The Glasshouse

Submit to the beauty and sorrow, the poetry and power, of the sitar – that plucked string instrument with the long neck, pear-shaped gourd and origins in the courts of the Maharajahs of medieval India. Marvel at the astonishing prowess of Jasdeep Singh Degun, a sitarist who is steeped in the North Indian classical tradition — indeed, in the musical traditions of the Indian subcontinent — and proudly born, raised and based in Leeds, north of England.

In May 2022, Jasdeep Singh Degun releases his debut album ‘Anomaly’ on Real World Records — a project showcasing an almost preternatural musicality, a way with technique, improvisation, composition and collaboration that will dazzle purists and newcomers alike. Its twelve tracks range from inspired sitar solos and duelling sitar and guitar to all stops out cinematic journeying. Music rooted in the ancient repertoire of raags, the frameworks used in the improvised performances of Indian classical music, and delivered with contemporary flair.

“Anomaly is my way of shining a light on Indian classical music, on the music that comes naturally to me as a product of my surroundings as well as my training.” – Jasdeep Singh Degun

For GemArts Masala Festival, Jasdeep will be joined by a large ensemble of collaborators from across the Indian classical, western classical, and jazz traditions, showcasing his performance, composition, and collaborative prowess. Submit to the beauty and sorrow, the poetry and power, of the sitar.

Jasdeep Singh Degun – sitar
Upneet Singh – tabla
Kaviraj Singh – santoor
Liz Hanks – cello
Glenn Sharp – guitar
Kirpal Panesar – esraj
John Pope – bass
Pirashanna Thevarajah – mridangam
Aisling Brouwer – Piano

GemArts’ award winning Masala Festival is a weeklong festival celebrating a mix and blend of the finest South Asian Arts and Culture, packed full of performances, exhibitions, events, workshops, pop ups and demonstrations, presented in venues, places and spaces across the North East.  GemArts Masala Festival is from 18 to 24 July 2022, visit www.gemarts.org for full programme.