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As
you know, Bhai Sahib ji has been serving the Bay Area Sikh community for the last 20 years, particularly the sangat of South
Bay, by teaching Kirtan classes and performing Kirtan in the Gurdwara and private homes. Hundreds of children have successfully
learnt kirtan from Bhai Sahib ji and thus have become attached to Gurbani.
We are now attempting to take Bhai Sahib ji's laudable work and method of teaching to the
next level by creating a unique product which will include a "Learn Kirtan Series" instructional DVD, a book of basic exercises
and 10 shabads with transliteration, and an accompanying audio CD. The step by step self learning instruction
book provides keyboard and sargam introduction, and for each shabad, the musical notation and transliteration with notes to
guide playing.
The instructional DVD will be approximately 60 minutes long, which will provide visual instructions
to the viewer on the specific keys and commands to use while playing the harmonium or vaja, with sub-titles on the screen,
an example can be viewed at the following link:
DVD Project
The
audio CD has the same content as the DVD, but is meant as an additional tool to memorize and appreciate the instructions,
while one is for example driving or running errands, away from the television screen. Those that have tried a sampling of
these three tools combined, having no or very limited prior knowledge or experience with kirtan or the vaja, have claimed
success in being able to do a solo shabad within minutes.
We
have helped Bhai Sahib ji in calculations and budgeting, and are estimating a total cost of $26,000 for producing 2500 copies
of this product.
2500
copies would be created as professionally packaged sets of the DVD, book and CD. This cost includes renting a professional
recording studio, duplication, designing of the cover, printing of the book, packaging and other miscellaneous expenses. The
products would be sold at $25/set through a website as well as other marketing outlets in the community.
The
proceeds from sales would be used to undertake other follow on projects in the "Learn Kirtan Series". Each family that makes a donation of $500 and above will receive
4 sets free of cost, for distribution to friends and family. Also, we would like to acknowledge all contributions. Checks
can be made out to "Chardi Kalaa" to qualify as a charitable donation, and given to any of the volunteers below.
Bhai
Sahib ji has been serving our families for the last 20 years. We believe that the above product with the latest technology
and professional quality used, has the capacity to take his talent and voice to a much greater level.
We
look forward to your support and commitment in accomplishing this project.
If you have any questions, need additional information, or would like to join the volunteer
committee, please contact any of the following:
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