Live Classical Tabla Performances
Available across Chandigarh
I perform live tabla in Ajrada Gharana style for concerts, festivals, and classical music events, offering solo recitals, jugalbandi, and accompaniment for other artists.
Pricing Guide
Concert Accompaniment (Sangat)
Artist Services
- Live accompaniment by Ustad Akram Khan for a main artist (Vocalist, Sitarist, Flute, etc.)
- Pre-performance sound check (30-45 mins) for level balancing
- Green room coordination session with the main artist
Performance Specs
- 'Sangat' style interactive support without overpowering the melody
- Precise on-stage tuning to match the main artist's pitch
Equipment & Crew
- Professional 'Black Wood' Tabla set (Dayan and Bayan)
- Instrument handler for stage setup and local transport
Signature Tabla Solo Recital
Core Performance
- Solo Tabla performance showcasing rare Ajrada Gharana compositions
- Demonstration of Layakari (mathematical rhythms) and Padhant (oral recitation)
- Audience engagement and explanation of technical beats
Included Ensemble
- Professional Lehra Accompanist (Harmonium or Sarangi) for melodic time-cycle
- Tanpura support (Electronic or student disciple) for drone background
Technical Specs
- Detailed 60-minute sound check for acoustic balance
- Artist brings instruments; Client provides riser and specific mics
Grand Jugalbandi Experience
The Lineup
- Lead Artist 1: Ustad Akram Khan (Ajrada Gharana)
- Lead Artist 2: A renowned Percussionist (e.g., Benares or Punjab Gharana) arranged to ensure chemistry
The Show
- Dynamic Sawaal-Jawab (call and response) improv challenges
- Live comparison of different Gharana styles
Full Ensemble
- Senior Lehra accompanist capable of supporting two drum sets
- Tanpura accompaniment for drone background
Logistics
- Artist coordination and extended sound check for multiple percussion sources
- Consultation on technical rider for complex microphone placement
About Live Classical Tabla Performances
Sangeet Ki Roh (The Soul of Music)
Music isn’t just something I do - it’s in my blood. I belong to the Ajrada Gharana, carrying forward a legacy passed down from my father, Ustad Hashmat Ali Khan, and the elders before him. Every time I play, I’m honouring this tradition, not just performing.
What I Offer
I bring live tabla to concerts, festivals, and cultural events. Here’s how I share my art:
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Tabla Solo Recital: The spotlight is on the tabla. I perform complex compositions from my gharana, weaving in a lehra (melodic loop) on harmonium or sarangi. It’s intense, technical, and true to Ajrada Gharana tabla style.
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Jugalbandi Performance: Two tabla artists, one stage. We improvise, trade rhythms, and sometimes mix gharanas. The energy is raw - a proper rhythmic dialogue.
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Classical Music Accompaniment: I’ve played alongside top vocalists, sitar, sarod, and bansuri artists. My job isn’t just keeping beat, it’s about supporting and lifting the main act with the right touch.
The Real Experience
I want you to truly lutf uthana (enjoy) the music. Sometimes the mood is deep, sometimes it’s playful. No two shows feel the same. All I ask - bring your blessings, your aashirwaad, and let’s share the spirit of sangeet together.
Meet your Expert
Akram Khan
55 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Aadaab, I’m Akram Khan. Mausiki is my jaan (life). Born in Ajrada Gharana, son of Ustad Hashmat Ali Khan, I grew up with tabla rhythms echoing everywhere. Guru Purnima is always special - I remember my gurus, their blessings. Started Tabla Academy so this legacy lives on, passing it to my son Zargham too. My father’s journey in 'Mausiqi Meri Manzil' inspires me daily. Yeh hai mera safar, mera riwaaz (This is my journey, my tradition).
My Work
Tabla Performances & Recitals - I play solo tabla recitals, duets, and accompany Hindustani classical artists. Each show is different, every beat is alive.
Ajrada Gharana Style - My tabla follows Ajrada Gharana’s unique qaidas, relas, and old compositions. I keep this tradition alive in every performance.
Art of Accompaniment - When I play with other musicians, it’s like a baatcheet (conversation). Improvising on the spot, matching their mood, making music flow.
Workshops & Collaborations - I teach tabla improvisation workshops, share the stage with legends, and help students dive into the cultural side of tabla.