How to Use Tanpuras in Sitar Music

Tanpuras are drone instruments that are used extensively to accompany the sitar in Indian music. Tanpuras have long wooden necks and bodies made of hollow gourds with anywhere from three to five strings. They function as the bass and the harmony when played with a sitar and are used in both traditional and modern Indian music.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide if you'd like to play a regular tanpura, which is a very large instrument, or an instrumental tanpura, which is a small instrument used only in accompaniment. The instrumental tanpura is a nice option if you'll be traveling often with the instrument because of its small size.

2. Tune the tanpura. Even though you won't be playing the melody on the tanpura, it's a very noticeable instrument. It plays constantly through the song and the music won't sound good if it's out of tune.

3. Keep a regular rhythm. Pluck each string in tempo. The tanpura, when used to accompany the sitar, is roughly the Indian equivalent of a bass guitar, so you'll need to keep a steady tempo to anchor the harmony of the song.

4. Use your tanpura to help the sitar player tune his instrument. Play a note repetitively after you've tuned the tanpura and the sitar player will be able to tune his instrument to match yours.

Tips & Warnings

• Even though you need to keep a steady rhythm, you don't need to play monotonously. You can add your own personal flair to your accompaniment.