T he South Indian rhythm system of Carnatic music is based largely on mathematics for stringing together rhythm cells of various durations to !t a given rhythm cycle. "e rhythm system of North India is based primarily on !xed, extended compositions rendered on North Indian tabla. "e goal of this article is to adapt shorter tabla phrases into potent grooves for accompanying music in practical, real-world applications. Before presenting speci!c examples, here is some general background of North Indian music.