The most well-known percussion instrument in India is the tabla, which is used in many different musical genres worldwide. The tabla is still the most common classical rhythm instrument and has been used extensively in Hindustani classical music for the past few hundred years. The tabla is rich in heritage and complexity, but hand drums can be considered one of the simpler kinds of instruments. The tabla is a set of two drums with barrel-shaped bodies, closed resonating chambers, and stretched membrane heads.


A two-headed hand drum, Dholak is a folk percussion instrument widely used in qawwali, kirtan, lavani and bhangra. Dholak can be played in three ways on the player's lap, while standing, or pressed down with one knee while sitting on the floor.


Pakhawaj is a percussion instrument made of wood, parchment, leather, and black paste. This traditional instrument is found in various parts of North India. Majorly used in North Indian classical concerts, particularly with 'Dhrupad' and 'Dhamar' style of music and with the instruments played in Dhrupad style such as Been, Rabab, Surbahar, etc. Also a solo instrument.


Faculty - 

Pt. Naveen Kumar is a renowned Tabla and Pakhavaj maestro from the illustrious Farukhabad Gharana. A B-High grade artist of All India Radio, he has performed extensively across India and internationally in countries such as Malaysia, Paris (France), Spain, Singapore, and many others. He has collaborated with legendary artists, including Pt. Birju Maharaj, Smt. Shovana Narayan, Vidushi Meeta Pandit, and Pt. Bhajan Sopori, among several other distinguished maestros.


Style: Farukhabad Gharana