Leeds-born sitarist and composer Jasdeep Singh Degun recently made history by becoming the first sitar player to clinch a Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) Award, triumphing in the Instrumentalist category.
Dubbed as the ‘biggest night in UK classical music,’ the RPS Awards spotlight outstanding musical individuals, groups, and initiatives that inspire communities nationwide. Competing for the Instrumentalist Award alongside cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson and pianist Pavel Kolesnikov, Jasdeep has not only secured victory but also etched his name as the first Indian Classical musician to receive this prestigious accolade.
Jasdeep's musical journey commenced unexpectedly during his primary school days. Growing up in North Leeds, which boasts a significant Indian population, his school recognised this diversity by offering harmonium and singing lessons. Intrigued, Jasdeep eagerly enrolled in both, discovering a profound passion for music along the way. Recognising his talent and dedication, the school encouraged him to join the singing and harmonium group.
Buoyed by his school experience, Jasdeep embarked on a quest for further musical opportunities. Encouraged by a teacher, he began attending classes at the local Gurdwara in Leeds. This decision marked a pivotal moment, as Jasdeep immersed himself in the rich musical environment there. Acknowledging his burgeoning passion, his mentors suggested pursuing formal music education.
In this issue of Asian Voice, he discusses his historic win and Vaisakhi memories.
How does it feel following your historic victory at the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards?
I'm deeply thankful and profoundly humbled to be the first Indian classical musician to receive a Royal Philharmonic Society Award in the 'Best Instrumentalist' category. I'm thankful for the invaluable guidance and support I've received from my teachers, Ustad Dharambir Singh MBE and Gunwant Kaur, their unwavering dedication has been instrumental in my career so far. Moreover, I'm thrilled by the potential impact of this achievement, as I hope it will serve as a catalyst for the recognition of other Indian classical musicians and British Asian musicians from England. It certainly presents an opportunity to shine a light on the exceptional work being done by organisations and individuals within our musical community.
How has your cultural background and your community influenced your musical approach?
When I began my musical journey, I had the opportunity to learn Gurbani Kirtan at my local Gurdwara. I performed regularly during Vaisakhi celebrations at venues like Leeds Civic Hall and Millennium Square, engaging in kirtan every year. Being part of a Sikh family meant that I was exposed to music from an early age and thus, studying Indian classical music became important to me due to its significance in the Sikh community.
How have things changed since the Royal Philharmonic? Do you feel you're taken more seriously now, or do you see more opportunities coming your way?
Yeah, things are definitely scaling up for me. I'm receiving more opportunities to perform and compose new music, as well as acting as a consultant to many different organisations and projects. It's truly gratifying to see my efforts acknowledged in this way. I hope to leverage this recognition to serve our Indian classical music community. After all, receiving an award is meaningful only if it's used to shine a light on the wider musical community. I'm committed to using this platform to benefit all my colleagues and friends.
Can you share some of the cherished memories of Vaisakhi from your childhood?
Every year, my family and I participate in the Nagar Kirtan (or grand procession) which usually culminates at Millennium Square in Leeds City Centre. I remember being part of this annual tradition from a very young age, and of course, cherish having had the opportunity to sing Gurbani Kirtan during the procession. Additionally, visiting the Gurdwara on Vaisakhi holds special significance for me. It's where I recall first hearing the story of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the creation of the Khalsa, which is immensely important for any Sikh growing up.
How do you plan to celebrate Vaisakhi this year? Are you participating in any community programs or celebrating with family?
So typically, we start the day with the Nishan Sahib sewa - the ceremonial cleaning and raising of the Sikh flag - at our local Gurdwara. During the day, I spend time with family to then return to the Gurdwara for the evening prayers and kirtan. Vaisakhi is indeed a time of great celebration for us as a community.
