Questions and answers
Does it work with my instrument?
Yes, with any instrument that plays a clear pitch, or your voice: bansuri, sitar, harmonium, violin, sarod, singing and more. Only the notes, their order and the timing are scored, never the sound of the instrument. A loud drone under your playing can confuse it, so keep a tanpura quieter than you are, or listen to it on headphones.
Do I need an account?
No. The free phrases can be played and scored straight away. A free account keeps your daily streak and lets you set a goal.
Is my recording kept?
No. Your recording is scored and then deleted straight away. The only exception is a phrase whose page says that recordings of it are kept to help us improve the scoring.
What do the scores mean?
Each attempt gets a score out of ten, with a word on the notes and their order, and on the timing and speed. 8 or more means you have it: it counts as learnt and moves guided practice on to the next phrase. Below that, the tips under the score say which notes to listen to again.
My instrument is in a different key. Can I still play along?
Phrases are scored in the key they were recorded in, so on most plans play them in that key. With Sadhana you can set your own Sa: every phrase then plays and is scored in your key, and singing a whole phrase an octave higher or lower is fine. Plans and pricing
Do I need to read music?
No. You learn by ear, the way the music has always been taught. If you are stuck, “Show the notes” has each phrase written in sargam, beat by beat. How to read the notes
Which ragas can I learn?
Raga Yaman for now, in lessons from first steps to alap and meend, recorded on bansuri. More ragas are on the way. About Raga Yaman
What does it cost?
Starting is free: the free lessons and 10 scored attempts a day. Riyaz opens every lesson and guided practice, and Sadhana adds your own key, your progress and badges. Plans and pricing
What do I need to record?
The microphone in your phone or laptop is enough. A quiet room helps; the microphone button on the practice page checks your sound. Wear headphones if you want to play along with the phrase while you record.
Can I cancel a plan?
Yes, whenever you like, from Plan and billing on your profile. You keep your plan until the end of the time you have paid for. If a plan isn't right for you, ask within 14 days of a payment for a full refund. Refunds
How do I get in touch?
Write to help@gurushishya.app. We read everything and answer as soon as we can.
