GHATAM

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SOUNDSAMPLE

The Ghatam is a bulgy clay pitcher witch thin neck wich is open on top. It comes from South-India. It can be played on the lap or is set on a tablaring. The Ghatam is struck with the fingers and both hands. Belly, Neck and upper edge sound different in pitch and sound. A typical modulatable bass tone is played by striking the opening with the palm.

Vaidyanathan Suresh, a Ghatam Maestro from Sounth India describes the correct use of the Ghatam in classical music as follows:

"Conventionally Ghatam is not played, in the upright position kept on a ring or stand.
It is kept on the lap and kept in an angular position ( the mouth of the ghatam facing the chest and neck of the performer.
The base is produced occasionally with the palm covering the open mouth of the ghatam. But this sound is too loud and high bass.
The frequently used more sophisticated base or GAMAKA /GUMUKI is by the combination of two actions. One is playing on the neck of the ghatam with the wrist (strongly) keeping the fingers folded for better power and accent. The second action simultaneously done is by moving the ghatam outwards ( through the above said stroke)from the stomach or tummy which partially keeps the mouth of the ghatam covered normally. The air column inside ghatam is forced to go out in the movement and with the stroke is produces a beautiful base sound."

You may see a video sample of Vaidyanathan Suresh underneath which he kindly provided to us for our website. If you want to know more about Vaidyanathan Suresh you may also visit his website: www.ghatamsuresh.com

VIDEOSAMPLE

All prices include 19 % German sales tax.
Customers outside the European Common Market get a reduction of 19 %.

Article: Ghatam Price: 119.-- Euro