What is a Santoor?

A santoor (also spelled santur or santour) is a traditional hammered string instrument that is widely used in the classical and folk music of regions such as Iran, India, and parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. The instrument typically has a trapezoidal wooden body with dozens of stretched metal strings arranged in groups across the top. These strings are struck with a pair of small wooden mallets, producing a bright, shimmering tone.

The santoor is played by lightly striking the strings with thin curved sticks, often called mezrabs or mallets, allowing musicians to create rapid melodic passages and delicate rhythmic patterns. Because the instrument contains many strings tuned to different notes, performers can play flowing melodies and rich harmonic textures. The sound of the santoor is often described as sparkling and resonant, with a bell-like quality that can fill a room with layered tones.

The instrument plays an important role in several musical traditions. In Indian classical music, the santoor is associated with the music of Kashmir and has been adapted for performances in the Hindustani classical system. In Persian music, the related instrument known as the santur is central to traditional ensembles and is used to perform intricate compositions within the Persian modal system known as dastgah. Across these cultures, the instrument is valued for its expressive melodies and distinctive shimmering sound.