Gandharva Vocal Competition

Information

📅 Eligibility Criteria

Open to US residents only.
Age-based categories (Age as of Sept 1, 2025)
- Junior (7-12)
- Teen (13-18)
- Adult (18+)

💳 Entry Fee & Discounts

Entry Fee:
- $45 per entry (non-refundable).
- Each participant may submit only one entry.
Early Bird Discount:
- $45 $35 per entry if submitted on or before August 31, 2025.
- Late registrations will not qualify for the discount.

🗓️ Competition Timeline

✅ Registration Deadline:

All entry forms and payments must be submitted by September 15th, 2025 11:59 PM PT

✅ Video Upload Deadline:

Participants must upload and share their final performance video by September 30th, 2025 11.59 PM PT

Note: No extensions will be granted. Late submissions will not be accepted.

✅ Results Announcement:

Winners will be announced on November 15th, 2025 (tentative) via:

Official email to all participants
Gandharva USA social media pages
Website and YouTube channel

🎥 Video Recording Guidelines

Record your video with a phone camera or video camera placed on a stable stand.
Use landscape mode with a plain, uncluttered background.
Ensure clear audio – your voice and accompaniment (if used) must be distinctly audible.
Guru cannot accompany the student
No post-processing or editing of the performance video is allowed.
At the beginning of the video, clearly state your Full name, City and Raag name/Name of composition.
Youtube Submission – Make sure you provide access to everyone with link
1. Double-check sharing settings to ensure judges can view your video.
One entry per participant
Follow all instructions to avoid disqualification read FAQs

🎙️ Performance Requirements

Vocal performance must be Hindustani Classical (Chhota Khayal or Tarana)
Performance duration must be 5-7 minutes.
It’s acceptable to refer to notes during your performance.

FAQs For Competition

What is the eligibility criteria?

The competition is open to US residents only
Age-based categories (Age as of Sept 1, 2025)
- Junior (7-12)
- Teen (13-18)
- Adult (18+ optional)

What can I sing?

Vocal performance must be Hindustani Classical (Chhota Khayal or Tarana)
Performance duration must be 5-7 minutes
Semi-classical, light, or Bollywood songs are not allowed

What does "classical music" include?

“Classical” means your piece should be based on a recognized Raag within the Hindustani Classical tradition, performed in the Khayal or Tarana style. Your rendition should reflect the correct Raag structure, Sur, Taal, and Bhav.

How do I record my video?

Record your video with a phone camera or video camera placed on a stable stand.
Use landscape mode with a plain, uncluttered background.
Ensure clear audio- your voice and accompaniment (if used) must be distinctly audible.
Guru cannot accompany the student
No post-processing or editing of the performance video is allowed
At the beginning of the video, clearly state your Full name, City and Raag name/Name of composition.

How to I upload my performance video?

All participants are required to upload their performance to YouTube and paste the video link in the enrollment form OR the video submission form.
We recommend uploading your video as an Unlisted video (not Public or Private). This means only people with the link can view it; it won’t show up in search results.
Steps to upload:
- Sign in to your YouTube account.
- Click the Upload button (or "+" > "Upload video").
- Choose your file and fill in the video details.
- Under Visibility, select Unlisted.
- Once uploaded, copy the URL link of your video.
- Paste the link in the appropriate field in the enrollment form.
- 📹 Need help? Here’s a short how-to video on uploading to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaftEW9WI3U?t=35

What is the judging criteria?

Performances will be scored on:
✅ Sur (Melody & Pitch)
✅ Taal (Rhythm & Timing)
✅ Bhav (Expression & Emotion)
✅ Presentation (Introduction, Stage Presence)
✅ Complexity (Difficulty Level)

Can I refer to notes during my performance?

Yes! You may keep your bandish notes or lyrics in front of you if needed.

Can I have live instrument accompaniment ?

Yes! You may have live accompaniment on Tabla or Harmonium
Make sure your voice is clearly audible, balance your mic/recording so vocals stand out.
You may also use a Tanpura app or electronic Tanpura if you do not have live Tanpura
Your Guru or your teacher MUST NOT accompany you in your performance

Is instrument accompaniment mandatory?

No, accompaniment is not mandatory, you can sing with a Tanpura app if you prefer. Just ensure your sur and taal are maintained!

How many entries can I submit?

Only one entry per participant is allowed.

Who can I contact for help?

Email us at competition@gandharvausa.org or call Shilpa Modak: ‪+1(248)520‑8829‬ for assistance.

Will the performance videos be shared publicly?

Yes. Winning performances may be uploaded to YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or our website for judging and promotional purposes.