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About the Dance

A traditional South Indian classical dance, Bharatnatyam originated in Tamil Nadu, and revolves around nritya (pure step sequences) and abhinaya (expression). Its roots lie in Natyashastra, a Sanskrit treatise written between 200 BCE - 200 CE by the legendary priest Bharata. 

My Journey

As my father comes from a South Indian background, I was introduced to the dance form through my paternal grandmother and came to love it dearly. I have been learning Bharatnatyam for the past 8 years, under Miss Priya Venkatraman, with a group of other interested girls. My goal is to perform my 'Arangetram,' a cumulative performance of most of the pieces I have learnt over my tutelage.

My Experience

Bharatnatyam was a great learning experience for me, as I was taught how to express my emotions clearly and gained a good hand-feet coordination. Being a South Indian dance form, I was able to connect with my heritage and learn about my homeland in ways which I normally would not have been able to. 

My Journey

From a young age, I have always been fascinated with music. Of course, most of it consists of the songs I listen to, but I also enjoy learning about the intricacies of music and how to composite it. My mother had started me on the piano when I was seven by hiring a home tutor. Following that time, I have had numerous piano teachers: each with their own training style and approach to music. Recently, I have also started myself on vocals, as it has been a long-held wish of mine. I enjoy vocals as I can connect the songs I do in class with the songs I listen to on a daily basis - and its fun!

My Skills

There are various methods to test your skill and capability. In my case, I prefer the ABRSM board - Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music - which offers a series of tests to classify a student from grades 1-8. Currently, I have recently finished Grade 5 at a Merit, and am working to pass Grade 6. At the end of my training, I aim to complete Grade 8 and gain a greater understanding of my instrument, and music itself. 

School Life

In fact, my school has also taught me about music. I have taken IGCSE Music, and as such, was able to learn how to analyse music. The course teaches one about the history of music - from the Renaissance to the 20th Century - and the different styles of music around the world, each with their own instruments and typical structures.