How to Take Care of a Tambura

The tambura, a stringed instrument made of a hollow gourd, can be found in many forms and fashions, depending on its country of origin. A member of the lute family, it is truly an elegant piece. To take care of a tambura, musicians need to know a few simple steps so their tambura can last for years to come.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Analyze your space and choose a safe place to store your tambura. Made of a wooden neck, strings, tuning keys, thread and a gourd, the tambura is considered by many to be a sacred instrument. To properly take care of the instrument, you should store it standing up, not on the side.

2. Stand the tambura up in a corner, so the top of the instrument touches the wall. To ensure it doesn't topple over, you can also craft or purchase a special padded ring that fits under the gourd or base of the tambura. Move the tambura around so it is steady before you leave the area.

3. Strum the strings with your right hand when you play the tambura. Do not strum the strings like a guitar or you could damage the instrument. You want to strum the strings with the side of your finger next to your fingernail, not the pad of the finger.

4. Travel with care when taking your tambura outside of your home. Use a special case to transport the instrument, as the tambura is very sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.