An online masterclass with one of India's foremost ghatam virtuosos. His musical journey, the clay-pot drum and its history, the living Carnatic tradition, and his approach to practice and improvisation.
Giridhar Udupa is among the most celebrated ghatam players in the world — a master of the humble clay pot that, in the right hands, becomes one of the most agile and expressive drums in any tradition. Rooted in the Carnatic classical music of South India and active far beyond it, he performs across continents and genres while remaining a deep custodian of his art.
His playing is a living example of laya — the South Indian science of rhythm — at its most virtuosic: mathematically dazzling, yet always musical.
In this masterclass Giridhar shared his musical journey, the story of the ghatam and its history in India, and a window into the Carnatic tradition today — how this ancient system lives and breathes now. He also opened up his approach to practice and improvisation: how a Carnatic musician builds rhythmic command and then improvises freely within it.
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The Giridhar Udupa masterclass lives inside the Afterman Percussion Conservatory. Pick the path that fits where you are now — recordings and private lessons are open today; live group classes return each cohort start.
Study at your own pace. Full lesson recordings from any active group — Darbuka, Lapstyle, Riqq, or Upright. Start with a 4-pack or commit to a full course.
One-on-one with Yshai. Custom-paced, personally tailored, weekly or biweekly. Limited slots — arranged after a short conversation.
Inquire About Privates →The full Conservatory experience. Weekly Zoom group with Yshai, structured curriculum, live feedback, and recordings of every lesson. Reserve your seat for the next cohort.