Learn Fundamentals of Carnatic Music

As mentioned in the Course Summary, this course emphasizes getting the grammar right for Carnatic vocals. Keeping this objective at the core of the lesson plan, the course will include the following topics - 

1. All the different Varisais and Alankaras - 

• Sarali varisais are simple patterns that go up and down the scale. 
• Janta varisais have notes sung in pairs to strengthen the voice. 
• Dhattu varisais involves singing notes in jumping patterns to improve agility. 
• Melsthayi varisais focuses on high notes, while Mandrasthayi varisais focuses on low notes.

2. Alankaras include different patterns of notes in varied rhythms. It helps to get the intonation right and also understand different rhythms. Practicing these exercises helps students improve pitch, rhythm, and overall singing technique.

3. Geethams - Compositions based on different Ragas

4. Varnams - Raga based compositions that include lyrical portions as well as musical patterns. It forms the foundational piece of a recital. 

5. Krithi - Compositions that help you to demonstrate your vocal prowess and musical acumen. These are marked with spontaneous repertoire.

6. Keerthana - The word means praises. These are compositions that are created to sing praises of God.

7. Devaranama - Deeply devotional songs with lyrics imbued with intense emotion and spiritual fervor. 

8. Devotional songs - A significant part of Carnatic music, encompassing compositions that praise deities, express devotion, and convey spiritual messages. 

9. Nottuswaram - These songs offer a fusion between Western musical notation with traditional Carnatic music elements. The simple melodic structure of these songs makes it a favoritel among Beginners. Some popular Nottuswarams composed by Muthuswami Dikshitar include "Santatam Pahimam," "Shakti Sahita Ganapatim," and "Varashiva Balam."

About the Teacher

Subhashini Neelamegam is a distinguished Carnatic Veena artist, educator, and researcher with over 15 years of experience in performance and teaching. She holds an M.Phil. and M.Music in Veena from Annamalai University, where she successfully presented a thesis on the legendary Veena Vidwan Pitchumani Iyer and his contributions to the art form.

She has trained under some of the most renowned Vainikas and senior Gurus, including Dr. Suma Sudhindra, Vidhushi Pushpa Kashinath, and Vidhwan V.G. Subramanian. Additionally, she received Carnatic vocal training from esteemed disciples of Alathoor Srinivasa Iyer and Vidhushi Neela Ramgopal. Her passion for the arts also led her to pursue Bharatanatyam training.

Subhashini has showcased her artistry at some of the most prestigious venues in India, including:

• Sree Ramaseva Mandali (as part of the 75 Veena Ensemble led by her Guru Dr. Suma Sudhindra)
• Chowdaiah Memorial Hall (25 Veena Ensemble with Dr. Suma Sudhindra)
• Bangalore Gayana Samaj (both as a soloist and ensemble artist)
• Bangalore Palace (performance with Vidhushi Pushpa Kashinath)
• Raja Annamalai Puram Ayyappa Temple, Chennai (solo concert)

Her active participation in both individual and group concerts has enriched her musical journey, allowing her to mentor students and lead ensembles.

Subhashini is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. She offers online Carnatic Veena and Vocal lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced-level students. Her teaching approach blends traditional methodology with structured learning, ensuring that students develop technical proficiency, theoretical understanding, and expressive artistry.