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Instrumental Series

MRIDANGAM-KONNAKOL

KONNAKOL SHORT COURSE

 The Konnakol is spoken rhythm. It is the art of performing percussion syllables vocally in South Indian Carnatic music. This art is currently gaining popularity in the Western world. Open to both beginners and those with experience, join this course to experience the joy of uttering rhythmic syllables musically. Learn the basics of tala structure, rhythm accent, rhythm syllables, variations, creativity in composing, and the aspects of Laya (tempo – 3 speeds). For advanced students, you will also get an insight into the formula to composing endlessly in the Pancha jathi talas – the 5 principal rhythms patterns.
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10 Weeks
20th Jan - 24th March 2021

WHAT WE WILL COVER:

Introduction to the instrument


Introduction to the rhythm patterns


Speed and pacing


Other students who have studied with us

I jumped at the opportunity to learn and practice Konnakol with M Balachandar at the Bhavan when I saw the online course announced in the Bhavan's events circular e.mail as it is particularly useful for understanding rhythm and tala (metre) in the context of Indian classical music (both south and north), but also for most other genres of music as well

As a committed sarodiya (I was fortunate to be able to study at the Bhavan for 3 years) and as a European, I feel privileged to be able to study Konnakol with Balachandar at the Bhavan. I am really enjoying and have already greatly benefitted from the programme, especially through a heightened awareness that I have acquired of and control in dealing with more complex rhythm cycles. I also feel freer to explore melody and composition over the various different tals.
Mr Balachandar is a very patient and helpful teacher who clearly explains and transmits the important aspects of tempo, rhythm and talam, as well as answering all of our questions. His system of teaching is practical and useful and he greatly encourages us, the students, to take best advantage of our contact time and to practice, practice, practice. I feel that through his guidance I am successfully being inducted into the joys and secrets of konnakol.With the first class itself I knew I was in the right place. It was pure bliss.

Is this course for me?

  • This course is open to beginners as well as advanced students.



Times and Dates

DATES
 20th January –  24th March

TIMINGS
Wednesdays, 6 pm – 7 pm 

COURSE FEE
£100DATES 

THIS COURSE WILL TAKE PLACE VIA ZOOM

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Places are limited to 12 participants, so please sign up now to secure your place
Meet the instructor

Sri. M. BALACHANDAR

“Teaching and performing are like my two eyes, how can I love one more than the other?”
A talented performer and teacher, M. Balachandar has accompanied some of the greatest Indian classical musicians including sitar legend late Pandit Ravi Shankar and the famous Dr. Balamurali Krishna. Several of his former students have gone on to become successful professional artists including Pirashanna Thevarajah who has toured with sitar player Anoushka Shankar.
Patrick Jones - Course author