Written by Team Shankar Mahadevan Academy on 06 July 2026
Every musician understands one important truth - growth in music comes from consistency. A single class or performance may inspire a learner, but it is regular riyaz that truly shapes skill, confidence, and artistic expression over time. In a space where music education has traditionally focused only on lessons and performances, Shankar Mahadevan Academy has taken an innovative step by becoming the first music learning platform to introduce a structured rewards-based system that recognizes and encourages consistency in musical practice.
Yet, in today’s busy world, staying consistent can sometimes feel difficult. Between studies, work schedules, family responsibilities, and everyday distractions, learners often struggle to maintain a steady practice routine. Recognizing the importance of motivation in a student’s musical journey, Shankar Mahadevan Academy has introduced Riyaz Rewards™, a unique initiative created to encourage learners to stay committed to music through positive reinforcement and meaningful rewards.
The concept behind Riyaz Rewards™ is simple: every effort a learner makes deserves recognition. Whether it is attending classes regularly, completing lessons, practicing consistently, or continuing with advanced courses, students can now earn Riyaz Rewards™ Points throughout their learning journey.
These points can later be redeemed toward future course enrollments or course extensions, giving students more opportunities to continue learning, improving, and exploring music in greater depth.
What makes the initiative special is that it shifts the focus from only achievements and results to the learning process itself. Instead of rewarding only milestones, Riyaz Rewards™ celebrates discipline, dedication, and the habit of showing up every day for music.
At the same time, the initiative also brings back the pure joy of learning music. Beyond goals, certifications, or performances, music has always been a source of happiness, emotional expression, relaxation, and personal connection. The excitement of learning a new song, improving a difficult note, or simply spending time with music can bring immense satisfaction to learners of all ages. By encouraging students to practice consistently through Riyaz Rewards™, the Academy helps learners stay connected not just to structured learning, but also to the everyday joy that music naturally brings into life.
This idea closely reflects the philosophy of Grammy Award–winning musician and Academy founder Shankar Mahadevan, who has always believed that music education should be enjoyable, accessible, and fulfilling for learners of all ages.
As he shares:
“We believe that the journey of learning music should be as rewarding as the destination.”
For over 15 years, Shankar Mahadevan Academy has worked toward transforming the way Indian music is taught online. Today, with learners across more than 98 countries, 700+ live courses, and 600+ OMBooks with active courses, the Academy has built a truly global community of music learners. The Academy has also conducted more than half a million virtual classes, reflecting the scale and consistency of its online music education ecosystem.
The Academy offers programs across multiple disciplines including Hindustani Vocal Music, Carnatic Vocal Music, Playback Singing, Voice Gym, instrumental studies, Grow With Music programs for children, and courses designed for pregnant women and their unborn child. Each course is guided by experienced faculty members and designed to combine traditional musical learning with the flexibility of modern digital education.
What has helped the Academy stand apart is its focus on creating meaningful learning experiences. Music is not treated merely as a subject to complete, but as a lifelong journey that contributes to creativity, discipline, emotional expression, and personal growth.
Riyaz Rewards™ strengthens this approach by making students feel encouraged at every stage of learning. A beginner learning their first song, a child attending weekly classes, or an advanced learner refining vocal techniques — every student’s effort is acknowledged and valued.
The initiative also reflects how music education is evolving with the needs of modern learners. Today’s students seek flexibility, motivation, and engagement alongside quality teaching. By introducing innovative learning systems like Riyaz Rewards™, Shankar Mahadevan Academy continues to redefine online music education in a way that feels supportive, inspiring, and learner-focused.
At its core, music learning is about more than mastering notes and techniques. It is about building patience, confidence, creativity, and a deeper connection with oneself. Every practice session contributes to that transformation, no matter how small it may seem.
With Riyaz Rewards™, the Academy reminds learners everywhere that consistency matters, effort deserves appreciation, and the journey of learning music can be rewarding in every sense of the word.
Your musical journey deserves more than just lessons - it deserves opportunities to shine. Enroll at Shankar Mahadevan Academy today and take the first step towards learning, performing, and experiencing the true Joy of Music.
The Academy offers programs across multiple disciplines including Hindustani Vocal Music, Carnatic Vocal Music, Playback Singing, Voice Gym, instrumental studies, Grow With Music programs for children, Garbh Sangeet for expecting mothers, the Heritage Series that helps learners connect with India’s rich musical traditions, Rhymes to Swaras for young children, Mother Tongue Songs that celebrate regional languages and cultures, and several other specialized learning experiences. Each course is guided by experienced faculty members and designed to combine traditional musical learning with the flexibility of modern digital education.
