CultureJune 30, 2026

santoor

/sænˈtuːər/

Definition

A traditional Persian string instrument, specifically a trapezoidal hammered dulcimer played with small wooden mallets.

Etymology

The word originates from the Persian 'santur', which combines 'sad' meaning 'one hundred' and 'tur' meaning 'strings', referring to the instrument's many strings. It shares roots with other hammered dulcimers found across the Middle East and South Asia.

In the news

The artist Big Sur incorporates the santoor into her music as a way to blend her modern sound with her Iranian heritage. This connection to traditional instruments serves as a key element of her artistic identity and cultural expression.

For Orange County Artist Big Sur, Music Is Activism, Healing and Home

Read the full article ↗

Culture OC

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