Indian Classical Music - Dilruba / Esraj / Tar Shehnai / Taus

Counting Beats, Taals, Tihais, Chakkardars

2009-12-06T18:28:00.002+07:00

Are you often Lost at an Indian Classical Music recital? Do you wish you could understand why so many people love the millions of great Indian Classical Music videos on YouTube ?

From my experience, many people get impatient with themselves when they listen to Indian Classical Music because they don’t understand what’s going on.

It’s actually very easy to understand if you ask the right people.
Even if you have NO clue about the technicalities of what Raag is being played, I think you can thoroughly enjoy a performance if you can follow the beat.
I know that’s how I started.

There's a workshop available if you ...

want to understand how Taals work in the Indian system of music
as a listener, want to be able to count the beats so you know what’s going on – you’ll enjoy all the Indian Classical Music concerts you attend from now on because you can follow the beat. You’ll appreciate the millions of Indian Classical Music videos on Youtube much much more.
easily learn to count the more complex cycles – like Vilambit (VERY slow) ektaal… and beats with fractions like “10 3/4 (10.75) beats” —– apply the same concepts when you listen to any other Vilambit taal or other cycles with 1/4, 1/2, or 3/4 fractions.
Learn how Tihais and Chakkardaars work so you can enjoy them more
and Finally: learn a very simple system for creating your own Tihais

Everything in the workshop will be explained it to you in a way that’s straightforward, practical, and simplified as much as it can be.

It's available on HarSangeet.com

Relaxing Tune in Raag Megh

2008-06-03T22:30:00.001+07:00

Heard from a pretty old tape of Bhai Gurbaksh Singh Gambhir singing the Shabad: "Vin Bolia Sabh Kich Jaanda Kis Aagai Keechai Ardaas?"

Sorry - not Title Raag though.

I love this tune, especially when playing/singing it and thinking of what the words mean - It's so relaxing that it gives me goosebumps.

Find it here .

Raag Darbari (Mishr) - Simar Mana Raam Naam Chitare

2008-05-18T14:39:00.002+07:00

it took several mistakes before it started flowing ..

Tune for the Shabad: SIMAR MANA RAAM NAAM CHITARE
often heard sung by Bhai Niranjan Singh Jawaddi Kalan Wale .

Mishr Darbari
14 beat

-
good Practice

Bhoopali at a World Music Festival

2008-05-12T23:04:00.004+07:00

Ajarn* Maiya Singh Ji was invited to play at the "Rhythm of the Earth" world music festival - at Central World , Bangkok - May 2008.

Satpal Singh Ji (Ustadji's nephew) is on Tabla.
the Thai word for "Teacher"/"Ustad" is Ajarn - pronounced aa-charn

Raag Bhoopali - Tintaal

1.

2.

3.

Kindly excuse my playing - looking back at the video: I think my playing took more away from the music than it did add ... oh well - we had zero practice as a group before the event, so I shouldn't beat myself up about it too much eh?
Ustadji and Satpal Singh were awesome though!
We were initially given 1 hour stage time and were planning to play Raag Yaman. On the day, we were requested to cut it down to 20 mins due to various time constraints. Ustadji wanted to switch to Bhoopali, thinking that it would be easier for an audience unaccustomed to Classical Indian Music to digest and enjoy. my opinion: Good Decision !

Tanti Saaz workshop in Birmingham, UK

2008-05-07T11:12:00.009+07:00

I wish I could be there to join in the fun :)

Announcement:

Ustaad Surjeet Singh (student of the world famous Pt Ram Narayan) and grand-teacher of the Gurmat Sangeet Academy is leading a one day intensive strings workshop in Birmingham on Sunday 1st of June.
If you would like to improve your Taus/ Dilruba/ Esraaj or Sarangi skills, then this is the workshop to attend. All abilities will be catered for.

The workshop will run from 10am to 4pm and will cater for all abilities. The fee for the day will be £10 (£6 for concs.).

For more details, email info@gurmatsangeet.org

Dhol Experiment

2008-05-02T17:05:00.006+07:00

IF
* You play tabla reasonably well
* You have a dhol handy - preferably one with a Plastic/Synthetic Skin on the Bass side.

Experiment:
* Put some Atta on the Bass Side - you'll have to experiment with quantity of Atta vs resulting tonal quality.

* try playing with your hands - Phakawaj style
* If you know Khuley Bol - Perfect ! if not .. check out some videos on youtube and pretend ! :)
* also pls try playing some basic thekas - tintal , kaherva , rupak , dadra etc.

The thing is - I KNOW that it will sound good .. but am unable experiment for myself due to no-dhol-at-home syndrome.
About a year ago, I had to play dholki for one of my sister's wedding functions - It sounded horrible. I put a fistful of atta on the bass side, and the moisture sort of crept in and caused the skin to loosen, wrinkle up and sound like a wet blanket when hit.
I then cleaned off the Atta, wiped the skin thoroughly and waited 10 mins for it to dry. Once it was back to normal, I put a tiny bit of atta back on it. (the circle was about as big as the tip of my thumb - yep that's it .. very small.) Worked great !

So kindly try it out, and post some videos :)

Thank you.

Student Esraj Prototype: Sound Check + Instrument test

2008-04-28T20:35:00.004+07:00

An Esraj for students / beginners .
Prototype #2.
Made by a friend.
(#1 is with him)

Sound Check + Instrument test.

actually made for a private conversation btwn the creator and myself , but its here because I haven't posted in a while.

the tune i'm TRYING to play is Saach Kaho Sun Leho Sabai in Raag Bihag , heard from recordings of Bhai Avtar Singh ji.

other than that it's not in any coherent raag.

Beachside Bhimpalasi

2008-03-19T11:45:00.003+07:00

I've been working on putting together a few relaxing sounding tracks of Ustadji playing his Esraj (without the TarShehnai attachment) . I requested that he reduce the very energetic Tihais and Gamaks so the music sounds chilled out.

I will then add some layers to the sound to make it sound nicer.

I've managed to upload the first one to myspace. Do check it out and let me know what you think - it's the first track " Beachside Bhimpalasi 10beat "

Once I'm happy with about 4 tracks , I'll make them available for download as a set (free) - If anyone's interested.

So Kim Manas Roop Kahaye - tune

2008-03-01T23:38:00.005+07:00

Free Esraj Music MP3

Recording of Me attempting to play the tune for "So Kim Manas Roop Kahaye" (right click and choose (SAVE LINK AS))- composition heard sung by Bhai Baljeet Singh / Bhai Gurmeet Singh . This is another one of my all time favorite compositions - Find it and buy it if you don't have it. The original is AMAZING to listen to.

Raag Alhaiya Bilawal

Taal supposed to be Tintaal - Punjabi Theka - but I'm not exactly playing according to any beat. Was more focused on getting the Expression to match my memory of Bhai Baljeet Singh / Bhai Gurmeet Singh's version.
I'm pretty sure I can play it in beat too , I'll just have to record myself playing tabla for 10 mins and play it back while playing Dilruba.

I made a few mistakes here and there , and my ending is clearly the wrong Raag ;) but hey - I'm still sorta happy with it.

Awesome old Picture

2008-02-12T22:22:00.000+07:00

A Friend found this beautiful image in an old book on World Music.

Starting from left:

1st guy is holding an Esraj. Looks like there are no sympathetics. And there seem to be sound holes on the top section of the sound-box as well. very interesting ...

2nd guy's instrument looks to be a Sitar.

3rd guy's looks like a Veena - although I am not certain.

4th guy is holding a Taus. Doesnt look like the ones you see nowadays - but very cool nonetheless.

2008-02-12T22:09:00.000+07:00

with Bhai Sahib Gurmit Singh Shant and Jatha

More of Bhai Gurmit Singh Shant

2008-01-28T22:31:00.002+07:00

Recorded at my place , 16th Jan 2008.

I requested him to sing only "Vadde Taal"
He actually told me the names of the Taals later on, but I didn't write them down and therefore forgot them. If he visits your city - ask him - and let me know :)

Raag Basant - 15 beat .. Meanings: Basant Chariya Phooli Banraee

Raag Dhanasri - 18 beat .. Meanings: Har Charan Sharan Gobind Dukh Bhanjana
Right Click and choose SAVE AS to download the files !
** Update on 22/Feb/2008 ** I was sharply reprimanded by a friend about the above recording. Apparently it's Raag Bhimpalasi, not Raag Dhanasri.
I asked "what's the difference?"
I was told "Bhimpalasi = Madhyam is Vadi .. and Dhanasri = Pancham is Vadi "
I actually thought " errrr ... ok .. I'm still not going to be able to tell the difference . " but said " theek eh ... If you insist - I'll mention it"
***

Raag Kaliyaan - 9 beat + Raag Bihagra - Roopak .. Meanings: Nain Mahinje Taras De Pasee Didaar & Ratte Ishq Khudaae Rang Didaar Ke

Malkauns 12 Beat ..

An Exercise in Focus

2008-01-28T22:17:00.001+07:00

I promised to upload more recordings of the New Year Diwaan at the Bangkok Gurudwara.
Here is one more recording of the Waheguru Jap Simran / Naam Simran - led by Bhai Gurmit Singh Shaant.
Right Click and choose Save As to download.

Listen to it LOUD.

There are 2 levels of listening that you can access in this recording.

The one you want to try getting a hold of is the sheer majesty of almost 1000 voices singing the Lord's praise in unison.

See how it goes for you.

as for me, well .. I still haven't been able to stop laughing at the guy on my right.
(updated 29/2/2008: In case you didn't catch it - I'm not being serious)

Raag Maajh

2008-01-15T22:30:00.001+07:00

Jamming with Satnam Singh in Singapore

Raag Maajh Alaap

then Changed Seating Arrangements .

Raag Maajh Shabad

Baa Baa Black Sheep

2008-01-15T13:22:00.000+07:00

I know this is a little off topic,
- and it's not exactly new - but I just watched these videos again and realized that there may be a few who haven't seen them yet - so I must share.

First One: Gurmukh Singh - Malaysia Wale. Gurmukh Veerji is blessed with true passion for Kirtan Seva. He can really connect with the Sangat and command their attention when he's on stage. He's **great** at difficult and old classical compositions.
Here he is having some fun with one of his classes at Sammelan in Indonesia.

Next time he comes to Bangkok for Sammelan, I'll be sure to get some good recordings made. Including a Baa Baa Black Sheep with full vaja/tabla. heheh

Here's another cool version - embedding is disabled .. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Efbb7FLCqpU

Maiya Singh - Instrumental Audio Recording

2008-01-09T14:28:00.000+07:00

Free MP3 of Maiya Singh playing Raag Jhinjoti - Roopak 7 Beat Cycle. Right click the link and choose "Save Target As"
Phone Rang towards the end again... seems to happen a lot eh?

I'm on Tabla . Testing out a new Banares-Made set I was thinking about buying off someone .. but I dont think I am going to: the Duggi/Dagga is way too tight and it doesn't suit my playing style.

I'm thinking of getting a Set: high C# Tabla and Atta Wala Dhama - both with nut/bolt attachments. There's nobody in Thailand who's willing to change the poora on old tablas. It's hot and humid about 80% of the year and so Tablas wear out quite quickly
- might as well get nut/bolt attachments and accept the slight decrease in sound quality in exchange for the security of being able to change the skins quickly and easily.
Any suggestions ?

Jamming with Satnam Singh in Singapore

2008-01-02T00:11:00.000+07:00

TRYING to accompany Veerji Satnam Singh's alaap in Raag Kaliyaan / Yaman .

Using Angad Singh's Esraj.

Taken at Silat Road Gurudwara, Singapore.

Gurmeet Singh Shaant - Night Diwaan 31 Dec / 1 Jan

2008-01-01T13:17:00.000+07:00

Happy New Year :)
May you be blessed with a constant and greatly heightened awareness of the Joy present in your life. And may you be blessed with the power to make choices in your life that keep you connected to that Joy.

Audio recordings taken from Bangkok Gurudwara - 2008 New Year Diwaan.

Aise Gur Ko Bal Bal Jaiye - Kanhra Partaal : Dhamar , Iktaal , TinTaal

Vadh Sukh Rainariye - Bihagra Chanchal

I have question:
How would you ask an enthusiastic member of the congregation that CANT SING FOR NUTS to keep shut while you record one of the Greatest Ragis alive today ?
The guy sitting on my right was croaking away, enjoying himself thoroughly at my expense.

And about 1 meter in front of me, towards my right, there was a kid about 11 years old, busy talking to his dad and fiddling with a plastic bag - I gave him a really mean stare to try get him to shut up and leave the bag alone, it finally worked.
Ok I can shut an annoying kid up, but how can you tell someone who's singing along to the Shabads to keep quiet? He was not doing anything WRONG. In Guru Darbar - we are all encouraged to sing the Guru's praises. I was stumped, so I let him be.

Check out the recordings --- the whole Sangat sang along, it was awesome. - except for the totally off-key fellow on my right, and the annoying kid with his plastic bag.

Not that I have any problem with people who are not able to sing but enjoy doing it anyway - I just wish they were aware of it and were considerate enough to keep quiet while other people are trying to record.
I was sitting RIGHT in front , 2 meters from the stage. The Darbar hall was PACKED .. I couldn't have moved anywhere to escape his voice.
He didn't do anything wrong .. It just bugged the heck out of me that I didn't get FIRST CLASS recordings.

I have 3 more recordings: One of the Simran we do from 11:55 - 00:05 , another Shabad, and Anand Sahib. But the guy who cant sing sings so bloody loudy that I can't stop laughing when I hear it - so I'll wait until I calm down a bit before uploading those.

Anyways:
I'm very happy that Bhai Gurmeet Singh Shaant, one of the most learned Ragis active today, is in town for another 2 weeks.

And I'm REALLY happy with my recording equipment. When I listen to the mp3 files - it feels like I'm back there in the Sangat experiencing the aural atmosphere all over again.

Cheers.

Free MP3 Downloads - TarShehnai Instrumental - Sound Check

2007-12-29T13:16:00.001+07:00

Was fiddling with the settings on my new equipment today and got this result for TarShehnai.

I'm pretty happy with it - it sounds true to life / you can hear the instrument's natural reverb as well.

The file is totally unaltered.

0007 : TarShehnai - Raag Megh

Free MP3 Downloads - Esraj Instrumental

2007-12-28T21:22:00.000+07:00

After saving money for a while, I invested in some fancy new recording equipment today so I could make MP3 Files with decent sound quality.

Here are 3 recordings I made within 30 mins of setting the whole system up:

0001 : And then The Phone Rang

0002 : Bilaval / Asa Based Alaap and Tune

0003 : Controversial Raag based Alaap and Shabad Tune

they're not rehearsed and nowhere near perfect -- only for sound check purposes.

let me know your opinion on sound quality and how I can adjust it.

Raag Shankara Bandish

2007-12-02T21:13:00.000+07:00

Tune that Maiya Singh Ji taught me about 3 years ago for the Shabad: "Khoob Teri Pagri Meethe Tere Bol"

Mixed Tunes

2007-12-02T21:12:00.000+07:00

I suddenly Remembered the Chorus for the song YE HOSLA from the movie Dor.

Lovely tune.

I've heard it only 3-4 times before. I never really TRIED to memorize it. It just sort of popped back into my head.

I also tried to fit a Bandish in Raag Tilak Kamod / Desh (not sure which) Set to TeenTaal into Roopak - for fun.

There's one part in Raag Khamaj or Pahari (? I always get confused) which is supposed to be set to a Fast Kaherva - converted to Roopak.
That part ends with a hint of Bilawal.. It just sort of came out.

Raag Random

2007-12-01T19:00:00.000+07:00

Raag Random - Relaxing Music
heheh
Just played what I felt like.

Controversial Raag

2007-12-01T18:54:00.000+07:00

Some people say this is the "Old School Basant" (Since the time Our Gurus about 400-500+ years ago)

Some call it Raag Kaushik / Raag Kaushiki

Others call it Raag Bin Shadja / Bin Kharaj

I dont like to argue. I like to enjoy the music.

Technically: The Mood of my Alaap doesn't feel quite right, I think I didn't put enough emphasis on the notes I'm supposed to.- I'm quite happy with the Jor though.

Here's an Awesome Awesome Awesome Recording of this Raag:

Rageshri (Mishr?) - Shabad Tune

2007-11-08T23:35:00.000+07:00

Tune I heard from Bhai Dilbagh Singh and Gulbagh Singh's rendition of "Mehrvan Sahib Mehrvan" -- lovely composition -- Not sure if it's original or not though.

This is what I remember of it + improvisation:

I was actually trying to record Gorakh Kalyaan (see old posts saying "Rageshri Without Ga") . But I couldn't play it the way Ustad Rashid Khan sings it in the recording I have.

So I switched to this instead.

Supposed to be Choti Tintaal &/or Kaherva ..
Was focused on the embellishments etc so didn't pay attention to timing.

Enjoy :)

A few of my all-time Favorites

2007-10-31T14:51:00.000+07:00

I got these CDs from India some time ago - LOVED them !
I had checked on Amazon some weeks earlier but they didn't have the CDs in stock. Now they have Mp3s for download.

1) Pandit Jasraj - Miyan Tansen album - get only the Dhrupad Tracks - the alaap tracks are very nice too, but honestly I hardly listen to them because they're 20-30 mins long.

The tracks include Phakawaj + Tabla + Veena accompaniment. I personally love listening to recordings with Phakawaj accompaniment - they have a very haunting/majestic sound.

* Raag Miyan Ki Sarang Dhrupad -
Tum Rab Tum Saahib

* Raag Rageshri Dhrupad -
Hey Yadunath

* Raag Darbari Dhrupad -
Teri Gati Aati Agadh

* Raag Puriya Dhrupad - Sumiran Hari Ka

2) TANSEN - Whole Album (Various Artists) - Most of the Tracks in this 2 Cd set are excellent. Artists include Ajoy Chakrborty , Nirmalya Dey, Meeta Pandit, and Rashid Khan.

enjoy.

Jamming with Hargopal Singh: Raag Bhoopali

2007-10-21T11:09:00.000+07:00

Taken: Oct 14 2007 . We were at a Family Sammelan at a Country Club Resort about 2.5 Hours from Bangkok.

Great fun ! Hargopal Singh Ji (Malaysia Wale) on Tabla.

Practice notes:
I never used to be able to play this fast. So I'm quite happy with my Improvement.
Will work on accuracy some more.

Difference between My Blog & HarSangeet.com

2007-10-08T12:18:00.000+07:00

Please note : All the videos on my blog are Practice and Jam Sessions - for fun only. They're not perfect either, because they're all mood based and not rehearsed beforehand.

HarSangeet.com will have instructional videos.

:)

Old Semi-Classical Hindi Song - Raag Yaman Based

2007-10-08T00:02:00.000+07:00

Thank you ji!
The Song is :
Ehsaan tera hoga mujh par, dil kehta hai jo kehne do

Kabir Singh on Tabla.

By the way - HarSangeet.com Is ready.

2007-10-07T23:42:00.000+07:00

If you're interested in learning how to play Dilruba / Esraj / TarShehnai / Taus and making your instrument SING ...

If you're interested in voice training taught by a Teacher who learned Vocals from Pt.s Rajan and Sajan Mishra ...

If you're interested in learning beginner/intermediate tabla from a Talented Musician who has background in Dhrupad LaiKaris from Pt. Siyaram Tivari and constantly experiments with Tihais and Chakkardars not only on tabla, but for vocals and on Tanti Saaz as well ..

If you're interested in putting it all together and being able to do Kirtan on stage comfortably ..

If you don't have access to a teacher regularly ..

If you have a teacher already and just want to explore more .. ( It is my belief that no One person knows EVERYTHING and no two people like EXACTLY the same thing ....... so you might as well learn from multiple sources and assemble what you like to create your own style )

Start Learning Now We're ready to start sharing.

Will keep updating based on everyone's feedback.
On Facebook - Join the Group "HarSangeet" to communicate more easily.

A Private blog is being planned/arranged for all students to upload videos and link (from google video or youtube - but set to private) so you can receive personalized feedback from Maiya Singh Ji and everyone else.

I'm working on Inviting 1-2 more teachers to join the project also.
Later if we have a big student base, I will get even more to join.

( The tabla bit is going to be especially useful for me as you can see from my videos below )

Classical / Semi-classical Songs from Indian Movies

2007-10-07T23:31:00.000+07:00

Tere Liye - from Veer Zara

The Song is : Kabhi Na Jaao Chod/Chor Kar - If you can tell me the movie , I'll update the info. I forgot to ask .

Dil Cheez Kya Hai - from the Old Umrao Jaan

Enjoy Something Embarassing

2007-10-07T23:26:00.000+07:00

Raag Charukesi : Roopak Taal .
This is the tune for "Har Sajjan Swami Mora" in Maiya Singh Ji's Cd .

I messed up on tabla quite badly. heheh
Enjoy.

Raag Asavari Based Tune : Kaherva

I have trouble timing my Tihais correctly. I'll work on it :P
I sort of know the theory bit .. Just need lots of practice with execution.

Madhuvanti

2007-09-23T23:34:00.000+07:00

Videos from Practise Session / Lesson.

Raag Madhuvanti .

11 Beat

Drut Tintaal.

My cousin Kabir Singh on tabla.

Was Really Good fun.

Raag Asa Shaan in Chanchal ( with Tabla )

2007-09-18T15:40:00.001+07:00

Thanks to My cousin Kabir who came over to practice. It's always more fun with tabla accompaniment.

Just for Smiles - Bhoopali

2007-08-27T22:26:00.000+07:00

Personal Practice comments:
* I Hit One Wrong note
* High Sa is not too clear a few times
* Otherwise I'm happy with it :P

A Short interpretation of " Dont Worry Be Happy " by Bobby McFerrin - which loosely fits into Raag Bhoopali

Looking to buy an Esraj or Dilruba ?

2007-08-26T23:55:00.003+07:00

If you ask me "Where can I buy a Quality Esraj or Dilruba?"

Earlier , I would have told everyone : " Err I don't Know - Mine is from Raj Musicals in Delhi, so I suppose you can get one there "

But .. I don't recommend them at this point - unless you fly down to buy and inspect the instrument yourself.
I have nothing against them. I just wish they would pay more attention to details.

Being totally objective and just stating facts : Every Musical Instrument that my teacher has ordered from him since he ordered mine - has been flawed in some way. Each flaw has been small - caused by the makers lack of attention to detail.

Either the Bridge was too big which caused the resonating strings to be raised too high and touch the frets. Which means they were "blocked" and did NOT resonate.
Or they put the strings in such a way that every tuning head did not Tighten the same way. Some tightened clockwise, others tightened counter-clockwise.
Or they put the wrong string (too thin) as the main playing string - and the Saaz barely makes any sound.
And there are at least 2 more cases that I heard in passing but did not bother to remember.

Granted, Everything was fixable (with a few hours of work - each - by someone experienced), but it's just irritating isn't it ? If you order something, It should reach you in proper working order.

It seems Raaj Musicals in Delhi will only take care and pay careful attention to all the details if you order an instrument through a well-known musician. Or if you're just lucky.

Note: Raj Musicals in Dehli is different from "Raj Academy" which is based in the UK. If you're planning to buy from Raj Academy in the UK - then you don't need to worry about what I've written above. Their instruments will most likely be OK because they have passed strict QC standards.

Anyways.. Now I have someone else I can recommend properly.
Check out Monoj Kumar Sardar & Bros - in Kolkata.

My good friend Angad just recently bought an Esraj from him. I have seen photos, and heard it on Skype. She's a beauty !
Best of all , it reached him with everything taken care of nicely. Nothing needs to be adjusted or messed with.

I hope they always give all their customers - newbies, amateur and professional - fantastic workmanship and great service.

My Next Saaz will definitely be from him.

Call Mr. MONOJ KUMAR at the office number, tell him Angad from Singapore recommended him.

Office Telephone: +91-33-2237-5835
Showroom Telephone: +91-33-2248-4519

Their Basic Site: Monoj Kr. Sardar & Bros.

----
* RIKHI RAM is another big brand name used by several professional Hindustani Classical musicians. Seek them out and ask them too. I think they're Delhi Based.

* If you're ready to invest in a TOP NOTCH, traditional Sikh Instrument (Rabab, Taus , Dilruba, Saranda, Jori, etc.): Get in touch with Bhai Baldeep Singh
----

A few personal recommendations:

1) I suggest you buy an ESRAJ rather than a DILRUBA because the main playing string of the ESRAJ is further away from the edge, and it's just more comfortable to play. (For me at least)
He's got 3-4 different grades of Esraj - so you can order one that suits your budget.

Order machine head tuners for the main strings and sympathetic strings, because if you're tall and get a small Esraj with big wooden tuning pegs, you wont be able to sit properly.

*** I visited Singapore in Dec 2007 and got a chance to play Angad's Esraj. See Videos from January 2008. His Esraj is smaller than mine, and the big wooden tuning pegs for the main strings go behind my neck when I play - so I can't sit straight. Other than that It's a brilliant Esraj though - I like it.
Except the tension on the main playing strings are not very high, which makes it a quiet instrument. You can instruct the manufacturer that you want the instrument to be a little louder than Angad's - so he should increase the string tension a bit - maybe 20% . He will probably do this by putting a taller bridge or putting slightly thicker stings. I'm not sure - ASK him. ***

Under the bridge of your instrument - there MUST be a leather strip that goes across the sound-box, over the first layer of skin. For Reinforcement.
Because of the nature of animal skin and the way it is attached to the Soundbox of the instrument - it will stretch and "sink in" somewhat after a while. A thin layer of reinforcement is highly recommended.

My own Esraj/TarShehnai is a two piece model from Delhi's Raj Musicals. It's a little bit large - 70cm string length from the point where it is suspended until where the bridge starts. String tension on my instrument's main string is about 30% higher than Angad's. (personal estimate)

You can order a two piece or one piece from MKS. One piece is more expensive, but should sound better and theoretically be more solid/longer lasting.

Let him know that you want to be able to tune the main playing string to play a range of Sa = C to D#

If you are tall, tell the manufacturer how tall you are - so they can make an instrument that suits your size.

If you're seriously planning to get one - Write all this stuff down :)

2) Secondly, Order the TarShehnai Horn/Soundbox. He charges only a tiny bit more, and it will be like you are buying 2 instruments in one.

3) Regarding the TarShehnai Horn - ask him for a horn that is SHORT and WIDE. It is my observation that they sound a bit deeper/sweeter than the Long/Narrow ones. But double check with the seller about this.
If possible, the Horn should be detachable from the Soundbox. If it is , order 2 horns - It WILL make a difference to the sound. Options I suggest you choose from:
* Light/Wide/Short
* Heavy/Wide/Short
* Light/Tall/Narrow
* Heavy/Tall/Narrow

But of course, in the end, the best thing is for you to get what YOU really want.
The above is just to just give you some guidelines based on what I know and like.

A friend of mine is working on making Esrajs out of Carbon-Fiber. The first prototypes should be done in July 2008. I will pass the information along when he informs me.

If you're worried about not being able to play and do not have access to a solid teacher - You can learn from Maiya Singh Ji on our Music School Site.

If you already have a really good teacher then, great ! post videos on YouTube - I'd love to see more active Dilruba/Esraj players.

Raag Bhairavi - Old Indian Song

2007-08-06T11:53:00.000+07:00

Song : " Dil Ka Khilona "

It's good practice to play Old Indian Songs.

Raag Desh

2007-08-04T19:38:00.001+07:00

Nice Tune in Raag Desh

Update Regarding Online Music School

2007-08-04T14:26:00.000+07:00

HarSangeet.com Online Kirtan Lessons
HarSangeet.com Hindustani Vocal lessons
HarSangeet.com Online Esraj Lessons Dilruba Lessons TarShehnai Lessons Taus
Tabla Lessons for beginner to intermediate levels

Current Status:

We're ready to start sharing lessons.
We've got some preliminary exercises and demonstrations up to keep you busy for a good month or so if you're an advanced student. If you're a beginner - a good 3 months of regular practice will bring you up to speed quickly.

Start Learning Now

Bhai Gurdev Singh - Dilruba - Ahir Bhairav

2007-07-26T00:50:00.000+07:00

Bhai Gurdev Singh - Also Learned Tar-Shehnai / Dilruba from Ustad Piara Singh about the same time as Bhai Baljeet Singh did.

My Ustad's Ustad's Ustad

2007-07-26T00:38:00.000+07:00

Thanks to Angad for sending me the link!
And thanks to whoever uploaded this video!

Ustad Piara Singh on TarShehnai.

Bhai Baljeet Singh learned from Ustad Piara Singh.

Maiya Singh picked up a lot of the tunes and style of Ustad Piara Singh by listening to him play during Diwaans and Informal Gatherings. Maiya Singh also spent time with Bhai Baljeet Singh as his student.

Rageshri Without Ga - try 2

2007-07-12T23:13:00.000+07:00

Try 2 .
Heard from Recording of Ustad Rashid Khan.
It's like Rageshri Without Ga
.. or even Pahari without Ga and Pa .

According to me, It's an improvement because the flow of notes is more accurate according to the recording I heard .
- but I Will try improving on it again soon.

Rageshri without Ga

2007-07-10T19:06:00.000+07:00

I picked this up from a recording of Ustad Rashid Khan. I have no idea what the Raag is called - but it's basically like Rageshri without Ga and some modifications to the flow of the notes, which I'm still trying to catch.

Re-take to come soon. I feel I can improve on my choice of notes for the alaap - It's not feeling quite right.

Raag Pahari Alaap and Tunes.

2007-06-30T14:21:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh on TarShehnai.
Manav Singh on TarShehnai - playing Along.
(TarShehnai = Hybrid Sitar + Sarangi + Mechanical Amplifier)

Raag Pahari Alaap.

Song tune in Raag Pahari.

Traditional Namdhari Shaans (Tunes) in Raag Pahari.

1)

2)

Here's an Idea of how he "randomly" composes Tunes. We were just jamming, I switched to Ik-Taal at just the right point (without being asked to) - he got an idea - and this is what happened afterwards. (by the way: In between, he's speaking THAI - I forgot to cut that out :)

Here's a Shabad Tune he's teaching me: Kanchan Sio Pa-e-yai Nahi Tol

Raag Patdeep

2007-06-10T18:08:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh, My Teacher, teaching me Raag Patdeep

Alaap:

Jamming, Tune 1:

Jamming, Tune 2:

Bhimpalasi Lesson + Jamming

2007-06-01T14:33:00.000+07:00

Bhimpalasi Practice :

My Teacher Jamming - Bhimpalasi Medium Tempo

My Teacher Jamming - Bhimpalasi Fast Tempo ( very tiring :S )

Tuning Dilruba

2007-05-17T13:52:00.000+07:00

Hello,
I got a message asking me how to tune the dilruba.

Basics:
The resonating (sympathetic) strings at the back will be tuned according to the raag.
Suppose you're playing Bilawal
tune .ma .Pa. Dha. .Ni Sa Re Ga ma Pa Dha Ni Sa Re. Ga. Ma. (until you run out of strings .. or you can repeat prominent notes like SA and PA as well )

The main playing string is tuned at Ma
My second string is SA
My third string is SA again or Ni - depends on whether I'm at Pehla Kala (C#) or Dooja Kala (D#).
My fourth string is either Pa or Ma - depends on whether I'm at Pehla Kala (C#) or Dooja Kala (D#).

Please note that nothing is Fixed - everyone has their own style. As long as you have each note covered and tuned accurately, The Saaj will sound good.

Generally - there's an optimum level of tightness for each Saaj. My Saaj sounds best at Dooja Kala (D#) for some reason - the resonance is much better than if I were to tune it at Pehla Kala.

Tuning the Saaj WELL is a different issue, which I hav not mastered completely yet - it's often very slightly 'off' - I can't tell , but my teacher can . I am getting better at it .

I will get my teacher to make a video about tuning when I get the proper 'online music lessons' site up. Btw: yes, I will be going ahead with it.
Give me 2 months to get another project off the ground, and then I will get it started. I already know what I need from a technical standpoint , all that's left is actually investing the time and money to do it.

Traditional Sikh Kirtan - Puratan Reet

2007-04-28T11:24:00.000+07:00

If you're a Kirtan-lover or even if you're generally intersted in music - check the following link:

Jap Man Narhare Narhar Swami - Raag Shudh Sarang

This is Puratan Reet Kirtan (Translation for those not familiar with Sikhi: Old School "Sikh Music")
The chorus is first sung in a 15 beat cycle - yep, no type-o: 15 beats.
And then they switch to a fast 12 beat cycle for the verses.

Switching rythmic cycles is an old Sikh tradition started by Our 4th Guru , Sri Guru Ram Das Ji.

This composition is about 350-400 years old.

.
.

I dont know about you, but every time I hear it, I get chills (in a good way).
On top of that, If you are in to spirituality/Sikhi etc and understand the meaning - it just takes you to another level.

Improvement In Playing

2007-04-06T21:13:00.000+07:00

I was watching videos of Bhai Baljeet Singh's UK Tour. I got totally lost in the way he was playing his Tar-Shehnai. After 15 minutes in awe of how sweet his music sounds - a question hit me: "How does he play differently from the way I do?"

"I want to be able to play like him" <- I've had this thought in my head since the first time I heard Bhai Baljeet Singh and Gurmeet Singh's rendition of "OHA PREM PIRI" on Sikhnet.

So, this time I had a new thought: "What do I need to adjust to be able to get closer to the way he plays?" "How does he play differently from the way I do?"

Anyways - I noticed 2 very very subtle things that make a HUGE difference. And the weird part is that my teacher Maiya Singh has mentioned these to me before in passing. Somehow It's slipped my awareness, and during my lessons he hasn't noticed that I'm not playing the way he told me to - because it's so subtle you have to really be looking for it to catch your attention.

I tried making those two adjustments and - I sound better !! Really!

1) See my previous videos - the neck of my saaj is resting in between My neck and the end of my shoulder. Adjustment: Rest My Saaj's neck on my collarbone, RIGHT next to my neck.

2) My wrist should not be bent. If I hold my left hand up and pretend to play - my wrist should be in line with my forearm.

No twisting or bending left wrist while playing. Whole hand/arm must move.

Fingers should be resting on the playing string like dead weight - PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE HIGH NOTES :P - No need to push down at all.

---

So there's a reminder to myself that everyone might be able to benefit from. Try it out.

I'll show y'all the result soon.

---
By the Way .. If you're following the news, Youtube doesnt work in Thailand anymore, So for now I'll be posting all new videos to Google video.

Can someone do me a favor and put comments in a 2-3 of my videos on youtube telling people to check here (if they're interested).

Pati Torai Malini

2007-04-03T22:27:00.000+07:00

Round 2!!:

Got this on the 4th take. Still a few mistakes, but according to me it's much better than yesterday.

Will try again soon - not committing to a date. :P

---

I swear this is a tough tune to play.

I tried 8 times today.. And only got this.

I see where I need to improve -
- Saaj went off tune .. didn't notice until after I saw recording.
- I need to bow harder on the High notes - it's sounding weird currently
- The playing lacks a certain Lively Bounce
- anything else ? kindly suggest

My brother is also saying he wants to try improving his tabla sound.

We will be back with another take at this!!! :D

3 Tunes in Raag Bhairavi

2007-04-01T18:56:00.000+07:00

3 Tunes in Raag Bhairavi

1st: Tune using both MAs and both GAs .. took me quite long to understand what was going on when I first heard it :P

2nd: Nice tune, but very hard to play - and My teacher said he didn't remember the rest of it, hence the short segment.

3rd: Old hindi song - see if anyone can guess what song. apparently it's VERY old.

My younger brother is on tabla.

Enjoy.

Raag Durga

2007-04-01T18:55:00.000+07:00

By Request:
Alaap and Tune I learned for the Shabad "Gur Jaisa Nahi Ko Dev"

Very sweet Raag -

Do you want this ?

2007-03-28T22:08:00.000+07:00

I have the resources to set up REGULAR ONLINE MUSIC LESSONS (delivered by Video)
- for beginner/intermediate/advanced levels

lessons can include

Gurbani Kirtan - Classical / Semi-Classical / Light Shabads - can even do requests. Send the file and someone will de-construct the tune and teach it SLOWLY so its easy to follow.

Singing
Playing along on Waja
Playing along on Dilruba
Advanced Compositions: Partaals and uncommon beat compositions: 11 beat, 9 beat, 13 beat, etc.

Tabla for Accompaniment - Beginner/Intermediate level only- but there will still be plenty of cool Tihais and Kaidas.

Vocal - PROPER singing tips and exercises ( Didi Aruna has agreed to teach - see the two posts below for sampling of her Skill - I will get more teachers to join up as well)

Dilruba / Tar Shehnai / Taus ( if you can play one , you can play 'em all ) - Tips, Techniques, Exercises, and USING everything that you've learned in compositions.

Classical Hindustani Bandishes, Ghazals, and Old Hindi Songs.

It'll be like this blog - except the lessons will be REGULARLY UPDATED (aiming for 1 time a week per Teacher) , and PROPERLY PLANNED.
Also there will be multiple videos in Each Lesson :

Random example :--
Lesson:
Shabad: "Satgur Poorai Naam Diya"
tune Heard from Narinder Singh Banaras Wale
Raag Prabhati Biphas
- so this lesson will be divided into:

1) Alaap of Raag

2) Just Singing the shabad - with repeated emphasis on the difficult bits, how to embellish and sweeten the tune, proper pronunciation of Bani

3) The notes on Waja

4) How to Play along on Dilruba so it sounds good + Perhaps a Shaan thrown in

5) Tabla accompaniment - how to make it sound good: Playing so it sounds light and happy / or heavy. Adding embellishments. Playing off-beat, and then fitting back in. Tihais, Kaidas. Mixing Beats (playing Dadra in Tintaal maybe) etc. etc. Whatever knowledge the teacher can give.

6) The Shabad Sung properly without interruptions , with tabla accompaniment.

optional 7) Taans/Sargams/Tihais - for both Vocal and Dilruba ( for classical tunes - so People who are interested more in the MUSIC than the Bani , can just use the composition )

It'll have to be a membership site so we can keep it running on a consistent ongoing basis. I'm estimating membership fees will have to be about US$40 per month, depending on how much it costs to set the whole thing up- ( which if you calculate is ONLY around $3-5 per lesson ) .. and all old lessons will still be there for you to check out at a later date.

If you're interested .. please leave a comment.
If at least 50 different people confirm that they want this - I will put it together IMMEDIATELY.
Kindly spread the word - and let me know in the comments section of this post if this is something you would like to have.

Thanks.

additional Note:

most of the info may be based around Gurbani / Sikh music (I'm planning about 50%) - but it will be applicable to general Hindustani Classical as well.
If you can play tabla along to one piece of music, you can play along to everything.

And - a lot of times, if you omit the words and just play the tunes for the Shabads, you'll end up with something very similar to hindustani classical compositions. A lot of Shabad tunes are based on Hindustani Classical compositions anyway.

But of course we will try to accomodate everyone - I will make sure there are enough tunes and compositions to keep non-Sikhs interested too.
Perhaps we can add a taans/sargams/tihais section to each lesson so people who are interested in the Tune and not
the Bani (words), will still get benefit from it.
I'll even make sure to put up songs.

The more people I can serve, the better.

ANOTHER NOTE:

Once in a while : We'll be able to get (audio) studio recordings of our "Teachers" - and most of those will be put up on the site and available to members for download.

Arungeet Kaur singing Raag Bhairavi

2007-03-28T00:21:00.000+07:00

Aruna didi singing Raag Bhairavi at Aunty Tara's house - March 24 2007

Arungeet Kaur singing Raag Kaushikdhwani

2007-03-26T10:13:00.000+07:00

Aruna Didi singing Raag Kaushikdhwani / Kaushik .
Some scholars say this is the original Raag Basant before the version with Komal Re and Tivar Ma became popular - ... but whatever, if you ask 100 people something, you'll get a 100 different opinions ... I dont like to argue, it's a nice Raag - and sung Very very well. Enjoy .

Classical Music get-together at Aunty Tara's House - March 24 2005.

Raag Kirwani

2007-03-25T23:25:00.000+07:00

Small "classical music" get-together at Aunty Tara's house on 24 March 2007.

Maiya Singh (My Teacher) on Tarshehnai
I'm on tabla.

The foil-leaf in the Tarshehnai's sound box popped so my teacher had to end abruptly.

Btw. this little recording was done with NO practice. - the Get-together WAS the practice.

Enjoy

tune from SUPER OLD indian movie

2007-02-05T22:58:00.000+07:00

My teacher says Ustad Pyara Singh used to love playing this tune.

Raag Bhoopali Bandish

2007-02-05T22:56:00.000+07:00

Composition in Raag Bhoopali.

Raag Asa : Shaan + Shabad Tune

2007-02-05T22:50:00.000+07:00

One of my favorite tunes. Very very difficult to memorize.
I heard the tune from the Shabad Track: "Gur Kunji Pahu Nival" sung by Bhai Baljeet Singh at least 50-60 times.
Even then I memorized it incorrectly.
So my teacher has played it slowly for me to be able to catch the nuances.

Here's a modified tune for "Gur Kunji Pahu Nival" (I wanted to sing a different Shabad to this composition) - in Raag Asa. Amazingly Sweet Tune.

Raag Asa - Shaan

2007-01-21T16:22:00.000+07:00

Nice peaceful and happy tune in Raag Asa.

Mouli Dharti Moulia Akash - Shabad Tune

2007-01-21T16:19:00.000+07:00

Tune for Shabad in Raag SHUDH BASANT (According to Gurbani Kirtan Scholars)

Shabad is "Mouli Dharti Moulia Akash" - heard from Bhai Nirmal Singh, Hazoori Ragi of Darbar Sahib Amritsar.

I know the alaap needs work - was kind of random.
And nobody was there to help me stay in beat.
And a few notes are ~off.

Audio Cd - Gurbani Kirtan - By Maiya Singh

2007-01-09T18:51:00.000+07:00

My teacher went to India in 2005 and created a Gurbani Kirtan Audio Cd.

I then got a few hundred CDs made (Proper Factory CD , not burned at home).

On the Recording, He's accompanied by Namdhari Hazoori Ragis :

Harpreet Singh (Sonu) - on Tabla
Balwant Singh - on Santoor
Gurdial Singh (Lali) - on Sitar
and Davinder Singh - on TarShehnai

The Kirtan is sung Ghazal / Semi-Classical / Easy-listening Style
(Sorry = Non Title-Raag :( )
Sound Quality is excellent.
click here for the audio files of Maiya Singh's Kirtan CD

Anyway - there are plenty of CDs left unsold which is greatly slowing down plans to create new recordings. So if you like the Cd, please take one - help clear the stock so a new one can be produced.

I have here, right beside my computer 9 Unopened CDs that I promised I'd sell (Since 2005) - And I'm sure my teacher has plenty more.

If anyone is interested, I'd be happy to ship you a CD for US$9 (Covers the cost of producing the CDs and includes Worldwide shipping by Registered Thai Air Mail)

** Update ** had to change from $7 to $9 because cost of Shipping was quite a bit higher than expected.

Paypal Link has been sorted out.

Raag Khamaj - Ustad Bismillah Khan

2007-01-02T01:43:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh, My teacher, playing a tune he said he often used for practice when he was younger.

If you noticed: the phone rang towards the end of the recording. :P heheh

Tar Shehnai / Esraj (Dilruba) - Raag Kalyan

2007-01-02T01:40:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh, My teacher, playing a Bandish in Raag Yaman/Kaliyaan.

Recording was made mainly for practice purposes.

Not bad for someone who just plays this on the spot without any recent practice eh?

The instrument is a Tar Shehnai, which is an Esraj + a horn that produces the sweet, high pitched sound.

An Esraj (similar to Dilruba) is a hybrid Sarangi + Sitar.

If you noticed: I fumbled the taal at one point because I started concentrating on what my teacher was playing, but he adjusted what he was playing to fit my mistake in.

Advanced listeners will notice instantly :P

Maiya Singh - TarShehnai - Song

2006-12-19T21:30:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh
Testing out a friend's new TarShehnai. Playing a song in Raag Yaman/Kaliyaan/Kalyaan.
The song is : Bhuli Hui Yaadein ( It's pretty old - 1960s or something )

I'm on tabla.

Maiya Singh - TarShehnai - Bandish

2006-12-19T21:27:00.000+07:00

Maiya Singh
Testing out a friend's new Tar-Shehnai
Playing a Bandish in Raag Yaman/Kaliyaan/Kalyaan
The Bandish is called: Pal Pal Mori

What's a Bandish? It's a composition / musical piece / tune . Basically the chorus and the verses are somewhat set, and the musician can improvise in between them.

Practice Technique 2

2006-12-14T14:26:00.000+07:00

Example is for Raag Bhoopali - you can convert it to work for any Raag

Play the following notes:

S R
S R G
S R G P
S R G P D
S R G P D S.

S. D
S. D P
S. D P G
S. D P G R
S. D P G R S

First play 1 bow per note.
After a while, try 1 bow per line - as written above.

Try to keep a constant tempo - I find this very tough to do

Practice Technique

2006-12-14T14:01:00.000+07:00

Try this combination of notes

Memorize this pattern - and use it for practising any Raag.

This is example will be For Raag Kalyaan (Yaman)

.N R G .N G R .N R G .N R .N G R .N

(N = low ni)

Then use the same pattern and go up along the aroh

R G m R m G R G m R G R m G R
(m = ma tivar )

etc.

Try bowing one note at a time
then two notes with one bow
then three notes with one bow
until you can do the whole sequence with one bow

keep a constant speed.

Try - and please post links to your videos as comments. So everyone can check out and help point out how to improve.

Bhai Baljeet Singh & Gurmeet Singh Namdhari - Kirtan Program in the UK

2006-12-14T13:52:00.000+07:00

Foward to 27:00 mins and ENJOY.
Also Check out 53:30

My opinion: They're one of the best Ragi Jathas in the world right now. In terms of feeling expressed when singing / musical skill / and just overall style.

My teacher learned Tar-shehnai from Bhai Baljeet Singh.

Bhai Baljeet Singh learned from Ustad Piyara (Pyara) Singh.

Before that - no clue :P

Raag Bhoopali on Guitar - South Indian Style

2006-12-12T11:22:00.000+07:00

They call it Raag Mohanam - Very similar to Raag Bhoopali.

This guy is very good.

Listen to how it compares with the way I played Raag Bhoopali - "same same, yet different"

Raag Desh (Sorath) - Guitar

2006-12-12T11:09:00.000+07:00

I found this video of a guy playing Indian Classical Music (South Indian/Carnatic Style) on Guitar. Looks like he's just jamming with his friends. He's very good.

Raag Desh (Sorath) - very sweet raag.
It is quite commonly used in indian music, especially for Indian patriotic songs (like "Vande Mataram").

Nitin Sawhney's "Nadia" is also in Raag Desh.

Dilruba - Raag Bhoopali Alaap

2006-12-10T14:47:00.000+07:00

Short Alaap in Raga Bhoopali . practicing .

I love this Raga - always gives out a very happy and light mood.
Oddly enough - If you listen to this old English song : "Don't Worry, Be Happy" - by Bobby McFerrin you'll notice that it's basically in Raag Bhoopali (notes used: S R G P D S)

"Don't Worry, Be Happy" - by Bobby McFerrin

Here is a little song I wrote
You might want to sing it note for note
Don't worry be happy
In every life we have some trouble
When you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy......

Ain't got no place to lay your head
Somebody came and took your bed
Don't worry, be happy
The land lord say your rent is late
He may have to litigate
Don't worry, be happy
Lood at me I am happy
Don't worry, be happy
Here I give you my phone number
When you worry call me
I make you happy
Don't worry, be happy
Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style
Ain't got not girl to make you smile
But don't worry be happy
Cause when you worry
Your face will frown
And that will bring everybody down
So don't worry, be happy (now).....

There is this little song I wrote
I hope you learn it note for note
Like good little children
Don't worry, be happy
Listen to what I say
In your life expect some trouble
But when you worry
You make it double
Don't worry, be happy......
Don't worry don't do it, be happy
Put a smile on your face
Don't bring everybody down like this
Don't worry, it will soon past
Whatever it is
Don't worry, be happy

What the heck is a Raag?

2006-12-09T16:53:00.000+07:00

This is how I understand it simply: A Raag is a set of rules for creating music/melody.
The rules of a Raag will determine things like:

which notes to skip and which notes to use - overall
which notes to skip and which notes to use when you're ascending from low to high
which notes to skip and which notes to use when you're descending from high to low
what pattern of notes must be included in the music you're creating
what pattern of notes must be avoided in the music you're creating

Staying within the rules of each Raag - you can improvise as much as you wish.

That's basically it, without getting into too much detail.

Dilruba - Raag Kalyan

2006-12-08T22:15:00.000+07:00

Me practicing Raag Kalyaan
Short Alaap - and a Shaan (Instrumental Tune) I heard from a recording of Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi.

I find this Raag very peaceful and soothing.

Raag Kalyan - Taus and Tar-Shehnai

2006-12-06T11:46:00.000+07:00

Raag Kalyan (Yaman) is a Raag that is quite commonly heard/played/sung. Can create tunes that are peaceful, relaxing, devotional, and sometimes even sad; depending on how it's played.

If you know any songs in this Raag - pls post.

The video is of an Instrumental concert in the UK. I recognize only Ranbir Singh - playing the Taus - which is a bigger version of the dilruba that's shaped like a peacock. It has a peacock head attached to the front, and the rest of it is the body and the tail. It's got a deeper sound than regular Dilrubas.

Raag Khamaj Shaan

2006-12-05T12:39:00.000+07:00

One of my favorite tunes - Learned from my teacher.

Tough one.. especially with no tabla to help stay in beat.

Raag Asavari - Tum Ho Sabh Rajan Ke Raja

2006-12-03T23:38:00.000+07:00

Heard from Bhai Baljeet Singh & Gurmeet Singh's CD - If you haven't heard it yet you're missing out.

Pls note - I know I fumbled on many notes on this recording - but out of 10 recordings I made this was the best.

Will use this as motivation to keep improving. Can use this site to track progress.

Raag Dhanasri - Kaisee Aarti Hoye Tune

2006-12-03T23:33:00.000+07:00

Raag Dhanasri ( Many modern hindustani classical music teachers call this raag Bhimpalasi now )

Tune of "Kaisee Aartee Hoye" heard from Bhai Avtar Singh Ragi's Recordings.

Tar Shehnai / Esraj (Dilruba)

2006-12-03T22:48:00.000+07:00

Dilruba = stringed instrument that looks like a smaller version of the Sitar, but is played with a bow like a Cello. Another appropriate description is "a Dilruba is Half a Sarangi and Half a Sitar", as you can see from the videos above.

Esraj = Same as a Dilruba, except the bottom is shaped differently. There are a few other small differences also: like the position of the main playing string, and the way the resonating strings are arranged behind the playing string.

Tar-Shehnai = Esraj + Sound Box that produces a high pitched Shehnai type sound.

I've been learning the Tar-Shehnai / Esraj for 3 years. Still need lots of practise, but I'm having fun- and this site is to post up random Tunes i've Learned / Heard.

Enjoy