Riyaaz & Spontaneous Music Sessions

Riyaaz is the backbone of Indian classical music. It is not just about moving your fingers; it is about internalizing the 'bols' (syllables) and the 'taal' (rhythm cycle). When I perform a spontaneous padhant—like the one you see in this gallery from a temple in Uttarakhand—I am reciting a composition as it sits in my muscle memory.

This practice is what I bring to my teaching. In my private and group sessions, we emphasize:

• Oral Recitation (Padhant): Before you play, you must speak. This connects your mind to the rhythm.
• Foundational Technique: We focus on the Nikas (hand placement) to ensure the sound is crisp, whether you are playing the Tabla or the Pakhavaj.
• Spontaneous Creativity: Once the technique is solid, we move to 'lehras' and accompaniment, where you learn to react to the melody in real-time.

If you are just starting, do not worry about the complexity. We begin with the basics, ensuring you understand the 'Vibhag' (divisions) and 'Matra' (beats) of the rhythm cycle. The goal is to make the instrument an extension of your own voice.