Foundations of Telugu Singing - Level 1

This curriculum is designed to provide a structured and comprehensive approach to learning vocal music, focusing on the technical and artistic elements essential for mastering various singing genres.

• It begins with the fundamentals of Carnatic vocals, including swaras (notes), alankaras (basic exercises), and small varnams, which establish a solid foundation. 

• Beginner-friendly ragas such as Shankarabharanam and Mohanam are introduced, highlighting their application in light music and Telugu songs. This foundational knowledge sharpens versatility and equips learners with the precision required for diverse musical styles.

• Breath control is a key focus, incorporating pranayama (breathing exercises) and sustained note practice into warm-ups. These techniques teach students to manage their breath effectively while transitioning between high and low notes, resulting in enhanced vocal stability, longer sustains, and dynamic expression. 

• Pitch accuracy is developed through tanpura-based practice sessions, which train students to stay in tune with the shruti. Ear-training exercises further help identify pitch variations and correct off-pitch notes, ensuring melodious, professional-quality singing.

• Each session includes tailored vocal warm-ups, such as scale exercises, meend (glides), and gamakas, which prepare the voice for practice and maintain vocal health. 

• Articulation is emphasized through pronunciation drills, specifically for Telugu songs and light music.

• You will practice singing slow, deliberate phrases before increasing speed to ensure clarity and an emotional connection with the audience.

• To achieve a fuller, more professional tone, resonance techniques are introduced, teaching students to direct sound to the chest, head, or nasal cavities. This enhances vocal projection and adds depth, making performances more engaging. 

• Stage presence is developed through mock performances, with feedback provided on body language, facial expressions, and audience interaction. Techniques to overcome stage fright are also included, helping students build confidence and charisma for both stage and playback performances.

• The curriculum further focuses on improving vocal quality and expressing emotions through music. By analyzing song lyrics and exploring their emotional depth, students practice using dynamics, vibrato, and phrasing to deliver authentic and impactful performances. 

About the Teacher

With close to a decade of experience as a music teacher, Bhavani Godasi received formal music education from Potti Sriramulu University and is proficient in various forms of light music. With extensive experience in Carnatic vocal music, particularly with ragas, she is adept at training students worldwide across all levels.

She emphasizes building a strong foundation through solid fundamentals. Music lessons are developed and delivered with a focus on precise music reading, vocal techniques, and light music instruction.

Bhavani welcomes students of all ages to learn music, recognizing it as a lifelong passion that requires patience and consistency. She has been awarded several prestigious titles, including the GanaKovida title by Barath World Records on October 2, 2017, and the Ganakalarathna award from ABC Foundation on March 18, 2017. Additional recognition includes being registered in the Barath World Records International on February 15, 2017, and receiving honors from the Cultural Book of Records on October 2, 2017.

Specializing in Carnatic vocal classical music and Telugu light music and songs, her methods focus on providing personalized attention to each student. Learners are guided step by step to achieve a solid understanding of the fundamentals, ensuring a thorough and rewarding musical journey.