Robin Sukhadia is a student majoring in world music at Cal Arts. He talks about reasons he was surprised when he came to Cal Arts. He explains that he was originally impressed by the caliber of musicians and faculty. The extremely progressive environment of Cal Arts also was surprising. There is so much to learn. Sukhadia points out that if one is willing to take that knowledge and bring it to what one does, one will open one's self up to many new opportunities. Sukhadia also stresses the network of Cal Arts. It offers students connections due to its proximity to Los Angeles. The faculty is also incredibly supportive. Faculty members have helped him merge technology and tradition. Also in this segment, Sukhadia offers advice to students interested in Cal Arts. Students at Cal Arts must come willing to share their talent. If one doesn't give back to the community, one will become discouraged. Cal Arts is based on sharing. Sukhadia also stresses the importance of being open to new ideas. There are tons of ideas happening that are outside of the box. By pushing one's boundaries, one will truly accelerate in one's learning. He also discusses the seriousness of working on one's art. It is easy to get distracted.
Robin Sukhadia is a student majoring in world music at Cal Arts. He talks about the North Indian instrument, the tabla. Sukhadia explains that the tabla is a reflection of centuries of cultural exchange on the South Asia subcontinent. It has influences from the Persia, Islamic, and Hindu empires. Sukhadia talks about the main difference between the tabla and other drums. The tabla has a black spot made of tiny iron filings and rice past called the syahi. The syahi gives the drum its unique resonance. The tabla also doesn't have a hole in the bottom of the drum. The materials of the drum are covered as well. It has a goatskin head with goatskin straps. The wood is variable. Also in this segment, Sukhadia introduces the bayan. It is a larger drum made of nickel or copper. The bayan and tabla are generally played together, representing the female and male. Sukhadia performs a little as well. He explains the aural tradition behind the drums. Every note has a syllable attached. Sukhadia points out that improvisation is a huge part of playing the tabla. The tabla is also becoming more popular. It is being heard in musical genres such as hip-hop and electronic. Also in this segment, Sukhadia shares the historical background of the tabla. It was protected by the higher classes of society and could only be played by males that had access to the great masters. However, Sukhadia explains that that system has since collapsed and the drums are now more accessible. Audiences are becoming more educated, players are approaching the tabla differently, and the tabla has begun to transcend cultures. There is also an entire new breed of masters. The format of classical North Indian music has changed as well.
