Pandit Shivkumar Sharma makes first appearance in city
One of the world’s most renowned santoor players will make his debut performance in Leeds later this month as melodious south Asian tunes are echoed throughout the city’s streets.
Pandit Shivkumar Sharma has spent his life perfecting the musical art form and is internationally credited with advocating and ensuring the santoor is an accepted popular instrument in the world of Indian classical music.
At the age of 74, he has been performing for more than half a century and will appear for the first time in West Yorkshire on Saturday 12th September, as he plays at The Venue, at Leeds College of Music.
Hosted by charity, South Asian Arts-uk, CEO Keranjeet Kaur Virdee says it could be a once in a lifetime performance and urged fans not to miss out.
“It’s a great honour to welcome Pandit ji to Leeds for his debut performance,” she said. “At the age of 74 and living in India, there’s no guarantee he’ll play here again so we really want to celebrate his arrival.
“Leeds is currently bidding to be the Capital of Culture in 2023 and we are fully behind this ambitious bid and determined to help our city achieve this precious title.
“We’re committed to inviting as many critically acclaimed worldwide international artists to the region as possible. Pandit ji is an exceptional addition to our already outstanding portfolio of cultural and artistic events this year.
“He has been performing now for more than half a century and has created millions of new listeners and ardent fans of Indian classical music.
“We’re delighted he’s in the North for this rare performance, before he goes on to play as a headline act at the renowned London Dabar festival, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.”
The santoor belongs to the hammer dulcimer family, one of the most popular instruments in Indian classical music.
Supported by the distinct sound of the tabla, combined with the scintillating sound of the santoor, the evening promises to captivate spectators and offer a mesmerising experience for dedicated fans and aficionados’ of classical art and fine music as well as those new to the art-form.
Tickets are available by calling 0113 244 5523 or can be bought on the door.
Competition time
For your chance to win a pair of tickets to see Pandit Shivkumar Sharma perform in Leeds simply answer the following question.
Which instrument family does the santoor belong to?
Send you answer, along with your name, address and contact number, to competitions@asianexpress.co.uk for your chance to win. (Terms and Conditions apply)
