In this course, we present basic skills for voice, kartals and harmonium. No previous musical experience required. We focus on the roles of each instrument and learn how they cooperate and communicate in kirtan. Each class will also include a discussion on kirtan as the essential practice of Bhakti Yoga.

Where: One Yoga for the People
201-150 W Hastings St., Vancouver, BC

When: Fridays, 8-10pm, from August 9th to September 27th
(with the exception of Friday, August 23rd. That class will be held
instead on Sunday August 25th from 1:30-3:30pm)

Cost: $285 (+GST)

Registration: Please see registration instructions below.

Instructors:

Course Details:

Want to learn how to lead kirtan? If so, Kirtan Training Level 1 - Basic Skills is for you. Our instructors Muni, Krishna Prana and Nitai have been immersed in kirtan for many years and have the experience to help you start developing your own kirtan skills. This course focuses on how to chant while playing traditional instruments such as harmonium and kartals, as well as the spiritual practice of chanting. The goal will be for each student to develop the ability and confidence to lead kirtan in a group, or simply for oneself. 

Of all the instruments, the most important is the voice. Finding one's voice, or developing it further in kirtan, is a fulfilling experience of self discovery and expression. Basic vocal training will be our starting point, helping each student exercise the voice for the different kirtan melodies to come. Kartals, the small hand cymbals which are important for the rhythm and timing in kirtan, will be our next step. Each student will learn how to properly hold and play the kartals, and will be provided with kartals to practice at home between each weekly class. And of course, we will put special focus on the harmonium, from which come the beautiful melodies and moods of kirtan. Students will learn simple but beautiful melodies on the harmonium and learn how to play with the accompaniment of kartals and the mrdanga drum. Students will also be invited to an online group where further instructions and videos will be available between classes. 

Please note that this kirtan training is for basic skills and is meant to introduce the students to Gaudiya Vaisnava style kirtan. This course is not meant for students who are experienced at leading kirtan. 

Registration Instructions:

If you are interested in taking this training, please answer the six questions below and send your responses to: hello@kirtanvancouver.com. The capacity of the Kirtan Training is 15 students. After reviewing the answers to the questions below, we will invite 15 people to complete their registration by transferring their course fee.

1. What do you hope to gain from this training?

2. Please describe your experience in kirtan so far.

3. Do you play, or have you ever played a musical instrument? If so, which one(s), and for how long?

4. Do you have a harmonium or any keyboard instrument to practice with between each kirtan training class?

5. Which word best describes how often you sing in the presence of other people: A) Never; B) Sometimes; C) Often

6. Are you are able to attend all 8 classes?

(Don't worry if you don't have a musical background or are new to kirtan. There are no right or wrong answers for these questions. We're only asking because it helps us understand where to begin. Preference may be given to those who can attend all 8 classes. Partial scholarships may be available for those lacking funds. Inquire for details.)

A very big thank you goes out to One Yoga For The People who have agreed to host the Kirtan Training. Check out their awesome website by clicking on the image below.

Kirtan Vancouver and One Yoga For the People would like to present to you an evening of sacred chants and mantra meditation.  Please come join us with your hearts and voices so that we may create an uplifting energy of love and grace through Kirtan!

The event is by donation and no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Cushions will be provided and you can bring a reusable water bottle, otherwise just bring yourself and some friends if you like!

This month's EnChant will be at Creekside Park next to Science World! We'll meet in the park at 6pm with picnic snacks, followed by Kirtan starting around 6:30pm. Please bring a blanket or cushion to sit on along with a reusable cup, plate and spoon for the snacks which we'll provide. In case the weather is rainy or cold, we'll meet as usual at Unity Yoga at 1672 E 10th Ave Second Floor, Vancouver.

EnChant is a monthly community gathering of open-minded souls for call and response chanting, also known as Kirtan.

The practice of Kirtan, or Mantra Meditation, is a type of yoga which bestows many mind-calming benefits. For many, the practice has a powerful heart-opening effect and it is best understood through direct experience. Our voices are accompanied by traditional instruments such as the Harmonium, Mridanga (drum), and Kartals (hand cymbals). 

Everyone is encouraged to participate at the level they feel comfortable. Although many participants prefer floor seating on the cushions provided, chairs are also available on site. 

Doors open at 6pm with herbal tea and cookies and we begin Kirtan at 6:30. A delicious plant-based meal is served afterwards to conclude the evening. 

As Kirtan Vancouver is a non-profit organization, all donations are used for further events. Nobody is turned away for lack of funds and volunteer opportunities may be available.

Kirtan Vancouver presents our 4th Annual Bhakti Immersion Day Retreat!

Once a year, we gather for a day to cleanse the mind and connect with the soul.

Join us for kirtan, mantra meditation, yoga and bhakti-centered workshops. This year's retreat is located at the breathtakingly tranquil Bose Farms in Cloverdale. You won't want to miss out on this incredible opportunity to recharge your spiritual batteries in this peaceful oasis.

Vegan meals and snacks will be prepared by our bhakti chefs.

If you would really like to come to the retreat but you're not able to afford the pricing, please contact us and we’ll do our best to work something out for you.

Schedule will be posted as the date approaches!

***Earlybird price- $100 - Tickets available by etransfer to hello@kirtanvancouver.com or in person at any of our events. Regular ticket price is $150***

Kirtan Vancouver and One Yoga For the People would like to present to you an evening of sacred chants and mantra meditation.  Please come join us with your hearts and voices so that we may create an uplifting energy of love and grace through Kirtan!

The event is by donation and no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Cushions will be provided and you can bring a reusable water bottle, otherwise just bring yourself and some friends if you like!