
Sangeetshri is dedicated to the authentic learning and promotion of Indian Classical Music (Hindustani style).
Dr. (Mrs.) Vijayshree Sharma, the visionary founder and director of Sangeetshri, is a luminary in the realm of Indian classical vocal music. With a legacy rooted in music, she blossomed into a prodigious talent from an early age. Her musical journey commenced in the cradle of a family of musicians, setting the stage for an extraordinary career. A remarkable milestone in her youth was a performance at the venerable Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan, the world’s oldest festival of Indian Classical Music, when she was just ten.
Dr. Vijayshree Sharma’s early education began under the supervision of her father, Dr. Siya Behari Saran, who learned vocal music from Pt. Shankar Rao Sripad Bodas of Kanpur, and instrumental music from Sangeetendu Dr. Lal Mani Mishra. Pt. Bodas was one of the leading disciples are Pt. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar, the founder of the esteemed Gandharva Mahavidhyalaya. Dr. Sharma received a doctorate degree in Indian Classical Music from the prestigious Banaras Hindu University, India in 1993. During her research work, Dr. Sharma worked under the guidance of Late Professor, Dr. Pradeep Kumar Dixit, who was a distinguished disciple of Pt. Omkar Nath Thakur, one of the most prominent disciples of Pt. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar.
Before her journey to the United States in 1997, Dr. Sharma imparted her music wisdom to graduate and post-graduate students at Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India. She also previously served at the University of Utah as a Hindi instructor. Besides a doctorate in Indian classical music, her credentials include the prestigious Sangeet Visharad in Hindustani Vocal Music as well as Kathak from the world renowned Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai. .
Dr. Sharma’s legacy extends beyond her performances. She is the author of Alankar Prabodhini, a foundational practice book for budding musicians, and “Sangeetawali,” an introductory exploration of Indian Classical music (published in India). An ardent educator and dedicated researcher, Dr. Sharma has graced national and international stages to share the richness of Indian culture and arts.
Mrs. Sharma’s musicianship and compositional prowess have earned her high respect in Indian classical music circles. Her expertise is often sought after on international seminars devoted to Indian classical music. Her book “Alankar Prabodhini,” a guiding light for many in their musical journey, has found resonance worldwide, particularly in Japan and Canada.
Apart from her mastery of Khyaal, Dr. Sharma is highly regarded for her expertise in Tulsi Kavya, notably “The Ram-Charit-Manas.”
Once she started teaching Indian Classical Music to young students in the United States and saw the positive effect that it was creating in the life of these young kids and their families, teaching has become her main passion.
“I pay no attention whatever to anybody’s praise or blame, I simply follow my own feelings.” – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
What People Say
“I have seen a dedicated teacher and an understanding human in Vidushi Vijayashree Ji…. She treats all her students with equal respect and love…. Thanks to Sangeetshri School of Music. Would highly recommend this school to all those who want to learn Hindustani Classical music in Phoenix…”
Raghunandan B
“My now 10 year old has been learning music from Vijayshree mam since the last 5.5 years. And I cannot even begin to explain the vital role that this education plays in her life.”
Payal T
“My son has been learning for almost 3 years and recently my daughter who was learning carnatic music was inclined towards hindustaani looking at her younger brother perform. Vijayshree ji is an excellent teacher and there is so much passion and love in her teaching.”
Shyamala K
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