Sarod

About the Sound and Character

Due to the absence of frets and the skin stretched over the resonator, the sarod produces a thick, velvety, and enveloping sound resembling a human voice or a cello. The instrument is ideally suited for performing slow, meditative introductions (alaps) and virtuosic fast passages.

Structure and Features

The body of the sarod is carved from a single piece of valuable wood (such as teak or mahogany), and the lower part of the membrane is covered with goat skin. The instrument features 4 main melody strings, resonant strings (ranging from 11 to 15), and special rhythm strings (chikari).

Genres

• Hindustani classical music (solo ragas)
• Indian academic and ethnic fusion