Dr.Aroop Chatterjee

Hello! I am Dr. Aroop Chatterjee, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Music and Dance at Kurukshetra University, Haryana. Alongside my academic career, I am a professional Tabla artist, author, and educator belonging to the esteemed Banaras Gharana lineage. Music is my lifelong devotion, and I had the profound privilege of learning Tabla directly under the legendary maestro Pt. Chhotelal Mishra.

With over 25 years of teaching experience, I am deeply committed to preserving and passing on the rich cultural heritage of Hindustani classical music to both university scholars and global learners.

A Few Highlights of My Background:

• National Recognition: I am a proud recipient of the prestigious Senior Fellowship from the CCRT (Centre for Cultural Resources and Training), Ministry of Culture, Government of India.

• Academic Leadership: In my role as an Assistant Professor at Kurukshetra University, I guide students through rigorous academic music curricula, research, and performance standards.

• Academic Excellence: I hold a Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Music from Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya, Khairagarh, specializing in the "Critical Analysis of Gats in Banaras and Farukhabad Gharana".

• Recognized Artist: I am a "B High Grade" Artist of All India Radio (Akashvani) and Doordarshan, and have been honored with the "Taal Mani" Award by the Sur Singar Samsad Parishad, Mumbai.

• Published Author: I have authored two foundational books on percussion literature: Basics of Tabla and Tabla Vadan Me Gat.

I teach a vibrant global student community spanning the US, Canada, Brazil, the UK, Europe, and India, guiding learners from absolute beginners to advanced university research levels.

My Approach to Teaching

My lessons bridge the gap between historic lineage and modern university-level pedagogy. I teach the authentic, traditional compositions of the Banaras Gharana style, alongside standard techniques of the Delhi and Farukhabad Gharanas. Whether you are learning Tabla as a vibrant creative outlet or pursuing rigorous academic diploma certifications (such as Prayag Sangeet Samiti courses), my methodology focuses on:

• Tailored & Patient Guidance: Every student moves at their own pace. I specialize in breaking down complex rhythmic laykaris, mathematical tihais, and swift relas into easy-to-understand execution steps.

• Comprehensive Practical & Theory Focus: Drawing from my background in university education and research, I ensure students understand both the how and the why. We blend rigorous hands-on finger placement practice with deep music theory, solo performance structure, and accompaniment dynamics.

• A Joyful Learning Space: I strive to keep the lesson environment positive, encouraging, and deeply engaging, creating a supportive space where mistake-making is welcomed as a natural stepping stone to growth.