Rabab

About the Sound and Character

The sound of the rabab is deep, resonant, and percussive due to its skin soundboard. The presence of sympathetic (resonating) strings adds a light echo and rich overtones. It is capable of sounding both meditative and smooth, as well as incredibly rhythmic.

Structure and Features

The body is carved from a single piece of mulberry wood and features a distinctive shape with two side notches (resembling a figure eight). The lower part of the soundboard is covered with goat skin, while the upper part remains wooden. The instrument has a short neck, 3 main playing strings, and up to 15 sympathetic strings.

Genres

• Classical Afghan and Persian music
• Sufi rituals
• Indo-Afghan fusion