Posture, placement of Tabla and hand position
- Develop an appropriate playing position:
- demonstrating appropriate wrist, arm and shoulder posture
- placing the Tabla in accordance with the dominant hand (left-handed or right-handed)
- sitting (or standing) in a comfortable position to aid freedom of movement
Demonstrate an appropriate posture which can be adapted to the learners’ needs and requirements.
This may be the traditional cross-legged position, kneeling, or standing with the Tabla on a table. Whatever position is used, the shoulders should be relaxed and at the same height, with forearms at approximately 45 degrees.
When using the cross-legged position, it is traditional to remove shoes as a sign of respect. It is at the teachers’ discretion as to whether to adopt this practice in lessons depending on the context and needs of the learners.
Help learners to position their Tabla with the large drum (baya) pointing straight up and the small drum (daya) tilted slightly away from them. Ensure that the syahi (black spot) on the large drum (baya) is at 3 o’clock (for right-handed players) or 9 o’clock (for left-handed players).
Ensure elbows are not resting on legs, surfaces, or the Tabla itself.
Ask learners to observe and describe a good example of posture, demonstrated by the teacher or a more experienced learner. Reinforce the importance of always taking a moment to ensure that posture is correct before starting to play, whether in the lesson or in individual practice.
Reinforce the importance of always taking a moment to ensure that posture is correct before starting to play, whether in the lesson or in individual practice.
Be aware of learners’ individual physical characteristics and make adaptations as appropriate.
Begin lessons with exercises designed to relax the body and release tension, e.g. shaking arms and fingers.
Explore creative exercises using basic phrase techniques, focusing on posture. In groups and whole-class teaching, encourage learners to support each other by observing and discussing posture.
If notation sheets are used, place them on a suitable music stand, adjusting the height to the sitting/standing position.
Encourage self-evaluation by use of a mirror when practising at home. This will help learners recognise any discrepancies in overall posture.
Video-recording could also be used for this purpose, but it is vital to check the policy of the school or other organisation you are working in with regards to any form of recording. Children must never be videoed without parental consent and all policies regarding use and storage of recordings must be adhered to.
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