Tabla Tales: Unveiling the Secrets of Rhythm with Ustad Akram Khan

Name: Tabla Tales: Unveiling the Secrets of Rhythm with Ustad Akram Khan
Start: 2025-09-25T13:00:00+01:00
End: 2025-09-25T16:30:00+01:00
Location: The Bhavan, London

Schedule

Thu Sep 25 2025 at 01:00 pm to 04:30 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

The Bhavan, London | London, EN

Master the Versatile Art of “Tabla” in this inetnsive Tabla workshop with one of the most important exponent of the instrument.
Join Ustad Akram Khan, one of the finest Tabla Players in India and the torchbearer of Ajrada Gharana, one of the 6 main Gharanas (Schools) of tabla.
This exclusive workshop will put the limelight on the tabla's rich tradition and Intricacy, especially the Ajrada Style (Known for its precise execution and sophisticated techniques) — an Opportunity for Beginner, Intermediate, & Advanced Tabla Students to learn from the maestro.
Workshop Highlights: An overview of the Mastery of the tabla
1. Understanding the Basics of Tabla
• Tabla Structure : The tabla consists of two drums—the bayan (left drum) and the dayan (right drum). The dayan is usually made of wood, while the bayan is typically made of metal or clay.
• Tunings : Learning to tune both drums to the correct pitch is fundamental. The dayan is tuned to the tonic note (Sa) of the raga or the piece being played.
2. Fundamental Techniques and Bol (Syllables)
• At the core of tabla playing are the bols , distinct syllables corresponding to specific strokes on the drum. These bols, like dha , tin , na , and tu , form the basic vocabulary of tabla rhythms. A beginner learns to articulate these bols with clarity and precision, gradually combining them to form simple compositions called thekas .
3. Mastery of Taal (Rhythmic Cycles)
• Indian classical music is structured around specific taals , or rhythmic cycles. Common taals include Teentaal (16 beats), Ektaal (12 beats), and Jhaptaal (10 beats). Mastery of the tabla requires an in-depth understanding of these cycles, as well as the ability to maintain the steady rhythm while navigating complex variations.
4. Developing Hand Techniques and Control
Each hand and finger plays a vital role in creating different tonal qualities:
• The dayan is struck with the index and middle fingers to produce bright, high-pitched sounds.
• The bayan requires a more extensive use of the palm, thumb, and little fingers to generate resonant, bass tones.
A skilled tabla player develops control over these techniques to produce a wide range of sounds, from delicate, soft notes to forceful, resonating ones. Precision in hand positioning, finger placement, and pressure control is essential for refining these skills.
5. Theory & Tradition
Along with technical skills, a tabla master has in-depth Knowledge of Indian classical music theory, including the concept of “layakari” (timing) and the intricacies of taals.
6. Speed and Precision
Progressing from basic strokes to more complex rhythms demands the ability to play faster sequences without sacrificing clarity. Speed and precision are cultivated over years of practice, starting from slow tempos and incrementally increasing the speed. The balance between speed and accuracy is a hallmark of tabla mastery.
7. Creative Improvisation and Expression
One of the most distinctive aspects of tabla playing is the ability to improvise . Advanced players express their creativity through intricate variations and spontaneous compositions. The tabla solo (or tukda ) expresses rhythmic virtuosity and innovation. Mastery in improvisation is achieved by understanding the nuances of rhythm, musicality, and the traditional framework within which the player operates.
8. Accompaniment
In addition to solo performances, the tabla is often played in accompaniment to other instruments or vocalists. Accompanying artists require understanding the raga (melody) and taal (rhythm) of the piece being performed. A tabla player must adapt their playing to complement the melodic flow of the other musicians while maintaining rhythmic integrity.
9. The Guru-Shishya Tradition
Learning the tabla is traditionally passed down through the guru-shishya (teacher-student) system, where knowledge is transmitted directly from master to disciple. This mentorship fosters technical skill and a deep emotional and spiritual connection to the music. The relationship with a guru is crucial in progressing from a student to a master of the instrument.
10. Mental Focus and Physical Endurance
Becoming a tabla master requires not just physical dexterity but also mental focus. The intricate patterns of rhythm and melody require sustained concentration and mental discipline. In addition, the physical demands of long practice sessions help build endurance, enabling the tabla player to perform for extended periods with energy and clarity.
11. Practice and Discipline:
Like any form of Mastery, becoming proficient on the tabla demands years of practice under the guidance of a guru (teacher). The discipline of consistent practice, is crucial to refine technique and increase musical expression.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND AND WHY?
1. Aspiring Tabla Players (Beginners)
• Why Attend : If you are a complete beginner, a structured tabla class can provide you with the foundational knowledge and techniques. Learning the basic strokes (bols), the concept of taal (rhythmic cycles), and proper hand positioning are crucial to building a strong foundation.
• What You’ll Gain :
- Basic tabla techniques and rhythms
- Introduction to fundamental taals like Teentaal and Ektaal
- Basic hand and finger exercises to develop strength and control
- An understanding of the cultural and musical significance of the tabla
2. Intermediate Players
• Why Attend : If you already have some experience with the tabla, attending an intermediate-level class can help refine your skills and deepen your understanding of the instrument. You may already be familiar with the basics of playing, but mastering more complex rhythms and techniques can elevate your performance.
• What You’ll Gain :
- Refining your control over more complex rhythmic patterns
- Learning intermediate level taals and advanced compositions
- Techniques to improve speed, precision, and improvisation
- A focus on creativity and exploration of tukda and tihai
3. Advanced Tabla Players
• Why Attend : For advanced tabla players, attending advanced classes or workshops can help you push the boundaries of your technical and creative abilities. Mastery involves a deep understanding of the instrument, improvisation, and performance in various settings (solo or accompaniment).
• What You’ll Gain :
- Mastery of intricate rhythmic cycles and improvisational skills
- Understanding and practising the various gharanas (styles) of tabla playing
- Advanced techniques for tabla solos and accompaniment
- Exploration of the tabla’s role in ensemble and classical performances
- Deepening your Ability to express emotions and connect with other musicians
4. Musicians and Composers
• Why Attend : If you are a musician or composer interested in broadening your understanding of rhythm and percussion, learning the tabla can significantly enhance your musical vocabulary. The rhythmic structures of Indian classical music are complex and can provide fresh perspectives for your compositions or performances.
• What You’ll Gain :
- An understanding of Indian rhythmic cycles and their application in various musical genres
- The ability to incorporate tabla rhythms into compositions, whether in fusion, classical, or contemporary music
- Techniques to collaborate with tabla players in an ensemble setting
5. Music Students and Enthusiasts
• Why Attend : If you are a music student studying Indian classical music or simply an enthusiast of world music, attending a tabla class provides valuable insight into the fundamentals of rhythm and percussion in one of the world’s most intricate music systems.
• What You’ll Gain :
- Knowledge of the tabla’s role in Indian classical music, and an understanding of its cultural context
- Exposure to the music theory of taal and bols
- An appreciation for the intricacies of rhythm and improvisation in Indian music
6. Dancers and Performing Artists
• Why Attend : If you are a dancer, particularly in styles like Kathak , which heavily incorporates tabla, learning the instrument can deepen your understanding of rhythm and enhance your performance. Understanding tabla rhythms can help dancers synchronise their movements with the beats more effectively.
• What You’ll Gain :
- A deeper connection to rhythm for enhanced performance in dance
- Improved Ability to coordinate movements and gestures with tabla rhythms
- The Ability to interpret complex rhythmic patterns in choreography
7. People Interested in Indian Classical Culture
• Why Attend : For those fascinated by the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical aspects of Indian classical music, learning the tabla provides an immersive experience into this rich tradition. It can be a way to connect more deeply with the music and explore its historical significance.
• What You’ll Gain :
- Insight into the guru-shishya tradition and its significance
- A deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual roots of tabla
- An opportunity to experience the music through a hands-on approach
8. Professionals Looking to Add a New Skill
• Why Attend : If you are a professional musician, percussionist, or music educator, expanding your skill set to include tabla can add a new dimension to your playing or teaching. The tabla offers a unique approach to rhythm and percussion that is useful for understanding other percussion instruments and expanding your musical versatility.
• What You’ll Gain :
- Advanced rhythm and technique knowledge
- Ability to teach or perform with the tabla
- Understanding of the tabla's place in global music fusion and cross-cultural projects