Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, founded in the 15th century, is one of the most important monasteries in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Now re-established in exile in South India, the monastery is once again becoming one of the major centres of learning, best known for its artistic tradition of masked dances and sacred music.

Come hear a delightful demonstration of khangso (prayer) with the monastic orchestra of bells, cymbals, great long horns and drums! Have a go at the great Dungchen (Long Horns) and various percussion instruments. Learn the intricate mudras – hand gestures to go along with the chanting.

You will also have the rare opportunity to witness a philosophical debate, one of the most important part of the monks' studies. At the monastery, even the youngest of the monks take part every evening, debating the deepest meanings of the scriptures in order to reach the fullest possible understanding.

For further info on the monastery, please visit: www.tashi-lhunpo.org.uk

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One of the finest teachers of tabla , Pandit Suresh Talwalkar is a renowned tabla soloist and a household name in India. He comes from an illustrious family of famous keertankar Dholebua. He studied with veterans like Pt. Pandharinath Nageshkar and Pt. Vinayakrao Ghangrekar. He was also influenced by the great Ustad Thirakeva Khan.

One of this greatest contributions is the introduction of vocal accompaniment to tabla solo, which has given a new dimension and direction to tabla solo performance. This has enhanced the dignity of tabla solo and has brought it closer to vocal music.

He will teach you about his style, technique of his own tradition as well as the art of accompaniment.

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Khyal (lit. ‘fantasy') is the principal genre of North Indian vocal music, demanding improvisational flexibility as well as careful attention to nuances of intonation, phrasing and rhythm based on a knowledge of ragas.

Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar is a master vocalist from the Jaipur tradition. Beautiful compositions (bandishes) interspersed with superb, varied improvisations and TAANS (fast and virtuosic passages) are charactertistic of this wonderful artist.

He will teach you khyal style from his gharana (school), and a composition.

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Dhrupad is believed to be the oldest surviving form of North Indian classical vocal music,dating back to the 15 th Century. The dhrupad style is characterised by its sombre, dignified and devotional mood, its slow tempo and gradual melodic development.

Ashoka Dhar is one of a very few female dhrupad singers in India. She has been singing for over thirty years and is accompanied on the pakhawaj drum by her son Rishabh Dhar.

These workshops are open to beginners and those with some experience of the dhrupad style. There will be emphasis on learning the dhrupad vocal style with classes explaining rhythm and taal. On Saturday and Sunday mornings it will be possible to specialise either in dhrupad vocal or pakhawaj as separate classes will be held at these times.

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