Nish is a nomadic percussionist with a deep-seated love for playing multiple genres of music – always finding ways to tastefully contribute to expressing the musical vision of the artists he collaborates with, whatever style they play in. As a highly experienced percussionist, Nish is proficient on a variety of hand drums and percussion instruments from around the world; and has acquired particular specialisation on the Indian Tabla – having trained both in South Africa and under a Tabla master in Bangalore, India.
 

In many ways, it is in Nish’s Tabla playing that his musical gift for enhancing the total spectrum of musical genres fully expresses itself. Nish is a rare breed of musician who can freely create on a deeply traditional instrument with master-trained traditional capability – but can do so within totally non-traditional settings and in multiple genres of ‘modern music’. In this, media reviews have described his stage presence as ‘legendary’ – stating that “this artist is truly someone that has found his niche’”.
 

Nish’s musical versatility has led to collaborations and performances with numerous well-known artists, like the legendary Steve Newman, Ard Matthews (Just Jinjer), Arno Carstens (Springbok Nude Girls), Veranda Panda, Dave Starke, Fishwives, Maskandi SAMA Award winners Qadasi and The Jack Mantis Band. Here, a particular highlight was being the support act for American singer/songwriter and Grammy award-winner Ben Harper at the Grand West Arena Cape Town, with the Jack Mantis Band. And more recently, he gave a special Tabla performance as the guest opening act for festival headliners Mi Casa, at Splashy Fen 2022.
 

“Making beats is my passion!” says Nish. “My goal is to unite people through music and positively affect everyone I encounter”. In this, Nish has extensively toured South Africa over the decade with various bands, individual artists, and musical, theatrical, and social justice themed projects; and has shared bills and stages with the likes of Mango Groove, Dan Patlansky, Goldfish, Goodluck, The Parlotones, Gangs of Ballet, ,the Soweto Gospel Choir, and countless other top acts.

More than anything, Nish thrives wherever, whenever, and however music is made. His buoyant vibrant energy and infectious laugh both on and off the stage – coupled with his tasteful multi-skilled musicianship – truly make him a positive percussive force for good in the world and a genuine pleasure to work with.