The Turkmen dutar, this long-necked, two-stringed instrument is an important part of Turkmen culture. It is commonly played in both traditional and modern music, and it has a bright and lively sound that is perfect for solo performances but also singing.

• The dutar is played with the fingers, and it is known for its ability to produce intricate melodies and complex rhythms.

The Turkmen dutar is typically made from a combination of woods:

• The neck of the dutar is usually made from walnut or apricot wood.
• The body is made from mulberry wood.
• The soundboard is a piece of mulberry wood dried in the tamdyr (tandoor) oven.
• The strings themselves are usually made of steel.