What is dan nguyet? It is one of Vietnam’s most iconic traditional instruments. The dan nguyet, often called the “moon lute,”. Its name translates directly to “moon instrument,” and once you see its round, glowing body, you’ll understand why. But…
The difference between Turkish and Arabic oud is more than just a design choice, it touches every part of how you play and how the music feels. These two instruments may look related, but once you hear or hold them,…
The history of the oud in Middle Eastern music is found not only in books, it’s alive in every note you hear from Cairo to Casablanca. This short-necked, pear-shaped string instrument has been at the center of Middle Eastern music…
The Russian Balalaika Family is a group of stringed instruments that shaped the sound of Russian folk music. Each one has a triangle shaped body and just three strings. But they don’t all sound the same. From the tiny piccolo…
So, what is a Mandocello made of? It is made of wood, strings, and details that all work together to create its deep, powerful sound. It’s like the big sibling of the mandolin, larger, lower in pitch, and full of…
What is the difference between Shurangiz and Setar? Both are stringed instruments from Persian music. Both look a lot alike. But they’re not the same. The Setar is old, soft, and made of wood. It has four metal strings and…
Kwitra is a small guitar from Algeria. Some call it Kouitra. Others say Quitra or Quwaytara. But no matter the name, it carries the same voice. This voice is soft. Deep. Old. It comes from the days when Andalusian people…
Dombra is more than an old Kazakh instrument. It is a voice. A wooden voice with two strings. Long ago, in the wide lands of Kazakhstan, nomads sat by fires and played it in their yurts. They told stories through…
Balalaika is a string instrument from Russia. It is shaped like a triangle, and has just three strings. Not six like a guitar. Just three. But that’s all it needs. The sound it makes? Bright. Snappy. A little twangy. You…