For enthusiasts of Sitar Music the sonorous and melodious sounds of the sitar yields an enchanting music from which to get rid of the worries of the day. The tones and timbres of the musical instrument inherently create a state of relaxation , tranquility and calmness that is unrivaled by most instruments anywhere. It is a unique and popular style of Indian Classical Music, with characteristics and specialties which are not the same as any other instrument in this genre.
The Sitar is able to be enjoyed by many of those that hear its sound , but when you understand a couple things about the Sitar at that point you can appreciate the music on a whole new plane . When you understand the amount of training the sitarist must go through , and the deftness of hand that it requires, and understanding of the theories about the ragas, then the music becomes a glorious realization of humanity in such a way that uplifts the one who hears the music into a blissful trance.
With over 17 strings, 7 of which are above the frets and 13 of which run underneath the frets and many of them being varying lengths makes for a wide array of variety in the sitarists repetoire , even tuning the instrument takes a considerable amount of time . It is not uncommon to snap a string while tuning and then restringing comes into consideration. After that the player must understand the pitches of the Raga to be played so he or she can tune the strings to the notes of that particular raga. When all this is done, he must then be able to communicate with his tabla player, his tanpura player, and any other musicians that are on stage with him at the time. It appears almost as telepathy between the players, and it dazzles and awes the audience. This heavenly variety of music is enjoyed by all , appreciated by more, and rarely really comprehended.