Frequently asked questions

Topics:


Problems with on-line ordering.

Questions about instruments for sale.

Questions about database resources and how to play tabla.

Questions on the miniTabla:


I put items in my basket, but they are not there when I went to the order page?
I put items in my basket, but they disappeared?

The ordering system uses Cookies to track your items. Please enable them in your browser settings. For details on how this site uses Cookies, read our statement on privacy.


Can I FAX my order instead?

Absolutely, please generate the order (using secure or non-secure pages), and FAX your completed order form to our FAX number. You may choose "cancel" to clear the page after sending the FAX.

OR simply note the product "ID" you wish to purchase, then download this FAX Form. Complete the form and FAX it to us.


Can I order by check or money order?

Absolutely, please generate the order (using secure or non-secure pages), and send the completed order form and check to our ADDRESS. You may choose "cancel" to clear the page after taking the order informtation.


Can I visit your store, you're located in Portland right ?

We are strictly a mail order operation and have no show rooms at this time. Thank you.


I can't log into the composition database, what's wrong ?

The database engine requires that you enable "cookies" in your web browser. Second, your browser must support "Frames". The default screen should prompt you with a "guest" login.


Where do your tablas come from ? Are they made in India ?

TABLA.COM sells professional quality tabla drums imported from India. The tablas are professional quality Bombay style drums. The dayan is made of shyshiam, (heavy rosewood). The bayan is a professional full size and weight (~ 2.5 Kg) and made of polished brass. The drums come with a complete compliment of accessories (rings, covers, hammer) and a fiberglass hard shell case.


How do I get access to the special database compositions ?

The public database is free for you to browse. There are other database sections that that you must purchase to gain access. Review the ordering page. for more details.


I'm a student of so-and-so, can I have access to their compositions ?

We can't accommodate these requests. There are no "insider" deals here. The fee here hardly covers the volume of work put into these resources.

Review the ordering page. for more details.


I'm just a student, please give me free stuff.

We can not accommodate these requests. The rates on all items : instruments, database "plug-ins", videos, or books, are all at the lowest price we can offer.


What guarantees do you offer, in case I don't like the tablas sent ?

Review the Purchase agreement.

Essentially, for instrument purchases you have three days for any return or replacement requests (from delivery), except for any skins that become wet. Shipping damage must be reported by immediately by phone, email (sales@tabla.com) is also suggested.


Do you know which guru is in my town ?

Because of this popular request we set up the Tabla Teacher Address book. It's a self-maintained list of tabla gurus and teachers.

A great way to find tabla teachers is to attend your local Indian music concerts. Don't be shy, just start asking around. You could start with the help desk, or call the organizations that organize India music concerts.


Where and when does Zakir teach ?

Zakir often teaches a number of classes in the summer.
They are generally held in Berkeley, CA.
Check the workshop and classes listings for the latest information.


How do I play "Dha", or "Dhin" et cetera ? I'd like a demonstration.

You really must seek the guidance of a guru for this. This web site is a great resource to compliment your studies, but is not designed to answer to the formidable task of teaching hands-on technique.


Why is each bol capitalized ?

This is a stylistic feature designed to give each bol (lit. word) a unique ascii sequence to identify it. The criteria for selecting the ascii set are:

Resources do not permit using anything more elaborate (like notation systems that detail bayan tonal inflection).


What bols are "Dheri", or "TreKre" ? -- I don't understand these bols.

These, and other bols, should be familiar to a reasonably informed player. Consult your teacher.


Do you have any sound files ?

There are no sound files as such available from the web site.


Do you have any MIDI files of the tabla, or for lehera ?

There are no MIDI files as such available from the web site. If you send them attached to email and I will post them on the site.


Tell me what type of mount is beneath each miniTabla drum?

This is the Laser-cut Cross-adapter ending in a Pearl 7/8"- Pipe Clamp. This fits on any 7/8" Tube of Cymbal Stands etc.


Can you give me an approximate size to pitch range of the miniTabla Dayan ?

This depends on the Tabla-heads and specially on the Shyahi, but approximately
as follows: ==>
5" = D to F; 5 1/2" = C to D;
6" = B to C; 6 1/2" = G to B;
7" = C to F; 7 1/2" = B to E.


I'd like to mount several miniTablas to a single stand, if possible.

With standard Drum-hardware, you can use all kinds of Stands and mounting clamps, adapters etc.


How does the sound of the miniTabla compare to the traditionel tabla ?

I give you a statement of Pranesh Khan, Son of Ustad Ali Akbar Khan:
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" Don't be deceived by its look. I was extremely impressed by its sound and also by its unique design and concept of putting different kind of head (North, South, or folk ) on the same body. With a proper head, the miniTabla sounds as good as the real Tabla. Because of its peerless design, it can be played both sitting down or standing up, or even clamped with the regular drum set. The head can be changed very easily. No more pulling those dreaded leather strap or OOPS! I lost my hammer, how can I tune the Tabla !."

With all my good wishes.
Sincerely,
Pranesh Khan


Just how strong is the stand for miniTabla ? Will it fall down when I play ?

We use Drum-hardware for miniTabla (7/8" inches Tubes), the miniTabla stand has much more stability then a Bira with the normal Tabla. Even if you have the giant-touch of late Ustad Habibuddin Khan: the miniTabla stand will not move and can not fall down. If you want to play miniTabla in high sitting position, you can use any Cymbal Stands etc. At the bottom of mT is the Laser-cut Cross-adapter, ending in a Pearl 7/8"- Pipe Clamp. This fits on any 7/8" Tube of Cymbal Stands etc.

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