The History

​Gayaki Music was founded in 2008 as a teaching studio based in Kirkland, WA. As Artistic Director and Principal Teacher of the studio, Srivani Jade's vision was to bring together elements of traditional talim (one-on-one instruction in an intimate atmosphere), the oral traditions of various Gharanas of Hindustani Music, and interactions with visiting musicians through workshops and baithaks (home concerts), to create a wholistic learning environment for Hindustani Music. More recently, the studio has started offering online instruction to students around the world, following a structured curriculum developed by Srivani over decades of experience teaching Khayal and Thumri. Students participate in various events as part of the Gayaki Ensemble, and present solo at an Annual Recital in May. 

​

The Fundamentals Curriculum

​

Level 1: Intro to Hindustani Music (12 weeks)​

Key concepts: History of North Indian Music, Voice culture, Thaat system, Raga, Taal, Bandish

​

Level 2: Genres of Hindustani Music (8 weeks)

Key concepts: Khayal, Thumri-Dadra, Folk Traditional music

​

Level 3: Ragangas (8 weeks)

Derivative Ragas and Raga families

​

Level 4: Intro to Improvisation (8 weeks)

Key concepts: Aalaap, Sargam, Taan

​

Level 5: Advanced Improvisation (8 weeks)

Key concepts: Layakari, Bol behlava, Bol-baanT

​

The Journey

​The curriculum is meant to create a strong foundation in concepts and techniques, and prepare the mind and voice for 1-1 talim. Level-1 is open to all, including those that are simply curious to learn about Hindustani Music. Class meets on Zoom once a week for 1.5 hrs. Homework is due on a weekly basis. All material - textbook, notation, recordings - are included along with live instruction. For dates, times, fee schedule, other questions, please write to gayakimusic@gmail.com or use the contact form.