Craftsmanship and performance art of the Tar

The tar is a long-necked plucked lute and is widely regarded as the leading musical instrument in Azerbaijan. Distinct from other lutes in the region, the Azerbaijani tar is crafted from mulberry wood with a body covered in a thin membrane of ox pericardium, and is held horizontally against the chest during performance. It plays a central role in numerous traditional musical styles, including mugham, acting as the primary vessel for musical storytelling. The craftsmanship involves the precise selection of materials and techniques, while the performance art is integral to weddings, public concerts and social gatherings, shaping the cultural soundscape of the country.