How to Tune a Sitar

Tuning a sitar is an essential step for any sitar player, as it ensures that the instrument produces the desired melodic and harmonic qualities. With its unique construction and sympathetic strings, tuning a sitar requires attention to detail and a careful ear. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the process of tuning a sitar is crucial for achieving the authentic and resonant sound that characterizes this iconic instrument. In this guide, we will explore the fundamental steps and considerations involved in tuning a sitar, enabling you to embark on a melodic journey and unlock the true potential of this mesmerizing instrument.

Tuning a sitar to the key of C requires adjusting the main playing strings and sympathetic strings accordingly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tune a sitar in C:

Start with the main playing strings (melody strings): The standard tuning for a sitar is in the key of C is Sa, Re, Sa, Pa, Sa, Sa (from the lowest to the highest string). To tune the sitar to C, you will need to tune each string to the respective note.
Tune the first string (lowest string) to C: Pluck the first string gently while turning the corresponding tuning peg until it reaches the desired pitch of C. Use a reference pitch from a tuning device or a reliable source like a tanpura or drone instrument to help you achieve the correct pitch.
Tune the second string to G: Pluck the second string and adjust its tension until it produces a G note. Ensure that it harmonizes well with the first string.
Tune the third string to C: Pluck the third string and adjust its tension until it produces a C note. This string should be tuned one octave higher than the first string.
Tune the fourth string to E: Pluck the fourth string and adjust its tension until it produces an E note. Ensure that it complements the other strings and creates a harmonious sound.
Tune the fifth string to C: Pluck the fifth string and adjust its tension until it produces a C note. This string should be tuned one octave higher than the third string.
Tune the sixth string to C: Pluck the sixth string and adjust its tension until it produces a C note. This string should be tuned one octave higher than the fourth string.
Tune the sympathetic strings: The number and tuning of the sympathetic strings can vary. Generally, sympathetic strings are tuned to notes that harmonize with the main strings and complement the key of C. Pluck each main string individually and adjust the corresponding sympathetic string until they resonate together and create a pleasing, balanced sound.
Fine-tuning: After tuning all the strings, play different notes and chords to ensure that the sitar is in tune and resonating properly. Make small adjustments as needed to achieve optimal balance and harmony.

Remember that tuning a sitar requires practice and a keen ear for pitch. It’s helpful to consult with an experienced sitar player or teacher to guide you through the process and provide further assistance in achieving the desired tuning.

Enjoy these Free Sitar Tabs
10 Famous Sitar Players

Comparison of Indian Scale to Western Major Scale

bilaval that	Sa	Re	Ga	Ma	Pa	Dha	Ni	Sa
Western major scale (solfege)	Do	Re	Me	Fa	So (or Sol)	La	Ti (or Si)	Do
C major scale	C	D	E	F	G	A	B	C
Numeric western scale	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8

What is the standard tuning for a sitar?

Indian Sitar Tuning

The standard tuning for a sitar can vary depending on the style of music being played and the preferences of the musician. However, the most common and widely used tuning for a sitar is known as the “Kharaj Pancham” tuning. In this tuning, the main playing strings are typically tuned to the following notes:

The first string, called the “baaj tar” or “kharaj tar,” is usually tuned to the tonic Sa (also referred to as Kharaj) of the raga or scale being played. It is the lowest and thickest string of the sitar.
The second string, known as the “jod tar” or “kharaj pancham,” is tuned to the fifth note (Pancham) of the raga or scale. It is typically tuned one octave higher than the first string.
The third string, called the “ravi tar” or “jod pancham,” is tuned to the tonic Sa (Kharaj) of the raga, one octave higher than the first string.
The remaining melody strings are usually tuned to specific notes that complement the raga being played. The exact tuning of these strings can vary, but they are typically tuned to form a specific melodic structure based on the requirements of the composition or improvisation.

It’s important to note that the sympathetic strings of the sitar are not usually tuned directly by the player. Instead, they are set sympathetically to the main playing strings, often creating a harmonious resonance and enhancing the overall sound of the instrument.

While the Kharaj Pancham tuning is the most commonly used, there are variations and alternative tunings employed by different sitar players based on their musical preferences and the specific requirements of the composition or style of music being played.

Western Sitar Tuning

In Western culture, the standard tuning for a sitar may vary depending on the specific requirements of the musician or the style of music being played. However, for those who wish to adapt the sitar to Western musical notation, a common approach is to tune the sitar to a C-based tuning.

Here is a common Western adaptation of sitar tuning using a C-based approach:

The first string, baaj tar or kharaj tar, is tuned to C, which serves as the tonic note.
The second string, jod tar or kharaj pancham, is tuned to G. This creates a perfect fifth interval with the first string.
The third string, ravi tar or jod pancham, is tuned to C, one octave higher than the first string.
The remaining melody strings are usually tuned to notes that complement the raga or musical context. These notes are typically selected based on the desired melodic structure or the specific requirements of the composition or improvisation.

It’s important to note that while this C-based tuning can provide a reference point for Western musicians who are more familiar with Western notation, it is an adaptation and may not fully capture the intricate nuances and tonal possibilities of the traditional Indian tuning system. Traditional sitar playing and its repertoire are deeply rooted in the rich tonal and melodic structures of Indian classical music, which have their own distinct tuning systems and scales.

Kalimba Tabs
Banjo Tabs
Lute Tabs
Dobro Tabs
Mandolin Tabs
Ukulele Tabs
Harmonica Tabs