Mridangam Classes in Singapore
The rhythmic heartbeat of Carnatic music — master complex tala patterns and accompaniment skills on this ancient percussion instrument.
The Sacred Rhythm of South Indian Classical Music
The Mridangam is one of the oldest and most revered percussion instruments in Indian classical music. A double-sided drum with a body traditionally made from jackfruit wood, the Mridangam is the principal rhythmic accompaniment in Carnatic music. In ancient Hindu mythology, it is depicted as the instrument of Lord Ganesha and Lord Nandi, earning it the status of a divine instrument.
At ANASFA, our Mridangam program is designed to build a strong, systematic foundation in this powerful art form. Students progress from basic finger strokes and simple tala patterns through complex korvais, mohra-korvai sequences, and concert-level accompaniment skills — guided by experienced gurus who bring both rhythmic mastery and deep traditional knowledge to every lesson.
Whether your child is fascinated by rhythm and percussion or you are an adult wanting to explore this ancient instrument, our Mridangam program develops precise hand technique, rhythmic intelligence, accompaniment ability, and performance confidence — one grade at a time.
What You Will Learn
Our Mridangam curriculum is carefully structured to build technical mastery, expressive depth, and performance confidence progressively across all grades.
Basic Strokes & Hand Technique
Foundation of Rhythm
Master the fundamental finger strokes on both heads of the Mridangam — tha, thi, thom, nam, and more. Develop correct hand positioning, finger strength, wrist flexibility, and clean stroke production.
Tala & Solkattu
Rhythmic Intelligence
Learn the rhythmic cycles (Adi, Rupaka, Misra Chapu, Khanda Chapu, and more) through solkattu (vocal rhythmic recitation) before playing them on the instrument. Develop an internalised sense of tala.
Patterns & Compositions
Rhythmic Vocabulary
Progressively learn rhythmic compositions — from simple patterns and basic korvais through complex mohra-korvai sequences, tirmanas, and farans essential for solo and accompaniment playing.
Accompaniment Skills
Musical Partnership
Learn the art of accompanying vocalists, violinists, and other classical musicians. Develop the listening skills, musical sensitivity, and real-time responsiveness that define a skilled Mridangam accompanist.
Tani Avartanam
Solo Percussion
At advanced levels, develop skills for tani avartanam — the solo percussion section in a Carnatic concert. Complex mathematical compositions, creative improvisation, and dramatic climaxes.
Theory & Heritage
Sacred Tradition
Study the science of Carnatic rhythm (laya sastra), the history of the Mridangam, the contributions of legendary mridangists, and the instrument’s sacred place in Indian cultural tradition.
Your 8-Grade Journey to Mastery
ANASFA’s proprietary 8-Grade Certification System gives every Mridangam student a clear, structured path from absolute beginner to accomplished performer. Built over 15 years of teaching experience and research.
Foundation
Grades 1–2
Basic finger strokes, hand positioning, solkattu recitation, simple tala patterns (Adi, Rupaka). First rhythmic exercises.
Development
Grades 3–4
Complex stroke combinations, multiple talas, basic korvais, introduction to accompaniment. Simple compositions and performance.
Proficiency
Grades 5–6
Advanced korvais, mohra-korvai sequences, tirmanas, farans. Concert-level accompaniment skills for vocal and instrumental.
Mastery
Grades 7–8
Tani avartanam mastery, advanced improvisation, complex mathematical compositions, full concert accompaniment, certification.
Designed for Every Aspiring Percussionist
Mridangam at ANASFA is designed for learners at every stage of life.
Young Children
Ages 4–7
Focus on building flexibility, posture, balance, and basic rhythm through play-based learning.
Kids & Pre-Teens
Ages 8–12
Formal introduction to the 8-Grade syllabus with emphasis on technical foundations and stage confidence.
Teenagers
Ages 13–18
Advanced technical training, stage performance preparation, and cultural theory. Builds focus and discipline.
Adults
Open Age
Flexible programs focusing on fitness, cultural connection, and artistic fulfilment. Never too late to start.
Meet Your Mridangam Gurus
Our Mridangam faculty brings years of professional performance, teaching, and certification experience. Every class is led by a trained guru who combines technical mastery with genuine care for each student’s growth.
Jon Prebhu Subramaniam
Mridangam, Tabla
Sisira Shankar
Violin, Carnatic Vocal
Kumar Lekha Shri
Bharatanatyam
What Parents & Students Say
What is the right age to start learning Mridangam?
Children can begin as early as age 4 at ANASFA. Early classes focus on rhythmic awareness, basic hand exercises, and solkattu (vocal rhythm recitation) before moving to the instrument.
Does my child need their own Mridangam?
Yes, students will eventually need their own instrument for home practice. For beginners, your guru may start with practice pads and solkattu before recommending an instrument purchase. Guidance on where to buy in Singapore will be provided.
Is Mridangam very loud? Will it disturb neighbours?
Mridangam does produce significant volume. Practice pads are available for quieter home practice, and your guru will advise on practice-friendly solutions for apartment living in Singapore.
Does my child need any prior musical experience?
No prior experience is needed. Our curriculum starts from basic hand positions and simple rhythm exercises.
Can girls learn Mridangam?
Absolutely. While traditionally male-dominated, Mridangam has many outstanding female players today. We welcome students of all genders and many of our Mridangam students are girls.
Are classes available on weekdays and weekends?
Yes. ANASFA offers both weekday and weekend batch options.
Which branches offer Mridangam?
Mridangam is available at all 6 ANASFA branches across Singapore.
Can I book a trial class before enrolling?
Yes. Call 6100 6789 or 9653 0553 to book a free trial class.
Learn Mridangam Near You
Mridangam classes are available at all 6 ANASFA branches across Singapore, making it easy for students to access quality fine arts education near their homes.
Yishun Wisteria Mall
Sengkang Rivervale Mall
Tampines Central Telepark
Serangoon Central USSC
Woodlands Woods Square
Farrer Park
Begin Your Mridangam Journey Today
Book a free trial class at any of our 6 Singapore branches. Admissions open for kids (age 4+), teens, and adults all year round.
