Short biography

Istvan is a Hungarian musician and composer. He started learning music as a child, from his family and from nature, then he went to India to deepen his singing and musical skills with Indian and Tibetan teachers. In 1990 he became a disciple of the renowned master of sarod Smt. Sharan Rani in New Delhi. During 15 years under the supervision of his master, Istvan learned complex musical and spiritual art (voice, tabla and sarod), and also acquired a broader understanding of the oriental way of life and philosophy. Istvan taught and participated in various international concerts and workshops, including the World Music Festival in Delhi. He had full house concerts in India, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and toured all around the world from Singapore to Mexico.

About his music

Istvan is known around the world as the creator of a unique song called “The Song of the Butterfly”, which has many millions of views on YouTube. His music inspires: peace, love, gratitude. The roots of his art springs from the deep soil of Shamanic, Tibetan, Indian and Hungarian folklore traditions. However, the essential inspiration comes from his spiritual practice, and true observation of nature where music and silence interweave harmoniously. The voice is Istvan’s most powerful instrument, both musical and therapeutic. From contemplative verses to mantras and overtone chanting, Istvan’s interpretations never cease to amaze, with tonal versatility and colourful vocal spectrum. He is a charismatic sound master who works in the eternal presence of loving heart energy and he creates a space where true blessing can be perceived.

About his teaching

The magical music that Istvan channeles into the space comes from our ancestors, from shamans and healers who sang from the bottom of the heart. „When I teach singing, I open my heart and ask our ancestors to be present through my voice and to manifest in my songs. They send us those sounds that need to be heard and they whisper those words that need to be said with the only purpose of healing; to help opening our hearts, to rise up, to be honest and kind to each other.” When you sing you express sensitivity through your voice, you reconnect with your interior and so with nature that you are part of. The aim is to rise up, to give and receive love and eventually to find your own unique voice. This is a real deep initiation. The secret is to stay present. If you manage to stay in the present moment whilst singing, the mind stays calm allowing you to step into the space of true happiness and glory.

In a workshop you get to know about ancient folk music singing techniques. Through traditional folk songs you are to learn about the rhythm of the heartbeat of 7, to practise drumming and singing techniques, to learn tuning your voice on a scale from deeper to brighter sounds, to master overtone singing and to learn about the sounds of the 7 energy centres in your body, called chakra singing. Also you will be introduced to an ancient Hungarian shamanic instrument that is called citera.