Music Teachers - Tar and Setar

Khorshid Dadbeh
Tar and Setar lessons

Khorsgid Dadbeh - Tar en Setar leren spelen, verdiep je in makam bij een specialist

Rotterdam
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About Tar and Setar lessons

What is a Tar?

It is a long-necked, waisted lute (plucked string instrument) with six strings arranged in three double courses (pairs). Tar is one of the most important instruments in Iranian music, shaping the sound of the adif (the classical Persian repertoire).

How is the Tar tuned?

It has six strings, arranged in pairs, tuned in fourths and fifths, though the exact tuning depends on the dastgah, (modal system) being performed.The right hand holds a plectrum (mezrab), traditionally made of brass.

Is Setar related to Tar?

This wonderful traditional Persian string instrument is closely related to the Tar, but smaller and more delicate in sound and structure. You can play Dastgahi music as well with the Setar.

Medieval Persia

Setar likely dates back to medieval Persia and is believed to be the ancestor of several other string instruments. It is the favourite instrument of Sufi mystics and Persian classical musicians for its spiritual, meditative quality.

How many strings has the Setar?

Setar has 4 metal strings and is played with the index fingernail (not a plectrum, unlike the Tar). The instrument is tuned differently according to the Dastgah(modal system), but there are several common standards.

Microtonal Mastery

Both Tar and Setar can produce microtonal intervals—crucial to the modal system.The instrument's adjustable frets allow musicians to fine-tune each note, accessing tones and nuances that go far beyond the Western scale. This microtonal range opens up a rich spectrum of emotional and melodic expression.

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