After just finishing the Jul, 2011 course here are some of my comments:

I am always amazed at the depth and experience of our teacher Bhai Baldeep Singh.  The powerpoint presentations this year were truly amazing and informative about the musical heritage that was handed down by the Guru’s.  Seeing Guru Gobind Singh’s and Guru Arjun’s rebab was truly amazing and also hearing about the gold tipped arrows from Guru Gobind Singh that are kept by the same family.

It was also a turning point this year to have additional kirtan groups from our class perform.  That being Francesca and Siri Ram and then the men’s group.

The course work also pushes me beyond what I think I am capable of.  It may be unpleasant at times, but the end result is empowering and motivating.  The group this year was truly focused and of one mind.  People worked very hard and the results could be seen.

I believe this course is the perfect storm of Kirtan.  We have Tala, Voice, instrumentation (Taus, Dilruba, Rebab some day) all combined to form the Naad Yoga whole.  What is truly amazing is the historical linkage to the time of the Gurus.  I might also add that we hear authentic and beautiful stories from Bhai Baldeep, which make the whole Guru period vibrant and inspiring.

Gurumukh Singh, Eugene, Oregon