Singing in the Brain

Imagine your voice becoming a channel for the sacred—a bridge between your individual consciousness and the infinite. At Singing in the Brain, you'll step into the transformative practice of kirtan with Dave Stringer, a Grammy-nominated artist who has spent his career merging the profound mysticism of Indian ragas with contemporary, accessible grooves. This retreat at Sivananda Ashram in Nassau offers a rare opportunity to explore the deeper dimensions of call-and-response chanting, moving beyond performance into genuine spiritual practice. Whether you're new to kirtan or a seasoned practitioner, this experience invites you to discover how sacred sound can rewire your nervous system, open your heart, and attune you to the frequencies of your own inner wisdom.

Kirtan—the ancient practice of call-and-response devotional singing—has long been recognized as a pathway to meditation, emotional release, and spiritual awakening. Dave Stringer's innovative approach honors this lineage while making it alive and relevant for modern seekers. Over this retreat, you'll learn how to use your voice not as a performance tool, but as an instrument of healing and self-discovery. The practice works directly with the brain and nervous system, creating coherence and deepening your capacity for presence and joy.

What to Expect

Expect an immersive journey into the heart-opening power of sacred sound. Each session will guide you through call-and-response chanting, building in complexity and depth as your understanding unfolds. Dave Stringer will lead you in exploring both traditional mantras and contemporary compositions that carry the essence of classical ragas. You'll experience the collective energy of group singing—how individual voices weave into a unified field of sound and consciousness. Participants leave with new tools for spiritual practice, a deeper relationship with their own voice, and the felt experience of how sound can transform both body and spirit.

About the Artist

Dave Stringer is a Grammy-nominated producer, singer, composer, and innovative modern kirtan artist whose work bridges East Indian classical traditions with contemporary sonic expression. His distinctive sound weaves the transcendent mysticism of ragas into exuberant, accessible grooves that speak to both ancient wisdom and present-moment experience. Stringer's mastery of both traditional and experimental approaches to kirtan makes him a unique guide for those seeking to deepen their practice.

Venue & Logistics

The retreat takes place at Sivananda Ashram in Nassau on Monday, March 1, 2027. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows freedom of movement. No special experience or musical ability is required—only an open heart and willingness to sing. Arrive a few minutes early to settle into the space. Contact the ashram directly for parking, accessibility accommodations, and any questions about the day's schedule.