Studio Recording & Session Work
Available across Mumbai
Pricing Guide
Remote Sitar & Zitar Recording
Scope of Work
- Deliverable: High-fidelity raw WAV stems (Dry and Wet signals).
- Turnaround: Delivery typically within 48 to 72 hours.
- Revisions: Includes 2 rounds of minor feedback regarding tone or phrasing.
Technical Specifications
- Instrument Choice: Option of Traditional Sitar for classical vibes or Electric Zitar for fusion textures.
- Recording Chain: Professional condenser or ribbon microphones to capture acoustic resonance.
- Precision: Adherence to specific Raag rules and improvisation based on track scale.
On-Location Studio Session
Engagement Details
- Duration: One standard recording shift of up to 4 hours.
- Location: Service available for studios within Mumbai city limits.
- Logistics: Includes transport of heavy flight cases and gear to the venue.
Instrumentation & Gear
- Acoustic Sitar: Concert-grade instrument tested for studio environments.
- Electric Zitar Rig: Includes instrument plus specific pedalboard (Delay, Reverb, Overdrive).
Capabilities
- Execution: Capable of reading notation or playing by ear based on immediate direction.
- Output: Multiple takes and variations provided within the shift for comping.
Featured Soloist & Composition
Scope of Work
- Project Type: Title tracks, Main Theme Music, or Featured Solos for Films and Web Series.
- Creative Contribution: Arranging sitar parts and composing specific riffs to define the song identity.
Production Value
- Signature Sound: Utilization of Zitar to create atmospheric or psychedelic textures.
- Tone Design: Custom crafting of sound using specific amplifiers and processors to match cinematic mood.
Commercial Rights
- Usage: Includes clearance for commercial release on streaming platforms, theatrical release, and OTT.
- Credits: Includes requirement for Featured Instrumentalist credits in metadata.
About Studio Recording & Session Work
Where My Music Comes From
I play both the Sitar and the Zitar, and to be honest, my style is a mashup of my roots in Varanasi’s classical scene and the crazy studio energy of Mumbai. I did my PhD in music, but I’m not stuck in books - I’m happiest in the studio, making something new with my strings.
My Gear, My Sound
- Sitar for that soulful, old-school Indian classical vibe. Perfect if you want something timeless or emotional.
- Zitar (my electric sitar) if you want a punchy, modern sound that cuts through the mix. Think fusion music session work, Bollywood dance tracks, or anything wild.
Stuff I’ve Done
- Played on Bollywood film scores, including Zitar on "Zara Hatke Zara Bachke"
- Jamming and recording for "Bandish Bandits Season 2" (Amazon Prime)
- TV show recordings, including performing on Zee TV’s "Saregamapa Little Champs" grand premiere
- Worked with indie artists (like "Neend" by Shaurya Saxena), devotional albums, and covers of both new and retro Bollywood hits
Genres I’m Into
Indian classical (Raag Malkauns, Charukeshi, etc.), Bollywood (new and retro), fusion & rock, devotional, indie pop, world music. I love mixing it up.
Studio Vibe
I work best when it’s a real collaboration. Used to professional studio setups, always chasing that moment where the music just clicks. Kya baat hai! (what a feeling!)
Where I’m Based
Mostly in Mumbai and Varanasi, but I’m open to travel for bigger projects.
Meet your Expert
Hardik Verma
36 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Hey, I’m Hardik. Born and raised in Varanasi, so my sitar kinda carries that city’s soul. Did my PhD in Music from BHU, got deep into raags and all that jazz. Mumbai’s pace made my music evolve - one day I’m with Raag Kedar, next day I’m plugging in my Zitar for some Bollywood madness. Played everywhere – US, Dubai, Singapore, even jammed with Kapil Sharma ji. Music’s my thing, whether it’s meditative or full-on rock spirit.
My Work
Sitar & Zitar Classes - I teach Banaras gharana sitar and Zitar, beginners to advanced, online or in Mumbai.
Live Performances & Events - Book me for soulful sitar gigs, Zitar fusion shows, weddings, mehfils, festivals, corporate events.
Session Artist & Studio Work - I record electric sitar for Bollywood songs, albums, and background scores. Fusion and classical styles.