Learn Carnatic Violin Online for Intermediates

Here’s a course breakdown for intermediate-level students -

• Different Types of "Gamakas" and Their Execution:

  • Single Finger Gamaka:
    Learn to create slight variations in a note using just one finger. This adds a smooth, wavy effect to your playing.

  • Two Finger Gamaka:
    Use two fingers to create more complex variations in sound. This technique gives a richer and fuller expression to the notes.

  • Three Finger Gamaka:
    In this technique, you use three fingers to create even more intricate variations, adding depth and emotion to your music.

  • Complex Gamakas:
    These are advanced variations that combine different finger techniques to create highly expressive and dynamic sounds.

• What is a Raaga in Indian Classical Music?
  A Raaga is a special combination of notes that creates a specific mood or emotion in music. Each Raaga has its own unique feel, and learning them helps you play meaningful and emotional music.

• Proper Fingering Techniques for Accuracy and Speed:
  You will learn how to place your fingers correctly on the violin to play notes cleanly and quickly. Proper technique helps you avoid mistakes and play faster.

• Special Daily Fingering Exercise Routine:
  These are exercises that you will practice every day to make your fingers stronger, more flexible, and quicker at playing different notes on the violin.

• Unique Bowing Exercises:
  You will learn special exercises to improve how you use the bow. These exercises will help you play smoothly, with better control, and produce clear sounds.

• How to Use Bow Efficiency:
  You will learn how to use the bow in a way that makes the notes last longer and sound richer. Using the bow efficiently helps you create a beautiful, long-lasting tone.

• Learning Compositions like Varna and Kruthis:
  You will study and practice traditional pieces of Carnatic music, called Varna and Kruthis. These are the building blocks of Carnatic violin and will help you improve your playing skills.

• Introduction to Raaga Aalapana (Aalap):
  Aalapana is the creative part of a Raaga. You will learn how to explore and play Raagas freely, without rhythm, to bring out the beauty of the notes.

• How to Build a Raaga (Improvisation):
  Improvisation is when you create your own music within the rules of a Raaga. You will learn how to build and expand a Raaga, adding your own creativity and style to it.

• Introduction to Swaraprasthara (Improvisation with Taala):
  Swaraprasthara is a type of improvisation where you play notes while following a rhythmic pattern, called Taala. You will learn how to match your improvisation to the beat, creating exciting and engaging music.

About the Teacher

Sumanth Manjunath, son of the renowned violinist Dr. Mysore Manjunath, began his musical journey as a child prodigy, giving his first violin concert at just 9 years old. Growing up in a musical household, he received dedicated training from his grandfather, veteran violinist Sri Mahadevappa, his uncle, the celebrated violin maestro Mysore Nagaraj, and his father, Dr. Mysore Manjunath. 

Through years of practice and guidance, Sumanth honed his skills and expanded his knowledge by learning from internationally acclaimed violinists. His musical experiences include performing and collaborating with musicians from various genres like Western classical, jazz, Persian, Arabic, Flamenco, Turkish, and Sufi music.

Sumanth has performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sri Lanka, Singapore, France, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Scotland. As a cultural ambassador, the Government of India sent him for special performances in Iran and Sri Lanka. He earned a Master’s in Music with a gold medal from Mysore University and has led numerous workshops at top universities, teaching improvisation on different scales and rhythms.