Calling All Intermediate Level Sitar Students

You can now register for our online Intermediate level course:
Learn to Play Sitar
with Roopa Panesar... 
In the company of world-renowned sitar player Roopa Panesar you will be guided through exercises that explore techniques and establish abilities on one of India's most iconic instruments. 

Course Registration closes in:

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New Term of Teaching Starts On Monday 2nd October 2023 at 1pm (UK time)

Live Classes every Monday online at 1pm (UK time)

Course starts online at 1pm (UK) on Monday 25 April 2022

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Course starts at 10.30am on Saturday 5 February 2022

Registration closes in:

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Course starts on Saturday 22 January 2022

Do you want to learn from a world-class performer and gain the skills to confidently play the sitar? 

Hi,

I'm Nirmal Singh, founder of Darbar Academy and I am passionate about sharing Indian music.

Are you someone that wants to take your sitar learning and playing to the next level? 

Did you always dream of learning from a top performing musician but could never get access to a top teacher? 

Did life take over and music lessons took the back seat? 

Bring music back into your life with our new online course! 

If you are someone who loves sitar, keep reading as I have some great news for you. 

GREAT NEWS: Darbar Academy is starting a new teaching term with Roopa Panesar. This is the perfect time to join our course.

Darbar Academy wants to help you learn from the world's finest musicians, from the comfort of your home. There is no need to travel to classes, wait around in classrooms, or pay high teaching fees.

Darbar Academy even has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You can try our online course with no risk whatsoever.

I have been developing and testing new systems of teaching to figure out the the best way to teach Indian music to our students all over the world with the aid of technology. This new course is the result of research into the best innovative teaching methods.

We are committed to giving everyone access to high quality teaching from the world's finest musicians through our online classes - regardless of their current ability, knowledge or musical background.

I've got an amazing ongoing course that will restart your learning journey. This will ensure that you gain understanding and build solid foundations to learn sitar.

This course is easy to follow and gives you a step-by-step practice plan to get you playing a sitar with joy and confidence!

Register today and join our class. 100% risk free.

You will build solid foundations and create good habits while avoiding bad habits!

Learn how to play the sitar properly
avoid the mistakes that most people make
and avoid forming bad habits (they take a long time to correct)!


How this course will help you?

- You will be learning from a high-quality performing artist who has been studying and teaching sitar for many years.

- This course content has been tried and tested for decades, delivered with new learning structures, so you will be getting a fast-track system to learn to play in the comfort of your own home.

- This will help you understand sitar and play with confidence. 

- A safe and nurturing online environment using innovative new tools.

- Learn online – without the hassle of travelling to a teacher or waiting around in a group class.

- You will have a 100% money back guarantee. If after two lessons you feel that this course will not improve your skills we will refund your registration fee in full.

What learners say about
Darbar Academy
“The Darbar Academy offers masterfully designed lesson programs. The programs allowed me to make a commitment that encouraged me to follow through with my participation. The Darbar Academy instruction offers exceptionally talented teachers, obtainable goals to build upon, generous guidance, meeting the students wherever we are in our musical journey, and are facilitated most professionally with timely communication and assistance with 24/7 access. The entire Darbar Academy experience brings all of this to me in the comfort of my home 3000 miles away in the United States at an exceptionally modest fee for instruction I value considerably more.”  - Peter, USA

“The ability to study serious music from the comfort of my home!” - Pararasan, UK 

“The duration of the course was just nice. Students were categorised based on their levels and lessons catered based on their capacity. The lessons were paced well. Neither too slow nor too fast. I learnt a lot. It has really added so much value to me as a musician. I got exactly what I expected. The whole course was so well organised and the follow ups were amazing!” - Yashi.

"The Darbar Academy course helped me to know my faults and taught me to make improvements."   - Amrit, India 

Proven formula 
to improve your sitar skills!

You will be learning from Roopa Panesar.

Roopa Panesar is considered one of the finest sitar players to emerge on the Indian classical music scene from the UK. She is a disciple of the renowned educationalist and leading musician of the UK, Ustad Dharambir Singh ji MBE (a disciple of the late Ustad Vilayat Khan) and was recognized as a talent for the future. She began her training at the age of seven, under her Guru until present day. She also learnt from the senior most disciple of the late Ustad Vilayat Khan, Pandit Arvind Parikh ji. Her musical vision has been enriched while receiving guidance from other outstanding musicians visiting the UK including Ustad Shahid Parvez, Pt Buddhaditya Mukherjee and Ustad Bahauddin Dagar.

Roopa has toured extensively in the UK, Europe and USA performing at prestigious venues and festivals and released her debut album “Khoj” in 2011. She performed in her debut tour of India in 2014 where she played to vibrant audiences in Delhi, Mumbai and SRA Kolkata. She had a highly successful tour in USA in 2017 and has played in major festivals like Darbar Festival and Womad.

Aside from touring Europe, US and India she has made numerous BBC appearances, collaborated with Mercury Prize winner Talvin Singh and the Belgian Symphony Orchestra. Roopa also played at the VJ75 memorial, in the presence of HRH Prince Charles, which was broadcast on BBC 1 and performed with Sir Simon Rattle for the CBSO 100 programme. Also qualified as a Chemical Engineer, Roopa made her choice to follow her musical passion and pursue her dreams of becoming a professional Sitarist. She is among a very small number of Indian females, worldwide, who have launched their careers as full-time touring Sitar players.

In addition to all of this, she is a wonderful teacher!   
Roopa works with students of all ages, levels and abilities and puts the most nervous of us at ease - as I can verify! 
How this Course will Help You
- Learn the importance of correct posture, and how to correctly hold a sitar.
- Establish a disciplined approach to regular practice.
- Develop your abilities in tuning and listening 
- Get a good basic grounding in Indian classical music concepts 
- Understand how to play notes, phrases and rhythmic patterns leading to a piece of music
- Benefit from assisted, and focussed practice. 
- You will receive regular, detailed feedback from the teacher and cohort. 

 Follow a step-by-step study and practise plan and get playing while building confidence!

Are you on ‘pause’ with your sitar learning and playing? This might be because of lack of resources and teachers or even because you were scared of performing. 

Do you want professional guidance from an experienced teacher?  

You do not want be told: “You don't have what it takes!”? Our teacher will help you overcome this and give you confidence on your musical journey.     

There are many reasons why you might not be making progress. But we have one big reason why you should start today – you can start with 100% risk free confidence that you will get the support that you need.   

98% of our students said that they would recommend Darbar Academy to friends and family

Extra Benefits of Learning Music

Studies in neuroscience conducted by The University of Southern California’s Brain and Creativity Institute shared findings that marry with the vision of the Darbar Academy. 

The paper showed that children exposed to learning music had improved brain function; memory, attention and concentration. Children who were exposed to music lessons became creative problem-solvers; they experienced improved motor-skills, personal discipline, and became more confident in modes of self-expression. 

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.”
– Plato

Register today and join our course - You will learn to play your first piece of music on sitar!
8 simple steps to improve your sitar:
  • Decision: Make a commitment today and start your journey. 
  • Register now: Probably the easiest part - you can do this with 100% confidence.  But, there will be no progress at all if you do not register!  
  • Attend the lessons: Attend the live weekly classes for the coming weeks - become an active member of the class. 
  • ​Homework: Complete the daily exercises.
  • ​Immersion: The fastest way to learn is to immerse yourself into this and start enjoy the magic of music - go on, take a deep dive today! 
  • ​​Practice / riyaz: This is the most essential - you MUST practise daily - this is something that you will have have to do :)
  • ​​​Feedback: You will get weekly feedback which will help you make continued growth and improvement.  
  • Repeat: Keep repeating this formula to make even more progress!  
Can I book One-to-One private lessons?
Roopa is currently unable to offer one-to-one sessions. We hope that she will be able to do these later in the year. More info on this soon.
Praise for Previous Darbar Academy Courses
What people say about Roopa Panesar

"Roopa's Music is magic-world"
Nandan
"Your playing and listening is a divine experience." 
Mo
"Transcends one to a state of mind filled with immense joy and total peace. Just beautiful."
Maharnab
"Reflection of divinity through classical music"
Raghav
What her students say:

“Roopa Ji has a precise and targeted approach when correcting students so that she makes us rectify our playing in a timely manner. Succinct and excellent teaching that has proven in exponential growth in playing within a short time.” 
Hendra, UK

"I have seen a step change in my progress both musically and technically. I can say without hesitation that each session is a joy due to Roopa’s down-to-earth manner, patience, encouragement and enthusiasm which has turned my practice from a chore to a pleasure. The additional support that Roopa provides over and above the teaching sessions through homework, notes, feedback are invaluable and evidences her dedication and love for teaching."  - Girish, UK
Girish, UK
" This course has been essential to getting me back to playing. It has rekindled my passion to play sitar. It helped me overcome my habit of self-criticism, my fears of being judged, and not feeling good enough.” 
Peter, USA
"everyone was directly paid attention to and students who needed extra help were addressed and not left behind. The thoughtfulness and awareness of Roopa Ji’s teaching and Nirmal's facilitating are amazing. “ 
Milton, USA
"Roopa is a knowledgeable, exceptional and talented musician as well as a passionate teacher. I have felt valued and keen to put in additional effort, all thanks to a dedicated and encouraging teacher. Her focus is on how to nurture and develop the student." 
Bipin
"I started playing and learning sitar at the age of 42 with no musical knowledge. Roopa was very patient and made us work hard at perfecting our playing posture and technique. It was a privilege and a blessing to have been taught by Roopa Ji."
Wasim
"To anyone interested in learning Sitar and Indian Classical Music in UK or anywhere else in the world for that matter ... Roopa is not only an accomplished sitarist but also an excellent teacher and her positive attitude and structured approach to teaching will provide a solid foundation which is fundamental in learning how to play this beautiful instrument."
Ranju
Roopa Panesar is one of the finest sitar players to emerge and to learn from her has been such a privilege. Her lessons have been packed with intense riyaaz and interactive ways of breaking ideas apart.  The next generation of sitar players will have the best guru and will have the most fun learning from her.
Akash, UK
FAQs


Q1 - What is the lesson format?
The lesson will generally include: introduction, practice, explanations, introduction to homework and practice routine to get you to the next level for the following lesson.

Q2 - Will there be homework?
Yes. There will be practical sitar training exercises given to learners.  Students will get feedback on homework routines. 

Q3 - Do I need any previous experience?
Yes. This course is for sitar players who understand the basics. Roopa will guide you to get to the next level with your sitar playing. This is not an absolute beginner's course. You will also get access to all the archive recordings of the previous modules so that you can catch up in your spare time!

Q4 - What language are the lessons in?
Lessons will be conducted in English. There will be reference to Indian words during the lecture demonstrations, this will be explained with English terms and phrases.

Q5 - Will there be handouts?
Yes. You will receive lesson notations in written form. However, these are only a guide and students are encouraged to practice without looking at notes.

Q6 - Is the course for children or adults?
The course is aimed at adults. We feel that children who have a natural interest in Indian classical music will also be able to benefit from the lessons. The essential ingredient is a personal love for the music.

Q7 - Can I do the class on my mobile phone?
Yes, it is possible to view the class on a mobile phone. Headphones are recommended to get the highest quality audio during the lessons. Naturally, a larger screen will provide easier viewing of the class.

Q8 - What can I do after this course – is there a progression route for me?
This is a course for sitar enthusiasts, it will form a building block for further studies. We will be offering further courses with increasingly complex lessons and styles. We are already devising class structures with teachers about courses that we will be delivered in the coming months.  

Q9 - Is the weekly lesson live?
Yes. Our research and experience has taught us that the best way for students to learn is to attend a weekly class, to be assigned weekly homework with regular feedback.  

Q10 - I learn western music, can I join the course as an observer so that I can appreciate more about Indian music?
Yes. This is an excellent idea and you are most welcome to join the course.  Please let us know your aims and objectives prior to starting the sessions.  Many western people have already benefitted from previous Darbar Academy courses.  Many of them have successfully started their personal raag learning journey with us. 

Q11 - We are very busy and might miss some lessons; will I improve during this course?
Yes. Most definitely. Consistent daily practice is the key to seeing improvements during this course. You can catch up on the lessons any time, and continue practice in your spare time. 

Q12 - There are two of us at home, can we join the class at the same price?
This is a family package - siblings are welcome to join us at no extra cost. It is always great to involve the whole family, and it is even more enjoyable to practice and sing together. We definitely encourage this.  Marking the homework etc will involve an extra fee.  

Q13 - I already play other musical instruments - will this course help me?
Most definitely. This course will help you!

Q14 - How do I access the class?
The classes will be held through the secure Darbar Members Login Area.  You can access via PC, tablet, or mobile phone.  All classes are available in the login area.  

Q15 - Will I be able to effectively learn through a computer?  
Yes. The entire world has shifted during the Covid pandemic and many learning institutions expanded their online study options. Students from all of the world have experienced the benefits of learning Indian classical music online.  Our research says, students have preferred online as opposed to physical lessons as they have made huge progress because of easy accessibility.  While we believe that nothing can replace physical teaching, in the given situation, virtual teaching is the next best thing – it gives major benefits with a wider reach for people all over the world.  

Q16 - What happens if I miss the live class? 
No problem.  You can catch up on lessons via your private members area.  You have access to all of the live lesson recordings here.  They are uploaded 24 hours after the live lesson.    

Q17 - What is the exact lesson schedule and timing for the classes?
The live lessons with Roopa Ji will take place on either Monday 1pm or Saturday 10am. This depends on Roopa Ji's availability. This schedule will be give to students after registration. Recordings of the sessions are available to watch on demand within 24 hours of this session. Please work out the time for your own country of residence.  Classes last for 60 minutes.   

Q18 - Do I get a certificate?
Yes. All students who participate in the course get a certificate from Darbar Academy.

Q19 - Is this fee monthly or single payment?
The fee is payable on a monthly basis to keep your membership active so that you can attend the live sessions and also access our members area.

Q20 - What happens if I need to leave the course?
You can cancel your monthly payment anytime. This will mean that you no longer have access to the member area and any of the resources for our students.

Q21 - My card has failed – what can I do?
You will need to make a manual monthly payment to register. Please email support@darbar.org to get further information on how to join the course.

Q22 - How long is this course?
This course will run for the whole year. We will be doing 10 x teaching sessions in each 3-month term. For a simply monthly subscription.  

Prerequisites


1. You must have a sitar at home 

2. You will need a Mizrab (wire plectrum) that fits your right-hand index finger 

3. You will need to sit on the floor while playing (If this is not possible due to physical limitations we will assist with some suggestions) 

4. You will need to tune your own instrument before each lesson using the guide that we will provide. 


PLEASE NOTE: 

Roopa teaches the Vilayat Khan style of sitar which is a ‘Gandhar pancham sitar’. There are six main strings on this type of instrument and 11-13 tarabs sympathetic strings. You can still learn if you have a ‘Kharaj pancham sitar’.  

When You Register for the course
You will receive: 
BENEFIT #1 - Live 60-minute lessons 
with Roopa Panesar each week. 
BENEFIT #2 - Access to the secure Darbar Academy Members Area so that you can revise from recorded sessions or catch up on any missed lessons.
BENEFIT #3 - Access to a professional performer and teacher with no time or money spent on travelling.  Many of us have spent thousands on travel to meet with teachers and even more waiting for lessons!   
BENEFIT #4 - Homework and exercises to improve your playing & feedback on your weekly progress
BENEFIT #5 - Weekly audio recording to help guide you in your daily practice - the right practice makes you perfect. 

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There is no catch!
Darbar Academy's mission is born from the belief that everyone should have access to high quality, experienced teachers. We strive to eliminate the need of long distance travel to study with the best teachers, and to remove prohibitive expenses incurred through conventional study.

All you need to do is register and start your musical journey today!  

Everybody that we have spoken to about this course feels that this is an amazing opportunity at an unbelievable price. Darbar Academy is committed to providing high-quality classes and teaching people from all backgrounds, wherever they are based in the world, at an affordable price.

You will receive guidance from a renowned performing artist, who has a track record of teaching and want to share their knowledge with people passionate about Indian classical music. We believe that this method is the best way to share the beauty of this art form with even wider audiences.

Darbar Academy is committed to giving you high quality lessons at affordable prices.  We provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can register to join the course with no risk at all.   
Time Is Of The Essence...
Registration for this course will be closing soon.  
Please make sure that you register before this time. 
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
If after two lessons you feel that this course is not for you, send us an email and we will make a full refund of your money. 

This means that you get 2 lessons absolutely free of cost - consider this a gift from Darbar Academy to you :) 
NOTICE: This is a practical course. Lasting change / improvements will not come through listening alone. Students will need to commit to routine practice to show improvement. Either way, if you are you not 100% satisfied just send an email to me at nirmal@darbar.org and I will make a full refund for your payment.

Don't miss out - Act Fast!
Have you dreamt of playing the sitar or improving your musical awareness about this beautiful instrument but could never make this a priority?

Have you considered that with the right guidance, you could also start playing?  

Has travel, time, cost, and access to a top class teacher always been a problem? 

Darbar Academy has worked hard to develop this course - join us and fulfil your dream!  

Join us on this journey today. 

Let Roopa give you the road map and proven formula for improvements in leaps and bounds - all through live lessons from the comfort of your home.

Let's make that life-changing transformation.      

Thanks again,
Nirmal Singh  

Only £39 per month.
Cancel anytime.
100% risk free.  

What this normally cost most students

  • 40 x Live Sitar Lessons with Roopa Panesar this year (Value £1200)​
  • ​40 x Pre recorded live lessons with Roopa Panesar from our previous cohort (Value £900)​
  • ​​​​8 x Pre recorded live lessons for Absolute beginners with Roopa Panesar (Value £320)​
  • ​​Access to one of India’s finest teachers with no travelling (Value £1,000)
  • ​Homework feedback for Roopa Panesar (Value £Priceless)
  • ​Notations and audio recordings to support your daily practice (Value £99)

This would normally cost over £3,000
You get this for only £39 per month.
Cancel anytime.

Yes. You got it right that is around £10 per live lesson.

This course provides excellent value for money so that everyone can have access to a high level of teaching.

Most of us have paid anything between £20 - £75 per lesson to learn from a musician with this level of expertise.  Since this is our launch phase we want everyone to benefit at an affordable price.  

We all know that with tuition fees, travel time and other expenses, learning music becomes very expensive. Darbar Academy is committed to keeping Indian classical music affordable and accessible for all.   
3 STEPS TO REGISTER 

1 - Click the link below and Make the payment - 100% risk free
2 - Create your account and password for Darbar Academy 
3 - Login and start the course.  

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