Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Ali Akbar College of Music - Preserving North Indian Classical Music Tradition
Ali Akbar College of Music has been dedicated to teaching, performing, and preserving the classical music of North India for over five decades. Founded on the rich legacy of the Seni Baba Allauddin Gharana tradition, we offer rigorous instruction in Sarode, Sitar, and Tabla to students worldwide. Our programs blend in-person and online learning, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced musicians. Through lecture demonstrations, residency programs, and performances, we engage schools and communities, fostering cultural appreciation and musical excellence. Our faculty includes world-renowned artists who bring decades of expertise to both traditional and contemporary contexts.We emphasize personalized instruction, with private lessons for beginners and structured group classes for intermediate and advanced learners. Our mission extends beyond education to cultural preservation, ensuring the timeless artistry of North Indian classical music thrives for future generations. With a global reach and deep local roots in San Rafael, California, we remain committed to accessibility, offering flexible formats and financial support through scholarships. Our concerts and collaborations with educational institutions highlight our dedication to sharing this musical heritage with diverse audiences.
Services
Sarode Instruction
Sitar Instruction
Tabla Instruction
Online Music Courses
Lecture Demonstrations
Residency Programs
Youth Classes
Concert Performances
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of expertise in North Indian classical music education
- Our faculty includes internationally acclaimed performing artists
- We provide flexible learning formats: in-person and online instruction
- We tailor programs for all age groups and skill levels
- We combine cultural preservation with modern educational approaches
Services
Sarode Instruction
Professional-level Sarode instruction following the Seni Baba Allauddin Gharana tradition. Our master instructors provide personalized training in both classical techniques and improvisational skills. Students learn through traditional pedagogical methods combined with modern teaching approaches, preparing for performance and deep musical understanding.
Tabla Instruction
Comprehensive Tabla education covering rhythmic cycles, compositions, and accompaniment techniques. Offered at all levels from beginner to advanced, with specialized classes for different skill stages. Students train with world-class artists who have decades of performance and teaching experience in traditional and contemporary contexts.
Online Music Courses
Live-streamed instruction in Sarode, Sitar, and Tabla accessible globally. Our online platform maintains the quality of in-person teaching with interactive sessions and personalized feedback. Courses include structured curricula for different proficiency levels, with flexible scheduling options for international students.
Residency Programs
Customizable 5-12 week educational programs for schools featuring weekly North Indian music instruction. Designed for grades 5-12 and college-level students, these programs teach composition, improvisation, and performance techniques. Culminate in collaborative performances with professional AACM artists using both traditional and Western instruments.
Lecture Demonstrations
One-hour educational performances introducing North Indian classical music to students. Features live demonstrations of Sarode, Sitar, and Tabla with explanations of musical structure and improvisation. Includes Q&A sessions and adaptable formats to meet specific educational objectives for elementary through university-level audiences.
People
Swapan Chaudhuri
Tabla Instructor
Renowned tabla master with over 40 years of teaching experience at AACM. Performs regularly with Ali Akbar Khan and other leading artists. Specializes in advanced rhythmic techniques and traditional repertoire.
Manik Khan
Sitar Instructor
Experienced instructor teaching instrumental fundamentals and raga composition. Provides both in-person and online instruction for mixed instrument classes. Maintains the family musical legacy through dedicated teaching practice.
Alam Khan
Faculty Member
Distinguished musician offering advanced instruction in raga and composition. Combines traditional teaching methods with contemporary pedagogical approaches. Regular performer in AACM concerts and educational programs.
Questions
What instruments do you teach?
We specialize in Sarode, Sitar, and Tabla instruction at all proficiency levels.
Do you offer online classes?
Yes, we provide live-streamed instruction in all instruments for students worldwide.
Are there programs for school students?
We offer lecture demonstrations and residency programs for grades 5-12 and universities.
Can beginners enroll?
Yes, we accept absolute beginners through private lesson programs with specialized instructors.
Do you host public concerts?
We regularly present performances by world-class artists in our concert series.
Are youth classes available?
We offer age-appropriate instruction for young students; contact us for program details.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Isabelle Marcoux
Mar 08, 2022
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Incredible music school! The director and the teachers are very comprehensive, empathetic and patient. They continue the tradition of the great maestro Ustad Ali Akbar Khan.
Oren Selah
Dec 31, 2019
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Musicians Mall - the old AACM store is also an excellent resource for instruments, .now located in Berkeley with the same management. Purchased my Hiren Roy vocal Tambura there about 15 years ago, its held up well and sounds great.
Anthony Yovino
Nov 10, 2017
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A school of North Indian Classical music. Also with the best teachers of the bay area as well as monthly concerts.
