While many students are spending their winter holidays resting at home or travelling, a different kind of energy is filling the air in Thimphu. For one week, classrooms echoed not with lectures, but with guitar strums, vocal exercises, and lively discussions as young music enthusiasts from across the country gathered for a Winter Music Crash Course.
The programme attracted aspiring musicians aged between 12 and 22, some of whom travelled long distances to be part of the experience. Among them was 19-year-old Leki Tshering from Zhemgang, who arrived in the capital with his guitar and a determination to grow as a musician.
For Leki, the course offered something online tutorials could not. Having taught himself basic guitar skills through YouTube, he found that learning directly from instructors transformed his understanding of music. He learned how to count beats, improve timing, and perform with confidence, while also getting the chance to showcase his talent in front of others.
The week-long crash course brought together students from Thimphu and several districts, including Zhemgang and Punakha. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants were introduced to music theory, vocal techniques and instrumental performance, combining practical sessions with foundational knowledge.
Another participant from Zhemgang, Leki Sherab, said the training deepened his appreciation for music. He shared that the course helped him gain confidence, improve his techniques and better understand both theory and practice. He expressed particular interest in lead guitar playing and finger-style techniques.
From Punakha, Droduel Rangdol said the programme provided a valuable opportunity for young guitar learners to come together. He noted that participants learned various chords and techniques, crediting the instructors for their clear and supportive teaching style.
For some, the crash course offered more than musical skills. Tshogyel Lhamo Phuntsho, a participant from Thimphu, described learning the guitar as a life-changing experience. She said the programme helped her connect with others who shared similar interests, making it easier to ask questions and express herself freely—something she finds challenging in her regular school environment.
Beyond structured lessons, the course served as a creative space where young people could build confidence, form friendships and explore their passion for music. Despite charging only a minimal fee, the programme drew strong participation, with over 50 students enrolled across two batches.
Organisers say the turnout reflects a growing interest in music among Bhutanese youth. Instructor Wangchuk noted that students came from various districts and showed remarkable enthusiasm. He added that even during breaks, instructors spent time discussing challenges with participants, making the experience mutually enriching. “While the students were learning from us, I feel I learned just as much from them,” he said.
For Leki Tshering and many others, the Winter Music Crash Course was not simply a holiday activity. It marked an important step in their artistic journey—one that helped transform passion into skill and opened doors to future possibilities in music.
