Telangana Tabla Maker Says Traditional Musical Instruments Are Slowly Disappearing

The impact of electronic musical instruments on traditional musical instruments is a topic that has been debated among musicians and music enthusiasts. Electronic musical instruments and traditional instruments can exist together harmoniously and even enhance each other in various musical genres. Each type of instrument contributes unique sounds and capabilities, each with its strengths and limitations. Many musicians blend electronic and traditional instruments to produce innovative and diverse music. However, having said that, it seems it is a reality that the evolution of electronic instruments is poised to dethrone traditional instruments. That is what traditional musicians from the city of Karimnagar in Telangana have got to say to Local18.

Once upon a time, music relied heavily on instruments like the tabla, harmonium and mridangam. Experts from Karimnagar said that with the advent of DJs and electronic devices, these traditional instruments have fallen out of favour. Jayaram, a tabla maker, also mentioned that there are now very few buyers for these instruments.

Jayaram said that his father once repaired traditional instruments and since many artisans played these instruments, the inflow of business was good and a lot of people were employed by them. But now, fewer artisans play traditional musical instruments and hence business has gone down.

He added that he had been aiding his father in the business for the last 35 years. He appealed to the government to patronise and support artists who still played traditional musical instruments so that people like him and his father continue to get work.

In the 21st century, electronic musical instruments have become common across various music genres. In popular styles like electronic dance music, nearly all sounds in recordings come from electronic instruments such as bass synths, synthesizers and drum machines. The ongoing development of new electronic musical instruments, controllers, and synthesizers remains a dynamic and interdisciplinary area of research.