Sur Peti

The SwarShala Indian music software includes Sur Peti and over 100 other perfectly sampled virtual Indian instruments.

About Sur Peti:

The sur peti or shruti box is a small, hand-pumped instrument widely used in Indian classical and devotional music for providing a continuous drone. Unlike instruments that play melodies, the shruti box functions to create a harmonic base, sustaining a single pitch or set of pitches that form the tonal foundation for a performance. It is particularly popular in vocal and instrumental practices where the drone sets the tonal framework, helping musicians maintain the correct pitch. Typically rectangular in shape, the box is made of wood, with bellows at the back and tuning knobs on top to adjust the pitch. The player operates it by pumping the bellows to push air through reeds, creating a steady, harmonic sound.

The sur peti is an essential tool for Indian classical vocalists, especially in khayal and dhrupad singing, where maintaining pitch is critical to the performance. Unlike the harmonium, which can play melodies, the shruti box provides a simple, unwavering drone, allowing singers to focus on the intricacies of their vocal performance. This continuous drone not only helps in pitch accuracy but also creates a calming, meditative atmosphere, which is a key aspect of Indian classical music. It is also used in bhajans and other devotional singing styles, where the simplicity of its sound complements the spiritual nature of the performance.

In contemporary practice, the shruti box has found use outside of traditional Indian music, with musicians from various genres incorporating it into fusion music and experimental sounds. The instrument's portability, simplicity, and rich, sustained tones have made it an attractive addition to meditative and ambient music as well. In the West, it is sometimes used in yoga and meditation classes to create a tranquil, grounding environment.