Event

Kirtan Connection

MUSIC LESSONS with BHAKTI LATA DASI
8 CONSECUTIVE SUNDAY AFTERNOONS FEB. 15 APR. 5 / 2-4 PM
THE BHAKTI CENTER / 25 FIRST AVENUE
PRICE: $175 FOR 8 2-HOUR LESSONS
Registration is required. To register please write to Bhakti lata Dasi.

Course Objectives

Students will:

Learn the basics of raga (melody) and tala (rhythm) in relation to kirtan

Learn/appreciate the basics of the main kirtan instruments: harmonium, karatalas, and mridanga

Explore the mood of leading kirtan

Understand the basic history of kirtan and how it is evolving today

Reflect upon various subtle elements of kirtan, such as prayer, ego, service, pride, art, criticism, humility

Lead a full kirtan

Elements of Course

In class work will include any number of a combination of group discussions, personal reflections, writing, activities, role plays, demonstrations, practice, etc.

"Homework" will include blog post reflections, simple research, practice, etc.

Kirtan Exploration Project attend a kirtan event (preferably outside of your comfort zone) and write a reflection paper on your experience. This will be discussed further in class (with a separate sheet of paper for guidelines).

Final Kirtan lead a full kirtan

Student-lead Graduation students will prepare for and conduct a public graduation event

CLASS SCHEDULE

Class 1 Feb 15th / 2 4pm / Intro

Class 2 Feb 22nd / 2 4pm / Segment: Raga (melody) & Tala (rhythm) and the Kirtan Cycle

Class 3 March 1st / 2 4pm / Segment: Raga [Intro to harmonium for kirtan]

Class 4 Mar 8th / 2 4pm / Segment: Tala [karatalas the pacemakers of kirtan]

Class 5 Mar 15th / 2 4pm / Segment: Tala [mridanga the heartbeat of kirtan]

Class 6 Mar 22nd / 2 4pm / Kirtan Etiquette

Class 7 Mar 29th / 2 4pm / In-class Final Kirtans

Class 8 April 5th / 2 6pm / Course closing and reflection; Graduation

Price: $175 for 8 2-hour lessons