Dhwani Academy: Music Course Curriculum & Policies
At Dhwani Academy, we have established specific course curriculum guidelines and Policies to ensure a smooth, effective, professional, and productive environment for students as well as for instructors. This curriculum is designed to foster a nurturing, disciplined, and inspiring learning environment, ensuring that each student can reach their highest musical potential at Dhwani Academy.
Below is overview of our course offerings, fee structure, Class schedules and policy guidelines.
Course Offerings:
TABLA
Dhwani Academy offers TABLA classes at various locations across South California & Greater New York area, providing students with the opportunity to learn and immerse themselves in the intricacies of Indian percussion and classical music. These courses are structured on an annual basis, with each year divided into four modules lasting four months each. Our curriculum integrates both practical training and theoretical insights to foster a deep appreciation of Indian music and culture.
- In-Person Tabla Classes: hands-on instruction with expert teachers at our physical locations.
- Online Tabla Classes: with interactive online lessons, designed for distant students.
- Self-learning Classes: Access a library of pre-recorded lessons on Dhwani’s Web App, allowing you to revisit any material as needed and facility of doubt-clearing sessions.
Who this courses are for:
- Anyone who wants to learn tabla from the beginning to perform and teach professionally and pursue it more than a hobby and make it a side profession.
- Having some knowledge of Indian Rhythm and can incorporate the rhythm of Tabla to drums or any other instruments such as Guitar or base Guitar or Zembe or similar percussion instruments.
Features and Benefits:
- Certificates will be given after each module.
- Can join our workshops and seminar in India, Los Angeles, New York or any other cities whenever it is happening. (generally, twice in India and twice in the US).
- Can prepare themselves to join for the bachelor’s degree in CVV(Chinmay Viswa Vidyapeeth University, Pune, Maharashtra , India).
- After successful completion of 2nd year can start participating in group performances in Dhwani events.
- After successful completion of 7th year will be eligible for a teacher’s training course to be one of our faculty members and may teach through our network or franchise.
Requirements:
- No preconception of tabla playing is necessary
- One set of Tabla is MANDATORY, who wants to pursue in Tabla.
- Those who are interested in learning the rhythm of it can incorporate the rhythm in their own instruments.
Course Levels
- Beginner Level (3 Years): The first three years, including a preliminary year. Completion of 3rd (Third) year – DHWANI BHUSAN (each year a completion certificate is provided)
- Intermediate Level (2 Years): Students progress to the intermediate level after completing the beginner level. Completion of 5th (Fifth) year – DHWANI BIBHUSAN (each year a completion certificate is provided)
- Advanced Level (2+ Years): Following five years of study, students may enter the advanced level, which requires at least two years to earn final certification. Completion of 7th (Seventh) year – DHWANI RATNA
Certificates will be awarded to each successful candidate, with appropriate grading, based on the performances of students.
Students are welcome to continue their studies in senior classes beyond certification.
Evaluations
An evaluation test is conducted annually for all students, with esteemed artists and external judges assessing student performances for objectivity.
Curriculum Fee Structure
At Dhwani Academy, we have established specific guidelines to ensure a smooth, professional, and productive environment for students and instructors alike. The fee structure is delicately designed to inspire and facilitate transfer of quality education.
| Fee Type / Class Type | Fee ($) | Payment / Special Instructions |
| Registration Fee | $30 (One Time) | - |
| Group Classes | $120 Per Month (4 Classs Per Month) | All fees are processed through our online portal; cash payments are not accepted. |
| Private Classes (with Pt. Abhijit Banerjee) | $150 Per Month (2 Classs Per Month | Online or In-Person) | Eligibility: Determined by the instructor after a complimentary 15-minute trial class. |
| Note: Fees are due at the beginning of each month (no later than the 10th). Tuition is billed monthly, not per class. Fees for new or re-enrolling students may vary depending on location and enrollment size. | ||
Policies
Class Grouping:
Students are grouped based on skill level and location. Instructors retain sole discretion over group assignments to ensure balanced and effective learning environments.
Attendance & Scheduling:
- Attendance: Regular attendance is strongly encouraged. We understand scheduling conflicts may arise, and students (or their guardians) are responsible for requesting alternate class times when possible. Fees are not adjusted for missed classes.
- Class Recordings: All classes are recorded and accessible for students to review in Zoom in case of absence or for additional practice, Doubt clearing and clarification.
Absences:
In rare cases when an instructor needs to cancel or reschedule a class, students will be notified at least two days in advance via phone, email, or the community WhatsApp group. Please monitor these communication channels regularly, particularly before scheduled classes.
Student Portal & WhatsApp Community:
Students are invited to join the WhatsApp community and student portal to stay updated on announcements, resources, and important class information.
Extended Absences:
For extended absences, students should request a leave of absence through the portal. Re-enrollment after an extended absence may require an additional registration fee.
Parental Participation:
Parents are welcome to observe classes periodically to track their child’s progress. Observing should be non-disruptive, respecting both the instructor’s space and teaching environment, particularly for classes held in private residences.
Workshops & Master Classes:
Throughout the year, Dhwani Academy hosts workshops and master classes to enrich students’ learning experiences. Students and parents are encouraged to attend these sessions for enhanced exposure to advanced playing techniques.
Events:
Dhwani Academy organizes and participates in various events annually, providing performance opportunities for students to showcase their progress. Major events include:
- Guru Purnima & Annual Concert
- Raga and Rhythm Music Festival
- Next Wave Concert Series
Participation in these events is highly encouraged for growth and community involvement.
Practice Expectations:
Regular class attendance and consistent at-home practice are essential for skill development. Students are expected to practice diligently to achieve their musical goals.
This curriculum is designed to foster a nurturing, disciplined, and inspiring learning environment, ensuring that each student can reach their highest musical potential at Dhwani Academy.
CLASS SCHEDULE
In- person Locations : Southern California
| Day | Place | Time | instructor |
| Monday | Rancho Cucamonga | 4.00 – 6.00 p.m. | Jyotiprakas |
| Pasadena | 7.00 – 9.00 p.m. | Jyotiprakas | |
| Tuesday | Irvine | 4.00 – 7.00 p.m. | Jyotiprakas |
| Wednesday | Irvine | 5.00 – 7.00 p.m. | Jyotiprakas |
| Thursday | |||
| Friday | San Diego | 4.00 – 8.00 p.m. | Jyotiprakas |
| Saturday | Irvine | 9.00 – 11.00 a.m. | Hriday Karthikeyan |
| Sunday | |||
Greater New York Area [Satellite Class]
| Day | Place | Time | Mode |
| Monday | Manhattan | 3.00 – 9.00 p.m. | Group |
| Friday | Jamaica | 3.00 – 9.00 p.m. | |
| Saturday | Jamaica | 10.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. | |
| Jackson Height | 3.00 – 9.00 p.m. | ||
| Sunday | Staten Island | 10.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. |