Lute

North India "Sarinda"

North India, Pakistan, and Nepal
India

Wood, metal strings, skin, mirror
Early 20th century

The sarinda has its origin in tribal fiddle instruments called "Dhodro Banam" found throughout central, north-western and eastern India. The sarinda was introduced to and popularized in Sikh devotional music. It is played with a bow and has between three and thirty strings depending on the region. The bottom hollow wooden soundbox is covered with animal skin, upon which the bridge is placed. It is played by sliding the nail of the index, middle, and sometimes ring fingers of the left hand against the string, rather than pressing the string against the finger board. The bow is held by the right hand, using an underhand technique (e.g. German bass) instead of the over hand technique (French). The "Gaz," consists of a bent piece of wood and is strung with horsehair. It is played in a vertical position, while sitting on the ground. Today this instrument is extremely rare.

Owner:
Catalog#: ME-CHLT-11

© Hartenberger World Music Collection