Probably the best-known North Indian instrument,the Sitar is a long necked lute with 20 curved metal frets.It is plucked by the index finger of the left hand fitted with a plectrum made of wire. Sitars generally have 6 or 7 main playing strings which run above the frets,and an additional 12 or more sympathic strings,which give the instrument an shimmering echo when played. The bridge of the Sitar which is retangular gives the instrument its characteristic sound. The Sitar evolved from the Vina of the north probably sometim e in the 13th Century. Changes in the instrument are attributed to the famed Sufi poet Amir Khusrau. Priced from $500-$850 For those wishing to learn about playing the instrument, we recommend "Techniques of the Sitar" by S. Bandyo Padhyaya. Hardbound, B.R. Publishing, 418 pages. $36....
