lands and ancient times. However, did you know that not all neys sound the same? The ney has regional variations, […]

Persian tar maintenance

Introduction The Persian tar is more than just an instrument; it’s a piece of cultural history that sings stories of the past. Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the enchanting sounds of this beautiful instrument, proper care and maintenance are crucial to keep it in pristine condition. Like any fine musical instrument, the […]

Why are handpans so expensive?

Introduction Handpans are magical musical instruments that captivate listeners with their rich, resonant sounds. But if you’ve ever looked into buying one, you might have been surprised by the steep price tag. Why are handpans so expensive, you ask? The answer lies in a combination of craftsmanship, materials, and demand. These unique instruments are handcrafted […]

Arabic Oud vs Turkish Oud

Introduction The oud is a captivating string instrument with deep roots in Middle Eastern music traditions. If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between an Arabic Oud and a Turkish Oud, you’re in for a treat! These two variations of the oud not only differ in design and sound but also carry distinct cultural meanings. […]

Differences Between Oud and Guitar

Introduction If you’re a fan of string instruments, you’ve probably heard the enchanting sounds of both the oud and the guitar. They might both belong to the string family, but these two instruments are as different as night and day. Each brings its own unique flair, history, and musical possibilities to the stage. Whether you’re […]

What are the different types of santoor? Every thing you need to know about different types of santoor

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 […]

Finding the Perfect Mizrab for Your Setar

The Setar, a traditional Persian string instrument, offers various playing techniques with fingernails and Setar Mizrabs that can profoundly influence its sound and expressiveness. From delicate fingerpicking to intricate strumming patterns, how one plays the Setar can vary significantly, allowing for diverse musical styles and interpretations. This article will explore various Setar playing techniques, highlighting […]

Are Arabic and Iranian music the same?

The Middle East is a cradle of diverse traditions and cultures. Among its most notable cultural expressions are the musical traditions of Iran and the Arabic-speaking world. On many different levels, these traditions are similar, mostly due to their historical interactions and shared cultural spaces. However, they are distinct in many ways, too. These two […]