Live Tabla Performances for Concerts and Events
From intimate baithaks to large-scale concert halls, I bring the rhythm and tradition of the Punjab Gharana to your stage. Here is a look at my live performance journey.
Sharing the stage with my dear brother Armaan Khan for the "Barish Season 2" concert. Performing live with other artists is a conversation through music.
A moment during soundcheck at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC). Getting the sound just right is a critical part of preparing for any live show.
All set up and ready for the performance at NMACC. I use a multi-tabla setup for my solo concerts to explore different scales and tonal qualities.
The view from my seat on stage. My tablas are in the foreground, with the drum kit and other instruments ready for the show to begin.
An amazing ghazal and fusion concert with the wonderful Snehdeep Singh and Ameya Paranjpe. The blend of vocals, harmonium, guitar, and tabla created a magical evening.
My tabla solo performance at the prestigious Saptak Music Festival in Ahmedabad, seen here on the monitor. I was accompanied by the fine artist Nilay Salvi on the harmonium.
Performing at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. This was a beautiful event focused on traditional Gurbani Kirtan.
Carefully tuning my tablas during soundcheck. Each drum has to be perfectly tuned to the tonic note of the performance.
Checking the microphone placement during soundcheck. This ensures the audience hears the true, balanced sound of both the dayan and bayan drums.
A wider view of the stage preparation. You can see the audio equipment and the empty hall before the audience arrives.
About Live Concerts & On Stage
Performing live requires more than just knowing the notes; it demands a flawless soundcheck to ensure every 'bol' resonates clearly in the hall. Whether I am playing at venues like the NMACC or an intimate Gurbani Kirtan, I arrive early to personally tune my tablas to the specific acoustics of the venue, ensuring the audience experiences the true, resonant depth of the Punjab Gharana style.
For me, the stage is where the 'ek koshish' (my humble attempt) meets the audience. When I perform live, it is not just about executing a composition; it is about creating a dialogue between the tabla and the melody. I believe a good performance is born from preparation, which is why you will often see me focused on mic placement and tuning during soundcheck.
My live performance repertoire includes:
- Classical Solo Recitals: Deep dives into traditional Punjab Gharana compositions like Qaida, Rela, and Gatt. I focus on complex cycles that challenge the ears and heart.
- Ghazal & Vocal Accompaniment: I have been blessed to share the stage with many talented vocalists. Supporting a singer requires a sensitive touch, knowing exactly when to embellish the melody and when to hold back.
- Fusion & Collaborative Projects: From collaborating with guitarists and harmonium players to blending percussion with modern drum kits, I enjoy exploring how the tabla fits into diverse musical soundscapes.
Having performed at prestigious events like the Saptak Music Festival and various cultural centers, I understand the technical discipline required for a smooth show. I travel with my own professional sets, ensuring that regardless of the hall's size, the tonality of my bayan and dayan remains consistent. My goal is always to deliver a sound that is authentic, powerful, and respectful of the music we are creating together.
Surjeet Singh
I am Surjeet Singh, and for me, the tabla is a spiritual journey. I approach every stage performance with the sincerity of a student and the discipline of my Ustadji, ensuring the music resonates with truth rather than just technique.
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