Rabab Singh leads tabla workshop in Kulim

By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |

Vineyard Music School in Kulim, Kedah, hosted a tabla workshop by percussionist Rabab Singh on Aug 1, giving students an opportunity to learn techniques rooted in the Panjab gharana tradition.

The two-hour workshop focused on practical methods for improving tabla playing and daily practice, with Rabab introducing students to techniques designed to develop finger clarity, control and rhythmic precision.

A tabla and jori practitioner trained under eminent gurus of the Panjab gharana, Rabab has dedicated much of his musical journey to studying and preserving the repertoire of both instruments. The jori, regarded as a precursor to the modern tabla, has deep roots in Sikh devotional music and the classical traditions of North India.

During the session, Rabab demonstrated his approach to playing TirKit with greater depth and clarity. Students were also taught a Rela to strengthen their TirKit practice, as well as a traditional Kaida from the Punjab gharana.

The workshop, organised by Vineyard Music, was aimed at both beginners and more experienced players, with participants receiving certificates of participation.

Following the workshop, Rabab presented a tabla solo recital for students who had registered for the programme. The session was moderated by Malaysian-based tabla trainer Sarab Iqbal Singh.

The performance gave participants an opportunity to hear several traditional Punjab gharana compositions while observing the techniques discussed earlier in the workshop.

Among the highlights was Singh’s demonstration of Layakari, or cross-rhythmic playing, which requires a strong command of rhythmic structures and mathematical precision.

The Kulim programme formed part of Singh’s visit to Malaysia, which combined performance with education and knowledge-sharing.

Through the workshop and recital, participants were exposed not only to the technical aspects of tabla playing but also to the repertoire and performance practices associated with one of North India’s important percussion traditions.

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