Kaushiki Chakrabarty & Purbayan Chatterjee - Jugalbandi

Music starts at 2′30′‘

Sitar in the garden

Learning to play the sitar can be a rewarding experience, but it needs to be approached with the right mindset and strategies. Whether you're just starting or looking to hone your skills, these ten tips and tricks will help you on your journey to mastering the sitar.

Find the right sitar classes: Enrolling in quality sitar classes is important to lay a strong foundation. Look for experienced instructors who can provide personalized guidance and feedback tailored to your skill level and learning style.

2. Invest in a quality instrument: A good quality sitar can significantly enhance your learning experience. Take the time to research and invest in a well-built instrument, That produces clear tones and feels comfortable to play.

3. Learn proper posture and hand placement: Proper posture and hand placement are essential to producing clear and resonant sounds. Pay attention to your posture and practice holding the sitar correctly to avoid strain and discomfort.

4. Focus on basic techniques: Mastering basic techniques such as tuning, string bending, and plucking is fundamental to becoming proficient in playing the sitar. Dedicate time to practicing these techniques regularly to build a strong foundation.

5. Develop finger dexterity: It is important to develop finger dexterity to play the sitar with accuracy and speed. Incorporate exercises and drills into your exercise routine to improve the strength and agility of your fingers.

6. Practice mindfully: Practice regularly and mindfully, focusing on quality over quantity. Break difficult parts into smaller sections and practice them slowly and carefully before gradually increasing the speed.

7. Study music theory: Understanding music theory concepts like scales, intervals, and rhythm will deepen your understanding of sitar music and help you interpret and perform compositions more effectively.

8. Listen to sitar music: Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of sitar music by listening to recordings of master sitar players. Pay attention to their techniques, phrasing, and expression, and try to emulate them in your playing.

9. Experiment with different styles: Explore different styles of sitar music, from classical to contemporary, to expand your musical vocabulary and discover your unique voice as a sitar player.

10. Be patient and persistent: Learning to play the sitar takes time, patience, and dedication. Enjoy the journey, stay committed to your exercise routine, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Erwin Smith’s New Morning Routine

Imran Khan belongs to the famous lineage of the Sikar Gharana (school of music) that has given many stalwartsto Indian classical music. He was born on 4th June 1983, at Jodhpur. He is the ninth generation of Gharana. He started his training in Sitar from the age of 6-7 years under his grandfather Ustad Gulab Khan Sahab, who is both acknowledged Sarangi player and vocalist of his time, and from…