Indian Classical Music Appreciation Course

Presented as part of Darbar Festival 2026 , the Indian Classical Music Appreciation Course offers an immersive introduction to the principles and aesthetics of Hindustani classical music. Designed for both newcomers and curious listeners, the workshop explores the foundations of raga and tala, the role of improvisation, traditional notation systems, and the structure of a live classical concert.

Led by Harmeet Singh Virdee (Sitar) and Sukhdeep Dhanjal (Tabla) , the course combines live demonstrations, guided listening, discussions, and interactive learning to help participants deepen their understanding of India's classical music traditions. Attendees will gain insights into how ragas are developed, how rhythmic cycles function, and how musicians create spontaneous musical dialogue during performance. The programme also examines the progression of a Hindustani concert, enabling participants to engage more meaningfully with live performances throughout Darbar Festival.

Speakers

Harmeet Singh Virdee – Sitar

Sukhdeep Dhanjal – Tabla

Event Details

Date: 24 October 2026 Venue: The Barbican Centre, London, United Kingdom Festival: Darbar Festival 2026

Schedule

09:45 AM – 10:00 AM – Doors Open 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Registration and Course Overview 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM – What Is a Raga? A Live Exploration on Sitar 11:30 AM – 11:50 AM – Tea/Coffee Break 11:50 AM – 01:00 PM – How Rhythm Works: Taal and the Tabla 01:00 PM – 02:00 PM – Lunch Break 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM – Inside a Live Performance: How a Concert Unfolds 03:00 PM – 03:30 PM – Questions, Instruments, and Musician Interaction