What physical aspects of the harmonium contribute to its beloved characteristic sound? And how can those physical aspects be improved, to enhance and make more consistent that sound?

Over the last few years, I have often found myself fussing over and pondering harmonium reeds. They are one of the more common parts in the Indian-made harmoniums to fail, usually by going out of alignment and causing a grating, metallic buzzing sound. They are also, however, the essential component that leads to the vibrant, reedy, sustained tone of the harmonium.

Other instruments, such as a guitar, cello or piano, rely on their wood selection and wood craftsmanship for their tone. For these instruments,

I recently received an email from a beginning harmonium player, curious if it’s possible to play nursery rhymes and other songs, such as the Beatles, on her harmonium.

My response?

Absolutely!

We have this funny notion that the harmonium is an Indian instrument, but actually it was born in Paris! It had a nineteenth century heyday throughout Europe and the US,

Amazing times we are living in! It seems that every year more festivals are emerging that feature or at least include kirtan. Here’s are some of the top festivals (in the United States) where you can get your chant on:

Bhakti Fest – A sprawling bi-annual gathering of the Bhakti tribe in Joshual Tree, California. Features multiple days of non-stop kirtan led by Jai Uttal, Krishna Das, the Mayapuris, Wah!, and dozens of other well-known and up-and-coming kirtan musicians. Called the “Woodstock of Kirtan.”

Sat Nam Fest – This bi-annual Kundalini Yoga and Kirtan festival is put on by the inspired organization

[Excerpted from an actual email exchange with an Irish student who is in my Bhakti Breakfast Club online harmonium class]

Hi Daniel,

…I’m a huge Krishna Das fan and it was as a result of his work that I got involved in this in the first place.

One area that I struggle with though is timing. I have a decent sense of rhythm, however I feel that I’m timing challenged…

[Excerpted from my musical diary - 2/26/2010]

I am in my bedroom, doing yoga while “Mozart for Meditation” plays on my computer. Outside my window, a sunrise fills the sky. It’s rays of light seem to pulse and shift hues in response to the music, beautifully interweaving with the rhythms of the violins, violas, and cellos…