Tsendi

Tsendi is a traditional Mongolian musical instrument, often referred to as the "Mongolian lute." It is a stringed instrument with a pear-shaped body, typically made of wood, and is played by plucking the strings with the fingers. The tsendi has a rich history, dating back to the 13th century, and is an integral part of Mongolian culture and music.

The instrument consists of a resonating body, a neck, and a fretboard with 19 frets. It has four strings, which are tuned to a pentatonic scale. The strings are made of horsehair or nylon and are tuned to a specific pitch. The tsendi is often accompanied by other traditional Mongolian instruments, such as the morin khuur, a two-stringed fiddle, and the khomus, a three-stringed lute.

The tsendi is used in various Mongolian musical genres, including the traditional "khuree," a genre of epic poetry and music, and the modern "pop" music. It is also used in religious ceremonies and festivals, where it plays a significant role in the performance of traditional songs and dances.

The tsendi is an important cultural symbol of Mongolia, representing the country's rich musical heritage and the nomadic lifestyle of its people. It is often used in educational settings to teach children about Mongolian culture and music. The instrument is also used in contemporary music, where musicians incorporate traditional Mongolian sounds and rhythms into modern compositions.