Frequently Asked Questions

Where do classes take place?
Group classes take place at the Inner Space studio located at 54A Cawthra Avenue in Toronto. Private and semi-private classes take place at Anita’s home studio located near College and Bathurst in Toronto.

Do I need a tabla and where can I buy tabla?
It is expected that you bring your own instrument to class. Anita has a limited number of tabla sets for sale and can also make suggestions on where to rent or buy tabla.

Do I need to sit on the ground to play tabla?

Traditionally tabla is played seated cross legged on the ground. Pillows will be provided to support your posture. If this position is inaccessible to you, accommodations need to be made so that you can sit on a chair (or similar) and raise the height of the tabla. Please contact Anita to discuss these options.

How many people per group class?

Group classes are limited to 5 people

How are classes scheduled?
Group class sessions of last 6-8 weeks in the Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Session dates are posted here.

Semi-private and private classes can be scheduled weekly, bi-weekly or ad-hoc depending on the student’s needs.

How much do classes cost and when do I pay?
Group classes cost $30/class for each class in a session, per person. Payment for classes by the first class of the session for entire session.

Semi-private classes cost $40/class and private classes cost $60/class. Scheduling of payment for semi-private and private classes can be arranged with Anita.

What happens if I cannot attend a class within the session?
If a student knows they will be missing some classes due to travel or work, they may deduct them off the total session cost at the time of payment. Refunds cannot be offered for last minute cancellations. It is the students responsibility to keep with the class material.

Class Etiquette

When you arrive
Removing your shoes and putting your phone away before entering the classroom is expected. Please arrive on time to be respectful to your teacher and other participants in the class. If there is another class happening when you arrive, please sit quietly at the back of the class until Anita calls you in.

Your tabla
Tabla should not be placed near to shoes, the washroom, close to moisture, heat, cold or anywhere you might find uncomfortable. Treat your tabla like you would treat a respected mentor or elder.

Sitting
Sitting is one of the most challenging parts about playing tabla. Over time, you will build a tolerance for sitting with your tabla. If your feet fall asleep while seated please get up and stretch or stretch your feet out in a direction that does not point towards your drums or another person.

Food
Please bring your own water bottles and tea/coffee in a secure mug. No food in class.

Cut your nails
Please cut and file your nails to produce a good sound and as to not damage your drum heads. Johnson & Johnson talcum powder (no cornstarch) can be used sparingly if your hands sweat.

Notes and recordings
Notes and recordings will occur at the end of the class. Students are encouraged not to take notes or refer to notes during the class so that they can be fully present. Please bring your phone to make short recordings, a notebook and a pen.

Anita has developed a handbook for each her beginner course. After about a year, students are expected to record compositions in class and take their own notes. Students will be taught the notation for tabla compositions.