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

“I am eternally grateful to Guruji for his patience, dedication, and unwavering support in guiding me on my musical journey.”
55
Software engineer, Bushey, England
Vijay is a truly wonderful sitar player! He creates a very beautiful sound that was perfect for our event. Our guests were all very complimentary of his music and Vijay was professional and organised to work with.
55
London
Tonight, I had my first Sitar lesson with Vijay. It was one of the most amazing hours of my life. I wish more teachers out there could be like him
55
London
Vijay is an excellent teacher and great artist, and I was impressed by his style of teaching
55
Ipswich, Suffolk, 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
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
We thank you for the music you played ‘for us’. How truly delightful it was and it was a magical moment for us to hear it.
55
England
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
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
Thank you, Guruji, for continuing to teach the children via Zoom during this pandemic. The kids have thoroughly enjoyed your Tabla lessons
55
UK
“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
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
Vijay is patient and takes you through each step. I like the way we sing together following the notation, just like reciting a song. It helps me to play the instrument better”
55
Medical professional, London
Thank you very much for the lesson – it was great and I learned loads.
55
UK
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
“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
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
Ustad Jagtap-ji is an excellent teacher. His passion and love for music is manifested through his teaching.
55
Medical Professional, London, England
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
My 10-year-old daughter and I have been learning Sitar from Pandit Vijay Jagtap since November last year. From the very first lesson, we both came away feeling very peaceful.  He’s kind, tolerant, patient, cultured, expert in his field and enjoys what he teaches. As for myself, have learnt a lot more in the last few […]
55
London
Thank you for the invaluable Riyaz session today. I am very happy to have attended as it inspires me to practice and play today. Best wishes.
55
London

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