Sitars of India and Sounds of Asia

The sitar is India's most famous instrument. It has a long neck with movable frets and usually 18 to 21 strings, though only some are played directly. The rest vibrate sympathetically, creating a shimmering, buzzing sound that is unlike anything else. Ravi Shankar was the most famous sitar player and even taught a Beatle, George Harrison, how to play! Indian classical music uses ragas, which are like musical recipes for creating moods.