Tar

The tar, an integral member of the Rabab family, is a meticulously crafted stringed instrument celebrated for its rich cultural significance and distinctive musical attributes. Resembling a figure-eight in shape, its resonant body is traditionally hewn from mulberry wood, though alternatives like walnut are also favored. This wooden frame not only lends durability but also influences the instrument's acoustics, ensuring a clear and resonant timbre that is fundamental to its character.

At the heart of the tar's design lies its double-chested structure, housing a membrane that serves as a resonating soundtable. This membrane, typically made from dried animal pericardium, plays a pivotal role in shaping the instrument's tonal palette, allowing for a broad and harmonious range. The long neck of the tar, crafted with precision and skill by master artisans, boasts a fingerboard coated with bone for smooth playability.

The tar features a unique system of twenty-five movable frets, meticulously placed to divide the octave into fifteen intervals. This intricate fretting system enhances the versatility of the instrument, enabling musicians to explore a myriad of melodic expressions and intricate musical scales characteristic of Persian traditional and classical music.

In Iranian musical traditions, the tar holds a revered position, serving both as a staple in folk music, urban entertainments (motrebi), and as a distinguished instrument in classical and art music ensembles. Its versatility is further underscored by its ability to span the same tonal range as the setar, yet it has garnered greater popularity despite its relatively shorter history in Iranian musical heritage.

For aficionados seeking exceptional quality, Orient Valley offers an array of meticulously handcrafted tars. Each instrument is a testament to the craftsmanship of skilled masters, ensuring that every tar purchased from our store is not only a musical instrument but a piece of art. Whether one seeks a solo tar ideal for virtuosic performances, an orchestral tar for ensemble settings, or a student tar designed for learning and practice, our collection caters to diverse musical aspirations.

The construction of a tar involves meticulous attention to detail across its three main components. The body, fashioned from mulberry wood, undergoes careful shaping to form its distinctive double-bowl structure. Meanwhile, the neck, typically crafted from hardwoods like walnut or ebony, supports the fretted fingerboard that is crucial for precise intonation and melodic expression. Completing the instrument, the head, made from hazelnut wood, not only provides balance but also contributes to the instrument's overall resonance and aesthetic appeal.

In summary, the Iranian tar embodies a blend of artistry and functionality, making it a cherished instrument for both performers and enthusiasts alike. Whether delving into its historical roots or exploring its contemporary musical applications, the tar continues to captivate with its evocative sound and cultural resonance within Iranian musical traditions. A tar purchased from Orient Valley, a store renowned for high-quality ethnic musical instruments, ensures you acquire an instrument that will perfectly accompany you on your musical journey.