First credits for QCE in Indian Music

Article published in Brisbane Indian Times October 2015 edition:

 Thejan Elankayer of Pacific Pines, Gold Coast, has become the first student in Queensland to have Indian music exam results credited towards his Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). The Indian Music and Dance examinations held by Pandit Ram Sahai Sangit Vidyalaya (PRSSV) were officially recognised by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) earlier this year. Thejan achieved a Distinction in Grade 6 Tabla in the exams held in July.

Asked about tabla and PRSSV exams, Thejan said “Tabla has been a source of pleasure for me more than half my life for a number of reasons. For example, when I am distressed, I often play Tabla as it seems to have an uplifting effect. The PRSSV Tabla exams work effectively in providing a source of perspective and accomplishment. The vast pool of knowledge that is entwined within Tabla is practically boundless. When comparing what I have learnt to that pool, I often feel that what I’ve learnt is insignificant and can sometimes go so far as to be discouraged. The PRSSV Tabla exams are a great help in that area as each year I am constantly working towards the next grade. Upon finishing each exam, not only is there a sense of accomplishment bestowed within me, I also begin to feel that I am one step closer to that vast pool of knowledge.”

“I have 3 goals for my near future in Tabla, the first is of course complete the grade 8 (year 12 equivalent) PRSSV exam. My second goal would be to be awarded the Rising Star Award and perform at Sangeet Mela. My final near future goal would be to travel to India for a bit and absorb some of the culture and music straight from the roots. In regards to the long term for Tabla I would like to take as many opportunities as I can to further expand and enhance my relatively trivial amount of knowledge on the subject. I would also like to try my hand at teaching Tabla later. All in all, I plan on continuing working with this skill that I’ve worked on for the past 8 years.”

The next round of PRSSV Tabla Examinations are planned for late January 2016. As well as tabla, the recognised courses include Bansuri, Carnatic Vocal, Dhol, Harmonium, Hindustani Vocal, Kathak Dance, and Sitar. Music and dance teachers who are interested in presenting their students for PRSSV exams are requested to contact Shen Flindell by email at shen@ethnosuperlounge.com.