This class is now full. Please email us at hello@kirtanvancouver.com if you'd like us to inform you about future intakes.
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 January 10th till February 28th
Cost: $285 (+GST)
Registration: Please see registration instructions below.
Instructors: Nitai and Ani
Course Details:
Want to learn how to lead kirtan? If so, Kirtan Training Level 1 - Basic Skills is for you. Our instructors Nitai and Ani 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 mridanga 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.
What do you hope to gain from this training?
Please describe your experience in kirtan so far.
Do you play, or have you ever played a musical instrument? If so, which one(s), and for how long?
Do you have a harmonium or any keyboard instrument to practice with between each kirtan training class?
Which word best describes how often you sing in the presence of other people: A) Never; B) Sometimes; C) Often
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.
