Celebrating Classical Excellence: Day Nine of Music & Kathak Workshop Enchants Students in Meerut
Meerut : The rich heritage of Indian classical music and dance resonated deeply on the ninth day of the ongoing Music and Kathak Workshop, jointly organized by the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi, Lucknow, and Shivangi Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Meerut. The workshop continues to inspire and educate young artists at two locations in the city — the evening session at the Mahavidyalaya’s Gandhinagar headquarters and the morning session at its branch located in Kuber School, Roorkee Road.
In the Kathak Dance Workshop, renowned Kathak Guru Ruchi Baluni conducted an immersive session covering intricate aspects of the classical dance form. Students were introduced to layakari (rhythmic patterns), thaat, uthan, aamad, tode, tukde, tihai, chakradhar, and bhaav elements such as kavitt and gat bhaav. Special emphasis was placed on tatkaar (footwork) and hastak (hand movements). Guru Baluni simplified the expressive nuances of emotions in Kathak, making the art form accessible and inspiring for learners of all levels.
The music segment of the workshop, led by Principal Raja Baluni, guided students through sargam (solfège), aalap (improvisation), and taans (fast melodic phrases)—deepening their understanding of Hindustani classical vocal techniques.
Adding a rhythmic pulse to the workshop, Tabla maestro and Ajrada Gharana artist Saptak Sharma introduced students to teen taal (16-beat cycle) and advanced layakari techniques. Students gained practical insights into the distinctive styles of this traditional percussion gharana.
The sessions were further enhanced with accompaniment from:
- Tabla accompaniment by Mohammad Anees and Mohammad Farooq
- Harmonium support by Mohammad Faraz Ahmed and Mohammad Shahbaz
The workshop was meticulously coordinated by Director Richa Sharma, with special support from faculty and volunteers including Manju Sharma, Gun, Sumedha, Pratiksha, Yashasvi, Amisha, and Farha.
This workshop is a testament to Shivangi Sangeet Mahavidyalaya’s commitment to nurturing classical arts in the region and fostering a deep connection between tradition and today’s youth.
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