Page 102 - RPS Awards 2024 Coverage Book

grand ceremony in Manchester, Degun's victory is not just a personal triumph but a

testament to the rich heritage of Indian classical musicians making their mark in

the UK. His groundbreaking work on the album Anomaly and the acclaimed opera

Orpheus, which melds Indian and Western classical traditions, has firmly

positioned him within the classical music psyche.

Path to Recognition

Degun's journey to the RPS Award spotlight was paved with innovative

collaborations and a passion for bridging musical worlds. His debut

album, Anomaly, released on Peter Gabriel's Real World Records, received critical

acclaim and set the stage for his historic win. Degun attributes a part of his success

to serendipitous connections and the support of luminaries like Peter Gabriel, who

openly praised his work. The sitarist's efforts in composing and performing in

Orpheus for Opera North showcased his versatility and commitment to cross-

cultural music fusion, earning him a nomination for best large-scale composition.

A Night of Firsts in Manchester

The RPS Awards ceremony, held for the first time outside London in its 35-year

history, was a night of celebration and recognition for diverse talents within the

classical music scene. Alongside Degun, other artists were honored for their

contributions to the genre, including Scottish tenor Nicky Spence and conductor

François-Xavier Roth. The Ukrainian opera Chornobyldorf, a bold and

imaginative work, took home the opera and music prize, further highlighting the

ceremony's embrace of innovative and boundary-pushing performances.

Implications for Classical Music