Classes in Spring, TX
The queen of South Indian classical instruments - a journey into raga, tone, and the meditative beauty of Carnatic music.
Enroll Now →Classical Carnatic Instrument
Spotlight Academy's Veena program offers six levels of structured Carnatic instrumental training at our Spring campus, with The Woodlands East and West campus opening soon. Students progress from first posture and technique through complete varnam and kriti repertoire, with a SAMPADA certification pathway and regular performance opportunities.
Curriculum
Posture, hand placement, and first resonant notes. Students build dexterity, tonal awareness, and a deep physical connection to this ancient instrument.
What you'll learn
Compositions across multiple ragas begin. Students develop coordination, speed, and the expressive gamaka palette that defines the veena's voice.
What you'll learn
SAMPADA Certification: Junior >Level 1 (Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University)
Varnam and early alapana. Students explore the full expressive voice of the veena across the classical Carnatic repertoire.
What you'll learn
SAMPADA Certification: Junior >Level 2 (Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University)
Concert repertoire, deep raga exploration, and certification. The classical veena vidushi takes shape with full artistic maturity.
What you'll learn
Advanced concert repertoire training focused on raga development, expression, and performance readiness.
What you'll learn
SAMPADA Certification: Senior > Level 3 (Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University)
Concert repertoire, deep raga exploration, and certification. The classical veena vidushi takes shape with full artistic maturity.
What you'll learn
SAMPADA Certification: Senior > Level 4 (Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University)
When We Meet
Spotlight Academy
Kids (Age 7+) - Nāda Ārambham
Wednesday
6:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Kids (Age 7+) - Nāda Vikāsam
Wednesday
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Nāda Ārambham, Nāda Vikāsam & Varnam Praveśam
Sunday
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Alternate & Make-up Classes
Saturday
By Arrangement
Advanced Adult Veena Classes
Online
By Appointment
Spotlight Academy
Schedule Coming Soon
Expanding Soon
TBD
More classes coming
Classes are currently at our Spring campus on Saturdays and Sundays. Woodlands enrollment is opening soon - contact us to be added to the waitlist.
Your Instructor
Co-Founder & Lead Faculty, Veena & Artistic Director - Performing Arts
Engineer by profession with over 15 years of Veena experience, she is the great-granddaughter of legendary Needamangalam Krishnamurthy Bhagavathar. Trained for over a decade under Mrs. Savithri and Mr. Arun, she carries forward a rich Carnatic tradition with discipline and devotion. She has performed at esteemed venues including The Music Academy, Chennai, and continues to share her music at community events in The Woodlands.
View Full ProfileVideo Gallery
Performances, showcases, and class highlights from Spotlight Academy.
No - students are not expected to own an instrument before their first class. Your instructor will advise on timing and sourcing once your child has had a chance to experience the program.
No prior experience is needed. The beginner level introduces the instrument from scratch - correct posture, basic finger placement, and foundational shruti and tala awareness.
Veena is typically suited for students aged 7 and above, as the instrument requires a certain hand span and sustained focus. Your instructor can assess readiness for younger students on a case-by-case basis.
Students should wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for sitting on the floor. Clothing should cover the legs, such as leggings, pants, or a long skirt, to ensure comfort while playing the Veena.
Regular practice is essential for steady progress. Beginners are encouraged to practice for 20–30 minutes a day, while more advanced students may practice longer based on their lesson goals.
The Veena is a revered classical instrument and should always be treated with care and respect. Students should handle it gently, avoid placing their feet on or over the instrument, and follow their instructor’s guidance for proper handling and storage.
Veena students are introduced to academy performances once they are comfortable with their foundational pieces - typically within the first year. Public stage opportunities through the Annual Spotlight Academy Showcase and cultural events follow as students advance.
Enroll now and we will confirm your child's level, campus, and class time.
Spotlight Academy