Learn to Play Tabla - The Indian drums

The Indian Drums

Created bySrinivas Gadepalli

Last updated 7/2017

English

What you'll learn

Understand the theory and practice of Tabla
Play Tabla bols in various combination
Learn and practice various excersises
Learn to play Tabla Padan
Learn & Play Teen Taal, Kherwa Taal, Dadara Taal, Ak Taal, Jhap Taal, Jhoomra, Ada Choutaal
Play Kaida in Teen Taal
Play Bhajan Taal
Tune Tabla

Course content

1 section • 20 lectures • 1h 16m total length

Introduction of Tabla Guru2:22
About Tabla instrument2:04
Learn how tabla functions as a Hindustani classical percussion instrument, used in solo and accompaniment settings from bhajan to dance, with its unique bol syllables and history.
Sitting position for Tabla Playing2:16
Tabla Parts2:53
Explore the essential tabla parts—the wooden tumbler, copper piece, the chanty base, and blocks like made on and Shiite—and how tuning to a musical note aligns with other instruments.
Tabla bols set-111:29
Learn the tabla bols basics by mastering the sit-down position, proper hand contact, and four core stroke choices—open or across the board—aiming for clear resonance and correct tone.
Playing Teen Taal3:03
Tabla bols set-24:58
Playing TiRaKiTa4:39
Practice of Padan4:16
Learn to practice padan on the tabla using hand techniques, rhythm patterns like din din and ding, and counting to master tempo and timing.
Speeds & Laya8:29
Playing Taal Dadara1:58
Explore playing taal dadara on the tabla, mastering standout structures through a three-piece play-and-practice routine introduced in modre 6.
Playing Taal Kherava1:44
In this lesson we learn Talca, which is very methodical and played in all kind of late music in India, with on camera demonstrations and variations to keep practicing.
Playing Rupak Taal1:36
Playing Jhap Taal2:00
Playing Ek Taal3:10
Gain proficiency in ek taal on the tabla through guided practice, starting with medium slow tempo, understanding rhythm concepts, and gradually increasing speed as you become versed in the piece.
Playing Taal Ada Choutaal2:54
Playing Bhajan Taal2:24
Playing Taal Jhoomra2:38
Learn to play taal jhoomra on the tabla by exploring rhythm patterns and demonstrated compositions. Hear how the drum sounds in the demonstration and follow the step-by-step execution.
Playing Taal Tilwada2:36
Tabla tuning9:02

Requirements

you must have a tabla instrument and patient enough to learn in a slow and systematic approach

Description

This course helps you to start your Tabla learning and playing journey, with very systematic and incremental approach of learning Hidustani Taals, playing Tabla and exploring to vast knowledge of Tabla and music theory.

The most critical part of Tabla playing is explained in detailed and made it easy for anyone interested learn and start playing Tabla compositions like Thekas, Kaidas, Relas, Mukdas, Thukdas, Laggis and with theory and practice.

Who this course is for:

you should have a practice of sitting on the floor for at least 30 minutes
you are committed time of at least one hour everyday for practice