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The school of Indian Percussion and Music (SIPM), A 501(C)3 non-profit, is based in Austin ,TX,Under the direction of Tabla Maestro Gourisankar, the school offers individual and Group Lessons & Professional and Student Events throughout the year.Online lessons and tabla workshops offered as well.
For the past 16 years, the School of Indian Percussion and Music has been a beacon of Indian classical music, dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Indian percussion. Guided by the exceptional vision of its Founder, Pandit Gourisankar, the school has nurtured generations of students in the art of Tabla, one of the most revered instruments in Indian classical music.
Over the years, the school has become a hub of musical learning, offering students not just technical expertise, but also a deep cultural understanding of Indian rhythms. This milestone is a testament to the dedication, passion, and perseverance of Pandit Gourisankar, who has transformed his dream into a thriving institution that celebrates the essence of Indian music.
A revered figure in the world of Indian classical music, Pandit Gourisankar is a distinguished disciple of the legendary Pandit Sankha Chatterjee, a master of the Farukabad Gharana, and an accomplished tabla virtuoso. Trained in both the Punjab Gharana and Farukabad Gharana, Pandit Gourisankar brings a unique blend of traditional and contemporary perspectives to his teaching, making him one of the most sought-after maestros of his generation.
Pandit Gourisankar’s commitment to preserving the purity of classical tabla while integrating innovative approaches to teaching has shaped the ethos of the School of Indian Percussion and Music. Through his guidance, students gain a comprehensive understanding of rhythm, technique, and the deeper philosophical aspects of music.
The Punjab Gharana and Farukabad Gharana are two of the most respected and influential schools of tabla playing, each with its own distinctive style and technique. Pandit Gourisankar’s mastery of both gharanas has allowed him to teach a rich variety of tabla traditions, giving students the opportunity to explore the best of both worlds.
Punjab Gharana is known for its bold, powerful, and rhythmically complex compositions, emphasizing a deep connection between the tabla and the performer’s inner expression.
Farukabad Gharana, on the other hand, is famous for its intricate finger techniques, delicate nuances, and the emphasis on precision and clarity in every stroke.
Pandit Gourisankar, a rare expert in both traditions, has created a space where these two gharanas coexist, offering students a well-rounded and diverse understanding of tabla playing. This unique synthesis has become one of the school’s defining features, setting it apart as a premier destination for tabla learners.
The journey of the School of Indian Percussion and Music has been one of continuous growth and achievement. Here are some of the key milestones in our 16-year journey:
**Founding of the School (2008)**: What began as a humble vision to share the knowledge of tabla and Indian percussion soon blossomed into a respected institution. Pandit Gourisankar established the school with the goal of creating a space where students could learn under the tutelage of a master and immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Indian music.
**Growing Student Community**: Over the years, the school has educated hundreds of students from all walks of life, providing them with an authentic and rigorous training in tabla and percussion. The school has fostered an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages students to reach their highest potential.
**Master Classes and Workshops**: Pandit Gourisankar and guest artists have conducted numerous workshops, master classes, and performances, offering students the opportunity to learn from a diverse range of maestros from India and abroad. These interactions have expanded students’ horizons, enriching their musical perspectives.
**National and International Recognition**: The school’s reputation has grown exponentially, with students performing on prestigious stages around the world. The influence of the Punjab and Farukabad Gharanas has been felt globally, as the school continues to gain recognition as a leading institution for tabla education.
**Cultural Outreach Programs**: Through its outreach initiatives, the school has reached thousands of people, sharing the beauty of Indian percussion and music with communities and institutions. The school has conducted numerous free concerts, educational workshops, and collaborative performances, making Indian classical music accessible to all.
**Dedicated to Innovation**: While deeply rooted in tradition, the School of Indian Percussion and Music has embraced modern techniques and digital tools to enrich its curriculum. Online courses, video tutorials, and virtual performances have allowed the school to extend its reach to a global audience.
At the heart of the School of Indian Percussion and Music is the unique teaching philosophy of Pandit Gourisankar, which blends discipline, creativity, and deep respect for the art form. His approach to tabla is holistic, focusing not only on technical proficiency but also on the emotional and spiritual aspects of music.
**Emphasis on Practice**: Pandit Gourisankar believes that mastery of tabla comes through consistent and mindful practice. He encourages his students to develop a deep connection with the instrument and the rhythms they play, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and inner discipline.
**Personalized Attention**: Understanding that each student is unique, Pandit Gourisankar tailors his teaching to meet the individual needs of his students. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, his guidance is thoughtful and precise, ensuring that you grow both as a musician and as a person.
**Fostering Creativity**: While the school focuses on traditional techniques, Pandit Gourisankar also encourages students to explore their own creativity and develop their personal style. This blend of tradition and innovation helps students gain a deeper understanding of the music and express themselves with confidence and authenticity.
As we celebrate 16 years of excellence, we remain committed to our mission of nurturing the next generation of tabla musicians and preserving the art of Indian percussion. With the continued guidance of Pandit Gourisankar, we look forward to expanding our programs, reaching new audiences, and continuing to uphold the rich traditions of the Punjab and Farukabad Gharanas.
We thank all of our students, teachers, volunteers, and supporters who have been part of this incredible journey. Your dedication and passion make the School of Indian Percussion and Music a truly special place. Together, we will continue to celebrate the rhythms of India and ensure that this ancient art form remains alive for generations to come.
To commemorate this milestone, we invite you to join us in celebrating the incredible journey of the School of Indian Percussion and Music. Stay tuned for our anniversary events, including special performances, workshops, and a tribute to Pandit Gourisankar’s vision and legacy.
Thank you for being part of our 16-year journey. The rhythm of India continues to thrive because of your unwavering support and dedication!
