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.
Aim 2 The history and tradition of kirtan
Aim 3 The practice of kirtan: voice and instruments
Your teachers
Vrinda – Karatals
Surabhi – Vocals & Harmonium
Kishor Gopal – Mrdanga
Akinchana Krishna – Philosophy and History of Kirtan
Mahendra – Philosophy and History of Kirtan
Sacinandana Swami – Visiting Teacher (to be confirmed)
Course Summary
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 one properly engages in kirtan, they 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 strong emphasis on the correct execution of kirtan.
The taste for chanting is most important, so that 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 offer workshops, scheduled kirtans before the Deities at Radhadesh, instructions on good japa, and talks (katha) about Krishna.
What can you expect to learn?
During this immersive Kirtan Course, you will learn to play basic rhythms on the Mrdanga (Khol) and Karatals (cymbals). On the harmonium, you will learn how to sing according to your voice and play simple to more complex melodies. After gaining a basic knowledge of the instruments, you will be guided in what we call ensemble classes, where you and your fellow students will be able to do kirtan under the expert guidance of our experienced kirtan teachers.
Next to the instruments and practical knowledge, you will get theoretical background, dedicated to helping you make a connection with the roots of Kirtan.
And finally, every single one of you will be leaving with the ability to lead and accompany a Kirtan. The progress is up to you! 80% of your learning depends on your input in practice, and therefore the Kirtan Course curriculum also accommodates plenty of practice hours for you.
Your approximate schedule
04:30-07:45 Temple program (optional)
07:45-08:45 Temple philosophy class (optional)
09:00-10:00 Breakfast with the Radhadesh Community
10:00-13:30 Ensemble Class
– 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)
When visiting teachers are giving their seminars, the noon session is split in two parts:
10:00-11:00 Ensemble Class
11:00-13:30 Main Session with the visiting teacher
INVESTMENT
Price packages per person include:
1) tuition fee
2) accommodation (bedding included)
3) meals in the Radhadesh temple kitchen (breakfast and lunch).
By clicking ‘Apply’ you will be redirected to the page with the application form. Total number of students is limited to 13. We invite students to stay the night before the first day of the course as well as the night of the final day, both part of the package. Students are welcome to stay additional nights with catering, extra fees will apply.
Package 1 - Room
Package 2 - Studio
Package 3 - Apartment
RELEVANT COURSES
ISKCON Disciple Course is a training program that deepens devotees' understanding of guru tattva within the multiple guru environment of ISKCON. Designed for new devotees preparing to take initiation, the course is also recommended for leaders, preachers, and educators in ISKCON.
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