Laura Patchen

Expert Tabla Performer and Teacher

Laura Patchen, originally from New York City, moved to Berlin in 1977, where she began studying tabla under the esteemed Kamalesh Maitra. Trained in the traditional guru-shishya parampara system, Laura accompanied Maitra on tours throughout Europe, the USA, China, and India from 1978. In 1979, she joined Maitra’s ensemble, Drums of India, and co-founded the Ragatala Ensemble in 1980, performing Maitra’s innovative compositions that blended Indian classical music with European influences until his passing in 2005.

Notable Performances and Recordings

Laura has contributed to several prominent recordings, including Tablatarang und Ensemble Indischer Trommeln, Ragas on Drums, Kamalesh Maitra and his Ragatala Ensemble, Der Zuckerbäcker aus Kalkutta, Rhythm and Time – Global Percussion Songs and Raag Kirwani on Tabla Tarang. 

Teaching and Contributions

Laura began her teaching career in 1985, joining Berlin Musikschule City West in 2005 and the Musikschule Fanny Hensel in 2018. She also directs and composes for the Tabla Ensemble “Kamalesh Maitra”. Dedicated to promoting the value of Indian classical music and fostering musical diversity, Laura wishes to advance peace and transcultural appreciation while minimizing environmental impact.

At the Global Music Academy, Laura offers tabla lessons for all ages and different music levels.