There are numerous words and phrases you will commonly hear associated with the Tabla. Here is a small sample of those to help describe their meaning.

Bol

The various notes which can played on the Tabla are known as Bols.

Kaida

A kaida is a common type of solo piece usually played in medium tempo. Each kaida has a particular set of bols composed into a theme. When presenting a kaida during a solo performance, the main theme will be played and then will be expanded upon to create different patterns using the same bols of the kaida.

Rela

Relas are high speed pieces that give the effect of a drum roll. There are many different varieties and presentations of relas, and they are commonly played in solo performances as well as while accompanying other musicians.