Live Tabla Performances and Classical Accompaniment
Every beat is a conversation. Here are glimpses from my journey on stage, performing solos and accompanying maestros at festivals across the country.
A moment of deep concentration during a live performance. When I play, I try to communicate the story of the composition through every beat.
Here I am attempting some improvisation, or 'upaj ang', with my dear brother Deepak Khasrawal on the harmonium. This spontaneous musical dialogue is the essence of a live performance.
Performing with Guruji Padma Bhushan Pt. Ajay Chakrabarty ji at the Pt. Bhimsen Joshi Mohotsav in Sangli. It is a privilege to provide rhythmic support to such a master of vocals.
The wonderful audience at the Saptak festival in Ahmedabad. Your energy and appreciation are what give life to our music. Thank you for your love and blessings.
The official poster for a performance in Amritsar with my Guruji. It is always a special occasion to be announced for a concert alongside my teacher.
The announcement for a performance in Satara with my Guruji. These events are milestones in my journey as a performing artist.
A portrait taken backstage. The moments before stepping onto the stage are filled with a mix of anticipation, prayer, and focus.
About Live Performances & Concerts
When you book a performance, I focus on the spontaneous musical dialogue known as upaj. It is not just about playing the fixed compositions, but about tuning into the energy of the room and the nuances of the artist I am accompanying, whether that is a sitar maestro or a vocalist.
My performance style is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Punjab, Delhi, and Banaras gharanas. Whether I am presenting a traditional tabla solo or providing rhythmic support, my goal is to maintain the purity of the laya (rhythm) while exploring new improvisational angles. I believe that live music is a shared energy between the artist and the audience.
I have had the honor of performing at prestigious venues and festivals like Saptak in Ahmedabad and the Pt. Bhimsen Joshi Mohotsav in Sangli. My approach to performance includes:
- Traditional Solo: Exploring the depth of Kayda, Rela, and Gat compositions, keeping the technical discipline of my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, at the forefront.
- Accompaniment: Working with vocalists, sitar, santoor, and sarod players. This requires a deep understanding of the melodic structure so that the tabla enhances the music without overpowering it.
- Fusion & Collaboration: While staying true to classical roots, I enjoy the challenge of improvising in cross-genre settings, always looking for that 'kuch upaj ang' (moment of improvisation) that makes a concert unique.
If you are organizing a classical concert, a private baithak (session), or a cultural event and are looking for authentic tabla accompaniment, please reach out. I travel for performances across India and am happy to discuss your specific requirements.
Yashwant Vaishnav
I am Yashwant, and for me, the tabla is a lifelong saathi. I carry the blessings of my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, into every concert, aiming to keep the traditional art of tabla solo and accompaniment alive and authentic for today's audience.
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