Ek Tal (12 Matras)

Ek Tal (12 Matras) is a Hindustani classical instrumental recording by tabla maestro Chatur Lal. The performance was released in 1960. The piece adheres to the Ek Tal cycle, a rhythmic structure comprising 12 beats (matras) commonly used in North Indian classical music. The recording captures Lal’s interpretation of the Ek Tal framework through solo tabla compositions.

Chatur Lal performs the piece in a traditional format, emphasizing the theka (basic rhythmic pattern) and elaborating with tihais (rhythmic cadences) and parans (complex rhythmic phrases). The recording does not list a specific label. The duration of the performance is 7 minutes and 50 seconds.

The track showcases Lal’s technical precision and improvisational skill within the constraints of the 12-beat cycle. The performance follows the conventions of tabla solo recitals, where the artist demonstrates rhythmic complexity through variations in tempo and phrasing. No additional musicians or instruments are featured in this recording.

Chatur Lal (1925–1965) was a prominent tabla player from India, recognized for his contributions to Hindustani classical music. He collaborated with leading artists of his time, including Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan. The MusicBrainz Identifier (MBID) for this recording is 014c6456-c083-47e2-ab18-9f2cd5671dee.

The exact release format of Ek Tal (12 Matras) is not specified in available sources. The recording remains a reference for students and practitioners of Hindustani classical percussion, illustrating the structural and expressive possibilities of the Ek Tal cycle.