Kirtan Band Camp

Six Consecutive Tuesdays, June 2 ~ July 7 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm With Emily Joan Smith at The Heartsong Shala 2822 Frankfort Ave (on the second floor of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church)

Join us for Kirtan Band Camp at The Heartsong Shala this summer of 2026! 

During this 6  week course, we will learn a variety of sanskrit chants together, along with specific harmonium, percussion, and vocal instruction for each chant. Students are welcome to either focus on one instrument only (harmonium, percussion, voice, or even another instrument of choice), and/or can spend time alternating focus, playing/singing a variety of instruments during the span of the course.  

Kirtan Band Camp will be a guided, organic, and emergent experience based on the students in attendance and their particular growth edge and areas of interest.  This course is ultimately meant to provide not just musical instruction but also a space for individuals and musicians to connect, collaborate, form bonds, and make sacred music together.  

As part of this course, you can expect to:

• Expand your repertoire by learning a variety of sanskrit chants

• Receive harmonium, percussion, and vocal instruction as it relates to each song or chant

• Practice chant leading, arranging, and band dynamics within a group setting

• Delve deeper into the philosophy of bhakti yoga

• Meet, connect, and collaborate with other singers and musicians

• HAVE FUN while creating sacred, devotional music within heart-centered community

Cost:

• Early Bird Rate (Register by May 1): $188 ‍

• Standard Rate: $222 ‍

Questions you may have:

Do I have to have musical experience to participate?

All levels of musical experience are welcome, including beginners!  

Do I have to bring my own instrument(s) to participate?

In general, it is highly recommended to have your own instruments, so that everyone has their own and can take them home in between sessions to practice.  A small electronic keyboard is an affordable alternative to a harmonium if you are not ready to invest in one yet. I do have 3 harmoniums available for student use, so if you’d like to use one of those during the course, please reach out to me directly. Instruction will be given for harmonium and drum, and you should bring one or both of those, depending on what your particular focus of practice is.  

Can I bring instruments other than harmonium and/or drum?

Yes, other instruments are welcome, and you can certainly contribute those to our collaborative space!  However, the majority of specific instrumental instruction will be given on harmonium, drum, and voice only.

I’m really only interested in singing.  Can I still participate?

Yes absolutely!  You do not need to play an instrument if you’d prefer to just focus on voice as your instrument!  Just know that there will be dedicated time each class to harmonium and drum instruction.  

Will I be required to sing solo?

There will be lots of opportunities to practice chant leading and singing solo, but this is all optional and meant for those who have interest in this particular area. Singing with others as part of the group only, or even just focusing on playing a non-vocal instrument, is also totally welcome.