Musician's Mall: Formerly the Ali Akbar College Store

Q: How is the nylon strapping for tabla or baya, and how does it compare to the regular strap?
A: Here is our take on this (having reheaded hundreds if not thousands of tablas over the years) The nylon strapping is good. It has many positive features. Compared with regular strap, it is easier to lace (much easier on the hands) and easier to pull...

Q: When I pull a note or two on my Ma string, the whole sitar seems to go out of tune a little bit. Is there something wrong with my sitar? Maybe the neck is warped or loose?
A: All sitars, even the very best, go slightly out of tune when you do a long meend on the Ma string. This is especially noticeable in the bass strings of a Ravi Shankar style sitar. When you pull 4 or 5 notes, this puts extra pressure on the bridge...

Q: What are the differences between the Bina 23b Reg. and the Bina 23b Dlx.?
A: First we should note that all Bina harmoniums say "Deluxe" on them.
Regarding the ever popular 23bs, our description is a way to differentiate two slightly different instruments. These harmoniums are equal in quality, sound and about $50 different in price. Basically, the Deluxe is slightly larger. It is 2 inches longer...

Q: Do people still follow the rules for playing ragas at certain times of day?
A: In India these days, a lot of people are not so strict about following the time scheme for ragas. They will practice a rag any time, but then try to perform it only at the right time. Khansahib was always very strict about following these rules. He...