"Right-Hand Magic: Creating Resonant Sounds on the Carnatic Tabla"

Sharanya naidu
Sep 6
2 min read

In Indian classical music, percussion instruments do more than just keep time—they add color, depth, and life to a performance. While the mridangam is traditionally the backbone of Carnatic rhythm, the tabla has also made its way into Carnatic learning and performance spaces. For students exploring this path, one of the most important skills to master is creating resonance on the right hand.

What Does Resonance Mean?

Resonance is that ringing, sustained sound you hear when a stroke is played correctly on the tabla. On the right-hand drum (dayan), resonant strokes bring out the instrument’s full tonal richness, making the sound not just percussive but almost melodic.

Why Resonance Is Important in Carnatic Playing

In Carnatic rhythm, clarity and precision are everything. Resonant strokes serve several roles:

They keep the tala cycle flowing smoothly.
They add a tonal layer that blends beautifully with instruments like the violin or veena.
They allow rhythmic phrases (korvais, nadais, and kanakkus) to sparkle with expression.

In other words, resonance gives life to the rhythm—it transforms patterns into music.

Essential Right-Hand Resonant Strokes

If you are a learner, focus on these key strokes for resonance:

Na / Ta – Crisp, ringing sounds played near the edge.
Tin – A long, sustained stroke, great for slower passages.
Tun – Bright and open, perfect for highlighting important beats.
TiRaKiTa Variations – When played with resonance, these phrases shine with clarity and brilliance.

Tips to Improve Your Resonance

Perfect Your Finger Placement – The sweet spot lies near the edge of the dayan; experiment until you find it.
Control the Pressure – Don’t press down too much; let your finger bounce naturally.
Slow Practice First – Work in vilambit (slow tempo) to really hear the resonance before moving to faster speeds.
Listen Critically – Record your practice and check if your strokes are ringing or sounding flat.

Bringing Resonance into Carnatic Tala

Carnatic tala cycles like Adi Tala and Rupaka Tala rely heavily on well-placed resonant strokes:

Use them to emphasize the sam (first beat).
Balance them with muted strokes for contrast.
Incorporate them into korvais to add brilliance and power to your phrases.

Closing Thoughts

For a Carnatic tabla learner, mastering resonance on the right hand is not just about sound—it’s about expression. With patience, daily practice, and careful listening, your tabla will begin to sing as much as it speaks. Resonance is what transforms rhythm into art.