Page 87 - RPS Awards 2024 Coverage Book

One of those making waves is Leeds-based Jasdeep Singh Degun, winner of the
Instrumentalist category for his work playing the sitar, and also nominated for
‘Orpheus’ in the Large-Scale Composition award. He said: “This kind of stuff doesn’t
happen to Indian classical musicians, especially being from up north as well. I’m still
pinching myself that it’s actually happened.

“For sure [it’s more special being up north]. I brought an entourage of my teacher
and my parents, and if it was in London they probably wouldn’t have come down
because it’s so far. So being in Manchester brings it home more to them, and all the
work I do is north-based, so it’s really nice to have the awards up north.

“I’m probably the first Indian classical musician to ever be nominated, let alone win.
It’s just unprecedented and I’d like to see more Indian classical musicians being
highlighted and spotlighted. Getting this actually means more, it’s an award for
Indian classical musicians in this country.”

Singh Degun also performed his composition Veer alongside Harkiret Bahra playing
the tabla and string instrument students from the Royal Northern College of Music.
He added: “Being given the platform to perform here is wonderful, to make a
statement to say yes, we’re here, and thank you.”

The Awards will be held out of Manchester next year, but Murphy is keen to continue
highlighting music across the country and the musical heritage of the city. He said:
“The roadshow has to move on! We will go back to London in the future, it’s not
confirmed quite where we go next – but not too far from Manchester!

“We all talk about partnership in music and the arts, and the Royal Northern College
of Music represent the best of it. The north has made us feel very welcome.”

Feature image: Nicky Spence, winner of the Singer Award. Credit: Lee Isserow,
Vessel Studios. All images used with permission of the Royal Philharmonic Society
Awards.