What is a Santur?

A santur is a traditional hammered string instrument used in Middle Eastern and Persian music. The instrument has a flat, trapezoid-shaped wooden body with many metal strings stretched across it. Musicians play the santur by striking the strings with small wooden mallets, which produces bright and shimmering tones.

The strings of the santur are arranged in groups and stretched over movable bridges that divide them into different pitch sections. Each group of strings is tuned to the same note, allowing the instrument to produce a full and resonant sound when struck. By using two mallets, players can perform rapid melodies, rhythmic patterns, and flowing musical passages.

The santur has been used for centuries in Persian classical music and traditional ensembles throughout the Middle East and surrounding regions. Its sparkling tone adds a distinctive texture to musical performances. Today, the santur continues to be played in traditional music, cultural performances, and modern musical collaborations that blend historical and contemporary styles.