Tanbur Long-Necked Lutes along the Silk Road and beyond

The book explores the origin, history, construction, and playing techniques of tanbûrs, a musical instrument widely used over vast territories and over many centuries. The diffusion of the tanbûr into the musical cultures along the Silk Road resulted in a variety of tanbûrs with two or more courses, varying numbers and tuned frets, each with its own characteristic sound, playing technique, and repertory. Since the last century, tanbûrs have spread beyond the Silk Road, and new versions continue to appear due to changing musical and tonal demands. Similar or identical instruments are also known by other names.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 206 pages
\n Publication date: 11 March 2019
\n Publisher: Archaeopress
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‘Tanbûr Long-Necked Lutes Along the Silk Road and Beyond delves into the enigmatic origins, rich history, intricate construction, and captivating playing techniques of tanbûrs, a musical instrument that has traversed vast territories and endured centuries of musical evolution. The journey of the tanbûr along the Silk Road led to the emergence of a diverse array of tanbûrs, each boasting two or more courses, occasionally doubled or tripled, featuring a varying number of frets tuned to unique pitches. These instruments boast their distinct sound, unique playing techniques, and extensive repertories, making them a testament to the rich musical tapestry of the region.

Since the last century, the reach of tanbûrs has expanded far beyond the confines of the Silk Road, as musicians continue to adapt and refine them to meet the evolving musical and tonal demands of the time. While the term "tanbûr" is widely recognized, these instruments are also known by various other names, such as saz, bağlama, dotâr, dutâr, setâr, dömbra, and dambura, reflecting their diverse cultural influences and regional adaptations.

The tanbûr's long neck and slender body, coupled with its unique tuning system, allows for a wide range of melodic possibilities, from delicate and ethereal to powerful and resonant. Its versatile nature has made it a staple in various musical genres, including Persian, Turkish, Central Asian, and Indian music, where it is played by master musicians who have perfected their craft over generations.

Through meticulous research, historical analysis, and hands-on experimentation, 'Tanbûr Long-Necked Lutes Along the Silk Road and Beyond offers a comprehensive exploration of this remarkable musical instrument. It sheds light on the intricate craftsmanship that went into its creation, the rich musical traditions it has influenced, and the ongoing evolution of its playing techniques. Whether you are a musician, music enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of instruments, this book is a valuable resource that will deepen your appreciation for the tanbûr and its profound impact on the world of music.’

\n Weight: 736g\n
Dimension: 206 x 290 x 13 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789691696\n \n