Instrumental art in Iran: a voice from the heart of history
The art of instrument making in Iran is an art that has its roots in the history and culture of this land. From ancient instruments to modern Iranian instruments, each one has a story to tell and tells about the taste and art of Iranian makers.
A short history of musical instrument art in Iran
The art of building in Iran goes back thousands of years. In ancient times, instruments were made of wood, animal skin, metal, and pottery, which had ritual and religious aspects in addition to musical use. With the arrival of Islam in Iran, music and, as a result, musical instruments were also influenced by Islamic culture. However, Iranian artists were able to create new and beautiful instruments by combining Iranian and Islamic traditions.
Raw materials in instrument making
Different raw materials are used in making Iranian musical instruments, each of which has its own characteristics. Some of these materials include:
- Wood: different woods such as walnut, mulberry, jujube, orange, etc. are used to make the body of the instruments.
- Skin: The skin of animals such as goat, sheep and fish is used to make skins such as tanbak and tambourine.
- Metal: Metals such as copper, brass and steel are used to make curtains, wires and some components.
- Intestine: Sheep intestine is used to make the strings of some stringed instruments.
All kinds of Iranian instruments
Iranian instruments are very diverse and each region of Iran has its own traditional instruments. Some of the most famous Iranian instruments are: - Tar: It is one of the most important Iranian instruments that is widely used in Iranian classical music.
- Three-string: It is similar to the string, but smaller and with less strings.
- Kamancheh: It is a string and bow instrument that is used in traditional and local music of Iran.
- Tonbak: It is a percussion instrument that is used in most Iranian music.
- Centaur: It is a stringed instrument that is played with a mallet.
- Oud: It is a stringed instrument that is used in Arabic and Iranian music.
The importance of instrumental art in Iran - Preserving cultural identity: Iranian musical instruments are part of Iran’s cultural identity and help us to communicate with our roots.
- Developing the art of music: making quality instruments helps the progress of Iranian music.
- Creation of employment: The art of instrument making is a source of income for many artists and craftsmen.
- Promotion of Iranian art: Iranian instruments are one of the symbols of Iranian art and culture and help to introduce Iran at the global level.