Instrumental Jugalbandi and Tabla Accompaniment
Jugalbandi is a conversation between artists. Whether you are playing the sitar, sarod, or sarangi, I focus on creating a rhythmic canvas that lets your melody take center stage.
Accompanying the masterful Ustad Rafique Khan saheb on sitar is always a profound learning experience. This video shows the dynamic interplay between the sitar's melody and the tabla's rhythmic cycles.
A studio session with my brother, Sarfaraz Khan, on the sarangi. The sarangi's sound is very close to the human voice, and my tabla playing aims to complement its soulful and emotive qualities.
On stage with Ustad Rafique Khan saheb during a sitar recital at the Courtyard Baithak series. My focus is always on the main artist, listening closely to respond to their musical ideas.
This poster was for "The Soul Within the Strings," a sarod recital with Smt. Debasmita Bhattacharya. Accompanying the sarod involves matching its powerful and intricate rhythmic patterns.
A moment before a performance with Ustad Rafique Khan saheb (sitar) and Sarfaraaz Khan (sarangi). Playing with such incredible musicians is an absolute pleasure and pushes me to be my best.
This video captures highlights from our 'Chaupaal' concert, featuring a sarangi solo by Sarfaraz Khan. The audience reactions show how powerful an instrumental performance can be.
A poster for a sarangi solo concert, highlighting the "endangered strings" of this beautiful instrument. I am passionate about helping showcase the sarangi through my tabla accompaniment.
An announcement for a Sitar Soirée with the celebrated sitarist Sahana Banerjee. I look forward to creating a memorable musical experience with her at the Courtyard Baithak.
A black and white shot of Ustad Rafique Khan saheb during his sitar performance. My role as an accompanist is to provide the rhythmic canvas upon which the main artist paints their melody.
About Instrumental Jugalbandi
When performing a jugalbandi, the most important aspect is the ability to listen. My approach involves responding to the lead melody, whether it is the intricate phrasing of a sitar or the vocal-like quality of a sarangi. I do not just keep the beat, I aim to provide a rhythmic dialogue that enhances the overall mood of the piece.
The art of jugalbandi lies in balance. After nearly three decades of performing, I have realized that the best accompaniment happens when the tabla player knows when to assert the rhythm and when to step back to let the melody breathe.
My Approach to Accompaniment
When we perform together, my goal is to understand your specific style. If you are playing a sitar recital, I adapt my technique to complement the tonal nuances of the strings. For sarangi and sarod performances, I adjust my pressure and resonant qualities to ensure the tabla supports the emotional depth of the raga. This is not about playing complex patterns to show off my skill, but about building a shared narrative with the lead artist.
Preparation and Synergy
I believe that a great performance starts before we step onto the stage. For concert settings, I prioritize a thorough sound check to balance the acoustic levels between the instruments. This ensures that the delicate resonance of your instrument is never drowned out by the percussion. I have had the privilege of performing with masters like Ustad Rafique Khan and Smt. Debasmita Bhattacharya, and those experiences have taught me how to adjust my playing to fit different artistic personalities.
Why it Works
My background in both traditional baithaks and large concert halls allows me to adapt to any environment. Whether you are an established professional or an emerging artist, I treat our collaboration with the same level of care and respect. I listen, I respond, and together we create a sound that feels honest and connected.
Trilochan Kampli
I am Trilochan Kampli. For nearly thirty years, my focus has been on the conversation between my tabla and the lead instrument. I prefer to listen closely and adapt to the melody, making sure the rhythm supports the artist instead of overshadowing them.
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