More information about the class

India Music for Western Instruments

This is a class tailored for those who are already at least moderately proficient on a Western instrument (or any instrument) and want to explore Hindustani Ragas and Talas. We will learn some basic compositions, talk about how a raga is developed, and try improvising in the tal. Guitar, piano, saxophone, flute, ukele, clarinet, bass, cello, recorder, you name it, will all be welcome.

Indian music is an oral tradition. All the music is learned by ear and memorized. In fact this is some of the best training for musicianship that exists. Musicians who are used to reading music, and learning music by reading notes, are sure to find their skills improving by learning and practicing in this way. Also the high standards of pitch and beat, plus the vast trove of melodies and intricate rhythms that make up Hindustani music are sure to enrich the student's music, no matter what style he/she normally plays in.

The tempered scale of Western music can limit how far one can go with the expression of Indian music.

The srutis, andolans, and fine tuning aren't available on fixed pitch instruments like the piano, may be found on a guitar and certainly can be found on a fretless bowed instrument like the violin.

​Regardless of your instrument, we are sure you will find this class inspiring.