Tilaka- the Flagship
This is the flagship course for passionate students committed to a lifelong journey of appreciating, creating and sharing music – involving at least six years of deep learning and practice to develop musical sensibilities and abilities for this journey. Students who are keen to work with music for the long haul, and devote the time and effort needed to develop themselves musically, are encouraged to enroll for this. The standards and expectations of this course are necessarily high, and will also involve fostering of appropriate cultural values and community activity in the context of the musical tradition. Each student will be encouraged to set a musical vision for his or her self and follow that chosen path.
Ānanda- the Joy of Music
This course is for all music lovers to participate in a community learning and sharing activity to foster the joy of music without any sense of reservation, self-consciousness, or inhibitions. This course is designed on the belief that every human is designed to sing as a free medium of expression. The course will teach simple songs, host community musical events, and train students for group singing. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcomed and included in this segment.
Vartana–Music as a foundational element of Dance
In the ancient tradition of dramaturgy in India, Nāṭya was a composite art form that encompassed music, dance and theater. This course takes inspiration from this aesthetic paradigm of art as being the composite expression of a single mind across multiple art forms. It offers a deeper understanding of Carnatic music, to students of dance. Traditional texts consider knowledge of music to be fundamental to comprehending the bhāva of compositions, and developing the art of creative mimesis and artistic blending of sound and movement in choreography. This course aims to help dance students and dance aspirants explore and engage with music, and better understand its application in dance.
Kishora
While there are quite a few boys and young men learning Carnatic music, there seems to be a gender imbalance when it comes to vocal music. There are many reasons for this. We believe that music is an important art form for all genders. To that end, we will work to ensure that boys feel welcome, included and supported in their pursuit of music. Our hope is that we can reduce the drop out rate and increase the enrollment rate. Working with parents and students, we can address any issues that we can identify to improve the gender balance.
Parichaya – Introduction to Carnatic Music
This course is designed for students of non-Indian ethnicities, who may have limited exposure to Indian culture, language and art. It presents music with an emphasis on gaining a cross-cultural appreciation and engagement with Carnatic music. Readings in literature and in history are encouraged to help students place the music in its social and cultural context.
Mridangam Classes
Dhvani will offer online mridangam classes starting in September for students of all ages and levels. Classes will be held once a week online. We will also have in-person classes during weekend camps two or three times a year. As always, our approach and pedagogy are holistic. We focus on helping students learn to enjoy music as they develop skills and understanding of laya.