Svara Tarang

The range of metal bar instruments is wide, from the simple “Glockenspiel” for pre-school children to the large vibraphones of symphonic orchestras. The clear, crystal-like sound attracts the ear of the child and adult alike. Svaram is mainly focusing on the technical advantage of very precise pitch control and the application of all possible tunings. Different models are available from single tuned bars to sets of two chromatic octaves with resonators.

The single sounds of the Svara Tarang can be arranged in manifold ways (lines, rows, stars, circles…) or configured in pairs and trios. A great way to use them is in groups as a compound ensemble.

Initiated in 2003 as a grassroots community, rural development project in Tamil Nadu (India),  Svaram has been recognised by the UN Initiative “Music as a Global Resource” as one of its first 50 projects worldwide. The open association and team of over 50 local artisans, trainees, international volunteers and professionals has always retained its emphasis on the human element, its heritage and prospect of evolutionary change and positive progress.

Initially focusing on communication-social-and craft-skill trainings with the practical core of hands on work with different materials like wood, metals, clay, bamboo and seeds/shells for instrument building, extensive explorations and a communal discovery process on the ‘magic of sound’ stimulated the growth of the team in ever unfolding and often surprising directions, creating a natural enthusiasm in everyone involved for the chosen work with the mystery and magic of sound!