Harmoniums
We import and sell harmoniums
Devotional chanting with a harmonium was widely popularized in the West by Paramhansa Yogananda, beginning with his arrival in America in 1920. At Carnegie Hall, New York, 1925, he led 3,000 souls in chanting "O God Beautiful," Yogananda's translation of Guru Nanak's song, "Hay Hari Sundara." Today, Yogananda's chants continue to bring deep inspiration to devotees all over the world.
From their very beginnings, harmoniums were made for devotional music: their small size and heart-warming tone make them ideal for personal and group uses. In support of this important spiritual practice, Ananda in Palo Alto regularly imports harmoniums direct from India. These instruments are made available to the public at our Palo Alto Gift Shop at 2171 El Camino Real. We stock the harmonium model recommended and used by Ananda musicians, everywhere.
You may come by our Gift Shop Tuesdays-Fridays, 10am - 5pm, or visit by appointment (call 650-323-3363). Tuesday through Thursday evenings (7:30 - 9:30 pm) may also be available, but please call first.
Current Inventory and Prices
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Bina Model 23B 3-1/4 octave collapsible, double reed, three air stops, two drone knobs, one tremolo knob, coupler lever, top-fold bellows, organ-style keys. Price: $425.00 |
Simple care instructions are included with each harmonium. With a little loving care, a harmonium will continue to play well for many years, even decades. All harmoniums include carrying case.
Learning to Play
If you're new to the harmonium, we'll gladly help you learn a few basics about playing the instrument and help connect you with experienced musicians who can provide you with ongoing support. Books and music for the harmonium are available from our Gift Shop:
Wave of the Sea – Chants of Yogananda, Kriyananda, and Ancient India by Ananda: $18.50 Chants of Yogananda, Kriyananda, and ancient India. Includes chord chart. 103 pages.
Chants by Swami Kriyananda – A Beginner's Guide by Ananda. $16.25
The Harmonium Handbook – Owning, Playing and Maintaining the Devotional Instrument of India by Satyaki Kraig Brockschmidt, Ananda. $13.00 This handbook provides detailed instruction in how to play, maintain, and repair this popular devotional instrument. It also reveals the colorful history of free-reed instruments such as the harmonium, which dates back to the time of Marco Polo. 160 pages.
Paramahansa Yogananda Cosmic Chants – Spiritualized Songs for Divine Communion by Self-Realization Fellowship: $11.00 89 pages.
Group Chanting Opportunities
Ananda Palo Alto also offers periodic workshops on chanting and playing the harmonium. Check the calendar for upcoming classes. We also have kirtans most Friday evenings where you can come and simply enjoy the power of devotional chanting with like-minded souls. Please check the calendar for time and location. For a sample audio clip of chanting click here.
