Indian classical music has traditionally been an oral practice, passed from generation to generation by students hearing and imitating their teachers and memorizing lessons. A notational system exists but students are encouraged to learn by ear. Students are allowed to tape their classes and every raga taught in class is notated on the board in the lecture hall. Students are recommended to copy the written notes, as it will enhance their memorization.

Music classes on our main campus (Marin) are held in a comfortable group format and our lecture hall easily accommodates all students. If classes become too large they are usually split into separate groups, as this maximizes individual attention and student progression. Early registration is encouraged to assist the College in scheduling.

 

Vocal Music:
Instruction is offered in Hindustani classical style. Vocal music is considered the foundation of all music in this tradition. Several vocal classes are offered weekly and all students are encouraged to participate. Beginning and Intermediate Vocal classes are now being offered online. View a sample of an online vocal class. Call the office for details.

Instrumental Music:
The college offers many levels of instrumental classes weekly. Most students learn sitar, sarode or violin, but one can learn on any instrument. Guitars, cellos, flutes and basses are not uncommon at the Ali Akbar College. Beginning and Intermediate/Advanced Instrumental classes are now being offered online. View a sample of an online instrumental class. Call the office for details.

Percussion:
Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri teaches tabla classes individually or in small groups arranged by the level of the students. Students gain accompaniment skills by playing for vocal, instrumental and supplementary classes and by practicing with other students. Intermediate and advanced classes are now available online. View a sample of an online tabla class. Call the office for details.

 

Tala Class: Offers information about the rhythmic structure of Indian music basic to the understanding and practice of vocal, instrumental, and tabla study. Highly recommended for beginning students.

Foundation and Fundamentals of North Indian Classical Music: This class covers the concepts of raga and style for both vocal and instrumental music. Illustrations and recorded examples will be used. Highly recommended for beginning students.

Private Lessons: Provides students with close personal attention from the College’s assistant faculty. Lessons are one-hour long, during which time the instructor will answer questions, work on technique, provide feedback and focus on strengthening the student’s musicianship skills. Private lessons are available throughout the session and are scheduled and paid for in the College office. These lessons are held at the College, or a comfortable meeting place for the student and teacher, and must be arranged in advance with an office administrator and instructor so that a classroom can be reserved if needed. Private lessons are now available through Skype.

 

Please be sure that you sign up for classes before the first day of the Session. Some classes require a minimum number of students in order to be presented.