Kirtan Leader Blog

Kirtan is a mystery.

We chant mantras (words/syllables) and incredible things happen such as:

1. We feel more connected to our self, and others. 
2. We feel a connection with the Divine. 
3. Essential qualities of presence, such as a
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A frequent question I receive is, how do I start chanting?  

Here are a few thoughts on how to begin.

1. Know that chanting is for everyone. Chanting isn't singing. Singing is for professionals. Chanting is for everyone. Chanting
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I frequently receive questions about the connection between Kirtan and yoga, which is confusing for many. Below are a few thoughts. 

1. While most in the West associate yoga with physical postures (asana), yoga has historically inc
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You're a total newbie to Kirtan and wondering, what's this all about? Here's a brief beginner's guide to Kirtan. 

1. Kirtan is call and response chanting from India. that invokes connection with the Divine. It is the central practi
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Sometimes folks ask about the connection between mantras and the 7 Chakras. Here's a brief primer that shares:

1. Chakra - Sanskrit name, English description. 

2. Function

3. Element

4. Energy

5. The Bija Seed Sound you can ch...

Coltrane, Ray Charles and Elvis

As a musician I struggle with the notion of cultural appropriation. The great jazz saxophonist John Coltrane was influenced not only by a rapidly evolving jazz tradition, but also Indian Classical a...

It was her first lesson, and very first time playing the harmonium.

I instructed her to place her thumb on the middle C, and pinky on the middle G. She squeezed the bellows with her left hand. A broad smile spread across her face ...

I love the harmonium... what an instrument!

The harmonium was built by the French as a home version of a giant church pipe organ. The British brought it to India, and the Indians have used it to great effect since. 

The harmonium...