What would you learn ?

• I will be focusing on technique improvements
• Right hand and left hand posture corrections
• Developing Ornamentation or Alankar
• Jafferkhani baaj and its speciality
• Method of interpretation of rhythm
• Method of improvisation
• How to create your own improvisation
• Jhala patterns
• Compositions and structures
• Raga theory and nuances
• How to unfold Alaap/Jod in particular Ragas
• Of-course an extra tip for tuning and keeping your instrument in best condition

 

Frequently asked questions:

How do I register for online Sitar classes?

• Kindly send a formal request to the mentioned email address or the what-app number, clearly mentioning your full name, age, place of origin, years/months of expertise, and an audio/video of around 2 to 3 minutes clip for review.

 What are the steps of learning the instrument?

• Basically there are two steps involved in learning any instruments, first you learn the technique of how to produce sound and then you go on learning the music itself, both the mentioned steps are multi layered and needs close guidance by an able person, learning is a never ending process, and as said by many masters that ‘There is always room at the top’ at the same time whoever sincerely practices learns more.

 Is Sitar a difficult instrument? 

• Learning a traditional art form is like learning a new language. With proper dedication and guidance the process of learning Sitar becomes enjoyable and inspiring rather than being difficult.

 What are the correct ways to practice?

• Practise is a repetitive process where overtime one polishes many dimensions of the techniques and pushes one's limit, it is a journey in itself. The whole process must be closely guided by a guru, one small mistake becomes a nightmare later, for example hand postures, correct syllables or Bol-bani, and techniques, then there are so many complex ideas yet when taught becomes simpler, for example how to create improvisation, how to understand the rhythm and interpret it melodically, how to play grace notes and use micro-tones differently in different ragas and many such aspects which has a profound methodology which one needs to learn from a Guru.

 Do I need to buy Tarafdar Sitar?

• Not necessarily, however having one is always good for your own musical experience.

 What is the duration of a single class?

• Each class is on one to one basis and is atleast 45 minutes sessions.

 Tell us about your style of Sitar playing.

• Well I have been extremely fortunate to have learnt the Sitar under legendary Gurus, my uncle Pandit Harashankar Bhattacharya and also from his Guru Padmabhushan Ustad Abdul Halim Jaffer Khan, who was credited for introducing his own unique style of playing the Sitar named after him ‘The Jafferkhani Baaj’ belonging to the Indore beenkar gharana. This particular style involves added right and left hand techniques there by closely imitating the Beenkar repertoire at the same time very modern and contemporary, and also his compositions are considered one of the finest till date.

 What if I miss a class?

• In case you miss a class, kindly notify at-least a couple of days ahead so we can reschedule for a different date according to both of our convenience, I will do the same in case something comes up in my schedule.

 How to pay for the classes?

• Payments shall be made in advance of at-least 4 classes via PayPal or direct bank transfer (for students outside India) and Google-pay (any UPI payment) or bank transfer (for Indian students)

 How long does it take to learn the Sitar?

• It  completely depends on you. The more time you devote and practice, the better you learn and express musically. I will sincerely guide you to the right path you need to follow.

 Would you be able to arrange for a Sitar for me?

• I am well connected with a couple of very good craftsmen who are specialized in making Sitar. I can get you their personal contacts and you can directly speak to them and arrange for your own instrument.