Gig Description

Harmonium & Chanting 101 w/ Sheela Bringi

A 4-Week Course

Dates: Saturdays; April 2, 9, 16, 23
Time: 12pm – 2pm
Location: Yoga Shala West
Address: 11271 National Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Fee: $155

Learn to sing and play simple devotional chants to the many facets of the Divine in the Bhakti tradition – Devi, Shiva, Krishna, etc – in an energizing and supportive small group environment. Participants will walk away with the tools they need to cultivate devotional singing as a contemplative practice, or Sadhana, that is both spiritually uplifting and therapeutic for the brain, mind, body and emotions. All will be trained to sing and lead Kirtan in class, and eventually, in public, if desired. In addition to Kirtan, Vedic chanting of mantras in a sacred pentatonic scale with guidance in Sanskrit pronunciation will be taught.

:: About the Harmonium ::

The harmonium is a pump organ that was taken to India by the British during the colonial era and was adopted by Indians into devotional music. It’s easy to see why — the instrument’s resonant and sustaining tones create strong support for singing, and its western-style keyboard makes it possible to combine Indian melody with harmony.

:: Is this class for me? ::

As the benefits and beauty of Kirtan continue to be felt by growing numbers worldwide, many people are becoming inspired to participate in Kirtan groups, compose their own chants, or introduce chanting to their yoga classes. If you are one of those people, this class is for you. Beginners are welcome, and no prior musical experience is required.

:: Class Topics ::

– The Indian melodic language of Sargam
– The basics of Western harmony: chords, intervals and common Kirtan progressions
– Keyboarding techniques for the harmonium
– Traditional Vedic chanting and Sanskrit pronunciation

:: Please Note ::

All participants must have their own harmonium to bring to class. I can provide a referral for where to purchase a good harmonium if interested.

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Save your space by registering below. Registration fee of $155 is non-refundable.