Arabic Oud vs Turkish Oud: A Complete Comparison Guide (2026) Introduction: Two Traditions, One Instrument The oud (also spelled ud) is one of the most iconic fretless lute instruments in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean music. While it’s called “ud” in Turkey and “ʿûd” (عود) in the Arab world, musicians and buyers often wonder: What’s the […]
Who Owns These Instruments? Time has changed Are kemençe, lavta and darbuka “ours” or “theirs”? On social media, we constantly see debates like: “The Black Sea kemençe is actually a Greek instrument.” “The classical kemençe is not Turkish.” “There is no such thing as a Turkish lavta, it came from Syria.” Most of these claims […]
The Modern Healer’s Handbook: Sound Therapy and the Meditative Power of the Handpan Discover how the handpan can transform meditation and sound therapy sessions. Learn what sound healing is, why the handpan is so powerful for modern healers, how it affects the body and mind, and how to choose and use a handpan for yoga, […]
Istanbul Lavtasi: The Soulful Voice of a Timeless Tradition Explore the history, craftsmanship, and character of the Turkish Lavta – and discover what makes Tapadum’s Traditional Turkish Lavta a standout choice for musicians today. Introduction: A Stringed Voice Born in Istanbul Some instruments are more than tools for music—they are carriers of memory. The Istanbul […]
Tapadum Persian Instruments: A Spiritual Journey with Iranian Instruments The Tapadum Persian Instruments collection brings together a rich family of instruments from the depths of Iranian music: Santur, Setar, Tar, Tanbour (Tamboor), Shourangiz, Tombak and Daf. Each one is considered the voice and soul of a centuries‑old musical tradition. Tapadum carefully selects these instruments, all […]
Sound Healing Instruments: A Guide to Deep Listening with Tapadum Ethnic Music Store What Is Sound Healing? A Journey of Healing Through Sound For centuries, different cultures have used sound not only to create music, but also to support healing, ritual, and inner transformation. Today, this ancient wisdom is often gathered under one name: sound […]
The Timeless Charm of the Gittern: A Musical Treasure at Tapadum Ethnic Music Store ntroduction to the Gittern: A Glimpse into Musical History The Gittern is more than just an instrument—it’s a living echo of medieval Europe. Long before guitars strummed their way into the spotlight, the Gittern graced royal courts and village festivals with […]
Handpan and Similar Instruments: Which One is Right for You? The ethereal, resonant tones of handpans have captivated musicians and meditation practitioners worldwide. These remarkable steel percussion instruments create sounds that seem to bridge the gap between earthly rhythm and celestial harmony. But with so many variations and related instruments available today, how do you […]
Darbuka Playing Techniques: Learn to Master the Art of Middle Eastern Percussion The darbuka (also known as doumbek or tabla) stands as one of the most expressive and captivating drums in Middle Eastern percussion. Its distinctive goblet shape produces a remarkable range of sounds—from deep, resonant bass tones to crisp, bright highs—making it an essential […]
Clay Darbuka Played Like a Djembe? Common Myths Debunked Introduction In the world of music, an instrument’s shape, material, and name often create rigid ideas about how it should be played. The clay darbuka is no exception. Many believe this instrument can only be played in the traditional darbuka position. However, this is a complete […]
