The Tanbur is a stringed instrument that produces sound when the strings pass through a long, bowl-shaped handle and are struck with the fingers. It is also sometimes referred to as Tanboor or Tambur. Today, the Tanbur is considered a local instrument with a longer handle, larger bowl, and more curved than the Setar, with 2 or 3 strings and 14 frets that are spaced an octave apart.

The Tanbur is played with the fingertips, and its sound is both mystical and passionate, making it suitable for playing emotional pieces. This instrument has taken on different names and shapes in various regions and cultures throughout history. The Tanbur has a pear-shaped body and a long neck that has ten to fifteen frets. The strings are wrapped around two pegs on the headstock, and the Tanbur is usually played without a plectrum.