Kirtan Sequence and Flow

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ABOUT THIS COURSE
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In this course we analyze the progression and variations of melodies and rhythms of 12 recorded kirtans. We also discuss other important and subtle aspects of kirtan that may not be so obvious. You will get an inside look into leading and accompanying kirtan, and gain inspiration to lead your own kirtans.
  • Instructors: Bada Haridas & Visvambhar Sheth
  • Level: All levels
  • Videos: 26 (5h 30m)
  • Price: $50 USD
Kirtan Sequence and Flow is a part of the Harmonium 1 course. If you enroll in Harmonium 1 you will receive Kirtan Sequence and Flow as a complimentary course.
Create your account and submit payment for instant access to the course.

What's included in the course?

Leading a group of people in kirtan is a wonderful and challenging experience. This course was designed to shortcut your learning process. Much of what we’ve analyzed and imbibed over decades of leading and accompanying kirtan, you can learn in 26 lessons (5.5 hours) of sweet kirtan and insights.
In this course you’ll learn how to:
  • Structure your kirtan with multiple-part melodies
  • Build up the tempo
  • Know when to slow the tempo down, and when to build it up again
  • Communicate with other musicians throughout the kirtan
  • Customize the kirtan for your audience
  • End your kirtan graciously
Playing instruments in kirtan is also an art. When playing the mridanga drum, kartals or other percussion instruments, you’ll learn how to:
  • Assist, and not overtake, the lead singer
  • Take cues from the lead kirtan singer
  • Keep the energy in the kirtan flowing
In this course we also focus on the importance of your internal mood and meditation throughout your kirtan. We look forward to sharing all this and more. 

Frequently asked questions

GENERAL

What is the purpose of the Kirtan Sequence & Flow course?

This course helps you understand how to lead a complete kirtan: choosing melodies, flowing between sections, building energy, communicating with musicians, and ending gracefully.

Is this course for beginners or intermediate students?

It is ideal for both. Beginners learn structure and confidence; intermediate students refine artistry and leadership.

Do I need to play an instrument?

No. Instrumentalists and vocalists both benefit. Harmonium, mridanga, kartal, or voice training students will find this course valuable.

Why is sequencing important?

A well-sequenced kirtan supports sustained focus on the mantra, deepens meditation and helps build emotion.
ABOUT THE COURSE

How do I know when to speed up or slow down?

In these lessons, we give you some ideas of how it can be done. 

Try these first. You will gradually learn to sense collective energy, read audience engagement and develop your own intuition according to time and circumstance. 

How do I communicate with other musicians?

Through eye contact, body language and subtle rhythmic cues.

Why study so many melodies?

Each melody has a unique mood. Knowing several melodies allows you to customize your kirtan based on time, place, and audience.

What does “building the kirtan” mean?

Gradually increasing volume, tempo and devotional emotion.

How do I avoid rushing?

Learn to relax and stay in the present moment with the mantra. Percussion musicians need to follow the lead singer, and not rush the tempo. 

How should mridanga and kartal players follow the leader?

Be sensitive to the mood of the singer. Support—not overpower—the melody. Be sensitive to tempo and rhythm. 
COMPLETING THE COURSE

How do I receive the course completion certificate?

Complete all lessons and mark each as finished.

Is there a final test?

No exam—your progress through the course is your demonstration of completion.

Course Preview

meet your instructor

Bada Haridas

Kirtan and harmonium teacher
A lifelong musician, Bada Haridas has studied and taught Indian devotional music since 1975. He is a celebrated Kirtan singer and performs at festivals around the world.
In this unique course, he shares his knowledge and years of experience to help you enter into the world of sacred music and Kirtan. 
meet your instructor

Visvambhar Sheth

Kirtan, bhajan, mridanga, and kartal teacher
An internationally recognized Kirtan-singer, recording artist, and inspirational speaker, Visvambhar (Vish) has a lifelong connection to India and its culture. Being brought up in a Kirtan family and community, he began leading Kirtan when he was five years old. Vish has a rare capacity to invoke and transmit the essence of kirtan.

BUNDLE TWO OR MORE COURSES AND SAVE!

Our teachers have created these courses to give you everything you need to become an expert kirtaniya yourself. 

The Language of Music course provides a musical foundation that is important. 
You'll have a more enjoyable time with the harmonium, mridanga and kartal courses if you take the Language of Music course too.
Bundle offer

Kirtan Sequence & Flow, Mridanga 1, & Kartal Course

Save on these 3 courses
Courses included:
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
This fun and engaging course is designed to help you excel in leading kirtan in record time.
Please note that Kirtan Sequence and Flow is a part of the Harmonium 1 course. If you enroll in Harmonium 1 you will receive Kirtan Sequence and Flow as a complimentary course.

Create your account and submit payment for instant access to the course.