Our Faculty
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At the heart of Nivedarpana Academy of Music & Arts is a team of passionate and accomplished vocalists and instrumentalists who bring both expertise and empathy into the classroom. Each faculty member is not only well-trained in their respective discipline but also deeply committed to nurturing every learner’s musical journey, regardless of age or background.
Our teachers embody the academy’s belief that “Everybody Can Sing.” They combine the rigor of traditional training with an inclusive and encouraging approach, ensuring that students feel confident and inspired as they explore their unique voices. From the intricate nuances of Hindustani Classical music to the expressive joy of light music and karaoke, our faculty provides personalized guidance tailored to each learner’s goals and potential.
More than just instructors, our faculty members are mentors who instill discipline, creativity, and a love for performance. Their dedication extends beyond classroom teaching, as they actively participate in concerts, student showcases, cultural events, and community outreach—leading by example and demonstrating how music can enrich both personal and collective life.
With their blend of artistic mastery, teaching experience, and heartfelt commitment, our faculty creates a vibrant learning environment where every student can discover not only their voice, but also the confidence to share it with the world.
Aishwarya Yardi
Head, Nivedarpana Academy of Music
Hindustani Classical Vocalist
Aishwarya Yardi Navlagund, a Hindustani vocalist from Dharwad, currently heads the Nivedarpana Academy of Music in Belagavi. Aishwarya was nurtured in a family of educators. Her passion for music ignited early, under the tutelage of Vidushi Sandhya Kulkarni of Dharwad. She further honed her skills with guidance from Guru Pandit Kaivalya Kumar Gurav, a renowned maestro in Classical music from Dharwad, for the past several years. Additionally, she receives valuable guidance from her aunt Smt. Rohini Kulkarni and her cousin Sarang Kulkarni, both accomplished musicians in their own right.
With aspirations of a career as a vocalist, Aishwarya’s journey is marked by notable achievements. She holds a Master’s degree in Music from Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune. Aishwarya was awarded the Karnataka Sangeet Nrutya Academy’s Scholarship in 2018 and the Scholarship to Young Artists by CCRT, Ministry of Culture, Government of India in 2022. She has performed at various musical events in Dharwad, Hubli, Belagavi, Goa, and Pune.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Aishwarya is an academician. She graduated with honors, receiving a Gold medal from Karnatak University in BCom. Continuing her academic journey, she completed her MCom from the same university with distinction, securing the second rank. She has qualified UGC / NET in Commerce and also served as a Guest Faculty at CSI College of Commerce, Dharwad for four years.
A passionate teacher, dedicated student, and promising musical talent, Aishwarya Yardi aims to honor her family’s legacy and elevate the city of Dharwad through her contributions to Hindustani classical music.
FM Niranjan Navalgund
Lead, Chess Academy
Niranjan Navalgund is a young chess professional who derives great pleasure in learning about life through the game of chess. He is a former National U-17 Chess Champion and a Commonwealth Silver medalist in the U-18 Category. He has been conferred with ‘Indradhanushya’ (2007) ‘Giants International Award’ (2009), ‘Kreeda Ratna’ Award (2010) and ‘Belgaumite of the year’ Award (2012) for his achievements in the field of Chess. He is a lover of words and occasionally tries his hand at writing stories and poems. He believes that writing is a wonderful exercise for the soul. Being a bibliophile, he harbours a special interest in the New Age Philosophy. Unusual stories excite him. He hopes to visit the Panda Zoo, someday. Niranjan lives with his family in Belagavi and also leads the affairs for the The Lively Library
Kedar Potdar
Faculty - Guitar
Kedar Potdar is the guitar faculty at Nivedarpana Academy of Music, best known for his interactive and engaging teaching style that makes learning both fun and effective. Students often say that “time just flies” in his classes, a testament to the lively, inspiring atmosphere he creates. Using modern tools like on-screen notes and a projector, Kedar ensures that concepts are clear and accessible, blending traditional techniques with innovative methods.
His passion for music is contagious – whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, and no matter your age, he’ll make you fall in love with the guitar and the art of music itself.
Meghana Huddar
Executive Assistant
Meghana Huddar, is currently in charge of coordinating communications and logistics for the organization.
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