Learning Sitar the Traditional Way
Music isn't just a subject I teach; it's a legacy passed down through my family. Here, we embrace the Guru-Shishya tradition to help you find your own sound on the sitar.
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.
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.
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.
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.
About A Legacy of Music: The Guru-Shishya Tradition
In my classes, we drop the rigid classroom feel. We sit together in a baithak—a traditional, carpeted space—where group size stays strictly between 4 to 8 students. This ensures you get enough personal attention to master subtle finger movements while still benefiting from the shared energy of learning alongside others.
For me, the sitar is more than an instrument; it is a living lineage. My father, who is my first Guru, shaped how I understand sound and dedication. When I set up my studio, I did not want a standard music school environment. I wanted a baithak.
What does this mean for you? It means the learning is intimate. We focus on the core of Hindustani classical music—Raag fundamentals, Taal, and Laya—without the intimidation of a formal academy. Whether you are a beginner learning how to hold the sitar or an advanced student refining your Gayaki Ang (vocal style), the focus remains on your personal development at your own pace.
We cover the Bhatkhande notation system to give you a solid theoretical foundation, but we spend most of our time playing. You will also get access to electronic Tanpura and Tabla for accompaniment, which is crucial for building your rhythmic sense.
Every year, we host a Gurupoornima showcase. It is not just a recital; it is a milestone where you get to play with live Tabla players in front of an audience. It is the ultimate way to build the confidence you need to take your music out of the practice room and onto the stage.
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