Meinl 20 TAR - FD20T

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The Târ is a Basque-origin frame drum, adopted and used in Morocco in various playing contexts. Not to be confused with the Tar (a string instrument from the lute family), this Târ fully belongs to the percussion world: a frame, a skin, and a direct rhythmic language. Its modern design emphasizes ergonomics and tuning stability, naturally placing it among frame drums designed for regular practice, balancing tradition and stage requirements.

Who This Drum Is For

This Târ drum is aimed at both serious beginners and intermediate to advanced percussionists seeking an expressive instrument that is easy to handle and precise enough to work on nuance. Its 20-inch size allows for dynamic playing (accents, rolls, stroke variations) while maintaining a solid sonic foundation. It is particularly suited for traditional and Mediterranean music, percussion ensembles, vocal accompaniment, as well as more modern contexts (fusion, world, acoustic) where an organic stroke, clear attack, and strong presence in the mix are desired.

Features and Innovations

The highlight of this Târ lies in its internal tuning system. Since the tuning lugs are fully recessed into the frame, the instrument remains fluid in hand, with fewer interferences during position changes, rotations, and playing techniques where the frame rubs against the palm or forearm. This design also reduces the risk of snagging clothing or straps, a valuable detail when the tempo rises or when playing standing up. The thumb notch improves grip and stability, while the lightweight design promotes relaxed, more enduring, and precise playing. The included Allen key allows for tuning adjustments without searching for the right tool.

Sound

The combination of a Siam oak (Hevea brasiliensis Muell.-Arg.) frame and a hand-selected goat skin directs this Târ towards a lively and nuanced sound. The frame provides a stable response and coherent projection, helping to maintain a clear attack even when varying dynamics. On a frame drum, the hoop material influences the feel under the hand (rigidity, rebound, stability) and contributes to how the skin's vibration is transmitted: here, the result is a responsive instrument designed for articulated playing.

The goat skin, by nature, favors an organic sound texture rich in micro-variations: light strokes remain clear, accents gain character, and hand techniques (fingers, palm, slaps) offer a wide palette. The 20-inch diameter enhances low-end presence and adds body to the strokes while maintaining good definition for fast rhythms. The matte finish and African brown tint complete the package with a sober, stage-friendly look that integrates easily into any percussion setup.

Technical specifications

Instrument size	Large	Depth	6.35 cm
Category	handheld	Accessories included	Tuning key
Type	frame drums	Color	Brown
Material	Siam oak	Diameter	50.8 cm
Skin type	Goat

Instrument	frame drum (Târ)	Thumb notch	yes
Origin of use	Basque-origin frame drum used in Morocco (not to be confused with the tar, a lute)	Size	20 inches
Tuning system	internal	Finishing	matte
Tuning lugs	fully recessed into the frame	Accessory included	Allen key
Frame	Siam oak (Hevea brasiliensis Muell.-Arg.)