IMPORTANCE OF TABLA IN INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC

What is Tabla? Tabla is the most important percussion instrument in Indian Classical music. It has a high value in both Raga and Tala because of its versatility, and capability to indulge in any kind of music and tonal perfection. However, the primary use of Tabla is to provide the Tala or to show a particular beat Cycle (Avartan) and Tempo (speed).

Tabla is a pillar of Indian Classical Music. It provides a rhythmic base to the entire performance. The main performer will constantly refer to the Tabla, there must be a fixed pattern that may be universally understood and believed. This pattern or composition is known as Theka. Theka is the composition by which we can identify a Taal Cycle. Furthermost, Theka represents a fixed cycle or repetition of phrase group of Tabla to show and maintain a fixed Time-Cycle so that the co-performer can perform or improvise.

On Top of this Tabla is also a solo instrument in which a performer can improvise and perform for hours. (Click Here to watch those much longer performances). The melodious instrument can fill the audience with joy, excitement, emotion, and amazement. However, the Tabla Player must show sophistication with his/her performance to be able to connect with their audience. This can be achieved by a rich repertoire of compositions, training, and Riyaz (practice). When talking about a rich repertoire of compositions, it includes a vast variety of composition types like – Uthan, Peshkar, Kayda, Rela, Tukda, Chakardar, Gat, Paran, Ladi-Laggi, etc.

Tabla is an instrument that is capable of demonstrating beat patterns of a wide variety of percussion instruments. Which shows the importance of Tabla in Indian Classical Music.