This course is a foundational course that covers the fundamentals of Konnakol in a step-by-step way covering the following:

• Introduction to the origin of Konnakol and its relation to the percussion instrument Mridangam
• Introduction to the art of Konnakol
• Learning of different syllables that combine to form words or sentences framed within a rhythmic cycle
• Introduction to syllables like Tha, Dhi, Thom, and Dha Kita that mimic the sounds of a percussion instrument, more so the mridangam
• Concept of Tala or rhythmic cycle in any composition
• Introduction to hand movements that accompany the vocal recital of syllables in Konnakol
• Introduction to Jathi or reciting a string of vocal syllables in Konnakol
• Balapathas meaning basic solfege, Paluvarasas, Mohras, Korvai, Rades or subdivision of beats

After successful completion of this course, students can gear themselves for the next course, which will look in detail at the different patterns of Konnakol, dwelling further into the tala system: Basics of Konnakol | Vocal Percussion - Level II

About the Teacher: Stalwart BC Manjunath has been practising the mridangam for the last 35 years and represents the fourth generation of musicians in his family.

Performing on stage for the last 30 years, BC Manjunath has had the good fortune of performing alongside the greatest music exponents, namely Pt. Ravi Shankar, Dr M. Balamuralikrishna, Mysore M. Nagraj, Dr Suma Sudhindra, Gnana Kalabhushana K.N. Krishnamurthy and many more. 

Having trained under the illustrious Sangeet Kalanidhi Dr T. K Murthy, BC Manjunath himself has been teaching since the age of 15. Touring worldwide, the vocal percussionist has performed in more than 45 countries, performing at some of the well-renowned landmark locations such as Sydney Opera House, Queen Elizabeth Hall in London, Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York and many more.