Learn how to play Tabla professionally from expert & a legend with over 30+ experience

Gopala is an expert Tabla teacher with extensive experience teaching this instrument to students of all levels. Lessons are geared to helping the student understand the language of tabla, learn the proper technique, and become versed in the art of playing tabla. Gopala offers a unique step-by-step method of teaching tabla that will greatly help the student to become proficient in playing tabla at no time through regular devoted practice.

Tabla: A South Asian percussion instrument similar to bongos, consisting of a pair of drums, used in traditional, classical, popular and folk music. The tabla consists of two single headed, barrel shaped small drums of slightly different size and shapes. Learning starts with basics or hand technique, rhythms, and playing along with songs.

I have been teaching Tabla for the last 13 years in Chicago, New Jersey, and the San Francisco Bay Area. The initial few years of Tabla is focused on proper hand/finger placement and technique. Starting with few simple letters and building them into phrases, sentences, and full compositions. I try to exposure students to the language of the music. Therefore, I give students a general framework and ask them to compose themselves. As I guide them through the process, this exercise empowers students to create on their own and strengthen their logical thinking process. Once students are able to produce desired sounds and play certain compositions in a Tabla solo repertoire, I introduce accompaniment material which can practically be applied when performing with singers, instrumentalists, and dancers. Along the way, I share historical information on the art as well as recommend resources such as books, recordings, and websites for a well-rounded learning experience. My overall approach to music is very holistic in nature. I consider it as an artistic science and a scientific art.

Hello, Thank you for visiting my profile. I started learning Tabla when I was 5 and still remember vividly when mum took me to classes 3 times a week for several hours. I used to sit, listen and play with my classmates during those hours and that experience has left an indelible mark. My fingers are 'hard-wired' to play and create sounds on the tabla. Every teacher will tell you, in order to play properly and create perfect sounds, everyday practice is the essential component. Currently, I teach 17 students at BAPS temple in Edison and have been teaching there for the last 6 years. I also have 3 students who visit my home weekly. Please contact me for additional information. Thank you. Dhwani

Hello there! Whether you are thinking about embarking on the tabla journey, or heard a cool song and want to play the tabla part for it, you have come to the right place! I will help you learn about all aspects of this majestic instrument. My lessons are taught in an engaging and fun manner, with a good blend of theory and technique. In my classes we will cover all styles of tabla playing that you are interested in; be it Classical solo and accompaniment, the Semi classical styles of Qawwali and Bhajani, and the modern styles of Bollywood and fusion. Send me a message for more info!