This 8 class kirtan training will be offered by Nitai and Krishna Prana. Each have many years experience playing the traditional kirtan instruments and developing kirtan skills. 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. The classes focus on developing the ability and confidence to lead kirtan for oneself or for others. Kartals are the small hand cymbals which are important for the rhythm and timing in kirtan. 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. The beautiful melodies of the harmonium help to create the different 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. The mrdanga drum will not be taught in these basic skills classes. Students will also be invited to an online group where further instructions and videos will be available between classes. In order to deepen our understanding of kirtan, each class will also include time to discuss the teachings from ancient Bhakti texts, such as Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.

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. 

Sundays, 1:45-3:45pm

July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & August 5, 19, 26, 2018

Investment: sliding scale, $130-$160+gst 

For those interested in taking this training, please send your responses to the following questions to hello@kirtanvancouver.com 

1. What do you hope to get out of this training? 
2. How did you first get introduced to kirtan? 
3. Please describe your experience in kirtan so far. 
4. Do you play, or have you ever played a musical instrument? If so, which one(s), and for how long? 
5. Do you have a harmonium or any keyboard instrument to practice with between each kirtan training class? 
6. Which word best describes how often you sing in the presence of other people: A) Never; B) Sometimes; C) Often 7. 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.)