Abir Mukhopadhyay

Hello! My name is Abir Mukherjee, student of VISVA-BHARATI UNIVERSITY (SANGIT BHAVANA) and I am a Hindustani Classical Tabla artist and instructor from West Bengal, India, specialising in the traditional Farrukhabad Gharana.

My journey with Tabla began in childhood when I was in Class 3. I received eight years of dedicated Tabla training in Kolkata. In 2025, I completed my Bachelor of Performing Arts (B.P.A.) in Hindustani Classical Music (Tabla) from Sangeet Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, achieving an A+ grade.

One of my proudest achievements was securing First Place in the Birbhum District Kala Utsav in 2019 for Tabla.

I have eight years of Tabla teaching experience and currently teach 12 students. I also have experience conducting online Tabla lessons. I enjoy sharing the rich heritage of Indian classical percussion and helping students develop their musical skills.

I can communicate and teach in English, Bengali and Hindi. My goal is to introduce students from around the world to the beauty of Indian classical Tabla through engaging, structured and personalised lessons.

Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced learner, I look forward to sharing my knowledge and helping you grow as a Tabla player.

My teaching style combines the traditional values of the Farrukhabad Gharana with a structured, student-centred and practical approach to learning Hindustani Classical Tabla.

I believe every student learns at a different pace, so I adapt my lessons according to each student's age, current skill level, musical interests and individual goals. Whether you are starting from zero or have previous Tabla experience, I guide you step by step with patience, clear explanations and practical demonstrations.

Building a Strong Foundation

For beginners, I focus on correct sitting posture, hand positioning, finger techniques, sound production, basic bols and rhythmic exercises. I make sure students understand the fundamentals properly before moving on to more challenging techniques.

Learning Indian Classical Rhythm

As students progress, I introduce the fundamentals of taal, theka, matra, laya and rhythmic patterns. I gradually teach traditional Tabla compositions such as Kayda, Rela, Tukda, Tihai and other elements of the Farrukhabad Gharana, according to the student's learning level.

Practical and Interactive Lessons

My lessons include live demonstrations, rhythmic exercises, repetition, listening practice and guided playing. I encourage students to practise regularly and develop accuracy, clarity, hand coordination, rhythm and confidence. I also provide individual feedback and practice exercises to help students improve between lessons.

Teaching International Students

I understand that Indian classical music and its rhythmic concepts may be completely new to international learners. Therefore, I explain musical terminology and rhythmic structures in simple, understandable English, with practical demonstrations. I can also teach in Bengali and Hindi.My ultimate goal is not simply to teach students how to play Tabla, but to help them understand, appreciate and enjoy the beautiful tradition of Indian classical music while developing their own musical expression.

I aim to make every lesson engaging, supportive and rewarding, helping each student progress with confidence at their own pace.