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Tabla Basic Course: A Beginner’s Guide to Rhythm & Technique

Beginner

by Durgesh Kanwal

14 Years Experience

A professionally trained percussionist, Durgesh has performed internationally, collaborated with artists across Europe. He is a multi-percussionist skilled in Tabla, Djembe, Cajon, Darbuka, and Didgeridoo.

US $28.8 per class |

for 1-on-1, 40 mins class

Pay as you go, 2 classes at a timePay as you go, 2 classes at a time

You can choose your time slots in the next step. ipassio has thousands of happy learners from the US, Canada, Australia, UK, Europe, UAE, and India.

Instruction Language

: English, Hindi

Course Summary

This comprehensive tabla course is designed for beginners to build a solid foundation in Indian classical percussion. Step by step, you will develop technique, rhythm, and confidence.

You will learn -

  • Posture and Hand Techniques – Master correct sitting posture, hand positions, and finger movements.

  • Tabla Language – Learn essential syllables (bols) and recitation (Padhant/Konnakol).

  • Finger Strength and Speed – Strengthen agility with structured exercises.

  • Taals and Compositions – Explore Kayda, Tukda, Tihai, and Thekas.

  • Creative Composition – Learn to craft and improvise your own variations.

  • Performance Skills – Gain confidence for solo and accompaniment performances.

This course is ideal for absolute beginners, musicians who want to expand their rhythmic skills, students who want to build a strong percussion foundation, and passionate drummers or other percussionists who want to explore rhythm through tabla. 

By the end, you will confidently play Tabla, understand rhythmic structures, and improvise compositions. Whether for stage or self-expression, this course unlocks the world of Tabla.

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Teacher's Profile

Durgesh Kanwal

Durgesh Kanwal

Experience: 14 Years

From: India

  • Teacher Skill Keywords

    Teacher Skill Keywords

    Indian Classical Music, Indian Music, Indian Rhythm, Expert Tabla Teacher, Basics of Tabla, North Indian, North Indian Style, Percussion, Tabla

About the Course

The Tabla Beginner Course is a comprehensive and structured learning program designed for those eager to explore the fascinating world of Indian classical percussion. Whether you're an absolute beginner or someone looking to establish a solid foundation, this course provides step-by-step guidance to help you play the Tabla with confidence, precision, and musical expression.

You will learn -

Fundamentals & Technique -

  • Gain an in-depth understanding of the structure and components of the Tabla – the two drums: Bayan (bass drum) and Dayan (treble drum).

  • Learn the correct sitting posture and hand positioning for efficient and comfortable playing.

  • Master basic syllables (bols) such as Na, Tin, Dha, Dhin, Ta, and Ge, along with their combinations.

  • Develop an understanding of Konnakol, the spoken rhythmic language of Indian percussion, to internalize rhythms better.

Finger Exercises & Speed Development -

  • Practice specialized finger exercises that enhance dexterity, control, and fluidity in playing.

  • Build stamina and hand strength to play with clarity and precision.

  • Learn advanced hand coordination techniques, crucial for smooth and dynamic playing.

Taal System & Composition Structure -

  • Get introduced to the Indian rhythmic cycle (Taal system) and understand its significance in Indian classical music.

  • Learn essential Taals like Teentaal (16 beats), Dadra (6 beats), Keherwa (8 beats), and Jhaptaal (10 beats).

  • Explore key Tabla compositions, including Kayda (structured compositions), Tukda (short rhythmic pieces), Tihai (cyclic rhythmic endings), and Thekas (basic rhythmic frameworks for each Taal).

  • Understand the mathematical structure behind rhythmic variations and how they create unique musical patterns.

Creative Expression & Composition -

  • Learn how to compose your own Tabla phrases and rhythmic variations.

  • Develop the skill of improvisation within a rhythmic cycle, an essential aspect of Indian classical music.

  • Gain the confidence to experiment with rhythms and express creativity through percussion.

Performance & Accompaniment -

  • Prepare for solo performances, gaining confidence in playing independently.

  • Learn the art of accompanying vocalists, instrumentalists, and ensembles in Indian classical and fusion music.

  • Understand the role of Tabla in different musical settings, including orchestras, bands, and contemporary collaborations.

About the Teacher

Durgesh Kanwal is a professionally trained percussionist with extensive experience in independent and collaborative music projects across India and internationally. His musical journey began at the age of 11, and in 2009, he formally studied classical Tabla accompaniment for Kathak dance at the prestigious Kathak Kendra.

Since 2014, Durgesh has traveled across Europe, attending music camps, collaborating with fellow artists, and performing at renowned festivals in Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Lithuania, France, Spain, and Greece. His global exposure has enriched his musical style, blending Indian classical rhythms with world percussion traditions.

Beyond performing, Durgesh is passionate about music education and cultural exchange. Since 2013, he has actively organized musical residency programs and concerts in India, bringing together talented young artists from around the world. His dedication to fostering musical communities has made him a sought-after mentor for aspiring percussionists.

Durgesh is also a multi-instrumentalist and an expert in crafting and playing various percussion instruments, including Tabla, Djembe, Cajon, Darbuka, and Didgeridoo. Since 2011, he has conducted percussion workshops in schools and institutes, inspiring students through rhythm and hands-on learning.

His ongoing project, 'Indi Shala', is a testament to his commitment to music education, cross-cultural collaboration, and the evolution of world percussion.

... Read More

Available For All Age-Groups

Available For All Age-Groups

Online live sessions completed

Online live sessions completed

Our teachers recommend customized classes for an effective learning experience. Here's why!

Every individual

  • Has a unique learning style

  • Is at a different learning stage

  • Has different posture and instrument holding style

  • Has different mind-hand coordination

  • Has a different understanding of rhythm and melody

  • And a different GOAL!

What you get?

World-class  masters as  teachers

World-class masters as teachers

Personalized & Interactive 1-on-1 classes

Personalized & Interactive 1-on-1 classes

Course studio that amplifies passion learning

Course studio that amplifies passion learning

Access to  global creative community

Access to global creative community

Pay as you go - 2 classes at a  time

Pay as you go - 2 classes at a time

Milestone-based learning for best results

Milestone-based learning for best results

Statement of Accomplishment

Statement of Accomplishment

Teacher's performance bits for reference

Teacher's performance bits for reference

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Online, real-time classes

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World class performers as educators

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Pay as you go

Pay as you go

No long-term commitment. Pay for as few as 2 classes at a time. When you can't make it for the class, you can mutually reschedule with ease.