Esraj

The Esraj has smooth stylish lines that add visual interest to this instrument.

Playing the Esraj

It is held upright in your lap and played with a bow like a small bass fiddle. Your left hand notes the strings in a similar manner to playing the sitar. You press the strings between the frets. You can then slide the note up or down to achieve the portamento, or long-and-flowing-vibrations, characteristic of Indian music.