Mata Mandir Singh is the musical director of Guru Ram Das Kirtan Academy. He teaches in-depth music lessons via Zoom and is now teaching in-person also through the auspices of the Guru Ram Das Academy.

Mata Mandir Singh is creative and masterful in tailoring the below techniques and skills to each student as per their interest and skill level from beginners to advanced players. He has studied and practiced the Indian music system for more than thirty years. He teaches Rag and Taal (melody and rhythm) and teaches tabla, harmonium, Rabab and Indian vocal practice. He also teaches how to accompany kirtan using various non-traditional stringed instruments such as mandolin and Cittern. Although the system is classically based we practice and play shabds and mantra more in the folk and semi classical range rather than strictly classical practice.

Guitar and Kirtan

All manner of guitar techniques including chord structures, both conventional and unconventional, strumming and fingerpicking techniques, alternate guitar tunings, scales and basic music theory regarding melody and rhythm. These will draw upon both Indian and Western musical traditions. The classes begin with learning basic chants and compositions from Mata Mandir Singh’s extensive catalog of recorded music.

Vocal

Combined with the above will be basic vocal training to find one’s authentic voice, to practice staying on pitch and develop the ability to sing with power and relaxation at the same time.

Composition

The art of composing chants, shabds and songs is introduced early on to encourage each student`s own ability to create melodies and chord structures that enhance their creative and meditative abilities.