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"Finding Your Perfect Veena: A Beginner's Guide to Purchasing Your First Instrument"



Title: Choosing the Perfect Veena for Your Musical Journey


Introduction:

Learning a musical instrument is a fulfilling and enriching experience. For those interested in the veena, one of India's most cherished classical instruments, the journey begins with finding the right veena to practice and master. In this blog post, we will explore the different options available when purchasing a veena and help you make an informed decision based on your budget and requirements.


The Importance of Practice:

Before diving into the details of purchasing a veena, it's essential to emphasize the significance of regular practice. While finding a good teacher is crucial, dedicating time to practice at home is what truly allows you to shine as a musician. So, let's discuss the best approach to buying a veena based on your budget and preferences.


Veena Options Within a Budget of Ten Thousand Rupees:

If you are considering a veena below ten thousand rupees, there are a couple of options worth exploring. One option is to search for an old veena from trusted sellers or antique shops. Another alternative is to consider a fiber veena, which is a little heavier and more fragile but can serve as a suitable instrument during the initial years of learning. Fiber veenas usually replace the main resonator made of jackfruit wood with fiber, while the top plank remains made of jackfruit wood. These fiber veenas can be found in instrument shops and music stores, priced around 8,000 to 8,500 rupees.


Exploring Veena Options Above Ten Thousand Rupees:

For those with a higher budget ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 rupees, a broader range of options becomes available. The Tanjore veena, known for its distinct markings and tonal quality, is an excellent choice. It is made primarily with Tanjore wood, which enhances its resonance. A new Tanjore veena can be purchased for around 17,000 rupees, while variations with carvings and additional details can cost between 21,000 and 22,000 rupees. The more expensive option, priced at 40,000 rupees, is the ekanta veena, which is crafted from a single piece of wood, providing superior tonal quality.


Differences Between Mysore and Tanjore Veena:

While both the Mysore and Tanjore veenas are exceptional choices, they have slight variations. The Mysore veena lacks the distinct markings found on the Tanjore veena, specifically the dots that correspond to the beginner's first raagam, maya malava gowla ragam. However, Mysore veenas are often made using Tanjore wood, making them comparable in tonal quality. Tanjore veenas, being the place of origin for the veena, are considered to have an edge over others. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and availability.


The Value of Older Veena:

Contrary to popular belief, newer veenas are not necessarily better than older ones. In fact, older veenas hold a unique value and are said to improve in tonal quality over the years of use. There is a proverb in Tamil that states when a veena is left untouched in a corner, its tonal quality may diminish due to dust and neglect. However, when actively played, the sound improves with time. Therefore, older veenas, some even dating back a century, are considered valuable and can carry a higher price tag.


Conclusion:

Choosing the right veena is an important step in your musical journey. Consider your budget, preferences, and the options available to find the veena that resonates with you. Whether you opt for an affordable fiber veena or a traditional Tanjore veena.




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