British Asian folk singer Satnam Galsian has been announced as one of Opera North's Resonance artists for 2024, joining a lineup that includes Balraj Samrai, Ellen Beth Abdi, Rory A Green, and Jonas Jones. During her week-long Resonance residency in Leeds, Satnam will delve into researching and creating a feminist retelling of Mirza-Sahiban through song. She aims to challenge preconceived notions and cultural expectations about women's roles in Punjabi folklore and South Asian culture.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Satnam reflects on her creative journey, discusses the significance of her residency, and outlines her aspirations for the project. She also shares insights into the challenges she has faced along the way.
What is your understanding of folk?
Folk music is about songs and tunes that are passed down through generations. These folk songs have existed for a long time, and what defines them as folk is the fact that their origins are often unclear. Unlike other forms of music where specific individuals are credited with composition, folk songs are ancient and have been passed down with variations in lyrics depending on the region where they are sung.
What has your journey with folk music been like?
I began my journey in music at a very young age, around four years old, when my Nanni ji introduced me to Sikh hymns. As I grew older, I started learning from a teacher at the Gurdwara, which led me to explore different genres of music. Initially, I delved into hymns and then progressed to studying classical Indian singing. At the age of 16, I pursued further education, obtaining a degree in the field. My musical foundation lies in religious and classical Indian music, particularly North Indian classical. During my time at university, I developed an interest in Punjabi folk songs and older Punjabi songs, influenced by renowned singers like Noor Jahan and Surinder Kaur. This exposure expanded my repertoire, and I began learning and performing folk songs alongside classical Indian music.
What motivated you to apply for the North Opera residency? What are your goals or intentions for your work during this residency?
I applied for the residency because it presents a valuable opportunity for me. As a freelance artist, I often find myself juggling multiple projects to sustain myself financially, leaving little time to fully explore and develop my creative ideas. This residency offers me the space and time to do just that, providing me with a dedicated environment to focus on my artistic pursuits. Additionally, the funding provided will enable me to collaborate with other creatives and compensate them for their contributions. This aspect is crucial, as it acknowledges the importance of valuing the time and expertise of fellow freelance professionals. The residency will allow me to immerse myself in my creative work for an entire week, providing the opportunity to fully realise my ideas and ambitions.
Could you share a bit more about your interpretation of Mirza-Sahiban? What message are you aiming to convey with it?
I'm currently in the initial research phase of my project, which is scheduled to take place at the end of March. I've just begun delving into various accounts of Mirza-Sahiban's story, immersing myself in the diverse narratives surrounding it. When I initially conceptualised this idea, I noticed a distinctive pattern among the five stories of star-crossed lovers from the Indian subcontinent: in the other four tales, the woman's name precedes the man's. Mirza-Sahiban, however, stands as an exception due to Sahiban's perceived betrayal of Mirza. This deviation prompted me to explore a feminist perspective on the narrative. In many Punjabi folk songs, which I often sing, patriarchal viewpoints prevail. I saw this project as an opportunity to challenge these norms, amplify Sahiba's voice, and delve into the societal roles and expectations imposed on women, not only within South Asian culture but more broadly as well.
As a South Asian woman, what are some challenges that you have faced that have shaped up your career and character?
Essentially, I was in a complicated marriage and am now a single parent to my two children, and that has been a challenging aspect of my life. During my marriage, I wasn't allowed to pursue my passion for music. It wasn't considered respectable, so I had to set it aside. During those years, I felt like I lost a part of myself. Music had always been integral to my identity, and not being able to pursue it was soul-destroying. After leaving the marriage, I made a conscious decision to reclaim my passion for music. Within a year, I started my band, ‘Kinara’ marking the beginning of my journey back into the world of music. I've felt voiceless for many years and now that I have my voice back, I strive to share my stories, particularly through music, to raise awareness about certain issues and offer support to others if possible. Even if I can assist just one person, it's meaningful to me. As a South Asian woman, it's often difficult to defy societal expectations. Despite the challenges, I've managed to navigate through and emerge on the other side.
What advice do you have for individuals trying to make a name for themselves in the music industry?
My advice would be to persevere and stay committed to your passion. Seek out organisations that can provide support and assistance. Additionally, building a strong support network is essential. Surround yourself with like-minded musicians and individuals who understand your journey. Networking plays a crucial role in opening up opportunities and connecting you with the right people. So, keep networking and don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed.
