Sarangi
Sarangi with horsehair bow, in tun wood, made in our own workshop. Bowed, fretless and the instrument said to come closest to the human voice.
Choosing yours
The sarangi is bowed and fretless, with three main gut strings stopped by the sides of the fingernails rather than the fingertips, and a bank of sympathetic strings beneath.
It is widely considered one of the hardest Indian instruments to learn, and it rewards a teacher more than almost anything else here.
Instruments are supplied with a horsehair bow. Rosin is needed and is consumable.
Care and climate
The skin belly and gut strings both respond to humidity. Keep the instrument out of dry heat and away from direct sun, and slacken the bow when it is not in use.
Questions we get asked
Why is the sarangi considered difficult?
The main strings are stopped with the sides of the fingernails rather than the fingertips, and there are no frets. Intonation is entirely in the hand.
Does it come with a bow?
Yes, a horsehair bow is included. Rosin is consumable and needs replacing periodically.
How many strings does it have?
Three main gut strings and a bank of sympathetic strings beneath, typically around thirty five.