Devotional & Semi-Classical Music Training
We explore the soulful realms of Bhakti Sangeet, Thumri, and Ghazals through the traditional Guru-Shishya parampara. Learn to express the deep emotional essence of these compositions under the guidance of our Gurus.
Two of our young students present a heartfelt rendition of the Krishna Bhajan, "Baso Mere Nainan Mein Nandlal." This piece, based on Mishra Raag Des, is a beautiful example of how we introduce children to the rich tradition of devotional music.
A group of our students presents a bhajan set to Dadra Taal. This humble attempt showcases their collective riyaz and their ability to harmonize while exploring the light classical forms that are an integral part of our curriculum.
A student sings a beautiful Kabir bhajan, "Mann Lago Mero Yaar Fakiri Mein," set in Raag Ahirbhairav and Taal Dadra. Her rendition captures the deep spiritual meaning and poetic beauty characteristic of Kabir's compositions.
A group of students, both online and in-person, come together to sing a bhajan dedicated to Goddess Durga. This hybrid class format demonstrates our commitment to creating a unified learning experience, blending voices in pure surrender to the Almighty.
One of our youngest students, Irshitha, sings "Jaago Mohan Pyare," a traditional bhajan in Raag Bhairav. This performance from one of our baithaks shows how we encourage even our little ones to connect with the devotional aspect of music from an early age.
A student presents a Nazrul Geeti based on Raag Basant. This performance highlights our exploration of regional semi-classical forms, honoring the rich poetic and musical contributions of the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.
Our students present a unique fusion, merging a Rabindra Sangeet, "Ami Chini Go Chini," with the classic Hindi film song "Bade Acche Lagte Hain." This creative endeavor showcases our approach to exploring diverse musical traditions that resonate across cultures.
About this collection
Unlike general singing lessons, our semi-classical training prioritizes the bhav (emotion) behind the swara. Whether you are learning a Kabir bhajan in Raag Ahirbhairav or mastering the nuanced movements of a Thumri, we teach you how to bring out the poetic storytelling that defines these forms. We focus on breathing, taal precision, and the correct riyaz to ensure your performance captures the true spirit of the composition.
Our Approach to Semi-Classical Music
At Sangeet Sadhana, we believe that semi-classical music is more than just melody; it is the art of storytelling through sound. Our curriculum is deeply rooted in the Guru-Shishya parampara, ensuring that students do not just memorize compositions but understand the history and rasa (emotional essence) behind them.
Genres We Explore
We delve into the soulful world of Bhakti Sangeet, teaching Bhajans, Abhangs, and compositions of Meera and Kabir. Our students learn how to adapt their vocal techniques to suit the specific requirements of different taals, such as the gentle Dadra or the complex cycles used in Khayal. We also teach the intricacies of Thumri, Ghazal, and Nazrul Geeti, focusing on the specific vocal textures and ornamentation that these styles demand.
Technical Foundation
We emphasize that semi-classical training requires a solid foundation in shastriya sangeet. You will learn to apply the technical rigour of ragas like Yaman or Bhairav to light classical forms, ensuring that your pitch and laya remain impeccable even in expressive singing. Our training covers:
- Voice Culture: Exercises for swara clarity and breath control.
- Raga Application: Understanding how to balance technical raga rules with the emotional freedom required in Thumri and Bhajan.
- Poetic Diction: Perfecting the pronunciation and emphasis of lyrics in Hindi, Urdu, and Bengali.
Join Our Community
Whether joining our small group sessions in Koramangala or our live online classes, you receive personal feedback on your taans and swara placement. Our monthly Baithak platform gives you the stage to perform these pieces with live tabla and harmonium accompaniment, bridging the gap between practice and performance.
Sangeet Sadhana
We are Sangeet Sadhana, a community in Koramangala dedicated to the old-fashioned Guru-Shishya parampara. Music is a lifelong sadhana for us, and we are here to help you wake up the music inside you, whether you are six or sixty.
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