Gayaki Intermediate course

This advanced vocal music course offers an in-depth exploration of two of the most influential and historic gharanas of Hindustani classical music—Gwalior and Agra. Known for their strong foundation in khayal gayaki, these styles emphasize clarity of swara (notes), structured raga development, powerful voice culture, and rhythmic mastery.

 The Gwalior gharana, the oldest khayal tradition, is characterized by balanced and methodical raga exposition, steady tempo, and an emphasis on bol-baant (lyric-based improvisation) and taan patterns that are both aesthetic and disciplined. In contrast, the Agra gharana incorporates elements from dhrupad and is known for its aggressive and robust voice projection, nom-tom alaap, layakari (rhythmic play), and rich meend (glides) and gamaks.

Students will be guided through voice culture techniques, basic to advanced bandishes (compositions), improvisation methods, and comparative aesthetics of both styles, with repertoire from iconic ragas. Taught by seasoned instructors, this course is ideal for vocalists with prior training in Hindustani music who wish to strengthen their raga foundation, enhance their improvisational depth, and connect with the rich musical legacy of two foundational gharanas.