The Sitar Journey: Highlights from Alaap Sangeet Sabha
A look into the heart of my musical world, from the first notes of my youngest students to the grandeur of our Grand Sitar Symphony.
This is what music is about for me, sharing it in beautiful places. Here I am with my student Arjun, playing by the lake in Munnar. Music is not just for the classroom.
It is never too early to start. I am so proud of my youngest student, Sharannya, as she learns to play her first notes on the sitar. Her focus and love for the music is an inspiration.
This is what years of dedication looks like. My senior student, Prateeksha Hugar, performs Raag Lalit on stage. It is my greatest pride to see my students achieve this level of mastery.
Welcome. I am Vijay Gonahalu, and I look forward to starting this musical journey with you. Here I am during a performance, ready to share the art of the sitar.
We learn together as a community. This is a new batch of students practicing palta exercises for Raag Yaman. There is a special energy when we all play together.
It is never too late to learn. My student Sudha ji is a housewife with many responsibilities, but her passion for sitar is so strong. Here she is after three years of learning, playing a gat in Raag Gujri Todi.
For grand occasions, I lead the Grand Sitar Symphony. We bring classical and symphonic music to weddings and events, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
About this collection
We practice in the traditional baithak style on the floor, which helps you truly connect with the instrument. Whether you are learning your first Raag Yaman palta or preparing for a performance, the focus is entirely on your personal growth, not on rushing to finish a syllabus.
My approach to teaching sitar is rooted in the Guru-Shishya parampara, a model that values the journey over the destination. When you join my classes in Bengaluru, you enter a community that I call Alaap Sangeet Sabha. This is not just a place to learn technique, but a space to share music.
The Learning Process
We begin with the basics, starting with posture and the right-hand strokes like Da and Ra. We work on Hindustani classical raags, including Yaman and Shuddh Sarang. My sessions range from private 1-on-1 instruction for deep, focused work to group settings where students learn from each other. I keep the pacing strictly individual, ensuring that even if you have a busy work life or family responsibilities, you can progress at a speed that feels right for you.
Performance and Community
Beyond the classroom, I encourage students to step onto the stage. Whether it is a small baithak in a local home or a larger setup with my Grand Sitar Symphony for events, performing is the best way to understand the music. We hold regular events, including our Gurupoornima celebrations, which are open to students of all ages. For those interested in the therapeutic side of music, I also incorporate Svaropachara concepts into my advanced training sessions.
If you have the patience to listen and the passion to play, I am happy to guide you.
Vijay Gonahal
I am Vijay, and to me, teaching sitar is about carrying forward the flame of our tradition. Every student here is like family, and it brings me pure joy to see them find their own unique sound, whether they are five or fifty-five.
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