Shahbaz Hussain is one of Europe’s finest tabla players. First studying under his father, the vocalist Ustad Mumtaz Hussain, he went on learn from various gurus - the Delhi gharana’s Ustad Faiyaz Khan, and the Punjab gharana’s Ustad Shaukat Hussain Khan and Ustad Allah Rakha. He has developed an eclectic and versatile style, leading the fusion group Indus as well as accompanying touring classical artists. Shahbaz is active as a tabla teacher across the North of England.

"I used to steal pots and pans from the kitchen, and my mum used to go ballistic - I used to play on them...then my dad bought me my first tabla"

—Also see Living Traditions: 21 articles for 21st-century Indian classical music, our new series exploring how music with ancient roots continues to innovate in a fast-paced, interconnected modern world. Expand your appreciation!

Darbar Arts & Heritage believes in the power of Indian classical music to stir, thrill, and inspire. To find out more, get the Darbar newsletter, explore our YouTube channel, or sign up to the Darbar Player to watch extended festival performances in pristine HD quality.