About us

Vaishnavi School of Music was founded in 2016
by Smt. Kalpana Raja in Melbourne, Australia.

A Carnatic Music School in Melbourne

Smt. Kalpana Raja is the founder and director of Vaishnavi School of Music, where she teaches Carnatic vocal music to children and adults. Her teaching combines strong classical foundations with patience and care, so each student can grow at their own pace and enjoy the journey.

Our classes cover every stage of learning: the Kinder Kids Program (ages 4.5–6), Beginners (ages 6 and above), and Intermediate and Advanced levels, including adults. We also offer Vallaki Bhakti Samanvaya classes for Adults.

Certification in Carnatic vocal opportunities are given by attendance of Exams - London Academy of Fine Arts affiliated with the University of Madras.

Group Classes

Small groups of 2–4 students learning together in a friendly, encouraging setting, at a pace suited to the group's level.

Individual Classes

One-to-one sessions from age 12, tailored to each student's level and experience, with personal attention at every step.

Why learn with us?

Kinder Kids

A joyful first step into classical music

Kinder Kids is a specially designed program that introduces young children to the beauty of classical music in a way that feels like play. Through songs, rhythm games, clapping patterns, simple melodies and stories, little ones begin to absorb the foundations of sruti (pitch), laya (rhythm) and swara (notes) naturally, just as they learn language.

Classes are short, lively and age-appropriate, building listening skills, focus, memory and confidence. Children also connect with the cultural stories and values behind the music, laying a strong, lasting foundation for formal training as they grow.

Ideal for: young children taking their very first steps in music.

Yoga for Music

Breath training with sound and movement

Good music begins with good breath. Yoga for Music brings together gentle yoga, breathing practices (pranayama) and vocal sound work to help students build breath control, posture, stamina and calm focus, all essential for singing and playing well.

Sessions combine movement, guided breathing and sound exercises such as Omkara and sustained notes, helping students feel more grounded, relaxed and present. The result is steadier pitch, longer phrases, less performance anxiety and a deeper sense of wellbeing that carries beyond music.

Ideal for: students of all ages who want to strengthen their voice, breath and concentration.

Concert Tours

Learn music where it truly comes alive

Some of the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom. On Concert Tours, students accompany their teacher to live classical music concerts to experience the art form in its fullest expression.

Before and after each concert, students are encouraged to learn, explore, question and ponder: How did the artist develop that raga? What made that rhythm so exciting? How do the musicians communicate on stage? These shared experiences sharpen listening skills, broaden musical understanding and inspire students by showing them what is possible with dedication and practice.

Ideal for: students who want to deepen their appreciation and understanding of classical music.

Vallakī Bhakti Samanvaya

A music journey for busy adults

Life, work and family often push our passion for music aside, but it never truly leaves us. Vallakī Bhakti Samanvaya is a dedicated program for adults who want to continue (or rediscover) their music journey alongside a busy life.

The program blends classical learning with devotional (bhakti) repertoire in a flexible, supportive format that respects your time. Whether you trained as a child and want to return, or are beginning fresh, you'll learn at a sustainable pace, find a calm creative space in your week and join a community of like-minded music lovers.

Ideal for: working professionals and adults passionate about keeping music in their lives.

Performance Opportunities

Share your learning with confidence

Performing is an important part of every musician's growth. Students are given regular opportunities to present what they've learned on stage, including:

  • Annual Concert: a celebration of each student's progress over the year, shared with family and friends
  • Temple performances: offering music in a devotional setting, connecting students with the spiritual roots of the tradition
  • Community and cultural events: festivals and gatherings that bring music to a wider audience

These experiences build stage confidence, discipline and a sense of accomplishment, and help students experience the joy of sharing music with others.

Guru & Disciple

Smt. Kalpana Raja is currently under advanced training as a disciple of the illustrious guru Sri Ramnath Iyer, of the Iyer Brothers, Pichumani School of Carnatic Music. She was a student of Dr. Karaikudi S. Subramaniam (renowned Vainika of the Karaikudi style) as part of the COMET Course (Correlated Objective Music Education and Training), which helped her shape her vision for Vaishnavi School of Music. Together with the rigorous and diligent mentorship of Sri Ramnath Iyer, progressing on a bright journey of the school.

Guru: Sri Ramnath Iyer

Guru: Dr. Karaikudi S. Subramaniam