The sitar, a plucked string instrument from the Indian subcontinent, is known for its deeply resonant and complex sounds that define much of Indian classical music. Playing the sitar involves a combination of technique, practice, and an understanding of the musical traditions it is steeped in. This guide aims to introduce beginners to the basics of playing the sitar, from understanding its parts and tuning to learning basic playing techniques and progressing towards more advanced concepts.
Understanding the Sitar
Before diving into playing techniques, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the sitar itself. The sitar typically has 18 to 20 strings, including both melody and drone strings, with six or seven played strings that run over curved, movable frets, and the rest are sympathetic strings (tarb strings) that run underneath the frets and resonate in sympathy with the played strings. The sitar also features a large resonating gourd (tumba), a long hollow neck, and a secondary resonator near the top of the instrument’s neck.
Parts of the Sitar
- Tumba: The main resonating chamber made from a gourd.
- Neck (Dandi): The long wooden part where frets are mounted.
- Frets (Parda): Metal wires tied around the neck, which can be moved to adjust scales.
- Strings: Melody, drone, and sympathetic strings.
- Bridge (Jawari): The piece on which strings rest, crucial for the sitar’s tone.
- Tuning Pegs (Kunti): Used to tune both melody and sympathetic strings.
Step 1: Holding the Sitar
The correct posture and way to hold the sitar are foundational. Sit on the floor cross-legged or on a low stool, holding the sitar at a 45-degree angle on your left lap if you are right-handed (reverse if left-handed). The main gourd rests on the floor, stabilizing the instrument. Ensure that the instrument’s neck is slightly inclined upwards, allowing you easy access to the strings and frets.
Step 2: Tuning the Sitar
Tuning is a critical step before playing. The sitar’s main strings are typically tuned to the classical Indian scale (raga) you intend to play. A common tuning for beginners is C# for the main string, with subsequent strings tuned to support the chosen raga. The sympathetic strings are tuned to the notes of the raga to enhance resonance.
Step 3: Basic Playing Technique
- Right Hand: Striking the Strings: The right-hand uses a plectrum (Mizrab) worn on the index finger to pluck the strings. Practice striking the main playing string (Baaj tar) with down and up motions, ensuring clarity and control in your strokes. Gradually, incorporate the drone strings into your practice.
- Left Hand: Pressing the Strings: The left-hand presses down on the strings to create notes. Unlike western stringed instruments, the sitar’s strings are pressed down to the frets with the fingertips’ pads, allowing for the distinctive meends (glides) that characterize sitar music. Start by practicing simple scales (sargam) to get accustomed to the finger placements and movements.
Step 4: Learning Scales and Ragas
Indian classical music is built around scales (ragas) that dictate not just the notes but also their expression and the mood they convey. Begin with a simple raga like Raga Yaman, learning its ascending (Aroh) and descending (Avaroh) scales. Practice playing these scales smoothly, focusing on clean transitions and the expressiveness of each note.
Step 5: Mastering Advanced Techniques
As you become more comfortable with the basics, you can start exploring advanced techniques such as:
- Meend: Gliding from one note to another by sliding the finger on the string.
- Tan: Rapid fire succession of notes, often used in climactic portions of a performance.
- Jhala: A rhythmic pattern played on the drone strings for a dynamic effect.
Practice and Patience
Mastering the sitar is a journey that requires patience, practice, and a deep appreciation for the music it produces. Regular practice, listening to classical sitar music, and learning from skilled teachers or tutorials can accelerate your learning process.
Connecting with the Tradition
Playing the sitar is not just about technique but also connecting with the rich cultural and musical heritage of India. Learning about the history of the instrument, the great masters of the sitar, and the philosophical underpinnings of Indian classical music can deepen your understanding and appreciation of what you are playing.
Learning to play the sitar is a rewarding endeavor that opens a world of musical expression unlike any other. By following this step-by-step guide and dedicating yourself to consistent practice, you can begin your journey into the mesmerizing world of sitar music, contributing your voice to an ancient tradition that continues to captivate and inspire listeners around the globe.