Tanpura Musical Instrument Facts

Tanpura Instrument Summary

The Tanpura is a traditional Indian string instrument known for its resonant, continuous drone sound. It typically has four to six strings and is played by plucking the strings with the fingers. The tanpura is a key instrument in both Hindustani and Carnatic classical music, admired for its ability to create a harmonic background that supports the melody and rhythm of a performance.

Detailed Instrument Description

Instrument Name	Tanpura (or Tambura)
Instrument Family	String
Alternative Names	The tanpura is also known as “tambura” in some regions of India. In Tamil, it is written as “தம்புரா” (tamburā).
Geographical Presence	The tanpura is played across India in both Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) classical music traditions. It is also used globally in Indian classical music performances and by musicians exploring world music.
Instrument Classification	The tanpura falls under the Hornbostel-Sachs classification system as 321.322, identifying it as a plucked lute chordophone. This system classifies musical instruments based on how they produce sound, with the tanpura classified as a chordophone where sound is produced by vibrating strings.
Unique Features	The tanpura is known for its long, hollow body and the absence of frets, which allows it to produce a continuous drone. It typically has four to six strings, tuned to produce specific intervals that create a rich, harmonic sound. The body is usually made from a resonant wood like teak or tun, and the instrument is often adorned with decorative carvings. The bridge is specially shaped to enhance the harmonic overtones, creating a buzzing sound known as “jivari.”
Sound Characteristics	The tanpura produces a deep, resonant, and continuous drone that serves as the sonic foundation for Indian classical music performances. Its tone is warm and full, with a rich harmonic spectrum that enhances the melody and rhythm of the main instrument or vocal performance. The characteristic buzzing sound, or jivari, adds a unique texture to the drone, making it both soothing and meditative.
Typical Music Genres	The tanpura is used primarily in Hindustani and Carnatic classical music. It is also featured in devotional music, Bhajans, and occasionally in fusion music that incorporates Indian classical elements.
Components	Body, Neck, Strings, Tuning Pegs, Bridge, Resonator
Construction	The tanpura typically has a wooden body made from teak, tun, or jackwood. The body is hollow and resonant, with a rounded resonator at the bottom. The neck is long and slender, and the strings are made of metal, usually a combination of steel and brass. The bridge is made of bone or wood and is designed to create the jivari effect, which enhances the harmonic overtones. The tuning pegs, located at the top of the neck, are used to adjust the pitch of each string.
Size and Weight	The size of the tanpura varies depending on the style (Hindustani or Carnatic) but generally measures between 95 to 150 centimeters (37 to 59 inches) in length. The weight can vary between 2 to 4 kilograms (4.4 to 8.8 pounds), depending on the materials used.
Variations and Customizations	Variations of the tanpura include differences in size, number of strings, and materials. Hindustani tanpuras are typically larger with a deeper sound, while Carnatic tanpuras are smaller and more portable. Customizations might include decorative inlays, carved designs, and the use of different types of wood. Some modern tanpuras may also feature electronic tuning aids or built-in pickups for amplification.
Instrument History	The tanpura has ancient origins, with references in Indian texts dating back over 2,000 years. It evolved from earlier string instruments used in Vedic rituals and has been an essential part of Indian classical music for centuries. The tanpura’s design and playing technique have remained largely unchanged, with its role as a drone instrument being central to Indian musical performance.
Similar Types of Instrument	Sitar, Veena
Playing Technique	The tanpura is played by sitting cross-legged on the floor, with the instrument resting vertically on the player’s lap. The strings are plucked in a continuous, steady rhythm with the fingers, usually using the index and middle fingers of the right hand. The left hand is used to lightly touch the strings near the tuning pegs to adjust the overtones and maintain the jivari effect. The plucking technique is gentle and even, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted drone.
Notable Composers	While the tanpura is primarily an accompaniment instrument and not typically associated with compositions. It has been used by many great Indian classical musicians, including Ravi Shankar, M.S. Subbulakshmi, and Bhimsen Joshi.
Famous Works	The tanpura is featured in many iconic recordings of Indian classical music, including Ravi Shankar’s “Raga Jog,” M.S. Subbulakshmi’s “Bhaja Govindam,” and Bhimsen Joshi’s “Raga Bhairav.”
Maintenance	Regular maintenance includes cleaning the instrument, tuning the strings, and occasionally replacing strings. The tanpura should be kept in a case or on a stand to protect it from environmental changes and physical damage. Proper humidity levels should be maintained to prevent cracking of the wood and to preserve the jivari effect.
Learning Difficulty	Low; while the tanpura is relatively easy to learn to play in terms of technique, mastering the subtlety of producing a perfect drone and maintaining the jivari effect requires practice and sensitivity.
Prominent Players	Since the tanpura is primarily an accompaniment instrument, it is not typically associated with individual players. However, it has been an essential part of the performances of legendary musicians like Ravi Shankar, M.S. Subbulakshmi, and Bhimsen Joshi.
Notable Performances	The tanpura is present in countless performances of Indian classical music at major venues and festivals worldwide, such as the Dover Lane Music Conference in Kolkata and various international world music festivals.
Famous Orchestras/Bands	The tanpura is featured in many Indian classical music ensembles and orchestras, often as part of a trio or quartet accompanying a lead vocalist or instrumentalist.
Price Range	Tanpuras range from $300 to $1,500 or more, depending on the craftsmanship, materials, and features.