Live Learning in Houston Immerse yourself in the city's only live Qawwali class. Studies show that learning in person helps you stay focused and master skills five times faster.
Learn from Riyaaz Qawwali's Founder Train with a renowned national artist, Sonny Mehta. Research proves that learning from a real performer builds more confidence than a typical classroom setting.
Explore Two Spiritual Traditions Extract the power and depth from the Sufi and Bhakti traditions. You will discover how these traditions unite into one beautiful and ancient musical language.
Sing for Your Health Group singing is a natural way to heal. Science shows it lowers stress and makes you feel happier by connecting you with others.
Revel in the Culture Explore how your heritage fits into modern life. Using music as a bridge helps you understand your history and your place in the world.
Benefit from Small Group Coaching The class is limited to ten students. This small circle ensures you get personal attention and expert feedback on your unique voice.
What you'll learn
Vocal Mastery & Breathwork Develop your vocal power by merging traditional Qawwali techniques with Yogic breathwork. Master the foundations of Sur and Raag to build an authentic, resonant singing range.
The Arc of Ecstasy Navigate the intentional "architecture" of a Qawwali session, moving from meditative stillness into high-energy vocal peaks. You will learn to use Alaap (slow intro) and Girah (poetic knots) to trigger a deep, cathartic emotional release.
Spiritual Poetry & Sound Science Explore the timeless Kalam (poetry) of masters like Amir Khusrow and Bulleh Shah. Discover the Science of Sound, learning how staying in tune (Sur) and rhythm (Taal) regulates your body and mind.
The Power of the Collective Experience the profound mental health benefits of finding your voice within a community. Learn the dynamics of group singing, where the strength of the chorus creates a shared sense of healing and belonging.
The One Guiding This Circle
Sonny K. Mehta
Lead Instructor | Riyaaz Academy
Sonny K. Mehta, founder of Riyaaz Qawwali, has spent over 20 years using the power of sacred sound to facilitate emotional and spiritual connection. Having shared this ancient craft at institutions like Harvard, Dartmouth, University of Chicago and NPR, Sonny now creates a sanctuary for students to explore their own voices. Always a life-long student of music, Sonny himself has been learning music for over 35 years. In this 8-week journey, he bridges high-level performance expertise with vocal healing, helping you move from a silent listener to a resonant, grounded artist.
The Vocal Discovery Journey
Week 1: Awakening the Natural Voice Connect your everyday breath to your first resonant notes. Week 2: Finding Your True Tone (Sur) Stop guessing notes; learn to "feel" when you are in tune. Week 3: The Pulse of the Heart (Taal) Singing in rhythm to steady your mind and body. Week 4: The Storyteller’s Chant Using simple poetry to unlock emotion through your singing. Week 5: The Art of Stillness (Alaap) Slow, meditative vocalizing to build confidence and calm. Week 6: Building Vocal Energy (Girah) Techniques to safely add power and "knots" to your voice. Week 7: Reaching the High Note (Ecstasy) Combining technique and spirit for a cathartic vocal release. Week 8: The Harmony of Us Singing together to experience the joy of collective healing.
Class Flow & Information
Join us for eight consecutive weeks of guided practice and reflection. We will gather every Wednesday from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM throughout May and June 2026. Opening Session: Wednesday, May 6th To ensure the space is supportive and accessible for all participants, we are committing the location for this May 6th cirlce will be in Sugarland. Our Tuesday evening circle is now over capacity. Due to demand, we’ve opened this new Wednesday cohort to welcome more students for the Spring/Summer season.
Start Your 8-Week Transformative Journey
Experience the power of vocal tradition within our private small circle. Join this expert led journey to reduce stress, honor heritage and find your authentic voice.
$489.00
For Any Questions
Feel free to reach out to Faryal at 346-528-8072, to discuss any questions you may have.