Online tanpura
Author: b | 2025-04-24
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FilterCome sit down for a session with our Tabla Pro. Experience virtuoso, realistic tabla playing, and let the fantastic Tanpura & SwarMandal sound...iTablaPro Lite - Tabla Tanpura PlayerFreeCome sit down for a session with our Tabla Pro. Experience virtuoso, realistic tabla playing, and let the fantastic Tanpura sound inspire you to...iTanpura Lite - Tanpura PlayerFreeGot tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Sur-Peti / Shruti box. Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj...Your virtual tabla machine, lehra player and electronic tanpura.SurSadhak: Tabla,Tanpura for Indian Vocal PracticeFreeSing Indian classical or light songs with full accompaniment of Tabla, Tanpura, Swar Mandal and Manjira.Tabla Player Afghan ProPaidRiyazStudio TanpuraTrial versionPlay unparalleled range of Tanpura styles and tunings to accompany your Indian music practice.The world's first real lehra mobile app, just got a whole heap better.iShala is an Indian music software that combines a tabla machine, a lehra player and an electronic tanpura. It provides rhythmic and melodic...Raag Sadhana - Harmonium, Tabla & TanpuraFreeLearn or Practice 10 Raag based on 10 Thaat with Tintal.
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There are standard lengths for various pitches. Tanpura Base (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe TabliThe wooden face cladded on the pumpkin is known as the tabli of the tanpura. This wood has a slight curvature and is sealed to the gourd with beautiful wooden inlay work. The bridge is mounted on this tabli. Full Tanpura (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe ManiThese small beads are used to adjust the tuning of the tanpura. They act like fine-tuning devices. However musicians who tune tanpuras with precision avoid their use as they are unstable. Playing a Tanpura (2018) by Jairaj KochareBaithak FoundationThe Playing PositionA tanpura is well-rested on the ground and the player folds a leg to rest his/her elbow on it. The height at which the hand plucks the strings in such position is considered ideal by many musicians. Keeping the tanpura on the lap disturbs the sonic canvas it creates. Tanpura 101If you are further interested in the history, making and use of tanpura, do check out the series called Tanpura 101 by the young Carnatic Vocalist, Rithvik Raja. Mani and Bridge (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationMicrotones in Indian Classical MusicA well-crafted and well-tuned tanpura can create microtones which suit certain ragas and moods. If you wish to know more about microtones in Indian Classical Music, head over to this exhibition. Credits: All mediaThe story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.Stories from Baithak FoundationInterested in Performance?Get updates with your personalized Culture WeeklyYou are all set!Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.AG's Online Tanpura - innovateprogrammer.github.io
IPhone Screenshots Now with updated Audio Engine, iOS 18 support, support for newer devices & AirPlay supportGot tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Sur-Peti / Shruti box! Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj tanpuras, and get lost in the mysteries of Indian Classical music.________________________________________◆ Also check out iTablaPro which ◆ includes ALL iTanpura features + tablaNOTE: iTanpura Lite has most the features of the full version except the sound stops playing after 60 seconds, and it does not include the Swar Mandal or the Tuner.________________________________________◆ THE TANPURA ◆The Tanpura is a musical instrument used in Indian classical music to provide a background "drone" against which the rest of the music is performed. It is a 4-stringed instrument with a base made from cured pumpkin gourd and a stem made from wood.________________________________________◆ AND NOW PRESENTING ◆iTanpura Lite is an electronic Tanpura for the iPhone and iPod Touch. It uses stereo digital sound to simulate a set of two tanpuras each of which can be tuned with a different string combination. It uses sounds sampled from real Hemraj tanpuras to provide beautiful yet realistic sound in a pleasing design. The sound quality has to be heard to be believed!________________________________________◆ FEATURES ◆√ Includes two 5-string tanpuras with independent pan and volume controls, plus a Sur-Peti / Shruti Box√ Uses sounds sampled from actual male & female tanpuras for realistic tanpura sound throughout the pitch range√ Adjust pitch by name (C#, G, etc.) using pitch up/down buttons√ Wide range of pitch from lower A (A2) through upper E (E4) for one and a half octaves of tuning√ Suitable for vocal or instrumental music√ Fine-tune pitch in cents. The display shows the fine-tune value to allow exact recreation of any pitch√ Tempo Control: use the pitch/tempo switch to change the function of the slider in the top section√ Play one or two simultaneous tanpuras both controlled by the master pitch controls√ Each tanpura's first string can be tuned to Pa, Ma or Ni, or any custom note such as Re, Ga, Dha, etc √ Or tune first string to any shruti in the octave using a slider√ Each tanpura has its own pan and volume controls to allow precise placement within the stereo image. For example you can have a tanpura with Pa on your left and one with Ni on your right√ PRESETS: Save your frequently-used combinations as named presets. Includes presets for the 100+ most popular raags. √ Turn the Sur-Peti/Shruti Box on or off and adjust its volume from the settings page√ Can be used with speakers, headset, or the internal speaker (a high-quality speaker dock is recommended for maximum effect)Still using your old electronic tanpura or shruti box? The future of the tanpura is here!________________________________________NOTE: iTanpura Lite has all the features of the full version except the sound stops playing after 60 seconds and it does not include the Swar Mandal or the Tuner. The full version has no time limits and. tanpura,tanpura online,online tanpura,original tanpura,electronic tanpura,vocal practice tanpura,tanpura and tabla,hd quality tanpura,tanpura for practice,ta About Tanpura C (Taanpura) Listen to Tanpura C (Taanpura) online. Tanpura C (Taanpura) is a Hindi language song and is sung by Rampaal. Tanpura C (Taanpura), from the album Tanpura C, was released in the year 2025. The duration of the song isHow To Tune A Tanpura Online Lesson Learn To Sing Along With Tanpura
Vocal accompaniment.2. Tanjore Tanpura: Popular in Carnatic music, the Tanjore tanpura is known for its robust construction and clear, resonant tone. It often accompanies instrumental performances.3. Electronic Tanpura: In contemporary settings, electronic tanpuras have gained popularity for their convenience and portability. These devices replicate the sound of a traditional tanpura using digital technology, allowing musicians to practice and perform without needing a physical instrument.4. Male and Female Tanpuras: There are also distinctions based on the gender of the vocalist. Male tanpuras are typically larger with a deeper pitch, while female tanpuras are slightly smaller and tuned to a higher pitch.Cultural and Philosophical SignificanceBeyond its musical function, the tanpura holds profound cultural and philosophical significance in Indian classical music. It is often seen as a symbol of the eternal, unchanging sound (Nada Brahma) that underlies the universe. This concept is deeply rooted in Indian philosophy, where sound is considered a manifestation of the divine.The tanpura’s drone represents the constant, the eternal, providing a backdrop against which the transient, the temporal (the melodic and rhythmic improvisations), unfolds. This interplay mirrors the philosophical ideas of permanence and impermanence, the infinite and the finite.Role in PerformanceIn a typical Indian classical music performance, the tanpura is indispensable. Whether it is a solo vocal recital or an instrumental concert, the tanpura’s drone creates a sonic environment that enhances the musical experience. It is often played by a student or a secondary musician, freeing the main performer to focus on the melody and rhythm.The presence of the tanpura ensures that the performer stays in tune, maintaining the pitch reference throughout the performance. This is particularly crucial in the context of Indian classical music, where the precise intonation of notes (swaras) is fundamental to the aesthetic and emotional impact of the raga.Learning and MasteryMastering the tanpura requires a deep understanding of its tuning, playing technique, and maintenance. Musicians spend years honing their skills, learning to produce the perfect drone that supports the main performance without overshadowing it. The ability to tune the tanpura accurately is a crucial skill, as even slight deviations can affect the overall harmony.Students of Indian classical music often begin their training by learning to play the tanpura. This foundational skill not only teaches them about pitch and harmony but also instills a sense of discipline and attentiveness. The repetitive, meditative act of playing the tanpura helps musicians develop a deep connection with the music, fostering a sense of inner calm and focus.Modern Adaptations and InnovationsWhile the traditional tanpura remains a beloved instrument, modern adaptations have also emerged to meet the needs of contemporary musicians. Electronic tanpuras, for instance, offer the convenience of portability and ease of use, making them popular among students and performers alike. These devices can replicate the sound of a traditional tanpura with remarkable accuracy, providing a practical solution for practice and performance.Additionally, digital tanpura apps have become widely available, allowing musicians to carry a virtual tanpura on their smartphones or tablets. These apps offer customizable tuning options and various soundG Scale Tanpura - Kali 4, 5.5 Kattai (Indian Tanpura Online
The tanpura, also known as tambura, is an essential instrument in Indian classical music, revered for its role in providing a continuous drone that supports the melody and rhythm during performances. Its significance extends beyond mere accompaniment; it establishes the tonal framework, allowing musicians to explore the intricate nuances of ragas and talas. This article delves into the history, construction, playing techniques, varieties, and cultural significance of the tanpura, highlighting its indispensable place in Indian classical music.Historical BackgroundThe tanpura’s origins are deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Indian music. References to drone instruments can be found in ancient texts, indicating their presence in the musical landscape for millennia. The name “tanpura” is derived from the Persian word “tanbur,” reflecting the cultural exchanges between India and Persia. Over time, the instrument evolved in design and function, becoming a cornerstone of both Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) classical music traditions.Construction and DesignA tanpura typically measures between 3 to 5 feet in length, featuring a long neck and a resonant body. It is traditionally made from seasoned wood such as teak or tun, and sometimes from a large dried gourd for the resonator. The body of the instrument, known as the resonator, is meticulously carved to amplify the sound of the strings. The neck is long and slender, allowing for the precise tuning of the strings.The tanpura usually has four strings, though variations with five or six strings exist. These strings are made of metal, often steel or brass, and are attached to tuning pegs at the top of the neck. The lower ends of the strings are anchored to the base of the instrument. Between the bridge and the strings, small beads or weights called “jiva” are placed to fine-tune the sound and ensure the drone’s characteristic resonance.Tuning and Playing TechniquesThe tuning of the tanpura is critical to its function. The four strings are typically tuned to the tonic (Sa) and dominant (Pa or Ma) notes of the raga being performed. A common tuning in Hindustani music is Sa, Pa, Sa, Sa, while in Carnatic music, it might be Sa, Pa, Sa, Ni. The exact tuning can vary depending on the specific raga and the preferences of the performer.Playing the tanpura involves a specific plucking technique that ensures the continuous, unbroken drone sound. The musician uses the fingers to pluck the strings in a cyclic pattern, creating a harmonic resonance that fills the auditory space. Unlike melodic instruments, the tanpura is not used to play tunes or scales but to provide a stable tonal reference. The drone serves as an auditory anchor, allowing the main performer to stay in tune and maintain the desired pitch throughout the performance.Varieties of TanpurasTanpuras come in different sizes and styles, each suited to specific musical contexts and preferences. The main varieties include:1. Miraj Tanpura: Originating from Miraj, a town in Maharashtra renowned for its luthiers, this type of tanpura is favored in Hindustani classical music. It features a deep, rich sound, ideal forG Scale Tanpura - Safed 5, 5 Kattai (Indian Tanpura Online
Got tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Swar Mandal AND a Sur-Peti / Shruti box! Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj tanpuras, and get lost in the mysteries of Indian Classical music.________________________________________◆◆◆ 5-STRING TANPURAS & AUTO-TUNER!◆◆◆ Before buying also consider iTablaPro◆◆◆ which has all iTanpura features + tabla◆◆◆ Note: All updates are always free!________________________________________And the reviews are in:***** "BEAUTIFUL SOUND"***** "Excellent App, superb sound"***** "Concert-quality tanpura in your pocket"***** "This is what I've been waiting for"________________________________________◆ ABOUT THE TANPURA ◆The Tanpura is a musical instrument used in Indian classical music to provide a background "drone" against which the rest of the music is performed. It is a 4-stringed instrument with a base made from cured pumpkin gourd and a stem made from wood.________________________________________◆ AND NOW PRESENTING - iTanpura ◆iTanpura is an electronic Tanpura for the iPhone and iPod Touch. It uses stereo digital sound to simulate a set of two tanpuras each of which can be tuned with a different string combination. It uses sounds sampled from real Hemraj tanpuras to provide beautiful yet realistic sound in a pleasing and intuitive package. And now iTanpura also includes fantastic Swar Mandal sound (with presets for 75+ raags) for an instant concert atmosphere guaranteed to inspire! iTanpura is ideal for everyday music practice, concerts, or even as a serene background for meditation.________________________________________◆ KEY FEATURES ◆√ FOUR fantastic instruments in one app: includes two 5-string tanpuras with independent pan and volume controls, a 15-string Swar Mandal, and a Sur-Peti/Shruti Box√ Uses sounds sampled from actual male & female tanpuras for realistic tanpura sound throughout the pitch range√ Wide range of pitch from lower A (A2) through upper E (E4) for one and a half octaves of tuning√ INTEGRATED AUTO-TUNER: Auto-Tune iTanpura to your instrumentOnline free Shruti Box / Tanpura
The canvas of Indian Classical Music, Tanpura is the single most important instrument for a musician. It is not only the sonic drone but also a Guru who guides the student of music.Anunad (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationSacred ListeningIndian Classical Music was played and sung in temples which were acoustically designed to suit the music practise. One was required to sit with one's tanpura for hours and discover the music that emanated from it. This is obviously the time when musicians had no gadgets. Dinkar Kaikini with Tanpura (1998)Baithak FoundationTuning for PrecisionUsually two tanpuras are used in a concert. Musicians tune them to suit their needs, to enhance particular harmonics and to achieve the required atmosphere of the Raga. Just by listening to the tanpuras discerning audiences could identify the Raga that was to be presented. The standing view of a Male Tanpura. (2020) by Illustrated by: Rukmini ChakravartyBaithak FoundationFull Scale TanpuraA tanpura is made of gourd, wood, bone and metal. These materials are selected with care and crafted with attention to details. Miraj in Maharashtra and Kolkata are cities which host families of these master craftsmen who are in this profession for several generations. Mani and Bridge (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe BridgeThe most critical part of the tanpura is the bridge. Ivory and horns of the Sambar deer were used for this however due to the bans, camel bone or plastic are the materials used today. This change has resulted in severe degradation in the sonic quality of the instrument.The standing view of a Male Tanpura. (2020) by Illustrated by: Rukmini ChakravartyBaithak FoundationJavariThe bridge is special because of its profile, the Javari. This profile decides the tone of the instrument and also the richness of the harmonic backdrop. A small thread inserted between the bridge and the strings creates the rich sonic texture required. Upper Bridge and Pegs (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe PegsA tanpura is usually a four stringed drone instrument and the pegs hold these strings in their place. The pegs are made of seasoned Red Cedarwood. One can also find tanpuras with five strings and in that case we can see five pegs. Bhopla or Gourd of a TanpuraBaithak FoundationThe GourdA special variety of African gourds is used for tanpuras. The gourd size varies according to the pitch. Thus male and female tanpuras are very distinctively different in size. The gourd is seasoned and tested for durability. Upper Bridge and Pegs (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe Upper BridgeJust below the pegs one can see the upper bridge which has small holes for the metal strings to pass. The distance between the upper bridge and the lower bridge of the tanpura decides the pitch of it.. tanpura,tanpura online,online tanpura,original tanpura,electronic tanpura,vocal practice tanpura,tanpura and tabla,hd quality tanpura,tanpura for practice,ta
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IPhone Screenshots Now with updated Audio Engine, enhanced Tuner, iOS 18 support, support for newer devices & AirPlay supportGot tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Swar Mandal AND a Sur-Peti / Shruti box! Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj tanpuras, and get lost in the mysteries of Indian Classical music.________________________________________◆◆◆ 5-STRING TANPURAS & AUTO-TUNER!◆◆◆ Before buying also consider iTablaPro◆◆◆ which has all iTanpura features + tabla◆◆◆ Note: All updates are always free!________________________________________And the reviews are in:***** "BEAUTIFUL SOUND"***** "Excellent App, superb sound"***** "Concert-quality tanpura in your pocket"***** "This is what I've been waiting for"________________________________________◆ ABOUT THE TANPURA ◆The Tanpura is a musical instrument used in Indian classical music to provide a background "drone" against which the rest of the music is performed. It is a 4-stringed instrument with a base made from cured pumpkin gourd and a stem made from wood.________________________________________◆ AND NOW PRESENTING - iTanpura ◆iTanpura is an electronic Tanpura for the iPhone and iPod Touch. It uses stereo digital sound to simulate a set of two tanpuras each of which can be tuned with a different string combination. It uses sounds sampled from real Hemraj tanpuras to provide beautiful yet realistic sound in a pleasing and intuitive package. And now iTanpura also includes fantastic Swar Mandal sound (with presets for 75+ raags) for an instant concert atmosphere guaranteed to inspire! iTanpura is ideal for everyday music practice, concerts, or even as a serene background for meditation.________________________________________◆ KEY FEATURES ◆√ FOUR fantastic instruments in one app: includes two 5-string tanpuras with independent pan and volume controls, a 15-string Swar Mandal, and a Sur-Peti/Shruti Box√ Uses sounds sampled from actual male & female tanpuras for realistic tanpura sound throughout the pitch range√ Wide range of pitch from lower A (A2) throughTanpura Generator Desktop Download - Advanced tanpura
This one is for the tabla enthusiasts! Get both iTablaPro AND iLehra together at a discount. So you can practice with the tabla (and Tanpura and SwarMandal) in iTablaPro or play tabla with the lehras played in iLehra.◆ About iTablaPro ◆iTablaPro is the first electronic tabla and tanpura that actually sounds like the real thing, ideal for Indian Classical musicians and students. It includes support for all common taals used in Hindustani music, making it the perfect companion for daily riyaz (practice). And the beautiful Tanpura and Swar Mandal create an instant concert atmosphere!√ SIX fantastic instruments in one app: Tabla, two 5-string Tanpuras, a Sur-Peti (Shruti-Box), Swar Mandal, plus Manjira all controlled by a single set of pitch controls√ Uses sound samples from actual highest-quality instruments for the most realistic sound√ 43 taals with multiple variations√ Integrated Auto-Tuner√ AUDIOBUS support√ PRESETS: Save your frequently-used combinations as named presets. Includes presets for the 100+ most popular raags. And now you can also export/import presets via email or iTunes File Sharing.◆ About iLehra ◆iLehra was the first electronic Lehra / Nagma player for the iPhone and iPod Touch, and its now available on the iPad as well! It provides accurate as well as pleasing lehra accompaniment for a wide variety of taals and raags on the Harmonium, Santoor, Violin, or the Flute. Innovative features include tanpura auto-tuned to the chosen lehra/raag, presets, tap-tempo, metronome, and extremely intuitive controls.√ Plays 109 Lehras in 55+ raags for 25 taals√ Beautiful, realistic lehras on. tanpura,tanpura online,online tanpura,original tanpura,electronic tanpura,vocal practice tanpura,tanpura and tabla,hd quality tanpura,tanpura for practice,taTanpura - Tanpura Musical Instrument : ipassio Wiki
Resources Online tools Welcome to Spardha’s Free Tools! Learning doesn't end when your session is over. Our exclusive tools are here to guide you on your path to mastery. Practice smart and practice right with our selection of resources designed to help you refine your skills. Metronome Practice with metronome & never miss a beat again Tanpura/Shruti Box Play it every time you sing to perfect your scale Tabla Develop perfect timing and rhythm Online Piano Learn chords, notes and practice Guitar Tuner Fine tune your guitar effortlessly Ukulele Tuner Make sure your ukulele is pitch perfect Violin Tuner Make sure your violin is perfectly tuned Sur Detector Make sure you are hitting all the right notes in the sargam Vocal Pitch Detector Monitor your pitch to improve your vocals Circle Of Fifth Understand music theory easily Harmonium Learn chords, notes and practice Harmonium (सा रे गा मा पा) Your Music Classes In 3 Simple Steps 1. Book Reserve a free demo & we will get back to you right away 2. Experience Get an experience like never before with industry expert tutors. 3. Start Join us and Start making music. Book a free trial nowComments
FilterCome sit down for a session with our Tabla Pro. Experience virtuoso, realistic tabla playing, and let the fantastic Tanpura & SwarMandal sound...iTablaPro Lite - Tabla Tanpura PlayerFreeCome sit down for a session with our Tabla Pro. Experience virtuoso, realistic tabla playing, and let the fantastic Tanpura sound inspire you to...iTanpura Lite - Tanpura PlayerFreeGot tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Sur-Peti / Shruti box. Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj...Your virtual tabla machine, lehra player and electronic tanpura.SurSadhak: Tabla,Tanpura for Indian Vocal PracticeFreeSing Indian classical or light songs with full accompaniment of Tabla, Tanpura, Swar Mandal and Manjira.Tabla Player Afghan ProPaidRiyazStudio TanpuraTrial versionPlay unparalleled range of Tanpura styles and tunings to accompany your Indian music practice.The world's first real lehra mobile app, just got a whole heap better.iShala is an Indian music software that combines a tabla machine, a lehra player and an electronic tanpura. It provides rhythmic and melodic...Raag Sadhana - Harmonium, Tabla & TanpuraFreeLearn or Practice 10 Raag based on 10 Thaat with Tintal.
2025-03-26There are standard lengths for various pitches. Tanpura Base (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe TabliThe wooden face cladded on the pumpkin is known as the tabli of the tanpura. This wood has a slight curvature and is sealed to the gourd with beautiful wooden inlay work. The bridge is mounted on this tabli. Full Tanpura (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe ManiThese small beads are used to adjust the tuning of the tanpura. They act like fine-tuning devices. However musicians who tune tanpuras with precision avoid their use as they are unstable. Playing a Tanpura (2018) by Jairaj KochareBaithak FoundationThe Playing PositionA tanpura is well-rested on the ground and the player folds a leg to rest his/her elbow on it. The height at which the hand plucks the strings in such position is considered ideal by many musicians. Keeping the tanpura on the lap disturbs the sonic canvas it creates. Tanpura 101If you are further interested in the history, making and use of tanpura, do check out the series called Tanpura 101 by the young Carnatic Vocalist, Rithvik Raja. Mani and Bridge (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationMicrotones in Indian Classical MusicA well-crafted and well-tuned tanpura can create microtones which suit certain ragas and moods. If you wish to know more about microtones in Indian Classical Music, head over to this exhibition. Credits: All mediaThe story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.Stories from Baithak FoundationInterested in Performance?Get updates with your personalized Culture WeeklyYou are all set!Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.
2025-04-06Vocal accompaniment.2. Tanjore Tanpura: Popular in Carnatic music, the Tanjore tanpura is known for its robust construction and clear, resonant tone. It often accompanies instrumental performances.3. Electronic Tanpura: In contemporary settings, electronic tanpuras have gained popularity for their convenience and portability. These devices replicate the sound of a traditional tanpura using digital technology, allowing musicians to practice and perform without needing a physical instrument.4. Male and Female Tanpuras: There are also distinctions based on the gender of the vocalist. Male tanpuras are typically larger with a deeper pitch, while female tanpuras are slightly smaller and tuned to a higher pitch.Cultural and Philosophical SignificanceBeyond its musical function, the tanpura holds profound cultural and philosophical significance in Indian classical music. It is often seen as a symbol of the eternal, unchanging sound (Nada Brahma) that underlies the universe. This concept is deeply rooted in Indian philosophy, where sound is considered a manifestation of the divine.The tanpura’s drone represents the constant, the eternal, providing a backdrop against which the transient, the temporal (the melodic and rhythmic improvisations), unfolds. This interplay mirrors the philosophical ideas of permanence and impermanence, the infinite and the finite.Role in PerformanceIn a typical Indian classical music performance, the tanpura is indispensable. Whether it is a solo vocal recital or an instrumental concert, the tanpura’s drone creates a sonic environment that enhances the musical experience. It is often played by a student or a secondary musician, freeing the main performer to focus on the melody and rhythm.The presence of the tanpura ensures that the performer stays in tune, maintaining the pitch reference throughout the performance. This is particularly crucial in the context of Indian classical music, where the precise intonation of notes (swaras) is fundamental to the aesthetic and emotional impact of the raga.Learning and MasteryMastering the tanpura requires a deep understanding of its tuning, playing technique, and maintenance. Musicians spend years honing their skills, learning to produce the perfect drone that supports the main performance without overshadowing it. The ability to tune the tanpura accurately is a crucial skill, as even slight deviations can affect the overall harmony.Students of Indian classical music often begin their training by learning to play the tanpura. This foundational skill not only teaches them about pitch and harmony but also instills a sense of discipline and attentiveness. The repetitive, meditative act of playing the tanpura helps musicians develop a deep connection with the music, fostering a sense of inner calm and focus.Modern Adaptations and InnovationsWhile the traditional tanpura remains a beloved instrument, modern adaptations have also emerged to meet the needs of contemporary musicians. Electronic tanpuras, for instance, offer the convenience of portability and ease of use, making them popular among students and performers alike. These devices can replicate the sound of a traditional tanpura with remarkable accuracy, providing a practical solution for practice and performance.Additionally, digital tanpura apps have become widely available, allowing musicians to carry a virtual tanpura on their smartphones or tablets. These apps offer customizable tuning options and various sound
2025-04-01The tanpura, also known as tambura, is an essential instrument in Indian classical music, revered for its role in providing a continuous drone that supports the melody and rhythm during performances. Its significance extends beyond mere accompaniment; it establishes the tonal framework, allowing musicians to explore the intricate nuances of ragas and talas. This article delves into the history, construction, playing techniques, varieties, and cultural significance of the tanpura, highlighting its indispensable place in Indian classical music.Historical BackgroundThe tanpura’s origins are deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Indian music. References to drone instruments can be found in ancient texts, indicating their presence in the musical landscape for millennia. The name “tanpura” is derived from the Persian word “tanbur,” reflecting the cultural exchanges between India and Persia. Over time, the instrument evolved in design and function, becoming a cornerstone of both Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) classical music traditions.Construction and DesignA tanpura typically measures between 3 to 5 feet in length, featuring a long neck and a resonant body. It is traditionally made from seasoned wood such as teak or tun, and sometimes from a large dried gourd for the resonator. The body of the instrument, known as the resonator, is meticulously carved to amplify the sound of the strings. The neck is long and slender, allowing for the precise tuning of the strings.The tanpura usually has four strings, though variations with five or six strings exist. These strings are made of metal, often steel or brass, and are attached to tuning pegs at the top of the neck. The lower ends of the strings are anchored to the base of the instrument. Between the bridge and the strings, small beads or weights called “jiva” are placed to fine-tune the sound and ensure the drone’s characteristic resonance.Tuning and Playing TechniquesThe tuning of the tanpura is critical to its function. The four strings are typically tuned to the tonic (Sa) and dominant (Pa or Ma) notes of the raga being performed. A common tuning in Hindustani music is Sa, Pa, Sa, Sa, while in Carnatic music, it might be Sa, Pa, Sa, Ni. The exact tuning can vary depending on the specific raga and the preferences of the performer.Playing the tanpura involves a specific plucking technique that ensures the continuous, unbroken drone sound. The musician uses the fingers to pluck the strings in a cyclic pattern, creating a harmonic resonance that fills the auditory space. Unlike melodic instruments, the tanpura is not used to play tunes or scales but to provide a stable tonal reference. The drone serves as an auditory anchor, allowing the main performer to stay in tune and maintain the desired pitch throughout the performance.Varieties of TanpurasTanpuras come in different sizes and styles, each suited to specific musical contexts and preferences. The main varieties include:1. Miraj Tanpura: Originating from Miraj, a town in Maharashtra renowned for its luthiers, this type of tanpura is favored in Hindustani classical music. It features a deep, rich sound, ideal for
2025-04-05The canvas of Indian Classical Music, Tanpura is the single most important instrument for a musician. It is not only the sonic drone but also a Guru who guides the student of music.Anunad (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationSacred ListeningIndian Classical Music was played and sung in temples which were acoustically designed to suit the music practise. One was required to sit with one's tanpura for hours and discover the music that emanated from it. This is obviously the time when musicians had no gadgets. Dinkar Kaikini with Tanpura (1998)Baithak FoundationTuning for PrecisionUsually two tanpuras are used in a concert. Musicians tune them to suit their needs, to enhance particular harmonics and to achieve the required atmosphere of the Raga. Just by listening to the tanpuras discerning audiences could identify the Raga that was to be presented. The standing view of a Male Tanpura. (2020) by Illustrated by: Rukmini ChakravartyBaithak FoundationFull Scale TanpuraA tanpura is made of gourd, wood, bone and metal. These materials are selected with care and crafted with attention to details. Miraj in Maharashtra and Kolkata are cities which host families of these master craftsmen who are in this profession for several generations. Mani and Bridge (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe BridgeThe most critical part of the tanpura is the bridge. Ivory and horns of the Sambar deer were used for this however due to the bans, camel bone or plastic are the materials used today. This change has resulted in severe degradation in the sonic quality of the instrument.The standing view of a Male Tanpura. (2020) by Illustrated by: Rukmini ChakravartyBaithak FoundationJavariThe bridge is special because of its profile, the Javari. This profile decides the tone of the instrument and also the richness of the harmonic backdrop. A small thread inserted between the bridge and the strings creates the rich sonic texture required. Upper Bridge and Pegs (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe PegsA tanpura is usually a four stringed drone instrument and the pegs hold these strings in their place. The pegs are made of seasoned Red Cedarwood. One can also find tanpuras with five strings and in that case we can see five pegs. Bhopla or Gourd of a TanpuraBaithak FoundationThe GourdA special variety of African gourds is used for tanpuras. The gourd size varies according to the pitch. Thus male and female tanpuras are very distinctively different in size. The gourd is seasoned and tested for durability. Upper Bridge and Pegs (2019) by Mandar KaranjkarBaithak FoundationThe Upper BridgeJust below the pegs one can see the upper bridge which has small holes for the metal strings to pass. The distance between the upper bridge and the lower bridge of the tanpura decides the pitch of it.
2025-04-09IPhone Screenshots Now with updated Audio Engine, enhanced Tuner, iOS 18 support, support for newer devices & AirPlay supportGot tanpura? Well guess what, we have two for you, PLUS a Swar Mandal AND a Sur-Peti / Shruti box! Come listen to the beautiful, meditative sound of real Hemraj tanpuras, and get lost in the mysteries of Indian Classical music.________________________________________◆◆◆ 5-STRING TANPURAS & AUTO-TUNER!◆◆◆ Before buying also consider iTablaPro◆◆◆ which has all iTanpura features + tabla◆◆◆ Note: All updates are always free!________________________________________And the reviews are in:***** "BEAUTIFUL SOUND"***** "Excellent App, superb sound"***** "Concert-quality tanpura in your pocket"***** "This is what I've been waiting for"________________________________________◆ ABOUT THE TANPURA ◆The Tanpura is a musical instrument used in Indian classical music to provide a background "drone" against which the rest of the music is performed. It is a 4-stringed instrument with a base made from cured pumpkin gourd and a stem made from wood.________________________________________◆ AND NOW PRESENTING - iTanpura ◆iTanpura is an electronic Tanpura for the iPhone and iPod Touch. It uses stereo digital sound to simulate a set of two tanpuras each of which can be tuned with a different string combination. It uses sounds sampled from real Hemraj tanpuras to provide beautiful yet realistic sound in a pleasing and intuitive package. And now iTanpura also includes fantastic Swar Mandal sound (with presets for 75+ raags) for an instant concert atmosphere guaranteed to inspire! iTanpura is ideal for everyday music practice, concerts, or even as a serene background for meditation.________________________________________◆ KEY FEATURES ◆√ FOUR fantastic instruments in one app: includes two 5-string tanpuras with independent pan and volume controls, a 15-string Swar Mandal, and a Sur-Peti/Shruti Box√ Uses sounds sampled from actual male & female tanpuras for realistic tanpura sound throughout the pitch range√ Wide range of pitch from lower A (A2) through
2025-04-01