Nor-nork Tabla ((install)) File

(Notation Key: = Accented / Sam (first beat) / Tali; Non-bold = Khali or lighter stroke)

The foundational Theka of Nor-Nork, played on tabla, is: nor-nork tabla

1. Introduction & Etymology The Nor-Nork is a lesser-known but highly sophisticated prakar (variant) of the Tintal family, the most ubiquitous 16-beat rhythmic cycle in Hindustani classical music. The name derives from the unique bols (mnemonic syllables) that characterize its theka (basic rhythmic phrase): Nor-Nork . These are onomatopoeic representations of the specific strokes— "Nor" representing a resonant, open sound on the dayan (right, treble drum), and "Nork" representing a heavy, articulated, often muted or slapping sound on the bayan (left, bass drum). The name is integral to the pattern’s identity, akin to how Dha defines Tintal. (Notation Key: = Accented / Sam (first beat)