Classes
AchAryAth pAdamAdaththE pAdam sihyah svamEdhayA |
pAdam sa-brahmachAribhyah pAdam kAla kramEnacha ||
The above shloka opens up many facets, related to learning and teaching
– be it regular schools or spiritual learning, music or learning life lessons.
To be successful in anything, one must have a passion for it, leading to enthusiastic and demanding learning. A knowledge seeker is always a student throughout life. Abilash, while actively learning and performing Carnatic music, also teaches it, believing that teaching is a continuous learning process. He employs various scientific techniques alongside traditional practices, making the learning process interesting for students with the support of the latest available technology. This approach has made him one of the most sought-after, beloved, friendly, and understanding gurus of the current generation of classical musicians.
One important quality of Abilash as a guru is his ability to quickly connect with any student, understanding their needs and guiding them towards their goals. His teaching style and prompt responsiveness have attracted students from multiple countries around the world, seeking advanced lessons under his guidance. Abilash’s adoption of modern educational systems for this age-old art form sets him apart from other teachers. He has conducted various master programs and workshops for students from non-musical backgrounds, helping them understand the richness of Indian classical music.
Abilash has trained students in annual training programs with partnerships with various music schools in several countries, including Reunion Islands, South Africa, Canada, Switzerland, and the United States of America. He was awarded a special “Certificate of Honour” from the Department of Arts and Culture, Province of Kwa-Zulu Natal (Durban), South Africa, for promoting and propagating Indian classical music in the Republic of South Africa. Abilash is a strong advocate for the propagation of Carnatic Music amongst youth, inspiring many youngsters worldwide. He is particularly beloved among children at the Cleveland Thyagaja Festival’s flagship program – “Sustaining Sampradaya,” where he has trained several students from 2018 until present.
With a futuristic vision, Abilash started the “Abilash’s International Carnatic Academy” (AICA) to offer tutelage to aspiring students of Carnatic music around the globe. Today, AICA is flourishing with students from over 10 countries, some of whom have completed their arangetram, a significant milestone in their musical journey. In addition to teaching one-to-one online classes, Abilash conducts specialized group sessions for larger groups of working class people on topics such as ‘Music and Mental Health’, ‘Making Carnatic Music Simple’, and ‘How to Make Traditional Music Appealing to Kids’, among others.