Teaching Tabla

Divakar Ganguly | HOD of Performing Arts | Hopetown Girls School

What is Teaching Tabla?

A Career in Teaching Tabla is very interesting. Understanding Why one wants to choose a Career in Teaching Tabla is phenomenally more important than figuring out How to get into Teaching Tabla. While anyone can have an opinion on what Teaching Tabla entails; only a real professional can really explain it.

With 23 years of professional experience, HOD of Performing Arts Divakar Ganguly understands Teaching Tabla. HOD of Performing Arts Divakar Ganguly outlines Teaching Tabla as:

The tabla is a South Asian membranophone percussion instrument consisting of a pair of drums, used in traditional, classical, popular and folk music. The name tabla likely comes from tabl, the Persian and Arabic word for drum.

How HOD of Performing Arts Divakar Ganguly got into Teaching Tabla?

I have done B Sc from Allahabad University. Taking my interest in Music further, I did Visharat in Tabla from Bhatkhande University and Prabhakar in Vocal Music from Allahabad Prayag Sangeet Samiti. I am HOD of Performing Arts at Hopetown Girls School.

HOD of Performing Arts Divakar Ganguly's Talk on Teaching Tabla

Exploring the Art of Teaching Tabla: Insights from Divakar Ganguly Teaching tabla is more than a career; it is a passion that blends art, music, and mentorship. Divakar Ganguly, a dedicated tabla teacher with nearly two decades of experience, shares his journey and insights into this vibrant field. Through his experiences, we delve into what it takes to be an effective tabla teacher, the joys and challenges of the profession, and the profound impact on both teacher and students. What Is Teaching Tabla The Essence of Tabla Education Teaching tabla encompasses imparting knowledge about both the practical and theoretical aspects of this beautiful percussion instrument. It requires not only musical excellence but also a passion for educating and nurturing young talent. For Divakar, the initial lessons start with foundational knowledge about the tabla, including its construction, the skins used, and its cultural significance. He emphasizes that understanding these elements fosters a greater appreciation among students and enhances their focus and engagement in class. Communicative Pedagogy Effective communication is essential in tabla teaching. Divakar explains that how one conveys information significantly impacts learning outcomes. By sharing stories, historical contexts, and practical techniques, he captures his students' attention and builds a rapport that encourages engagement. For instance, he utilizes the fascinating history of tabla's origin to spark interest, helping students connect emotionally with the music they are learning. Education Training with Guru Finding a capable guru is pivotal in a tabla teacher's educational journey. Divakar highlights that a strong foundation in a specific gharana, or style, is crucial for any aspiring teacher. Through his own experiences with notable musicians, he demonstrates the importance of mentorship in acquiring advanced techniques and comprehensive musical knowledge, which provides a hands-on approach to learning that theory alone cannot achieve. Professional Courses Formal education plays a significant role in becoming a tabla teacher. Divakar outlines various pathways, including university courses in music and dedicated diploma programs aimed at recognizing students’ progress at different stages. This structured learning helps establish credibility as a tabla teacher, enabling them to guide students effectively from basic to advanced levels. Origin of Tabla An understanding of the tabla's historical roots is essential for teaching. Divakar explains its evolution from the pakhawaj, suggesting that this knowledge enriches the student's experience and deepens their connection to the music. When students grasp the instrument's lineage, it fosters a greater respect for the craft while igniting their enthusiasm for learning. Placement of Hands Correct placement of hands on the tabla is critical for producing the desired sound. Divakar emphasizes his attentive approach towards each student’s positioning and finger placement during lessons. By providing individualized feedback, he helps students refine their technique, thereby building a solid foundation for their rhythm and performance. Taal: The Heart of Rhythm Understanding taal, or rhythm, is fundamental to mastering tabla. Divakar begins his lessons with simple rhythmic exercises to assess each student's capabilities, adapting his teaching methods based on their pace of learning. This adaptable approach allows him to cater to both beginners and advanced learners effectively. Skills Interaction with Students Building a strong rapport with students is a skill Divakar continuously cultivates. By transforming complex concepts into relatable lessons, he finds that personal connections can revolutionize the learning experience. He often employs humor and storytelling to keep students engaged, which not only makes lessons enjoyable but also fosters a collaborative classroom atmosphere. Patience Patience is paramount in teaching young students, especially when their energy levels differ from an adult's. Divakar recognizes that students may struggle with focusing for extended periods, so he remains patient, encouraging students to take breaks when needed. This understanding helps maintain a positive learning environment and promotes a love for music rather than fear of failure. Understanding Students' Progress Recognizing individual progress among students is another essential skill. Divakar notes that every child learns at their own pace, and it is crucial to tailor progress assessments accordingly. He celebrates small achievements, understanding that encouragement can motivate students to push themselves further in their musical journey. Encouraging Nature Divakar believes that a teacher’s encouragement can significantly affect a student’s self-esteem and commitment. He actively seeks out opportunities to praise small victories in the classroom, helping to build a supportive and affirming learning atmosphere where students feel secure and willing to take risks. Teaching Techniques Diverse teaching techniques are vital in catering to various learning styles within a classroom setting. Divakar uses a combination of demonstration, repetition, and storytelling to ensure students grasp the essentials of tabla. This versatility allows him to adjust his approach based on his assessment of each student’s unique needs, ultimately creating a more effective learning experience. Positives Innovation One of the most significant rewards of teaching tabla is the constant innovation that comes from engaging with students. Divakar finds inspiration in their creativity and fresh ideas, pushing him to adapt and innovate his lessons continually. This reciprocal learning dynamic not only enhances his craft but also ensures that classes remain dynamic and interesting. New Ideas Everyday Every lesson brings a chance for new perspectives. Divakar appreciates that his students often introduce innovative concepts and approaches he might not have considered. This exchange of ideas fosters an enriching educational experience, benefiting both teacher and student alike. Guru-Shishya Parampara The traditional guru-shishya relationship in music holds immense value in Divakar's teaching. This spiritual connection nurtures deep respect and facilitates a holistic understanding of the music, intertwining knowledge and philosophy, which further enriches the learning experience. Satisfaction & Happiness The joy of witnessing students excel brings immense satisfaction to Divakar. Observing them perform with confidence, receive accolades, or simply express their love for music invokes a profound sense of fulfillment that reinforces his commitment to teaching. Challenges Time Management Balancing a demanding schedule is one of the biggest challenges faced by tabla teachers. Divakar recognizes that school schedules can be hectic, especially in a residential setting. He often finds himself juggling teaching responsibilities with administrative duties, requiring keen time management skills and flexibility. Teaching Different Students Navigating the varying levels of students can pose challenges. Divakar often encounters unique learning styles or challenges among students, which necessitates a responsive and tailored teaching approach. He emphasizes the need for patience and strategy, ensuring that each student progresses regardless of their starting point. Less Rewarding Despite the fulfillment the job brings, financial rewards can sometimes be inadequate, particularly in day schools compared to residential institutions. Divakar's insights reveal a struggle between passion and financial viability, as many teachers face economic challenges while pursuing a career in education. A Day Of Teaching Tabla Divakar’s day begins early as he prepares for his teaching responsibilities in a residential school setting. After arriving at school, he engages with students during a brief class teacher period, allowing for personal connections before diving into music lessons. Throughout the day, he balances a mix of academic classes and focused tabla sessions, encouraging students in their academic and musical endeavors alike. His afternoons often encompass club lessons or staff meetings, but a busy day does not diminish his enthusiasm for teaching. Each interaction with his students reinforces the importance of mentorship, as he remains dedicated to inspiring the next generation of tabla musicians. In reflecting on the life of a tabla teacher, one gains a profound appreciation for the impact this career can have. It is not just about imparting musical skills; it is about cultivating passion, building connections, and fostering creativity. As Divakar Ganguly beautifully illustrates, teaching tabla is a journey filled with joy, challenges, innovation, and a deep-rooted sense of satisfaction that comes from nurturing the love of music in young hearts.

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How to get into

Teaching Tabla?

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Links for this Talk

HOD of Performing Arts Divakar Ganguly's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/divakarganguly

LifePage Career Talk on Teaching Tabla

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/teaching-tabla

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20171118-0002

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkNTAyPk28Q

(Teaching Tabla, Divakar Ganguly, HopeTown Girls School, Music, Artist, Musical Instrument, Musician, Classical Music)

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