--- title: "Sitar Training: Learn Sitar from an 'A' Grade Classical Artist - mytribe" description: "Ready to learn Sitar? Get authentic Sitar training in Indian classical music from Chintan Katti, an 'A' grade artist. Master Raags and performance techniques in the traditional Guru-Shishya style. Book your first lesson on Tribe today!" canonical: https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training last_updated: 2025-09-30 --- # Sitar Training in Mumbai By [Chintan Katti](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti) · I teach sitar in small groups using the traditional Guru-Shishya method, helping you learn basics, raag theory, and improvisation at your own pace, with real performance opportunities every year. ## Locations Online classes available; In-person training in Mumbai ### Visit at - In-person classes at studio in Mumbai (Mumbai Metropolitan Area, Mumbai Metropolitan Area, Maharashtra) Also available online. ## Pricing guide (estimates) These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote. ### Private Advanced Mentorship 60-minute 1-on-1 sessions focusing on Gayaki Ang, complex improvisation, and stagecraft for professionals or advanced students. Typically ₹1,800-2,500 per session (estimate) #### Format & Focus * Dedicated 60-minute one-on-1 instruction * Customized curriculum for specific goals like AIR grading or competition prep * Priority scheduling with flexibility for touring calendars #### Advanced Technique * Instruction on Gayaki Ang (vocal style playing) * Intricate improvisation training including Taan and Jhala * Micro-correction of left-hand techniques like Meend and Gamak * Advanced Layakari (rhythmic interplay) with Tabla loops #### Professional Skills * Stagecraft guidance on mic placement and sound balancing * Studio recording preparation including dynamics control and noise minimization * Repertoire building for professional concert performances ### Group Baithak Sessions Monthly batch of 4-8 students covering Raag fundamentals, Bhatkhande notation and fingering techniques in 60-90 minute sessions. Typically ₹3,500-4,500 per month (estimate) #### Session Details * Batch size limited to 4-8 students to mimic traditional Baithak learning * 4 to 8 sessions per month with each class lasting 60 to 90 minutes * Acoustically treated environment with carpeted floor seating * Access to electronic Tanpura and Tabla for accompaniment #### Curriculum * Sitar fingering techniques including Mizrab strokes * Basic Alankars and introduction to Ragas like Yaman, Bhupali, and Bhimpalas * Hindustani Classical theory covering Taal, Laya, and Swara knowledge * Reading and writing music using the Bhatkhande notation system #### Additional Value * Guidance on instrument tuning and maintenance * Eligibility to participate in the annual Gurupoornima showcase concert (subject to selection) ## About Sitar Training ### Why I Teach Sitar Playing sitar isn’t just a skill for me - it’s something I grew up with, something my Baba and my gurus poured into my life. I’m proud to bring that tradition to anyone who’s curious, whether you’re just starting out or already deep into Indian classical music instruction. My main aim is to help you discover your own sound, not just copy someone else. ### How We Learn Together I follow the old-school *Guru-Shishya parampara* (teacher-student tradition), but I’m not strict or scary. It’s more like sitting together in a baithak - small group, lots of encouragement, plenty of space for questions. We keep it chilled, but you’ll get all the discipline you need to move ahead. - Beginners get hands-on with the basics: how to hold the sitar, first melodies, and simple rhythm. - Once you’re comfy, we dig into Raag theory practice, learning classic pieces like Bhimpalas and Malkauns. - For the serious folks, I cover advanced stuff - improvisation, tricky taans, and how to make your own style. ### The Performance Buzz Every year, I host a big Gurupoornima concert - it’s where you get to show what you’ve learned, solo or in groups. We bring in real Tabla players, so you get the full experience. It’s not just fun - it’s where confidence is built. ### Who Can Join? Kids from age six, teens, and young adults - anyone who wants to try beginner sitar lessons or push their skills higher. Doesn’t matter if you’re shy or bold, I’ll help you grow at your own pace. ## Highlights Browse through Chintan Katti's best work. ### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/featured) - ![This is the moment all the practice leads to. My students, some as young as eight, are seen here performing at our annual Gurupoornima concert, accompanied by professional tabla players. This event is a core part of my teaching, providing a platform for every student to build confidence and experience the joy of a live recital.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/107a86f2-665e-488d-8033-88005db1aee0) - [Video: Here is a short demonstration of Raag Bhimpalas, one of the classic raags we explore in our lessons. My focus is on helping you understand the mood and structure of each raag, so you can eventually improvise and express your own musical ideas through the sitar.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3bbe4396-e622-4a57-b162-46a06060819f) - ![I was honoured to be invited to give a TEDx talk, where I spoke about the depth and relevance of Indian classical music today. This image captures a moment from my performance, where I demonstrated how the sitar can communicate complex emotions and stories.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ccd161f9-6568-4c10-843a-3ab8f08fe967) - ![The love for music runs deep in my family. Here is my Baba, my first Guru, sharing a moment with my nephew and his own small sitar. This image perfectly captures my belief that music education is a gift to be passed down through generations, starting from a young age.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c05b6bb0-dd61-47f0-9ca8-3a81b5cbc4ad) - ![This is my wonderful group of students after our Gurupoornima concert. We foster a supportive and friendly environment where students of all ages, from young children to teenagers, learn and grow together as musicians.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ef0f6eb-8582-418a-b329-1716221bf7c7) - ![A quiet moment with my sitar. For me, playing is a source of immense joy and peace, and this is the feeling I hope to share with all my students, whether they are picking up the instrument for the first time or are advanced learners.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/77dc2415-d8e4-437d-b4a4-e0ce0234a961) - ![I had the wonderful opportunity to meet the legendary Shri. Amitabh Bachchan ji and discuss the beauty of the sitar and Indian classical music. It was a memorable experience to connect with someone so deeply appreciative of our country's artistic traditions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d216258d-847b-4921-b18c-f2e647e099c0) - ![I am happy to share that I have been awarded an 'A' Grade by the All India Radio Central Audition Board. This official recognition is a milestone in my musical journey and a testament to the training I received from my own Gurus.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7c535f3a-be13-4a06-a982-4c3e91b60cd7) ### [Gurupoornima: Our Annual Student Showcase](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/gurupoornima-our-annual-student-showcase) - ![A view from the audience at our Gurupoornima concert. Parents and friends gather to watch the students showcase the skills they have developed over the year, creating a truly encouraging atmosphere for these young performers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0013be8c-903a-4c99-9e43-b6662f39b501) - ![My students, aged 8 to 19, performing a group sitar composition on stage. This annual concert is a key part of my teaching method, designed to build confidence and give students a tangible goal to work towards.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/107a86f2-665e-488d-8033-88005db1aee0) - ![A proud moment with my students after their successful performances. We work together in a relaxed, baithak style setting, and seeing their joy and camaraderie is the greatest reward for me as a teacher.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ef0f6eb-8582-418a-b329-1716221bf7c7) ### [The Art of Riyaaz: Sitar Demonstrations](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/the-art-of-riyaaz-sitar-demonstrations) - [Video: A demonstration of Raag Bhimpalas, an afternoon raag known for its meditative and soulful character. In my classes, we delve into the theory and feeling of different raags to build a strong foundation in Indian classical music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3bbe4396-e622-4a57-b162-46a06060819f) - [Video: This is a clip from my morning riyaaz, playing Raag Miya ki Todi. Daily practice is essential for any musician, and I guide my students on how to structure their own practice for consistent improvement.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/976a9897-c41e-43cc-8342-6dcfbed44745) - [Video: Exploring the nuances of Raag Marwa, an evening raag with a very distinct and powerful mood. Advanced students learn to master such complex raags and develop their own improvisational style.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cd4493d8-dee3-4465-b025-33be2f69e4da) - [Video: A short, informal practice session playing Raag Jhinjoti. Even simple, melodic raags like this offer a great opportunity to work on fingering techniques and clarity of sound, which are key skills for beginner sitar students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6ffe55fb-efa0-496c-abcf-d1d6907c63e5) ### [A Legacy of Music: The Guru-Shishya Tradition](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/a-legacy-of-music-the-guru-shishya-tradition) - ![My Baba, my first Guru, sharing his love for the sitar with my young nephew. This is how the journey begins, with curiosity and gentle guidance, and I welcome students as young as six to start their own musical path.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c05b6bb0-dd61-47f0-9ca8-3a81b5cbc4ad) - ![Three generations of sitar players in my family: my Baba, my brother, and myself. This deep-rooted connection to music is the foundation of my teaching, which I am honoured to share with my students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cff77b2e-a74e-474e-8f3c-4f66ebdafa75) - ![A family portrait celebrating Gurupoornima, a day to honour our teachers. My father's guidance has been invaluable, and I strive to pass on his wisdom and passion for music to all my students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/00c09487-03c0-432e-b3b0-c9fab6a838a0) - ![A joyful moment with my family. The environment in my classes is like that of a family baithak: small, encouraging, and full of warmth, where every student feels comfortable to ask questions and grow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c5441dbe-2c12-444c-9b9f-b3428ae89f9f) ### [In the Company of Masters](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/in-the-company-of-masters) - ![It was a true honour to have the legendary sitar maestro Ustad Shahid Parvez ji attend one of our private concerts. His presence and encouragement were incredibly inspiring for both my brother and me.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/07a4bbcb-4b73-447f-8624-78de8ea9a519) - ![Seeking blessings from Padmashree Ustad Shahid Parvez khan ji after one of his electrifying performances. Learning from the masters is a lifelong process, and I share these insights with my advanced students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1e3a37ce-1091-44e4-aa4b-960dba362dbb) - ![A fan moment with another sitar legend, Padmabhushan Pt. Budhaditya Mukherjee. Meeting my idols reaffirms the depth and beauty of the musical tradition I am privileged to teach.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/01273d9f-04bb-4d4c-a715-cb25948f8cd0) - ![I was fortunate to meet Shri. Amitabh Bachchan ji and was touched by his humility and genuine interest in the sitar. It is always wonderful to see our traditional arts appreciated by cultural icons.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d216258d-847b-4921-b18c-f2e647e099c0) ### [On the World Stage: Talks & Performances](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/on-the-world-stage-talks-performances) - ![Performing on the TEDx stage, where I had the opportunity to explain the intricacies of Indian classical music to a new audience. I believe in making this art form accessible and relatable to everyone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ccd161f9-6568-4c10-843a-3ab8f08fe967) - ![A wider view of the TEDx Rambaug stage during my talk and performance. It was a great platform to share my passion and demonstrate the power of the sitar as a storytelling instrument.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/736652b8-d8ae-4146-aad7-0a5fbb313c48) - ![A focused moment during my TEDx talk, using technology to help illustrate the concepts of raag and taal. I blend traditional teaching with modern tools to make learning more effective.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f81f831f-1f53-4d7c-b0e6-5611e3ba99a2) - ![A side view from the stage, preparing to play. Whether on a big stage or in a small classroom, my goal is always to connect with the audience through the honest expression of music.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6c387018-eeac-451a-ae2d-56cb2db0f994) - [Video: Here is a clip of me and my brother, Chirag, rehearsing for our "Strings in Harmony" tour. Collaboration is a beautiful part of music, and I encourage my students to play duets and in ensembles.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/08b0ce22-8700-4202-b819-348269e88116) ### [Professional Portraits & Accolades](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/sitar-training/professional-portraits-accolades) - ![This portrait captures the happiness I feel when I play the sitar. My classes are designed to be enjoyable, helping you connect with the instrument and find your own unique musical voice.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/77dc2415-d8e4-437d-b4a4-e0ce0234a961) - ![A professional studio photograph with my sitar. As a teacher, I aim to be approachable and supportive, guiding you through every step of your sitar learning journey, from holding the instrument correctly to mastering advanced techniques.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/958a2248-602b-4b2b-8958-54c363e83854) - ![This is the official letter confirming my upgradation to 'A' Grade artist by All India Radio. This level of certification assures students that they are learning from a musician recognized for a high standard of proficiency and artistry.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7c535f3a-be13-4a06-a982-4c3e91b60cd7) ## Meet your expert [Chintan Katti](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti) ### My story Music’s always felt like home to me. My Aai holds the fort, and Chirag - my elder brother - is my guide, my best pal. Playing a sitar duet with him? Pure fun, totally different vibe. Gurupoornima brings back all the guru memories, big dreams. The sitar’s been in my family for ages, can’t imagine life without it. From Mumbai gigs to US tours, it’s the simple stuff, chilling with family after shows, that makes it all magic. ### My work - **Sitarist, Composer & Teacher**: I play sitar live (solo, with my band Urja), record sessions, and teach Indian classical music lessons. - **Indian Classical & Meditative Raags**: My heart’s in classical - morning riyaaz with soulful raags, and big moments like performing at Pt. Bhimsen Joshi Mahotsav. - **Fusion & Bollywood Sitar Covers**: With Urja, I blend genres, create originals, and love giving Bollywood or Kannada hits a sitar twist. - **Collaborations & Sitar Duets**: Playing with Chirag, jamming with friends on tabla and keys - music’s just better when shared. ## More services from Chintan Katti - [Live Sitar Performance](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/live-sitar-performance) · ₹20-60K per performance (up to 90 min) (estimate) - [Studio & Session Recording](https://mytribe.in/chintankatti/studio-session-recording) · ₹5-20K per session (estimate) ## Experts similar to Chintan Katti on mytribe - [Sitar Lessons by Arjun Anand](https://mytribe.in/the_sitar_dude/sitar-lessons) · ₹800-2,500 per hour (estimate) · Bengaluru - [Veena & Carnatic Music Education by Suma Sudhindra](https://mytribe.in/drsumasudhindra/veena-carnatic-music-education) · ₹2,000-5,000 per student per month (estimate) · Tarangini Arts Foundation - [Live Sitar Performances by Vijay Gonahal](https://mytribe.in/gonahalu/live-sitar-performances) · ₹15K-2L per performance (estimate) · Bengaluru - [Live Sitar Performances by Suma Rani](https://mytribe.in/sitar_sumarani/live-sitar-performances) · ₹15K-1L per performance (estimate) · Bengaluru - [Instrumental Album Production & Release by Grand Sitar Symphony](https://mytribe.in/sitarsrinivas/instrumental-album-production-release) · ₹1.2-3.5L per album (estimate) · MUSIC MANSION - BANGALORE - [Bharatanatyam Training & Workshops by Praveen Kumar](https://mytribe.in/praveenkumardance/bharatanatyam-training-workshops) · ₹2,000-6,000 per month (regular class) / per workshop (workshop) (estimate) · Chithkala School Of Dance - [Music Education & Workshops by Rohit Bhat](https://mytribe.in/rohithbhat_u/music-education-workshops) · ₹300-800 per child per session (estimate) · Hanumanthanagara Bimba - [Carnatic Music Masterclasses & Workshops by Ramana Balachandhran](https://mytribe.in/ramana_balachandhran/carnatic-music-masterclasses-workshops) · ₹1,200-3,500 per participant per workshop (4 hours) (estimate) · India - [Indian Classical Arts Training by Indira Kadambi](https://mytribe.in/indirakadambi/indian-classical-arts-training) · ₹3-15K per month (estimate) · Ambalam Foundation - [Guitar & Ukulele Lessons by Theme Music Institute](https://mytribe.in/thememusicbangalore/guitar-ukulele-lessons) · ₹1,200-3,000 per student per month (estimate) · Theme Piano World and Music Institute Indiranagar - [Indian Classical Music Classes by World Music Conservatory](https://mytribe.in/wmcbangalore/indian-classical-music-classes) · ₹1,000-3,500 per student per month (estimate) · World Music Conservatory ## Book To book Chintan Katti, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Sitar%20Training%20by%20Chintan%20Katti.)