RETREAT BY INVITED PRESENTER
Detach from worldly concerns as you immerse yourself in the world of dance or vocals. This is a rare opportunity to study with master gurus in a hands-on, immersive experience, while also meditating and connecting with nature.
Kathak Retreat: This choreography intensive with the legendary Pallavi Degwekar Shaikh will help dance lovers understand and finesse the subtle nuances of technique and expression.
Vocal Retreat: A residency of intensive study with renowned teacher Shweta Pandya, this retreat offers a rare opportunity to refine your vocal technique, absorb the nuances of classical music, and strengthen your connection with the art form
Investing four days of quality time in your art is an effective way to connect with and understand your guru’s teachings—an essential step in perfecting your craft. Both programs will be helpful to those who are approaching exams—and joyful for those who simply want to celebrate the art form.
These two retreats follow a holistic approach to learning through:
Guided practice sessions to refine technique
Group discussions on various thought provoking topics
Morning meditation to build endurance and focus
Individual feedback to support personal progress
Give and take sessions for Kathak students with Riyaaz Retreat’s newly added Vocal program!
KATHAK RETREAT
For the fourth year, our Kathak retreat will be led by Guru Pallavi Degwekar, a versatile and accomplished Kathak expert. This program will offer dance lovers a chance to immerse themselves in the blissful world of dance, providing a retreat from daily distractions as you explore the deep relationship between dance and music.
Guru Pallavi Degwekar will be teaching a unique new choreography, which will be demanding yet an absolute treat for the soul. This structured and immersive Kathak (North Indian Classical Dance) training includes Riyaaz techniques and an in-depth understanding of all the material that will be taught. The program is rigorous and intense to cultivate a meaningful experience. However, all participants are welcome and encouraged to listen to their own bodies and take breaks when needed.
Through this retreat, you will experience:
Physical and mental discipline—the importance of consistency in practice
Isolated techniques for developing strong Tatkaar, proper body alignment, graceful posture, and how to effectively express one’s self
New unique choreography: A Taal Presentation (Rhythmic Cycle)
Students will be able to perform this piece for exams & performances (with due credit, acknowledgment, and permission of Guru Pallavi Degwekar); audio tracks will be provided
Deeper awareness of rhythm, expression, and movement
Inspiration and motivation from an immersive learning experience
A sense of artistic community with fellow dancers
A renewed sense of energy and purpose.
With 4 days of dedicated learning under your Guru Pallavi Degwekar's guidance, this program is a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of the art form. Investing this quality time will help you absorb your Guru’s teachings, an essential step in your journey toward becoming a well rounded dancer.
VOCAL RETREAT
Our vocal retreat will be guided by the teacher and vocalist Shweta Pandya. This unique program is designed for those who wish to deepen their understanding of Indian classical music while immersing themselves in a tranquil and inspiring environment.
Offering a deep dive into Hindustani music, the retreat is designed to provide participants with an enriching experience of learning, understanding, and performing the elements that make Hindustani music so captivating, with a focus on the raga as both a concept and a medium of expression.
Over 4 days of immersive learning, the retreat will provide:
An introduction to swaras, saptaks (octaves), and tala (rhythm) in Hindustani music
Understanding and performing Raga Yaman
Practice in singing swaras and traditional compositions
An introduction to improvisation in the Hindustani classical tradition, a core aspect of Hindustani music, allowing participants to explore the creative freedom that comes with raga-based performance.
A lived experience of the mental and spiritual benefits of Hindustani music
Whether you're a beginner or have some prior knowledge of music, this collaborative workshop provides a space to deeply experience and understand the intricate beauty of Hindustani classical music.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Intimate setting with personal access to the teacher
Interactive sessions with question and answer periods
Shamatha and guided meditations
Delicious all-vegetarian meals with locally sourced ingredients
Option to extend stay on Personal Retreat
Extensive library of dharma books
Expansive wooded grounds with beautiful flora and fauna
PREREQUISITES
Kathak Retreat: This program is designed for intermediate/advanced level Kathak students/practitioners. A minimum of 4 years previous training is required.
Vocal Retreat: This program is open to all ages and skill levels.
SCHEDULE
(subject to change)
Thursday, August 14
3:00-4:00 PM
Check in
4:00-6:00 PM
Orientation and Meet and Greet
6:00-7:00 PM
Dinner
7:00-9:30 PM
Program
Friday, August 15 & Saturday, August 16
6:30-7:00 AM
Yoga and Meditation
8:00-8:30 AM
Breakfast
9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Program
12:00-1:00 PM
Lunch
1:30-6:00 PM
Program
6:00-7:00 PM
Dinner
7:15-9:30 PM
Program
Sunday, August 17
7:00-7:30 AM
Breakfast
7:30 AM-12:00 PM
Program
12:00-1:00 PM
Lunch
1:00 PM
Checkout and Departure
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