Hang drum player Daniel Waples started playing the instrument more than a decade ago. “I was studying guitar- making in Leeds when I came across the instruments through some African percussionists. I was sick of the guitar by then,” he tells us, adding, “I had no YouTube to learn from back in the day so it was all self-exploration.” The musician plays in the city this weekend.
Initially, his music took inspiration from African drums and rhythms. But now, he includes a lot of Irish and Arabic influences in his beats. Mainly, his music is influenced by nature and travels. Having played in 65 countries, Daniel says he does not have a permanent address. “Right now I’ve been in a hotel in Mumbai and I’m at home there. I know the local chaiwala around the corner, I know the security guards and I even know one of the dogs. I take him bread everyday. My home is where I am,” he says.
Daniel has a close connection to India. In the early days of his career, he spent a lot of time on the beaches of Goa and Gokarna. He also appreciates Indian classical music. He feels classical music in Europe is very stagnant, but it is not the case in India. This year, Daniel will tour with Arijit Singh and might take it international. He also plans to start his own hang drum company and work on a solo album.
Rs. 500. January 20, 9 pm. At The Humming Tree, Indira Nagar