TL;DR: I’m a foreigner interested in learning Indian classical music and would love advice on which tradition to start with. Ideally, I’d also like to spend some time in India studying intensively at an academy or with a teacher. If you’ve studied both traditions, especially as a foreigner, I’d love to hear about your experience!

I’m trying to decide whether to start with Carnatic or Hindustani classical music. I already know the general differences between the two, so there’s no need to explain those in detail. I’m more interested in personal experiences and practical advice.

A few questions I have:

- If you’ve studied both, which did you start with, and would you recommend doing the same?

- If you’re a foreigner who has studied either tradition, how was your experience? What did you find challenging or particularly rewarding?

- Would you recommend focusing on one tradition first, or exploring both from the beginning?

- Are there any academies or teachers in India where someone could stay for a few weeks or months and have an intensive, immersive learning experience?

I’m interested in developing a broader understanding of Indian classical music and am open to both vocal training and learning an instrument.

I’d especially appreciate hearing from people who have actually studied both traditions, rather than just opinions on which one is better.

Thanks!