Santur and Santur Tuning

What is a Santur?

The santur is a multi-stringed, trapezoid-shaped instrument that holds a significant place in traditional Iranian music. The word "santur" comes from the Persian word "santūr," which means "a hundred strings." This name reflects the instrument's many strings. Although the santur is a percussion instrument, it is also classified as a string instrument.

The body of the santur is usually made from hard woods like walnut, mahogany, maple, or rosewood. The size and shape of the instrument can vary depending on the type of wood used. The strings are generally made of steel, but some santurs use bronze or brass strings. The strings are stretched parallel to the front surface of the santur and rest on bridges at a certain height. Each bridge is assigned to a specific group of strings on the santur, and these groups represent specific notes.

Structure and Notes of the Santur

The santur typically consists of 18 main bridges and between 72 to 160 strings stretched across these bridges. In an Iranian santur, each bridge is arranged to have four strings. The strings are generally divided into two main groups: right and left strings. Each string group represents a specific octave or set of notes.

The strings on the right side of the santur (often referred to as white strings) are thinner and produce higher notes, while the strings on the left side (often referred to as yellow or bronze strings) are thicker and produce lower notes. Below are the notes for each string group in the standard tuning of the Iranian santur:

Right-Side Strings (White Strings):

Top of the Range (First Four Bridges on the Left Side):

         G Octave

         A Octave

         B Octave

         C Octave

Middle of the Range (Middle Four Bridges):

         D Octave

         E Octave

         F Octave

         G Octave

Bottom of the Range (First Four Bridges on the Right Side):

         A Octave

         B Octave

         C Octave

         D Octave

Left-Side Strings (Yellow/Bronze Strings):

Top of the Range (First Four Bridges on the Left Side):

         G Octave

         A Octave

         B Octave

         C Octave

Middle of the Range (Middle Four Bridges):

         D Octave

         E Octave

         F Octave

         G Octave

Bottom of the Range (First Four Bridges on the Right Side):

         A Octave

         B Octave

         C Octave

         D Octave

These notes may vary depending on the exact tuning of the santur and the type of music being played.

How to Tune a Santur?

Tuning a santur depends on the instrument's structure and the modal structure of the music to be played. The tuning process requires attention and patience. The tuning of a santur is done by adjusting the tension of the strings. Here are the detailed tuning steps:

Required Equipment and Preparation:

Tuning Fork or Digital Tuner: Used to determine the correct notes.

Tuning Key (Tuning Hammer): Used to turn the pins to which the strings are attached and adjust the tension of the strings.

A Quiet Environment: Preferably a quiet place to hear the correct tones.

Tuning Steps:

Determining the Starting Note:

When starting the tuning process, the "G" or "C" note is usually taken as a reference. This note will serve as the fundamental reference point for the santur.

Use a tuning fork or digital tuner to correctly identify this note.

Tuning the String Groups:

Start by tuning the white strings on the right side of the santur. Take the first pair of strings and use the tuning key to turn the corresponding pins until you find the correct note with the help of a tuner or tuning fork.

Each pair of strings should be tuned to the same note. If "G" is chosen for a pair of strings, both strings should give the "G" note.

After tuning the right-side strings, tune the left-side strings (yellow/bronze strings) similarly to a specific note.

Checking the Harmony Between String Groups:

After all the strings are tuned, check the harmony between the right and left strings. This is important to ensure that the santur is properly tuned.

Play the instrument to ensure that each string group is in harmony with each other.

Final Adjustments and Check:

Once the tuning process is complete, check the entire instrument again. If there is any mismatch or defect in any string, retune those strings.

After tuning, test your santur by playing a piece of music to ensure the chords work properly.

For santur enthusiasts, you can safely find different types of santurs and accessories on our site. From traditional Iranian santurs to modern versions, our instruments are suitable for both beginners and professional musicians. Additionally, we offer a range of santur accessories, such as tuning keys and replacement strings, to enrich your musical experience. You can safely order your instruments and accessories from our site.

The santur is a fascinating instrument that offers a rich and melodic range of sounds. Proper tuning is crucial to unlocking the full potential of this instrument. The tuning process requires patience and care, but performing this process correctly ensures that the santur will deliver long-lasting, high-quality performance. Regularly tuning your santur will extend the instrument's life and enhance your music-making experience.

Orient Valley Team