Upcoming Online Training

3-months Course of Raga Music by Neela Bhagwat & Neil Khopkar.

From May until August 2024

Through Google meet (online)

THE MUSIC. All creative arts explore the relationship between space and time. Music too explores space in the form of melody and time in the form of rhythm. Indian classical music has been exemplifying this relationship since approximately the 10th Century.

OVERVIEW. In this three-month interactive course, Neela and Neil aim to share a basic understanding of Indian classical music. By the end of this time, you will be able to appreciate and understand a performance and able to sing a few compositions yourself.

HOW DOES IT WORK. The initial training will include understanding the primary syllables of this music (The notes). We will then learn to understand the primary word formation. These musical words will come together to make a song. (Patterns from the notes). In the beginning, there will be songs composed of notes, which finally will lead to poetry set to music; and that is the final form of art music.

THE STRUCTURE

Size of class: minimum 5 students and maximum 10.

Duration: 3 months. 120 mins per class (with a small break) + suggested 15-30 mins every day for individual practice.

Start and end: Specific Dates Will be confirmed soon.

Frequency: Once a week with Neils and a masterclass with Neela every fortnight.

Location: Google meet (online)

Fees (for 3 months): 360EUR

Study materials will be provided. Costs are included.

THE TEACHERS


Neela Bhagwat is a revered figure in Indian classical music, renowned for her affiliation with the Gwalior school, considered the oldest and most esteemed tradition within the art form. With over fifty years of teaching experience and a performance career spanning more than four decades, she has graced audiences across India, Europe, the Americas, the UK, and Oceania with countless recitals.

Bhagwat's musical legacy extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by her extensive discography boasting 23 CDs and the authorship of six books, including one in English. Her versatility shines through collaborations with acclaimed filmmakers such as Kumar Shahani, Thierry Knauf (Belgium), and Anand Patwardhan, where she not only lent her vocals but also contributed compositions.

Notably, Bhagwat has engaged in groundbreaking interactive music projects with British and German pianists Camilla Saunders and Marion Vontilzer. Beyond her artistic endeavors, she has been a stalwart advocate for the feminist movement and social justice in India, reflecting her commitment to using music as a medium for positive change. Her compositions often delve into contemporary themes, and she has also skillfully interpreted the works of medieval Indian saint poets through her music.

Neil Khopkar, a disciple of the esteemed Neela Bhagwat for over eight years, is a multifaceted musician excelling as both a vocalist and instrumentalist specializing in the Gwalior school of Hindustani classical music.

Drawing from his extensive training, Neil has embarked on a teaching journey spanning five years, imparting his knowledge and passion for music to aspiring learners. His collaborative spirit shines through his accompaniment performances alongside his Guru in prestigious venues such as Berlin and Stuttgart, in addition to numerous concerts throughout India.

Neil's musical prowess extends beyond conventional boundaries, as he skillfully navigates the realms of instrumentation, notably showcasing his mastery of the Indian dulcimer. Originating as an American folk instrument, Neil has seamlessly adapted it to suit the nuances of Indian classical music. His distinctive playing style is characterized by soulful slides and glissandos, emblematic of the vocal-like "gayaki" style, thus adding a unique dimension to his musical expression.

Indian music is a vast, almost endless ocean of knowledge. It has its roots deep within the history and culture of India and is one of its richest living forms of cultural heritage. Let’s explore it together.

PAYMENT

Account number :- 087301516415

Bank Name :- ICICI BANK

Account holder's name :- NEEL ABHIJEET KHOPKAR

IFSC Code :- ICIC0000873

Swift code :- ICICINBBNRI