Sarod

Sarod is a fretless plectrum-plucked string instrument with a short neck, used in the North Indian classical music tradition. It has a unique construction and a peculiar playing technique. 19 sarod strings are divided in 4 groups - 4 main, 11 sympathetic (called tarab, 4 of special use), 2 chikari and 2 jor or additional resonance strings. The fingerboard is covered with a metal plate and the resonator with goat skin. All strings pass the same bridge at the resonator. The player presses the strings to the fingerboard using the specially grown and cut nails of his left hand. It makes incredible sound.