Dates: 02/07/2018 - 12/08/2018
Mode of Delivery: Onsite
- Course Summary
- Aims of the course
- Learning Outcomes
- Programme modules
- Daily Schedule
- Prices
- Calendar
- Registration and bookings
- FAQ Kirtan Course
- Contact
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The Yuga-Dharma for this age is non other than kirtanad eva krsnasya (SB. 12.3.51): kirtan of Krishna’s holy names. Understanding this brings forward the fact that one should as much as possible nurture their comprehension and understanding of kirtan. For this reason we have developed a systematic course for ISKCON members and Gaudiya Vaisnavas which will introduce any enthusiastic soul into the many depths of congregational chanting.Over the period of two months the course will uncover the basics of kirtan practice by the facilitation of experienced kirtaniyas, chanters, and teachers such as Sacinandana Swami, Jahnavi Harrison and others. The course covers historical, theoretical and practical aspects of kirtan, which includes an in-depth beginners study in singing, harmonium, karatals and mrdanga playing.
Vision statement
Our Kirtan Course prepares students for a genuine kirtan experience, giving them the opportunity to enrich themselves in their chanting to the point of having no other desire than to share the knowledge with others.
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Course aims are to empower students to deepen their understanding of kirtan and to offer practical lessons in kirtan. It is done via three broader aims of education:
Aim 1) The philosophy, moods and skills for chanting the holy names
Narottam dasa Thakur and Srinivas Acarya
By teaching participants to chant with the proper understanding (sambandha) and in the proper way (abhideya), we wish to empower them to chant with a genuine taste.
Sambandha: The knowledge of who the object of kirtan is (Krishna) and who the person doing kirtan is (a soul, part of Krishna). This is the foundation of Krishna kirtan. When properly engaging in kirtan, one will taste love of Godhead on increasing levels.
Abhideya: The means to attain the goal (prayojana) works only when properly executed. Therefore the first module will place a lot of emphasis on the right execution of kirtan.
The taste for chanting is most important, so that the devotees continue to chant the holy names throughout their lives with increasing appreciation. The kirtan course aims to succeed by addressing this need to chant with genuine devotional taste. To this end it will hold workshops, scheduled kirtans before the Deities at Radhadesh, instructions on good japa, and talks (katha) about Krsna.
Aim 2) The history and tradition of kirtan
Students will learn some history of kirtan and how kirtan was done by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and His associates. For this, extensive research has been going on about the early writings of Mahaprabhu’s kirtaniyas and about the tradition of kirtan (e.g., the kirtans of the three Ghosh brothers, Narottam dasa Thakur, Srinivas Acarya, etc.)
Aim 3) The practice of kirtan: voice and instruments
To train students in skillful singing and playing of instruments in the mood of glorifying the Lord, we will help them develop favorable attitudes for leading or taking part in kirtans.
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Students learn how to chant the holy names with a relationship to Krishna. They learn about the art of kirtan done in the time of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and learn prayers of Vaisnava Acaryas. They learn proper conduct – such as humility, both through discussions and in practical application. They practice instruments and learn a set number of melodies on harmonium and a set number of mantras on the mridanga. Students will receive a deeper understanding of yuga-dharma, both in terms of their own practice and in terms of sharing kirtan in a spirit of Vaisnava compassion.
In terms of their own practice, students will be given the opportunity to:
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s kirtan
- gain a much deeper appreciation for chanting the holy names in japa and kirtan;
- develop the right intention (sankalpa) for doing kirtan, which is to please Krishna
- imbibe Vaisnava values such as a service attitude in both general and kirtan-specific ways
- learn about Sri Caitanya and His associates’ ways of doing kirtan and their kirtan pastimes
- deepen their knowledge of the history and philosophy of kirtan
- practice the instruments with the experienced teachers
- become inspired to spread kirtan through events like harinams, nama yajnas & large festival public kirtans
- get an overview of kirtan projects throughout Europe
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Surabhi Kunja leading Kirtan
Modules taught by residential teachers
1. Harmonium by Krishangi-lila and Gopal Anandini as assistant
2. Karatals by Surabhi Kunja
3. Mridanga by Krsna Das Schleusener and Gopal Anandini as assistant
4. Vocal by Krishangi-lilaModules taught by visiting teachers
5. The Theology of the Holy Name Based on Harinam Cintamani by Sacinandana Swami – CONFIRMED
6. The experience of kirtan in Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s pastimes, a historical prospective by Kadamba Kanana Swami – CONFIRMED
7. Kirtana as Sadhana and Sadhya by Mahendra – CONFIRMED
8. Prayers of Bhaktivinoda Thakura by Jahnavi Harrison – CONFIRMED
9. Humility by Bhuta BhavanaThe Theology of the Holy Name Based on Harinam Cintamani by Sacinandana Swami
Subjects include:
- The best type of sadhana and how to perform it for best results
- The secrets of attentive chanting
- Shadow chanting (namabhasa) and how to move on to the next stage
- Entering a substantial relationship with the Holy Name and the Holy Named
- The eigth offense and its remedy
- The difference between belief and faith
- Tasting ecstasy – a guideline to ecstatic nama-bhajan
- Srila Prabhupada’s amazing relationship with the Holy Name and lessons we can learn from that
The experience of kirtan in Caitanya Mahaprabhu's pastimes, a historical prospective by Kadamba Kanana Swami (not confirmed, depends on health)
We will follow descriptions of kirtan in excerpts from Lord Caitanya’s biographies and read from Bhakti Ratnakara about Narottama Dasa Thakur in Kethuri, with the aim of penetrating into the depths of their experience doing kirtan, with the hope of deepening our experience of kirtan.
Kirtana as sadhana and sadhya by Mahendra Dasa
Mahendra Dasa
When instructing Tapana Misra about the goal of life (sadhya) and the process to attain it (sadhana), Lord Caitanya explained that the basic principle of success is to chant the holy name (nama sankirtana). In this module we will review the usage of “kirtana” and related words in the core Gaudiya Vaisnava scriptures (Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and Sri Caitanya-caritamrta) with the aim of understanding the theological underpinnings for the essential practice of chanting the holy names of Krsna. The goal will be to enrich the students’ personal appreciation of and commitment to kirtana, and to enable them to comprehensively present the method of chanting to a broad audience. Additional resources will be the Vaisnava acaryas’ commentaries and related articles from the Journal of Vaisnava Studies.
Sounding Out Devotional Traditions by Krishna Kshetra Swami
In this module we will explore the broad Indic world of sound and music to see how devotional musical traditions have both expressed and thought about music and its components, from ancient to recent times. Our twofold aim is to see how our Caitanya Vaisnava musical tradition may be located in the wider Indic world, and to help equip students to be able to intelligently articulate this rich tradition to their future audiences. Our main resources will be writings of Prof. Guy L. Beck, ethnomusicologist and author of Sonic Theology: Hinduism and Sacred Sound, and Sonic Liturgy: Ritual and Music in Hindu Tradition. As much as possible, we will hear and discuss recorded samples of relevant chanting and musical performance.
Prayers of Bhaktivinoda Thakura by Jahnavi Harrison
Jahnavi Harrison
The songs of Bhaktivinoda Thakura are a wellspring for thirsty travellers on the spiritual quest. Though he worked full time as an Indian high court judge during the time of the British Raj, he was a prolific writer, composing hundreds of songs – many of which have become standard prayers in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. Srila Prabhupada said of the power of these songs: “…there is no need of understanding the language. It is just like a thunderburst. Everyone can hear the sound of thunder-there is no misunderstanding. Similarly, these songs are above the material platform, and they crack like thunder within your heart.
In this module, we will connect with Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura through prayer, through studying his life, and most importantly, by learning and singing some of his most powerful songs. This experience can be a revelation for any aspiring kirtaniya. In a short time, you will discover how his devotional prayers are like both the road map, the food and the best friends on the journey of the spiritual seeker – providing guidance, nourishment and hope. They also enrich every kirtan experience, revealing a whole new dimension to chanting the maha mantra.
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There are usually two types of schedules for the duration of the kirtan course. One for the time without visiting teachers and another when a visiting teacher is present. Both of these schedules are revised and sometimes fully modified up to the weekend before the week itself for the benefit of the students. Although this might seem quite last minute, the reality is that we cannot in advance schedule weeks with precision as we are not aware until then of the advancement of each individual student and the necessities they might have. Therefore, and if necessary according to the students and teachers needs, we revise the schedule in a way that the best can be configured for the benefit of all involved.
Knowing this, here is a tentative Daily schedule when visiting teachers are present:
Krishna Kshetra Swami, Kadamba Kanana Swami, Sacinandana Swami, Jahnavi, and Mahendra are some of the visiting teachers
- 04:30-07.45 Temple program
- 07:45-08:45 Bhagavatam class (regularly given by the visiting teachers on related topics)
- 09:00-10:00 Breakfast
- 10:00-11:00 Ensemble Class (Mandatory group kirtan which serves as practice session and during which resident teachers guide the students in properly doing kirtan) and/or group classes with the instruments teachers and/or private classes with instruments teachers
- 11:00-13:30 Main Session with the visiting teacher
- 13:30-15:00 Lunch break
- 15:00-18:00 Ensemble Class and/or group classes with the instruments teachers and/or private classes with instruments teachers
- 18:00-20:15 Free time (if required, time for services or practice)
- 20:15-21:15 Evening kirtan in the temple ( students are expected to join in these daily evening sessions)
Daily Schedule without visiting teachers:
Krishangi-lila is one of the residential teachers
- 04:30-07:45 Temple program
- 07:45-08:45 Bhagavatam class
- 09:00-10:00 Breakfast
- 10:00-13:30 Ensemble Class (Mandatory group kirtan which serves as practice session and during which resident teachers guide the students in properly doing kirtan) and/or group classes with the instruments teachers and/or private classes with instruments teachers
- 13:30-15:00 Lunch break
- 15:00-18:00 Ensemble Class and/or group classes with the instruments teachers and/or private classes with instruments teachers
- 18:00-20:15 Free time (if required, time for services or practice)
- 20:15-21:15 Evening kirtan in the temple ( students are expected to join in these daily evening sessions)
Sacinandana Swami provides the students with a week long intensive retreat on the topic of the Holy Nam
*Furthermore, please note the important facts that the first week, the week with Sacinandana Swami, and the last week, will all look quite different to the presented schedule as these are key weeks during which we offer a different and much more adapted program to the participants
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1) Accommodation (full course)
Room in the College Building
- Temple ashram (room with two beds, shared bathroom): €250
- Shared room in Radhadesh Community: €330
- Single room in Radhadesh Community: €450
2) Food (full course)
Radhadesh temple kitchen (breakfast, lunch and light dinner): €300
3) Tuition (full course)
Fee for the whole course is: €800
Two additional days are included. Every extra day should be paid €20 more (food included).
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Kirtan Course 2017 Google Calendar (tentative) -
You can submit your Kirtan Course 2018 application using the link below. Applications will be reviewed immediately. The total number of students is limited to a maximum of 16.
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KIRTAN COURSE (45)
How many times a year will this course run?
This is an eight-week course being held only once a year.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Do students usually bring their own instruments (harmoniums, kartals etc), or they can buy them in Radhadesh?
Students do not have to bring their instruments since they are provided by the course. Still, you can choose new instruments at the beginning of the course and buy them. We are selling the instruments for approximately same price as we bought them.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Which address can I use if I need something to be posted to me while I am in Radhadesh?
Please use the following address and format:
Bhaktivedanta College
for: (YOUR NAME HERE)
Petite Somme 10
6940 Septon-Durbuy
BELGIUMPosted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is it possible to transfer my non-refundable deposit for the Kirtan course to some other course offered by Bhaktivedanta College?
Deposit can only be transferred for the next year’s kirtan course, also as a non-refundable deposit. It can’t be used for or transferred to anything else.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is it possible to follow the vegan diet during the Kirtan Course?
We offer lacto-vegetarian food and usually half of the meals are vegan.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is the transport from airport or train station included in the price of the course?
No. The prices are available at this link under the ‘Airport and other pick up’ tab. Prices are:Zaventem – 70 EurCharleroi – 60 EurAirport Luxembourg – 90 EurLiege – 30 EurNamur – 35 EurMarloie – 13 EurBarvaux – 6 EurPosted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is the rule from the student guidelines regarding the dress code applicable to Kirtan Course students?
This is written in the Student Handbook:
“Public behaviour and dress code
To wear devotional attire in the temple and in the classroom (for women, gopi skirt and sari; for men, kurta and dhoti, or exceptionally, yogi pants). At other times, more casual attire may be acceptable if it is neat, clean, and modest (i.e. attire that does not call unnecessary attention to the body). For men, to keep their hair short (if not shaven) and faces shaved. To develop an awareness of local customs and sensitivities and to be careful not to offend neighbours and villagers.”
The idea is to keep the dressing code as much in sync with spiritually aspiring community. The main point is to wear clothes which are not focusing one’s attention to the body (uncovering the body in an inappropriate way). Some common sense should be applied.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I am confused about the dress code….
‘The guideline from Student Handbook says ladies should wear gopi skirts and saris for both temple and classroom, but then here in FAQs we are informed that common sense for modesty is actually all that is needed. So which is it, because these seem like two different conclusions?’
Common sense for modesty is actually all that is needed.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Are pants acceptable for females to wear?
Yes, they are.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Regarding the dress code, would it be alright to wear punjabi suits beside gopi skirts and saris?
Sure. It doesn’t have to be Indian clothes. Just think what would you wear in a ‘slightly conservative’ setting.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Does the ashram provide bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows, etc) and bath towels?
We provide all listed (in two sets) except bath towels.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Would I be able to get a lift to and from the airport and how much would it cost?
Latest two weeks before the Kirtan Course starts we will send you a digital form for submission of arrival/departure details. We will organize your pick up from any station in Belgium. The prices are listed here under the ‘Airport and other pick-up’ tab.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Will we have any days off?
Yes. The days off are Saturday and Sunday.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is it possible to go home during the weekend?
No one is bound to stay in Radhadesh all the time. It is expected that you don’t miss the classes, the rest is up to you.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is the Temple Program from 4:30 to 7:45 mandatory for Kirtan Course students?
Full morning program attendance is not mandatory. You are expected to take part in at least one part of the morning program. If nothing else is possible, attending the morning lecture at 7:45 would be the minimum.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is the College building farther away from the classroom than the temple ashram rooms?
College building is attached to the practicing classrooms, and the temple is just across the street. All Radhadesh facilities are in the 5 minutes walking circle. Here you can see a part of Radhadesh property from the sky.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
How many harmoniums are available for group use? If I have my own, should I bring it?
Every Kirtan Course student will have his/her own harmonium for individual learning and practice. There is no need to carry a personal harmonium except if someone really wants it. There is also a possibility for students to buy instruments for the same price we bought them for Radhadesh.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
May I know is it western style harmonium playing using codes or Indian style?
We are mainly focusing on Indian classical notes (SA Re Ga Ma etc) as opposed to cordes, although they can also feature in at some point. But again, it is a course for beginners.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
What is the earliest date we can come?
Coming earlier or later is fine. Two additional nights are included in the price (no matter if one comes before or staying longer after the course). Extra fee of 15 EUR per day (food & accommodation) will be charged for additional nights.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Can I be picked up from the train station?
Latest two weeks before the Kirtan Course we will send the online transportation form to be filled in. Possible ways how to reach us and the approximate prices are visible here:
bhaktivedantacollege.com/about-us/visit-us/Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is there a suggested list of what we need to bring?
There is no particular list of the things what to bring. For sure you need to bring some warm clothes (something) and dress for rain (just to prepare you :-).
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Do we have access to a computer while on the course?
We are having wireless internet access at the college premises and temple reception but we are not providing laptops.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
How often will we be able to get to a shop for supplies (toiletries, etc.)?
Every weekend you will be able to go for shopping by car (college arrangement, free of charge) or you will be able to order whatever you need. We also have Radhadesh taxi driver and, if needed, you can go to the nearby city during the week.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
No pre-requisites mentioned, but do the facilitators expect the participants to be able to play an instrument (harmonium, kartals, mridanga)?
There is no minimum requirement for knowledge or experience in playing instruments or leading kirtans. In fact, the facilitators hope that participants do not know everything; otherwise, what would they teach? Joking aside, it is helpful if the candidate has an ear for music and singing, and even if the experience or knowledge of a person is extremely basic, or nil, that does not make a difference, as long as ENTHUSIASM is there and noticeable along the way. We want enthusiastic participants, not necessarily just talented ones or students with the attitude that “I know it all.” So if your heart is in it, this is the right course to come to for learning and doing kirtan.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I live in the UK, so will I need a visa?
If you are a UK/EU resident, then you do not require any visa. Only if you are from outside the European continent.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is this course open only to initiated devotees?
No. It is open to all levels of devotees. We do expect the persons registered for this course to follow the four regulative principles and chant as many rounds as possible daily, in line with Srila Prabhupada’s standards for residing in a Krsna conscious community. As long as you stay on the Radhadesh property (ashram, guesthouse, apartment, etc.), particularly in an ashram, you are expected to follow the house rules and behave like a regular temple devotee (take part in morning programs, assist with services when required, respect the local devotees). So no “spiritual qualifications” needed other than enthusiasm and respect for the environment in which you stay.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Will students need other qualifications… e.g., a Bhakti Shastri degree?
No particular scriptural qualifications required. It might help if you have some general knowledge, especially in the theoretical courses, wherein we discuss different acharyas and their approaches to kirtan. But it is also an opportunity to learn a lot.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Do the instrument sessions include supervised practice of doing kirtan in small groups?
There will most likely be supervised kirtan practice in small groups during the instrument sessions, and perhaps even at separate times. The students can also perhaps organize this during their free time. Indeed, it is not suitable to practice before the Deities.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Are there going to be different levels, or will everyone be learning the same mantras/melodies?
There will not be separate classes for students on different levels. We are well aware that everyone will be on different levels. So, although there will be group sessions, teachers will do their best to give time and attention to individual students, to ensure that they are able to advance as much as they can from whatever level they are on. Thus all student will have possibilities to advance at their own pace in singing and playing instruments.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I still have some questions.
More questions? Contact us. We aim to respond to queries within forty-eight hours.
Posted in: BA in Theology and Religious Studies ONLINE, BA in Theology and Religious Studies ONSITE, GENERAL, KIRTAN COURSE, ONLINE BHAKTI-SASTRI, ONLINE PROGRAMS, ONSITE PROGRAMS
Are instruments provided for classes and individual practice?
Instruments will be provided for class and for practice during class. However, it might not be possible for each student to practice separately, unless they share an instrument.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Are scholarships available?
One can apply for a scholarship; depending on the true need and the reasons described on your application, there might be a possibility of receiving a scholarship, though there is no certainty of it.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Do the visiting teachers also teach instruments/vocals?
Visiting teachers like Madhava and Jahnavi will mainly do kirtan and give classes. There might be some practical sessions with them, but do not count on it. So if you hope to learn mrdanga from Madhava, that will probably happen indirectly by taking part in his kirtans. The practical teaching will be done by local devotees who will be here throughout the course.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
How long will visiting teachers spend at the course?
Most teachers will come for one week, some for just around four days. The instrument teachers will be here full-time.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
What if my level of playing mridanga, kartals and harmonium is already mastered at a certain level. Will it be developed from there?
We are aware that everyone will have a different level of proficiency in singing or mrdanga and kartal playing. So the teachers will cater to individuals to the best of their ability to make sure that everyone can advance. There will normally be more private sessions than whole group sessions. It will be up to the mrdanga teacher to decide how fast he will teach you.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I would like to join the Kirtan Course. Probably I can come only from the third week on. Is that OK?
No part-time participation is allowed (only exceptions). Still, we are offering 8-day Kirtan Connection as an alternative also for those not able to come for a longer time. Please visit the Kirtan Connection page.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I am a beginner, as I don’t know how to play any instruments nor how to sing. But I am very inspired to learn. Can beginners attend this course?
All you need is inspiration and dedication. We would rather have kirtan novices with a strong desire to learn and practice than an amateur musician with no desire to learn anything new. We are aware that there will be different levels of knowledge, and we hope to nicely facilitate everyone.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Is the price for accomodation and prasada for the whole course?
Yes, the price indicated on the Web site is for the full course. So your total will be the sum of your selection in accommodation plus food plus tuition.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
I was so much inspired to know about this event. Unfortunately, I cannot fully participate. Because the teaching of Sacinandana Swami touches my heart, I thought it best to be there during his period as a teacher.
We are not accepting a part time attendance. Only full time students will be admitted.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
If I am married, can I stay at Radhadesh with my family?
There are living facilities for families in Radhadesh, but these are limited. For more information, please contact us: here.
Posted in: GENERAL, KIRTAN COURSE, ONSITE PROGRAMS
On what dates should I fly in and out of Brussels?
Every student can come 2 days before/after the Kirtan Course is officially starting/finishing since 4 extra days are included in the package price. Still, one can come even earlier and leave later if that helps in arranging better priced travelling tickets. Additional stay costs after 4 additional days is 20 EUR per day.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
What are the contact details of Bhaktivedanta College?
Bhaktivedanta College
Petite Somme 10
6940 Septon-Durbuy
Belgium
Telephone: 00 32 86 32 32 77
e-mail: secretary@bhaktivedantacollege.comPosted in: GENERAL, KIRTAN COURSE
What is the deadline for sending an application and payment?
There is no deadline. Once we reach our maximum enrollment students, it will no longer be possible to attend. So if you are sure you will come, do not wait to register, as this is a first-come, first-served procedure. Payment details will be discussed when we receive the application. We require only a deposit to confirm your application, and later the balance will be required.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
How does the scholarship system work? Is it only for full-time students?
Radhadesh management would not be giving out scholarships, as they have more people than usual staying over the summer, which provides them with enough manpower. If you still wish to explore this please write to the Visiting Devotee Committee (VDC) at vdcommittee@googlegroups.com.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
Are there options to do some hours of service in exchange for accommodation costs?
Unfortunately for a packed course such as this one, it is unlikely the temple will be able to find a suitable solution, because service hours are usually during the same time as a course. Also, the Radhadesh temple has recently implemented a strict policy under which devotees can stay here, which means that it won’t be very easy to get into the ashram in exchange for service while following the course part-time.
Posted in: KIRTAN COURSE
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Manu Magnin
Manu is a festival organizer at Radhadesh, where he was born and grew up. After completing his public education as a teenager, he earned a B.A. in Vaisnava Theology (Bhaktivedanta College/Chester University) and is now a fulltime member of the Radhadesh community. He has spent lots of time on spiritual tours in India, North America and European countries. He takes part every evening, along with other young devotees, in the last evening kirtan in the Radhadesh temple.
Manu will be happy to answer all of your questions, but before emailing him please be sure you have read through all Kirtan Course texts, as most of the questions are answered there. Manu’s email is: manu@radhadesh.com
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