A Musician's Journey: Behind the Scenes with Ravi Chary
I open up the world of sitar practice, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, concert moments, and technical tutorials on the nuances of Indian classical music.
A tutorial on how to improvise a 'Gat' (a fixed composition in Indian classical music). I explain the basic structure and how to build upon it.
Part two of the tutorial, demonstrating how to play 'taans' (fast melodic passages) within the rhythmic cycle of the gat.
Part three of the improvisation tutorial, showing different ways to vary the taans to keep the music interesting.
The final part of the tutorial on gat improvisation, bringing all the elements together in a fluid performance.
A tutorial on 'Raag ka vistaar' or how to freely elaborate and move within a raag. I demonstrate with Raag Bihag, starting with a small cluster of notes.
Part two of the raag elaboration tutorial, showing how to expand the melodic exploration without repeating phrases.
The final part of the 'Raag ka vistaar' tutorial, demonstrating how to slowly ascend the octave while staying true to the form of the raag.
A Pahadi dhun (folk-inspired melody from the hills) played in the 'Jafferkhani baaz' style of my guru, Ustad Abdul Halim Jaffer Khan.
Part two of the Pahadi dhun, continuing the light and lilting melody.
The concluding part of the Pahadi dhun, showcasing the unique techniques of the Jafferkhani style.
About A Musician's Journey: Candid Moments & Tutorials
In these clips, I do not just perform; I break down how a 'Gat' is constructed and how to find freedom within a Raag. If you are learning the instrument, these snippets offer a practical look at the 'Jafferkhani baaz' style I follow, which you can apply directly to your own practice sessions.
For me, the sitar is a living conversation. 'Riyaaz' (practice) is where that conversation happens daily. This gallery serves as a personal archive of my 'swar yatra'—my musical journey. You will find tutorials here where I break down complex improvisation techniques, such as how to expand 'Raag Bihag' or navigate the rhythmic cycles of a Gat, ensuring that the listener understands the architecture behind the sound.
Beyond the technical tutorials, I share candid moments from performances at venues like the NCPA and the Bansuri Utsav. These are not just gigs; they are opportunities to share the stage with incredible collaborators and bring the tradition of my gurus, Ustad Abdul Halim Jaffer Khan and Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan, to a new audience.
If you have been watching these videos and feel drawn to the sitar, whether you are looking to book a solo recital for a private gathering in Mumbai or are interested in joining my academy, Swar Sanskruti, for structured lessons, I invite you to reach out. I teach both classical and fusion styles, keeping the spirit of the 'guru-shishya parampara' alive while adapting to the modern needs of students. Explore my different performance formats—from intimate Jugalbandi sessions to grand Sitar Symphony orchestras—and let's discuss how we can bring the soul of Indian classical music to your next event.
Ravi Chary
I am Ravi Chary, and I have spent my life dedicated to the sitar and the traditions passed down by my gurus. Whether I am performing on stage or teaching a student at my academy, my goal is simple: to keep the music honest and alive.
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