Description

One of the oldest instruments in the world ‘Jal-tarang’ comes from ‘Jal’ meaning water, and ‘tarang’ that connotes to the “waves in water”.
Jal-tarang is an ancient Indian wave instrument which continues to play till today in the Indian classical music repertoire to produce both ‘Ragas’ and light melodies.

Origin

The instrument was developed in ancient India around the 17th century and finds its first mention in the music treatise Sangeet Parijat.

Its Structure and how it is played

The sizes of cups or bowls vary according to the resonance they are supposed to bring. Water is filled in the cups according to the pitch expected from those cups, which are arranged in half-circle fashion in front of the player, in such a manner he or she can reach the cups easily and comfortably, the player hits the tip of the cups using a wooden stick in a smooth manner to produce a melody.

Usage

The Jal Tarang was used as a medium of entertainment and relaxing music in courts of ancient Indian kings. It is also used to provide musical therapy.

References

Wikipedia
Video of a Jal Tarang being played and more important information about the instrument