The Guru-Shishya Parampara (The Master-Disciple Tradition)

Without the proper guidance from one who has mastered the art form which you study, one can never attain the level of skill needed to perform the art. The concept of guru-disciple relationships has been in existence for thousands of years. It is the guru's inherent responsibility to pass on everything he/she possess so his/her art form survives within the disciple. Without a guru who has this sincere and free spirit, then the student's progress will be severally hampered. Yet, how does a student know if he or she is being taught properly? I have had the bad experience of such a teacher during my early studies. It was not until years later that I discovered how much I was mislead. This experience instilled within me the absolute desire to be honest, straightforward and sincere within my own teaching. Thus, the purpose for Volume II: Indian Influence (Tabla Perspectives).

The disciple's primary gift to the guru is respect, dedication and love for, not only the guru, but for his/her music as well. Indian culture long maintains this tradition and both guru and disciple can feel the presence of the love shared within their relationship. It is the guru's desire to have their music live on through their disciple who not only shares the music, but also the significance of the guru within their life. This is why most every concert of Indian classical music include a moment of homage and respect paid to the guru.