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Applications Open: Cohort 3 – Khayal Apprenticeship with The Saami Family

A group of people, all sitting on the floor, gather together in a room tin front of one musician who is leading the group in singing and sitting in front of a harmonium.

We are thrilled to announce the opening of applications for Cohort 3 of the Khayal Apprenticeship, a rare, four-week intensive with The Saami Brothers alongside their father, Ustad Naseeruddin Saami. This immersive program offers group training sessions and optional one-on-one lessons focused on the fundamentals of voice culture—discovering your true singing voice—and an introduction to the 700+ year-old system of raagas in their original, healing microtonal temperament, known as khayal. Participants will refine their ability to recognize notes, improve pitch, and deepen their listening and vocal sensitivity.

About Khayal

Khayal music expresses emotion and spiritual truth through pure sound, without reliance on lyrics. Meaning “imagination,” khayal is a classical vocal tradition developed by Amir Khusrau, forming the foundation for Qawwali music.

The Saami family are master vocalists capable of rendering a 49-note microtonal scale—seven times richer than the Western system—with extraordinary nuance and melodic variation. Their music creates vibrations that connect, soothe, and transform listeners on a profound level.

Program Details

WHEN: January 9 – February 6, 2026
WHAT:
Intensive In-Person Classes (~8 hours per week)
WHERE:
At the Saami family’s home in New York City (full address shared upon acceptance)
HOW:
Applications now open—rolling admissions until capacity is reached 

FAQ

What happens in the vocal classes?
Participants engage in small-group training focused on voice culture (finding your true voice) and gain direct exposure to the Saami family’s 700+-year-old khayal system. Instruction centers on pitch, tonal recognition, and listening—helping participants grow as vocalists and musicians.

What is the cost of the program?
The full program cost is $1,500, due upon acceptance and before the first session. This includes 32 hours of small-group instruction rooted in the Saami family’s lineage.
A limited, need-based sliding scale may be available after acceptance, by request and subject to available funds.

Do I need to speak Urdu?
No. Khayal is largely wordless vocal improvisation. The Saami family teaches students from all language backgrounds. If you’re invited to an interview, an interpreter can be provided if needed.

Do I need to live in New York City?
No. Past participants have joined from across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. Out-of-town participants have coordinated shared housing during the residency.

How are participants selected?
Approximately 16 participants will be chosen for this cohort. Admission is based on musical potential, talab (sincere desire for learning), and genuine interest in the Khayal tradition. No prior experience is required—all are encouraged to apply. Finalists will be interviewed by the Saami family before selection.

Questions? Email nermeen.arastu@gmail.com. Or josh@culturalvibrancy.org

Follow saamibrothersqawwalofficial and cultural_vibrancy on Instagram for program updates