Welcome to TAPAS- The Academy of Performing Arts! I’m Varsha R Mallya, the founder and lead instructor.

My journey with music has been lifelong and diverse. As a live performer, session vocalist—including work with Coke Studio Bharat—and educator, I have experienced firsthand how music connects, heals, and empowers us. I founded TAPAS – The Academy of Performing Arts to share that experience with a vibrant community of students globally.

My teaching philosophy integrates my training in Western and Indian classical traditions, rooted in formal certifications in music theory, a diploma in Carnatic music, and training in Hindustani music. Because the voice is a living instrument, I am also deeply passionate about voice science and vocal health. To bring the best modern techniques to my students, I continuously upgrade my skills, most recently attending a specialized Modern Vocal Training workshop in Mumbai.

I believe that music education shouldn’t be rigid, so I design an unconventional, fun, and completely customized approach for every single learner, no matter where they are in the world. I am also especially dedicated to music’s power to communicate beyond words, which drives my regular work teaching special children. Whether you are learning core theory, exploring vocal performance, or building a sustainable, healthy vocal technique, my goal is to guide you with structure, empathy, and joy.