Interviews
BeyondBooks: This percussionist plays the perfect taal
An Apeejay School, Kharghar, student shares his love for classical music that is more than just beats
He discovered his affinity for music, especially the tabla, when he was very young. Back then, he had heard Ustad Zakir Hussain perform at a concert. That is when his journey began. Meet Om Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old studying in Class VIII at Apeejay School, Kharghar. In a candid interview, he says that apart from music, he enjoys sports and loves spending time with his friends.
What inspired you to choose the dholak and tabla instruments?
When I was younger, I saw a tabla performance by Ustad Zakir Hussain in Mumbai. I was amazed by the sound and energy. I loved how one person could create such powerful beats with just their hands. At home, I would keep tapping on tables and boxes all the time, and that’s when my family noticed and encouraged me.
How did your training start, and who have been your teachers or mentors?
I started my training under the guidance of Pandit Pradeep Dixit. He is my mentor and has taught me everything from basics to advanced techniques. My school teachers motivate me as well. They always tell me to keep learning and continue my pursuit of knowledge in tabla and dholak. The school also gives me opportunities to perform at various competitions and functions.
What’s the difference between the tabla and the dholak?
The tabla has a part called the syahi, which is the black spot in the centre of the skin that helps produce different tones. The dholak doesn’t have this; its skin is plain. So the sound each produces is different. Also, the tabla can be used for classical, semi-classical, and even fusion styles. The dholak is more limited in its range. Hence, I prefer the tabla.
What challenges did you face while learning these instruments?
In the beginning, it was hard to get the right sound from the tabla. My fingers used to hurt, and sometimes I got frustrated. Remembering the different taals and playing them at the right speed was also difficult. But with practice, I started enjoying even the tough parts.
Has there been any particular piece helped you grow as a musician?
Yes, in tabla, there is teen taal. It was tough at first, it has 16 beats and many variations. Playing it at speed and keeping the rhythm steady was challenging. But after lots of practice, I can now perform solo on it for one or two hours continuously.
Have you tried composing or mixing different musical styles yourself?
Yes, I’ve also done fusion. Some of the compositions were my own, and some were done with the help of my mentor.
