Construction: Tabla drums consist of two drums, the smaller drum called “dayan” and the larger drum called “bayan.” The dayan is usually made of wood and has a cylindrical shape with a goat or synthetic skin head. The bayan is larger and has a metal body with a skin head.
Tuning: The tabla drums are tuned to specific pitches by applying a paste made of rice flour, iron filings, and water to the skin heads. This tuning process allows the player to produce a variety of tones and pitches by applying pressure to the drum heads.
Playing Technique: Tabla players use a unique set of hand movements and techniques to produce different sounds and rhythms. These techniques include striking the drum heads with the fingertips, palm, and heel of the hand, as well as using finger slides and pressure modulation.
Bols: The tabla repertoire consists of a set of rhythmic syllables known as “bols,” which represent different strokes and combinations of strokes on the drums. Tabla players memorize and practice these bols to create intricate rhythmic patterns during performances.