Workshop: Alaap-Syllable Singing

„I want to sing like the birds sing,
without worrying
about who listens or what they think.“

(Mevlânâ-Rumī)

Discover the art of creative syllable singing and intuitive improvisation, inspired by the rich heritage of Indian Music. This workshop provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the key techniques and expressive nuances of (North) Indian syllable singing- Alaap.

Syllable singing is an archaic form of vocal expression, rooted in the earliest origins of human language. Each syllable carries its own inherent sound energy – it is the precursor to word and language, connecting us directly with the primal resonance of our voice.
Syllabic singing is mentioned in the Nāṭya Śāstra, an ancient Indian treatise on performing arts and music that is over 2,000 years old. Today, syllabic singing is an essential component of several Indian singing genres, such as Dhrupad, Khayal and Tarana. This musical technique offers a variety of benefits. It is suitable for both rhythmic improvisational singing and meditative, sound-oriented singing, whereby the meaning of the lyrics or syllables is irrelevant. Syllable Singing is accompanied by the mysterious sounds of the Tanpura and breathing exercises from Yoga (prāṇāyāma).

 
A musical ear, singing ability and familiarity with Indian Music are advantageous.

To ensure a personal and intensive experience, the number of participants is limited. Please register in advance to participate.

Special Introductory Prices available until March 2026: 

Workshop offer in small groups (90 min.): 36 € (including water, tea, vegan Chai and snacks)

Frequent booker gift: After 9 offers of 45/60 minutes each, you will receive a free offer from the Sound Spectrum or Relaxation Spectrum session in small groups (45 min.) [90-minute sessions count as two; the Information Event is excluded]. Applicable in the Salt Room with a €12.50 surcharge. The voucher is transferable and valid for three years. Cash redemption is not possible. Not combinable with 10-session cards.

Visits to your home or facility can also be arranged to meet your needs. Upon request, individual and group offers can be provided in German, English, Hindi, Bangla, and Turkish as well. Price by arrangement.

The accompaniment of the Tanpura gives my offerings a unique and distinctive character. Its enchanting vibrations are both my musical guide and the core sonic foundation woven into each of my offers. The natural harmonic series (pure intervals) unfolds from its mysterious ocean of overtone-rich vibrations – a silent awakening from the depths of sound. Through regular meditative merging with its multidimensional sound spectrum, the `inner ear´ can open up to the perception of the omnipresent sound of anahat Nāda.

Inspired by the creative improvisational mastery of my Gurus, I draw from the rich spectrum of improvisational techniques from Indian Raag Music to create individual designs for syllable singing. Each musical presentation unfolds melodically and intuitively, tailored to the participants, the hour, and the spirit of the moment.

Ceramic tile: Anonymous (Turkey); Personal Collection.

Background: “Flower of Life Infinite Pattern Sacred Geometry“; Douglas James Butner, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons; (edited & Image insertion: 2024 The Year of the Dragon by Hafize Daniel).

Logo: © Hafize Daniel.