Evolution of Tabla Accompaniment in Purabang Thumri According to Different Tabla Maestros: A Critical Analysis

Thumri singing occupies one of the principal segments of Indian vocal music. But till date, there has been least attention given to the evolution of the accompanying stylization and techniques of this beautiful art form. Tabla acts as the principal accompanying rhythm instrument but there are very few works available focusing on the evolution of Tabla accompaniment with Thumri throughout the past century. Tabla accompaniment needs a sharp mind and the ability of understanding the main artiste’s taste and requirement. To do this, the accompanist should have a thorough knowledge of the art. The role that the accompaniment can play in forming the character of a song is immense. Accompaniment always serves as a complementary factor to the development of a song. The quality and playing style of the accompaniment acts a decisive factor in the characterization of the song. In the past century (1905-2015) India has gone through vast political as well as socio-cultural changes which naturally keep a prominent impression in the evolution its musical and art forms. Thumri singing and its accompaniment is no exception. Thus an analytical study is made to assess from information and opinions gathered from interviewing Tabla maestros. This qualitative study focuses particular on this same aspect of the role that accompaniment plays, aiming at exploring the changes through the playing styles of Tabla accompaniment with Thumri singing through the past century.