Tabla

The tabla describes the pair of drums used in Indian music, and for the melodic drum component of that pair. The tabla is the most distinct sound in Indian music: a percussion instrument played with the hands but which makes a tone which harmonizes with the music. Both drums of the tabla have a inner circle on the head composed of a sandlewood material which creates a different sound and decay then the other areas of the drum, allowing even more tone versatility.

The right hand drum of the tabla is made of wood and creates the tone which can be harmonized to the melody.

The left hand drum of the tabla is larger, made of metal. It has a much deeper and sustained bass tone. Usually this drum is played by sliding the hand over it instead of a normal strike, so that the pitch is changed during the sounds decay. This creates an unusual effect.

See also List of musical instruments

External link

Video of a tabla player