Tabla positioning

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Tabla Positioning typically depends on the gharānā (technique) the tabla player is using. Some position the tablas straight and upright, some leaning to one side, and some leaning opposite sides. It depends on the type of bols the player wants to make.

[edit] Tabla Positioning

A typical Tabla positioning
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A typical Tabla positioning

In the example shown, the player sits facing the camera. The dayan (smaller wooden drum) is on the player's right and the bayan (large metallic drum) is on the performer's left. This position is known to be able to make the most bols. Both drums are placed in their cushions (chutta), which allow the tabla to resonate more, and are slightly leaning forward. The reason for that is because it allows the wrist to be straight and comfortable. Left-handed tabla players usually switch (so the dayan is on the left).

[edit] Posture

For a man, the posture usually consists of a straight back and crossed legs. For a woman, the posture consists of keeping the legs together and off to one side (practically if she is wearing a sari). However, if she is not, then she takes up the cross-legged position.