The art of crafting Iranian Tar and Setar: Personal experiences

Abstract

This article presents the personal craftsmanship experience of Morteza Salimian Rizi, a master luthier and founder of Sapp Saz, an independent Iranian instrument workshop in Zarrin Shahr, Iran. Drawing on more than a decade of professional practice, Salimian Rizi documents the complete process of crafting two central instruments of Persian classical music: the Tar and the Setar. The study explores the careful selection of materials such as mulberry wood, specialized construction techniques, and structural decisions that affect tonal quality and resonance. It analyzes the organological differences between the Tar’s double-bowl, six-string design and the Setar’s lighter, four-string structure, addressing challenges such as neck curvature and soundboard integration. Combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative approaches, Salimian Rizi reflects on how personal experimentation enhances sound production and contributes to preserving Iran’s musical heritage. This work aims to transmit valuable artisanal knowledge to future generations, enrich the academic field of organology, and support the cultural sustainability of Persian musical traditions.