South Asian Arts Summer School

Have you ever travelled to India, Pakistan, or elsewhere in South Asia and found yourself captivated by the sounds of instruments like the sitar or tabla?

This August could be your chance to finally try them yourself!

South Asian Arts-uk (SAA-uk), a Leeds-based arts organisation with nearly three decades of experience nurturing South Asian music and dance in the region, returns with its much-loved Music South Asian Arts Summer School from Monday 3rd to Saturday 8th August 2026 at the Sikh Centre on Chapeltown Road, Leeds LS7 4HZ. Running across a full week, the programme invites participants of all ages and abilities – from complete beginners to more experienced learners, and from toddlers to adults – to step into a rich and immersive musical world.

At the heart of the week is Raagdhari, the classical music tradition of North India. Often described as one of the world’s most intricate and expressive musical systems, Raagdhari is rooted in centuries of knowledge, listening, and artistic practice. You may have encountered its sound before without even realising it – woven into wedding celebrations, carried through neighbourhoods, or shaping the emotional texture of film scores. This Summer School offers a rare opportunity to explore it in depth, guided by experienced practitioners.

What makes SAA-uk’s approach distinctive is its commitment to traditional learning methods. Rather than relying heavily on notation or abstract theory, participants are encouraged to learn through listening, repetition, and direct interaction with tutors. This echoes the guru–shishya (teacher–student) tradition, where knowledge is passed on through demonstration and embodied practice. Over time, what may initially feel unfamiliar begins to reveal its logic and beauty. Participants often discover not only the music itself, but a deep sense of focus and connection that emerges through the process.

Across the week, learners are introduced to the essential building blocks of Indian classical music. This includes raag – melodic frameworks that give each piece its identity, mood, and time of day – and taal, the rhythmic cycles that structure the performance. These concepts are explored in ways that are both accessible and engaging, allowing participants to experience music as a living, evolving practice rather than a fixed form.

Each day begins gently, with a shared morning assembly that includes group singing, light movement, and moments of stillness to settle into the day. From there, sessions unfold through guided learning, group work, and interactive exercises. Afternoons open out into listening sessions, creative activities, and space for reflection, allowing participants to absorb and respond to what they’ve experienced. The week culminates in an informal sharing session, where participants come together to present what they have learnt – a moment that celebrates both individual progress and collective learning.

The South Asian Arts Summer School 2026 is thoughtfully structured to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and supported. Dedicated early years sessions (ages 0–5) invite parents and young children to explore music together, while older participants are grouped according to age and experience so that no one feels overwhelmed or out of place. The aim is to create an environment that is both inclusive and nurturing, where curiosity and creativity can flourish.

Beyond the learning itself, the week also offers a sense of community. Participants share freshly prepared vegetarian lunches each day, along with refreshments, creating a space to connect, rest, and exchange experiences. For those travelling from further afield, transport is available from Bradford (at a small additional cost), helping to ensure the programme is accessible to a wide range of participants. Bursary support is also available for those who may need financial assistance.

Whether you are taking your very first steps into Indian classical music or looking to deepen an existing practice, South Asian Arts Summer School 2026 offers a unique opportunity to engage with a profound musical tradition in a welcoming and supportive setting. It is as much about discovering music as it is about discovering new ways of listening, learning, and being.

Ready to Book?
Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07570 393 470

Bursaries are available – We believe everyone should have access to music. If cost is a barrier, please reach out and we’ll do our best to support you.

Spend a summer making music, connecting with nature, and discovering your unique voice.

For more information and ticket bookings, please visit the South Asian Arts-uk website at www.saa-uk.org