Music Education & Workshops
Bengaluru
I run hands-on Carnatic music workshops where we learn, improvise, and collaborate together, in-person or online, for all levels and backgrounds.
Pricing Guide
Interactive Vocal & Rhythm Masterclass
Session Details
- Duration: Single 3 to 4 hour intensive slot
- Format: Lecture demonstration in auditorium or studio settings
- Capacity: Mid size group cohort (30 to 50 attendees)
Core Curriculum
- Rhythm: Deep dive into Konnakol (vocal percussion) and complex Talas
- Harmony: Applying Indian Swara over Western chord changes
- Interaction: Circle Songs and group improvisation exercises
Student Perks
- Q&A: Dedicated segment for technical queries and journey insights
- Resources: Use of whiteboard for notation breakdown
- Policies: Personal audio recording permitted for non commercial practice
Gokulam Academy Monthly Training
Course Structure
- Frequency: Weekly group sessions (typically 1 to 2 per week)
- Batch Size: Small cohorts (5 to 15 students) sorted by proficiency
- Faculty: Instruction primarily by Vidwan H.S. Venugopal or senior disciples with periodic supervision by Varijashree
Academy Benefits
- Methodology: Oral transmission of Geethams, Varnams, and Keerthanams
- Performance: Opportunities to volunteer or perform at the Kalaarnava festival
- Focus: Strict adherence to pitch, rhythm, and traditional discipline
Location
- Venue: Physical classes at the academy in Subramanyapura, Bangalore
- Requirement: Adherence to dress code and practice logs
Elite 1-on-1 Artist Mentorship
Consulting Format
- Duration: 60 minutes per session
- Mode: Online (Video Call) or In person at a designated Bangalore studio
- Exclusivity: Direct access to Varijashree for personalized guidance
Technical Focus
- Techniques: Advanced Gamakas (ornamentation) and odd meter calculations
- Application: Cross genre fusion concepts and rhythmic independence exercises
- Review: Critical analysis of student's previous recordings or live clips
Post Session
- Materials: Custom exercises and scales sent via digital channels
- Guidance: Brief mentorship on navigating the global music industry and collaborations
About Music Education & Workshops
Why I Teach
Music for me is family, connection, and discovery. I grew up with Carnatic music all around me - thanks to Appa and our Guru Parampara (teacher-student tradition). Teaching isn't some one-way street here; it's about sharing what I've learnt, holding space for questions, and growing together. When you join, you’re part of this ongoing musical journey, not just a student sitting in a classroom.
What to Expect
- Sessions are hands-on, full of whiteboard sketches, live demos, and lots of actual music-making.
- We go deep into Carnatic roots:
- Ragas (melodies) and their moods
- Tala (rhythms) and how they twist and turn
- Basics, from swaras (notes) upwards - so even if you're new, you won’t get lost
- Love fusion? My improvisation masterclasses are all about finding your style. We jam, we experiment, sometimes my band jumps in.
- Group singing sessions (think Bobby McFerrin’s Circle Songs) - everyone’s voice matters, doesn’t matter if you’ve performed or just started humming yesterday.
Who Finds a Home Here
- Curious souls, music students, pros, singers, and those just itching to try Carnatic vocal improvisation or fusion music collaboration.
- Anyone open to learning and sharing, across genres and cultures.
Where We Meet
No fixed address - my workshops travel. One day we’re in Bangalore, another week could be Bogotá, sometimes online with folks from everywhere. Feels like a jaathre (musical fair) wherever we set up.
Meet your Expert
Varijashree Venugopal
913 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Music is my first language - I was humming ragas before I could talk, Appa and Amma cheering me on. My first concert? I was this tiny kid more excited for promised ice cream than the stage, and my mom looked ready to bolt! Watching that old clip now, I see love everywhere - Gurus, family, friends. Tyagaraja’s words ring true: ‘Endaro mahaanubhaavulu - Andariki vandanamulu’ (To all the great souls, I bow to thee). Grammy nomination or not, for me, music is love. That’s it.
My Work
Live Concerts, Collaborations & Workshops - I do live band concerts, soulful indie collaborations, studio sessions, and music workshops on Carnatic improvisation.
My Sound - I mix Carnatic roots with Kannada fusion music, jazz, and global styles. People say it’s soul food, warm and comforting.
The 'Vari' Experience - My album ‘Vari’ is all about flow – it’s a live journey, sharing energy with my band and audience.
Music Education - I teach Carnatic music, making it accessible for international audiences and curious new learners.
