Sitar Lessons

The Sitar is the instrument I first fell in love with, and if you have ever heard it or seen it being played you’ll know exactly why! It is a stringed instrument from the lute family that is incredibly popular in northern India. Over the last half a century it has also become very well known and popular in the western world, thanks to wonderful musicians like Pandit Ravi Shankar, his daughter Anoushka Shankar (who has been nominated six times for Grammy awards), George Harrison, and Prem Joshua.

Before you even pluck a note, you’ll discover the Sitar is a wonderful instrument to hold. It typically measures about 4 feet in length, with a deep pear-shaped body made from seasoned gourd. It has a long, wide, hollow wooden neck and two layers of metal strings on two separate bridges, which is what creates the Sitar’s distinctive, melodious sound.

For an absolute beginner, just the idea of learning the Sitar can feel quite intimidating. It isn’t. The Sitar is a tremendously enjoyable and rewarding instrument to learn, and although you’ll find some of the lessons challenging, my method ensures you’ll also have a lot of fun. For many of my students, learning the Sitar has been a life-changing experience.

I offer private face-to-face or online Sitar lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced level. Each student receives my undivided attention for the entire length of the lesson, and either 30 minute or 1-hour sessions are available. I design the lessons according to the students’ own pace and do everything I can to make the lessons as convenient, enjoyable and satisfying as possible.

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Testimonial

Guru Vijay Jagtap-ji’s patient hands-on teaching makes music really accessible. Being able to receive one-to-one instruction over nearly two decades has been a privilege
55
IT company director, London
Vijay is an excellent teacher and great artist, and I was impressed by his style of teaching
55
Ipswich, Suffolk, England
“Mr. Jagtap is a true diamond! I am SO delighted to have met him. I am taking Sitar lessons and am truly enjoying every session. He is genuinely professional in many Indian instruments including my favorite Sitar. His teaching method is really excellent, I learned the basics in a couple of sessions! I’m so grateful […]
55
Engineer UK
I regularly attend the weekly online Riyaz group class, and I have seen a huge improvement in my learning and understanding of various techniques
55
Product manager, London
“Learning to play the harmonium has been a childhood dream of mine, and it is finally coming true after joining Jagtap Sir’s classes. His unique teaching style ignites enthusiasm in me, deepening my passion and willingness to learn. Every session feels like a mindfulness practice, helping me unwind despite my demanding work schedule. I feel […]
55
It was an amazing performance leaving an everlasting impression over our minds.
55
Medical Specialist, Reading England
I am very happy that I found Vijayji. Guruji teaches in a way which is clear and understandable for the student. His lessons are very informative and enjoyable.
55
England
One of the most highly acclaimed British-based Sitar artists. He is renowned for both his technical excellence and brilliance on strings
55
London, England
Incredible sitar playing. I love the sensitivity of your playing, and I would love to come and watch you play very much. Please let me know the next time you’re performing
55
London
Your music is Mind and Soul music. Awesome performance, and excellent co-ordination and body language between you and the Tabla player on stage. Astounding!”
55
England
I found the first lesson very relaxed and focused. The teaching style was friendly and I was very pleased to have been able to learn a scale within the first session
55
Medical Professional, Cambridge, England
As an adult beginner, I was rather apprehensive about learning the Harmonium. However, I have found Vijay’s style of teaching to be most empowering. His instructions are always very clear and easy to understand, making the learning process far less daunting and enjoyable than I had expected. Thanks to Vijay Ji’s expertise.
55
UK
Vijay is one of the best teachers I have ever had. He has a deep-rooted understanding of every aspect of Sitar music which he offers generously to all his students
05
I have learned a great deal in a short period of time. This has boosted my confidence and I now feel able to develop my skills further with his help.
55
England
Ustaadji’s level of teaching is not only deeply personalised, but rigorous and rewarding. Ustaadji is kind, constructive and patient. Cannot recommend enough!
55
USA
I found Vijay’s style of teaching very clear, his manner very encouraging, and the atmosphere totally comfortable. I thoroughly enjoyed it
55
London
“I highly recommend Guruji to any parent keen on introducing Hindustani music to their child”.
55
Software engineer, Bushey England
Vijay is a committed artist who infuses sheer magic in his performance and mesmerises listeners with his beautiful compositions
55
England
Learning to play the Sitar from Guruji has been one of the most rewarding aspects in my life. Now my son has also started to learn to play the Sitar from Guruji
55
London
Thank you very much for the lesson – it was great and I learned loads.
55
UK
“Learning under Guru Shri Vijay Jagtap has been truly rewarding. He is a skilled, patient, and thoughtful teacher—his measured approach and encouragement make all the difference. As a therapist, I find that playing the tabla offers a playful, embodied complement to my work. I feel lucky to have found such a great teacher.”
55
Thank you for all your invaluable lessons. I totally enjoyed learning and performing my Tabla skills in various performances. Thanks for being my favorite music teacher. I will miss you!
55
London

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