This is the most important first step toward advanced musical understanding and performance development. The curriculum covers:

Voice Training:

How to develop steadiness, tonal quality, and maintenance of the voice for longer period of time. Expanding the vocal range across the lower and upper octaves. Achieving pitch perfection, including the visualization and naming of all twelve pitches using a harmonium or keyboard, and understanding and execution of their interrelationships.

Tanpura: Importance and Technique:

Understanding the importance and to learn the correct use of the Tanpura. Proper technique for playing and tuning a Tanpura (Gent's and Ladies). The correct sitting posture for practice. Guidance on using and handling electronic Tanpuras, including recommended brands.

Notation and Composition:

Learning shorthand notation for writing and reading musical detail (Soor). Mastering the process of writing and documenting a song or raaga composition (bandish) in a notebook. Introduction to Sargamgeet, a new concept (Soor Naveli), which is a structured method for learning and practicing the melodic movement of a specific raga, with a focus on clear intonation, accurate note placement, melodic flow, and the musical and aesthetic connection among swaras.

Taal, Laya, Chhand (Rhythmic Knowledge):

Developing a fundamental understanding of Taal (rhythmic cycle), Laya (tempo), and Chhand (different rhythm). Concepts of beat, offbeat, and multiplication (gunitak). In-depth study of prominent Taals including Ektaal, Teentaal, Jhaanptaal, Rupak, Chautaal, Addha, Daadraa, and Keherwaa. Learning the musical reading of each Taal and recognizing each sound on the Tabla / Baaya, along with correct pronunciation of all rhythmic compositions.

Alankar (Ornamentation) and Vocal Techniques:

Introduction to key vocal ornamentation and stylistic elements such as meend, gamak, straight note, pointed note, touch-note, hammering note, long note, ornamented note, and andolan.

Class Details:

All classes are personally conducted by the world-renowned Guru, Padma Bhushan Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty. Gurujee personally monitors and assesses the recorded practice of every student. He is assisted by his senior students from Shrutinandan, who are exceptionally good performers and effective teachers.

Time:

6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. (IST), on two Saturdays each month.

Fees:

₹12,000 / $480 for 12 classes (6 Months)
₹22,000 / $900 for 24 classes (12 Months)