Overview
“From Theory to Performance: Classical & Light Vocal Music Workshop with Creative Digital Notation & Practical Training” is a comprehensive workshop designed to bridge the gap between the academic (theoretical) and practical aspects of music. This workshop aims to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in both classical and light music traditions.Participants will be introduced to the fundamental and advanced techniques of classical vocal music (raga-based performance) as well as instrumental practice, with special reference to sitar playing. In addition, light music forms such as Thumri and Dadra will be explored, focusing on their stylistic features, emotional expression, and performance techniques.A key highlight of the workshop is its focus on creative digital notation. Participants will learn how to use computer-based tools to represent musical elements such as swaras (notes), talas (rhythms), and other musical symbols through innovative techniques. The workshop will include practical training in the use of modern software and digital tools for creating, editing, and presenting music notation effectively.Through this integrated approach, participants will not only strengthen their traditional musical knowledge but also enhance their creativity, presentation skills, and expressive abilities by incorporating modern technology. This workshop will be especially beneficial for music students, performers, and educators who wish to understand and experience the complete journey from theory to stage performance in a structured and contemporary manner.
Our Trainers
Dr. Chetna Pathak
Dr. Chetna Pathak is the disciple of internationally renowned Hindustani classical vocalist of Kirana gharanaa Padma Vibhushan awardee, Hon’ble Dr. Prabha Atre since 1999. Chetna has learnt Classical music and light Classical Music - Thumri, Dadra & Tappa, under Dr. Prabha Atre ji”s guidance.
She has been selected by ICCR and SPICMACAY in the reference panel artists. She has received many awards to her credit. Chetna is an All India Radio approved ‘A’ grade artist in Classical Vocal & Light Classical Vocal, (Thumri, Daadraa, Tappa) categories.
She has Performed the National song Vande Mataram in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium New Delhi on 7th November 2025 on its 150th Aniversary under the direction of renowned Violinist Mysore Manjunath and shared stage with many stalwart artists like- Padma Bhushan Pt.Sajan Misra, Padma shree YellaVenkatesh, Dr. Mysore Nagmani Shrinath, Pt. Vinod Dwivedi, Pt. Ronu Majumdar, Pt. Tarun Battacharya, Pt. Sanjeev Abhayankar etc.
Dr. Santosh Pathak
Santosh Kumar Pathak born in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh in a music loving family, am currently serving as aProfessor at Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan India. He started learning sitar at the age of 10 under the guidance of Dr. Ragini Trivedi, daughter of legendary scholar musician and innovator Sangeetendu Pt. LalmaniMisra who not only revived Vichitra Veena but also created Misrabani.He composed a classical orchestra involving 50+ students and accompanists from the university & serve as a member of the disciplinary board of the university. He supervised a number of doctorate research scholars. He hold the position of event in charge for Indian Group song, Light Vocal, Classical Orchestra, Western Group Song, Western Solo Song and Western Instrumental, all of which have acquired top prizes in many National, International competitions. He presented recitals in India and at global level. He actively involved in the evaluation and promotion of the digital notation system, OmeSwarlipi. Having mastered complex and rare Raga-s and also plays those with immediate appeal -- Jhinjhoti, Des, Sarang, Todi, Ahir Bhairav, Bihag, Maru Bihag and Bageshri etc. Currently serving as a Professor at Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali Rajasthan India,
Modules
Module 1: Fundamentals of Vocal Music
- Introduction to Classical & Light Vocal Music
- Basic concepts: Sur (pitch), Taal (rhythm), and Raag structure
Module 2: Voice Training & Techniques
- Breathing exercises and voice control
- Pitch accuracy and voice modulation
- Vocal warm-ups and strengthening techniques
Module 3: Classical & Light Vocal Styles
- Introduction to classical forms (Alankars, simple Raags)
- Light music styles (bhajans, folk, semi-classical)
- Parampara-based singing approach
Module 4: Creative Digital Notation
- Basics of digital notation tools
- Writing and reading Music / Dance notations digitally
- Creating and sharing compositions
Module 5: Practical Training & Riyaaz
- Guided practice sessions
- Individual and group singing exercises
- Daily practice (riyaaz) techniques
Module 6: Performance & Presentation Skills
- Stage presence and confidence building
- Expression and audience engagement
- Final performance practice
Module 7: Assessment & Feedback
- Performance evaluation
- Personalized feedback
- Tips for continuous improvement
Outcomes
- Understand vocal music theory – Gain a clear understanding of the fundamentals of classical and light music, including pitch (sur), rhythm (taal), and structure.
- Improve vocal technique and control – Develop better breathing, pitch accuracy, voice modulation, and tonal quality.
- Enhance performance skills – Build stage confidence, presentation skills, and expressive singing ability.
- Use creative digital notation – Learn to read, write, and share music using modern digital notation tools.
- Perform in classical and light styles – Apply learned concepts in both genres through practical exercises.
- Adopt effective practice methods – Understand structured riyaaz techniques for consistent improvement.
- Develop self-evaluation skills – Analyze and refine their own singing for continuous growth.
FAQs
1. Who can participate in this workshop?
Anyone with an interest in music can join—beginners, intermediate learners, music students, performers, and educators. No prior formal training is strictly required.
2. What types of music will be covered?
The workshop includes:
- Classical vocal music (Raag-based)
- Light music forms like Thumri, Dadra, Bhajans, and Folk music
3. Will instrumental music also be included?
Yes, participants will get exposure to instrumental aspects, especially basics related to sitar playing, alongside vocal training.
What is meant by “creative digital notation”?
It refers to using computer-based tools/software to write and represent musical elements such as:
- Swaras (notes)
- Talas (rhythms)
- Compositions and musical structures digitally
4. Do I need technical knowledge to learn digital notation?
No prior technical expertise is required. The workshop will start from basics and guide participants step-by-step.
5. What kind of software/tools will be used?
Participants will be introduced to user-friendly digital tools for music notation, editing, and presentation. (Specific tools will be demonstrated during sessions.)
