Bharatanatyam Classes at Music Ashram

Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest and most cherished classical dance forms, is rooted in the temples of Tamil Nadu. Known for its precision, grace, and expressive storytelling, Bharatanatyam combines complex footwork, intricate hand gestures (mudras), and expressive facial expressions (abhinaya) to convey rich tales of devotion, mythology, and human experience. At Music Ashram, we offer structured and immersive Bharatanatyam classes to guide both beginners and advanced students on a journey into this beautiful art form.

What to Expect in Our Bharatanatyam Classes

1. Foundation Training
   • Posture and Balance: Learn the core stance and postures fundamental to Bharatanatyam, focusing on proper body alignment and grace.
   • Adavus (Basic Steps): Master the sequences of rhythmic movements that form the foundation of Bharatanatyam. These adavus are meticulously practiced to achieve speed, precision, and fluidity.
2. Expressive Elements (Abhinaya)
   • Facial Expressions: Develop the art of abhinaya, or facial expression, to portray different emotions and stories.
   • Hand Gestures (Mudras): Explore the symbolic hand gestures used in Bharatanatyam to communicate complex ideas, characters, and narratives.
3. Rhythmic Complexity
   • Tala System: Learn to understand and keep rhythm within the Indian tala system, mastering synchronization with both footwork and hand gestures.
   • Nritta and Nritya: Practice the non-expressive (nritta) and expressive (nritya) dance forms, blending technique with storytelling.
4. Choreography and Performance
   • Traditional Compositions: Gain experience by learning classical compositions, such as the Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Varnam, and Padam.
   • Performance Skills: Build confidence and poise on stage with opportunities to perform in our student showcases and events.

Class Levels and Format

Our Bharatanatyam classes are tailored to accommodate various skill levels:

• Beginner Classes: For those new to Bharatanatyam, focusing on foundational techniques and basic adavus.
• Intermediate and Advanced Classes: For students with prior training, introducing complex choreography and exploring the finer nuances of abhinaya and rhythm.

Instructor Expertise

Our Bharatanatyam instructors are highly trained and experienced dancers dedicated to teaching in an engaging and accessible way. They bring a blend of traditional and modern teaching approaches, ensuring students of all backgrounds feel supported and inspired.

Cultural Enrichment

Beyond dance technique, students gain a deeper understanding of Indian culture, mythology, and spirituality embedded in Bharatanatyam. Classes often include discussions on the history and significance of Bharatanatyam in India’s cultural heritage.

Join Us at Music Ashram

Whether you’re looking to explore Bharatanatyam for the first time or deepen your existing practice, our classes offer a welcoming and inspiring space to grow as a dancer. Reach out to us to learn more about schedules, fees, and upcoming workshops.