Raag Rhythms: An Introduction to North Indian Classical Music
Summer School for Adults (16+)
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Overview
Led by Scotland’s leading Tabla artist, this unique intensive three day course is aimed at people aged 16 and above who would like to learn more about the North Indian Classical musical style, develop their musical skills, and connect with like-minded people.
By the end of the course you will have had the opportunity to:
- Gain an understanding of the unique approach to rhythm in North Indian Classical music, including the structure of taal and how it is counted.
- Develop an appreciation for the intricate nuances of melody, including the key elements of raags and the various techniques used to differentiate them.
- Cultivate a broader cultural understanding by exploring the historical and cultural context of North Indian Classical music.
- Explore the diverse array of instruments utilised in Indian classical music, including traditional instruments like the Sarangi, Bansuri, Santoor, and Pakhavaj, as well as modern adaptations and hybrids, understanding their unique characteristics, playing techniques, and roles within ensemble performances.
Distinctiveness
This course stands out as a unique offering in Scotland due to several key factors:
- Taught by an Indian Classically trained musician with 35 years of experience, ensuring students receive authentic and expert instruction.
- Focuses specifically on North Indian Classical music, providing information into a musical tradition that is not widely explored in this region.
- Emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical application, enabling students to develop a well-rounded appreciation for the art form.
If you have any questions in advance of booking, please contact us at summerschools@rcs.ac.uk
The important details
Age:
16+
Cost:
£225
Date:
25 - 27 July 2025
Time:
Friday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm
Venue:
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB
Course Information
This course is suitable for students aged 16 and over, with little musical experience and knowledge. Students should be keen to learn and plan to attend all classes.
Day 1: Introduction to North Indian Classical Music
- Session 1: Overview of Indian Classical Musi
- Session 2: Introduction to Ragas and Taals
- Session 3: Hands-on Practical Session with Instruments
Day 2: Exploring Ragas and Taals
- Session 4: Exploring Basic Ragas
- Session 5: Basic Taal Patterns
- Session 6: Vocal Styles: Khayal and Dhrupad
Day 3: Application and Practice
- Session 7: Fusion of Theory and Practice
- Session 8: Practice and Feedback
- Session 9: Conclusion and Recap
To maximise the learning experience, students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with basic concepts of music theory and notation. Additionally, listening to recordings of North Indian Classical music and familiarizing themselves with different raags will help prepare them for the course.
- Plan and prepare to attend all classes.
- Dress comfortably in clothes which are suitable for the activity you are taking part in.
- Bring a notepad and pen/pencil to make notes.
- Please bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your class.
Hardeep Deerhe (Sodhi) brings over three decades of experience as a tabla player and educator to the forefront of his teaching. He was Introduced to North Indian classical music at the age of 11, setting him on a journey which shape him into a musician and mentor.
Having studied under the tutelage of various gurus, Sodhi possesses a wealth of knowledge and insight into the intricate art of tabla. His deep understanding of rhythm, melody, and expression, acquired through years of dedicated practice and guidance, forms the foundation of his teaching philosophy.
In the context of North Indian classical music, His nuanced understanding of Raag and Taal theory, and the historical evolution of Indian classical music, ensures that students receive comprehensive and engaging instruction throughout the course.
Moreover, Sodhi’s hands-on approach to teaching, coupled with his ability to communicate complex musical concepts with clarity and enthusiasm, creates an immersive learning environment. He has a passion for preserving the art of tabla and inspiring students to develop a deep appreciation for Indian classical music.
Summer Accommodation
We are pleased to welcome students from across the world to our Summer Schools. Our course fees do not include accommodation or food, and these should be organised by the student. Our campus is located in Glasgow city centre, and you can find the addresses below.
We recommend Base Glasgow, as purpose-built accommodation for Conservatoire students, with Rehearsal Rooms, Practice spaces and Dance Studios. Base Glasgow is perfectly suited for our summer school students; both safe and secure, with 24/7 staff presence and only 3 mins walk from our main Renfrew Street building, keeping travel costs to a minimum.
Classic En-Suite rooms come with a 3/4 bed, en-suite bathroom, ample storage, mirror, study desk and chair. The shared area includes a spacious lounge and kitchen area.
Please note that Short Courses staff are not affiliated with BASE or on site outwith the summer school teaching hours, and therefore cannot take responsibility for students outside of these hours.
For more information about booking accommodation at BASE Glasgow you can contact them directly via website BASE – Student Accommodation in Glasgow or email baseglasgow@herestudents.com.
Alternatively, there are plenty of hotels, hostels, and b’n’b options available. We are located close to transport links should you wish to stay outside the city centre. If you are travelling to Glasgow for a course, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers course fees, travel, accommodation, and cancellations due to COVID-19 – as RCS will not refund in this circumstance. You can view the Cancellations and Refund policy for full information.
For students under 18 years old, we strongly advise travelling with a responsible adult should any emergency situations arise during class. Students are only monitored by staff during class times.
Renfrew Street Campus: 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB
Wallace Studios Campus: 210 Garscube Road, Glasgow, G4 9RR
Further Information
We want to ensure as many children, young people and adult learners as possible can access the performing and production arts education that is offered through Short Courses at RCS. Financial support options available for Short Courses include:
Agnes Allan Bursary
Agnes Allan was a teacher, passionate about inclusion, and this bursary scheme exists to offer support to students to participate in the performing or production arts.
The Agnes Allan Bursary provides some support to students who may require financial assistance to take part in a short course in dance, drama, music, production or screen.
Anyone who wishes to take part in our Short Courses and faces a financial barrier can apply for bursary support to help meet the cost of tuition fees.
James McAvoy Drama Scholarships
BAFTA-winning and Golden Globe nominated actor James McAvoy is committed to nurturing the creative potential of young Scots who experience barriers to access and participate in drama at RCS Short Courses.
James is a graduate of the BA Acting programme at RCS and Patron of the Junior Conservatoire of Drama. The Glasgow-born actor has funded the new James McAvoy Drama Scholarships to enable young people to experience the world-class drama training at RCS as he did.
The scholarship aims to support applicants who would otherwise find meeting the cost of tuition fees at RCS a barrier to accessing pre-Higher Education drama training at the Royal Conservatoire.
You can find more information about these funds on our Financial Support page.
We run various promotional offers for our Short Courses and Summer Schools. You can view our current offers on our Promotional Offers page.
You should contact us at shortcourses@rcs.ac.uk to request your discount code before booking a course.
Please note, only one promotional offer can be applied per course and should be used at the time of booking as we are unable to apply a discounts retrospectively.
Please see our Short Course FAQs for more information about all aspects of choosing, booking and attending your course.
Please see our Short Courses – Terms and Conditions for more information about your contract with Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and Cancellation and Refund policies.
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