Sitar

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I've just bought a sitar. Gorgeous instrument. Can anyone give me any lessons?
I keep snapping strings, and I'm notsure how to string the simpathetic strings? anyone?


anyway apart from that, this makes me laugh


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFpwSTEWc34

I've been playing for a few years, and also had trouble figuring out the basics at first.

I used to have this book and it was really helpful. It has instructions on playing, practice exercises, and information on restringing and tuning it. Lots of pictures and diagrams. If you're interested, you might be able to find a really cheap copy on Amazon or Ebay.
https://www.activemusician.com/item--MD.LIST

Here's also a decent online tutorial.
http://www.buckinghammusic.com/sitar/sittut/btut.html

The strings shouldn't break if they're good quality. Make sure they aren't pulled too tightly, and if you can, use a keyboard to get the exact notes when you tune it. For easier playing, you can also lightly oil the srings; just be really careful not to get anything on the instrument.

I hope this helps a little; if you have any more questions, I'll do my best to help. Good luck!

give Ravi Shanker a ring, i am sure he'll help, LOL!

Cool avatar, Mescalero!

Thanks for the links guys, just what I was looking for.

Oil on the strings seems a good idea, even though I've got pads on my fingers from guitar, these strings cut in easy.

ps Ravi not returning my calls