The Indian Vocal Music Experience

This four-week programme is a gentle, beginner-friendly introduction to Indian vocal music through participation. Rather than learning about Indian music, you will experience it directly by singing together in a supportive group. No prior training, theory knowledge or solo singing is required — curiosity is enough. What will we do each week? Each session follows a calm, structured flow so you gradually become comfortable using your voice. We begin with simple breathing and listening to the tanpura, the continuous drone sound that forms the foundation of Indian music. From there we move into guided call-and-response singing and practise sargam (the Indian note system) in different scales. Each week you will learn a song from a different style — such as classical, semi-classical, folk or Bollywood — while also exploring rhythm and melodic patterns. Sessions end with a gentle vocal wind-down so you leave relaxed rather than mentally overloaded. You will never be asked to sing alone unless you want to. The focus is shared participation, not performance. What will you get out of it? By the end of the 4 weeks you will have: • a practical introduction to Indian vocal music • familiarity with the sound and role of the tanpura • an understanding of sargam and how melodies are built • experience singing across different Indian music styles • simple vocal exercises you can practise at home • greater comfort and confidence using your voice • a creative routine you can return to when you need a pause from a busy mind • a sense of connection from singing in a small, supportive group No singing experience needed. All adults welcome. Small group size to keep sessions relaxed and interactive.