Sarangi Teacher
Alaya Music Program
Aayushma Joshi is a Nepal-based sarangi artist, music educator, and ethnomusicologist dedicated to the preservation and contemporary relevance of traditional Himalayan music. A graduate of Ethnomusicology from Kathmandu University, her work bridges heritage, education, and community engagement.
Her musical journey began in early childhood, singing alongside her parents at home. Encouraged and guided by her mother’s refined musical ear, she developed a strong vocal foundation before gradually expanding her artistic identity. During her school years, she became widely recognized for performing English songs, earning a reputation that shaped her early confidence as a performer.
A transformative chapter began when she joined Project Sarangi, where she was immersed in a vibrant community of traditional and contemporary musicians. Surrounded by flutists, percussionists, guitarists, and sarangi players, she encountered the depth of Nepal’s musical traditions and discovered the possibility of pursuing music as an academic and professional path.
At the age of 19, Aayushma began teaching music and sarangi, working with schools, orphanages, and community foundations. Over the past four years, she has continued her educational work with Project Sarangi, mentoring young musicians and contributing to the revival and sustainability of the sarangi tradition. She is also currently affiliated with Chitra in Lazimpat, Kathmandu.
Through performance and pedagogy, Aayushma is committed to creating spaces where traditional sound meets contemporary understanding. Her practice centers on cultural continuity, accessibility in music education, and empowering the next generation of artists.
She remains deeply fulfilled by her work, viewing music not only as an art form, but as a living cultural dialogue.
