Dhrupad is the oldest existing form of Indian Classical Music, with a 700-year history. Dhrupad has its roots in the chanting of the ancient Vedic mantras. The great Dhrupad masters state that rather than entertaining the audience, Dhrupad’s purpose is devotional. It is a spiritual music. The word “Dhrupad” comes from the Sanskrit “Druvapada”, with “Dhruva” meaning structured (or sometimes evening star) and “Pada” meaning poetry. For a more detailed explanation please visit my Guru’s website HERE.
Payton learning from Ramakant Gundecha at Dhrupad Sansthan.
Payton’s Dhrupad gurus are the legendary Gundecha Brothers. The Gundecha Brothers are regarded as the foremost exponents of Dhrupad and have been awarded many prizes from the Indian Government, including the prestigious Padma Shri. Please visit their website to learn more about these remarkable artists, and more about Dhrupad. To see and hear Payton singing Dhrupad please visit the “Videos” tab in the drop-down menu above under “musician” and there are several videos there.
The Gundecha Brothers host several Dhrupad Days in various locations in the U.S. If you’re interested in learning more about this music directly from these master musicians look HERE.
Payton with Ramakant Gundecha, January 2012
Payton with Umakant, Ramakant, and Akhilesh Gundecha, June 2017
Singing at Dhrupad Mela in Varanasi, 2019
The Dhrupad Days Wayne crew, June 2016
Learning with friends in group class at Dhrupad Sansthan.
Payton MacDonald 