Michael Stirling

Hindustani Vocal Instructor

michaelstirling@lclark.edu

Michael Stirling is a disciple of the late Master of Indian Classical Vocal Music, Pandit Pran Nath (1918-1996) and a student of Terry Riley.  Michael began the study of North Indian classical vocal music with Pandit Pran Nath (Guruji) in 1983, subsequently traveled with him to India and became his disciple. After Pandit Pran Nath’s passing in 1996, Michael has continued study and practice of this celestial art form with Guruji’s senior American student, the highly regarded composer and performer, Maestro Terry Riley.  Michael has accompanied Pandit Pran Nath and Mr. Riley in classes and concerts in America, at the Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas; in India at the dhargha of Sufi Hazarat Inayat Khan in New Dehli; at Diggi Palace in Jaipur; in California and elsewhere.

Mr. Stirling has taught at Marylhurst University, University of Portland, Portland State University, Reed College, Community Music Center, Amrita: A Santuary for Yoga, Yoga Shala, Beloved Festival, for Living Yoga at the Oregon State Correctional Institute, Brietnebush Retreat Center (for the 40^th Anniversary Celebration of the publication of Ram Dass’s essential book, “Be Here Now” and elsewhere.  Mr. Stirling is on the faculty of Lewis & Clark College teaching Hindustani Classical vocal music (Raga & Tala class and private lessons).  Michael has served on the Boards of Directors of Kalakendra and Living Yoga.

 Michael Stirling’s raga singing offerings are accompanied by tambura, the majestic and indispensable drone necessary for Indian Classical Music and tabla, the set of two, highly refined, tuned hand drums, also essential for Indian Classical music.