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shadaj - A fundamental course

I am delighted to invite you all to join a music class where we embark on a musical expedition, guided by the lens of Indian classical music. This course will cover the fundamental concepts of music and introduce you to the expansive repertoire of Indian classical music. Additionally, we will explore the philosophical and psychological aspects of music, delving into its profound impact on our lives.

    course curriculam

    Shadaj - A Fundamental Course in Hindustani Classical Music

    Duration - 6 months, includes - 24 lectures



     

    Includes - lectures, practice, and discussion. 

    Module 1 - concepts of Svar

     

    This module will provide a foundational understanding of Hindustani music through the following topics:

     

    Topics :

     

    concepts of sound and svar, 

     

    Understanding breathing and vocal exercises

     

    variety of notes and their frequency

     

    Understanding the harmonium and how it can help us learn music easily

     

    Understanding the right posture for singing and playing the harmonium

     

    Understand the pitch, scales, and octaves. 

     

    Comparison of Western and Indian music

     

    Outcomes from module 1

     

    Participants will understand the basic concepts of, sound, music, and notes.

     

    Participants will understand different kinds of pitches, scales, octaves and also will understand their own pitch for singing.

     

    Participants will understand the basic steps for playing and understanding of harmonium.

     

    Participants will learn about the basic principles of sound and how it relate to Hindustani music, including the concept of svar (musical note).

     

    Understanding breathing exercises: Participants will practice different breathing exercises that are essential for developing a strong and steady voice in Hindustani music.

     

    Variety of notes and their frequency: Participants will learn about the different svar and their frequency and understand how they are used in Hindustani Classsical Music




     

    Module - 2

    Concept of laya and taal

     

    After completing the first module on the basics of sound and svar, participants will be ready to delve into the second module, which focuses on the essential concepts of laya and taal in Hindustani music.

     

    Topics:

     

    Understanding the concept of laya(tempo), including its parts and how it becomes taal

    Definition of Taal(Rhythm) and its different parts

    Essential exercises to develop control over laya and taal

    Introduction to tabla and its role in Hindustani music

    Introduction to some of the most important taals in Hindustani music, such as Teen Taal, Ektaal, Jhaptaal, Kehrwa, Dadra, etc.

    Comparison between the Hindustani music taal system and Western beats system

     

    Outcomes:

     

    After completing the second module, participants will have gained an understanding of the concepts of laya and taal. They will also be familiar with the basics of tabla and its language. Furthermore, participants will have learned about the connection between Western time signatures and Indian taal systems.





     

    Module 3

    Merge laya and taal

     

    Our Hindustani music course are focused on merging the concepts of laya and taal.

     

    Exercises to Improve Control: We will explore various exercises to help you gain better control over svar laya and taal.

     

    Alankar in Different Taals and Thaats: You will learn about alankar in different taals and thaats, which will enhance your understanding of these concepts and help you apply them more effectively.

     

    Sargam Geet in Various Raags and Taal: We will delve into sargam geet in various raags and taals, and explore how to improvise on a small level. This will help you develop your musicality and create more interesting and dynamic music.



     

    Outcomes from the module 3

     

    By the end of this module, you will have a solid foundation in merging laya and taal, and will be able to use these concepts to create beautiful and captivating music. and understanding to dive deeper into the world of Hindustani music and take your skills to the next level.

     

    Participants will be able to identify different raags and also play and sing.



     

    Module 4

    Concepts of raag.

     

    In this module, we will take a deep dive into the various grammatical concepts of raag and try to understand it better through learning, practicing, and listening. You will discover how raag is not just a set of notes, but a unique and captivating musical personality that can evoke powerful emotions.

     

    Topics covered in this module include:

     

    What is Raag: You will gain an understanding of what raag is and why it is so important in Hindustani classical music.

    Raag and its Important Components: You will learn about the key components that make up a raag, such as aroha-avroha, vadi-samvadi, and pakad.

    Raag and Improvisation: We will explore how improvisation is an integral part of raag and how you can develop your skills in this area.

    Raag and Aesthetics: You will discover the beauty and aesthetic appeal of raag and how it can be used to create stunning musical compositions.

    Bandish: You will learn about bandish, which is a form of poetry that delves deep into the emotions of a raag, and how it is used to create powerful musical compositions.By the end of this module, you will have gained the following outcomes:

     

    Raag introduction - Yaman, bhupali and bhairavi


     

    outcomes

     

    Understanding of Raag: You will have a clear understanding of what raag is and why it is such a significant and essential aspect of Hindustani classical music.

     

    Knowledge of Raag Components: You will have learned about the key components that make up a raag, including aroha-avroha, vadi-samvadi, and pakad. This knowledge will enable you to identify and distinguish between different raags.

     

    Improvisation Skills: You will have explored how improvisation is an integral part of raag and learned techniques to develop your improvisation skills. This will allow you to express yourself creatively and develop your own unique style.

     

    Appreciation of Raag Aesthetics: You will have discovered the beauty and aesthetic appeal of raag and how it can be used to create stunning musical compositions. This appreciation will enhance your overall musical experience.

     

    Understanding of Bandish: You will have learned about bandish, a form of poetry that explores the emotions of a raag, and how it is used to create powerful musical compositions. This knowledge will enable you to create and appreciate the emotional depth of raag-based music.

     

    Overall, this module will provide you with a deep and comprehensive understanding of raag and its components, enabling you to sing play, appreciate and create beautiful and emotive music in the Hindustani classical tradition.




    in the end we will review and recap all the concepts covered in the course so far, allowing you to solidify your understanding and build confidence in your skills.


     

    Resources

     

    Participants will also get useful links, readings, and recordings for practice.

     

    Mode of Language -  Hindi and English

     

    Inquiry - Please mail at Raagabhyas@gamil.com



     

    Join us on this journey of musical exploration as we delve deeper into the captivating world of Hindustani classical music and the magical personality of raag!

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