Indian Classical Music Appreciation Course

A one-day immersion into the raga and tala systems that have shaped the world's oldest evolved musical tradition. This interactive workshop strips back the layers of Indian classical music and shows you how it actually works. Learn to hear the architecture inside a raga, follow the rhythmic cycles of tala, and discover how improvisation – the beating heart of this tradition – allows two musicians to compose in the moment, responding to each other and the room in real time. You'll understand why a live Hindustani concert unfolds the way it does, from the slow, searching alaap to the exhilarating climax, and why no two performances of the same raga are ever alike. Sitarist Harmeet Singh Virdee and tabla player Sukhdeep Dhanjal walk you through North Indian notation, concert structure, and the listening skills that turn a good audience member into a deeply engaged one. This the session sharpens your ear and deepens every concert at Darbar Festival. 09.45am - Doors open 10am - Registration and course overview 10.30am - What Is a Raga? A Live Exploration on Sitar 11.30am - Tea/Coffee break 11.50am - How Rhythm Works: Taal and the Tabla 1pm - Lunch break 2pm - Inside a Live Performance: How a Concert Unfolds 3pm - Your Questions, the Instruments, and the Musicians Please note that seating in the auditorium is unallocated and on a first come, first serve basis. Age guidance: 5+. Under 14s must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over. Speakers Harmeet Singh Virdee sitar Sukhdeep Dhanjal tabla