Tanpura (common, string instrument)

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The Tanpura is a four to six stringed fretless instrument made of wood, and usually combined with gourd. It provides the performing artist(s) with a tonic reference and enriches the background with its unique harmonic drone. The strings are tuned in a manner that emphasizes the tonic and the dominant notes of the raag. The bridge is comprised of bone, usually deer antler and is slightly curved to not only provide a buzzing sound (as the strings are plucked), but also to generate various harmonics that enhance the tonal quality of the instrument. The size (gourd and neck) of the instrument may vary depending on whether the artist is an instrumentalist, male vocalist, or a female vocalist. The instrument most probably was included as a part of a classical music ensemble since the seventeenth century.

The Tanpura player plucks the strings one at a time, in a steady, repetitive, almost orderly manner, using the index and middle fingers. These days "electronic" tanpuras have become commonplace, since they do not require an human player, are less expensive, simpler to tune, require minimal maintenance, and are easily portable. However, many artists prefer a natural instrument to an electronic one when available, and often combine the two types. Electronic Tanpuras are, naturally, used by many students for practice as in this way the student can practice for long periods of time as and when needed.

The gourd of the tambura used in Hindustani music is made from the pumpkin shell. The one used by Carnatic musicians is made of jackwood.