From Appreciation to Connoisseurship

In a world of constant noise, listening with interest, intent and without interruption is a phenomenal skill.

This interactive workshop offers a friendly, accessible introduction to Hindustani art music for listeners with little or no prior exposure. Rather than approaching the tradition through rules and terminology alone, the session teaches participants how to listen, through live demonstration, guided listening exercises, and conversation. What actually happens, moment to moment, within a Hindustani performance?

Participants will pick up some of the tradition’s fundamental concepts and forms, learning to identify the musical elements at work and to appreciate the choices a performer makes in real time. The focus is on building the ear of an engaged, informed listener. No prior musical knowledge is required; simply a passion for learning and an interest in the art.