Question

Describe the tuning of a Tanpura.

Hint:

To easily remember the default string tuning sequence of a standard Tanpura, memorize the shorthand formula: Pa -- Sa -- Sa -- Sa (or Ma -- Sa -- Sa -- Sa for Malkauns).

Answer 1

Step 1: Introduction to the Tanpura and Its Structure:
The Tanpura (or Tambura) is a four-stringed, plucked lute that provides the continuous, rich, harmonic drone backdrop essential for all Indian classical music performances. It does not play a melody; instead, it generates a complex, shimmering cloud of overtones that anchors the vocalist's pitch.

Step 2: Tuning of the Four Strings (Standard Vocal Pitch):
A standard vocal Tanpura is tuned from left to right as follows:
• First String (Leftmost): Tuned to the Mandra Saptak (Lower Octave) Pancham ($Pa_{\bullet}$) note for most standard ragas.
• Exception 1: If a Raga completely omits Pancham but has a strong Madhyam (e.g., Raga Malkauns), this string is tuned to the Mandra Madhyam ($Ma_{\bullet}$).
• Exception 2: If a Raga omits both $Pa$ and $Ma$ but has a strong Nishad (e.g., Raga Marwa), this string is tuned to the Mandra Shuddha Nishad ($Ni_{\bullet}$).
• Second String (Jodi - Middle Pair): Tuned to the Madhya Saptak (Middle Octave) Shadaj ($Sa$).
• Third String (Jodi - Middle Pair): Tuned to the Madhya Saptak (Middle Octave) Shadaj ($Sa$).
• Fourth String (Rightmost - Kharaj): Tuned to the Mandra Saptak (Lower Octave) Shadaj ($Sa_{\bullet}$). This is a thicker steel or brass string that provides the deep bass anchor.

Step 3: Fine-Tuning Components and Techniques:
Achieving perfect resonance requires three mechanical fine-tuning devices:
• Khunti (Pegs): Large wooden pegs at the neck of the instrument used to make coarse tension adjustments.
• Manka (Beads): Small, decorative glass or clay beads threaded near the tailpiece. Sliding them up or down alters the tension microscopically for precise pitch matching.
• Soot or Dhaaga (Thread): A thin cotton thread inserted between each string and the curved bone bridge (Ghurach). Adjusting the placement of this thread alters the contact point of the string, producing the signature buzzing sound (Javari) that releases the rich harmonic overtones.