Obituary: Ustad Gurdev Singh (1948 – 2025)
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Ustad Gurdev Singh, a distinguished Sarod and Dilruba maestro, on February 2025. A revered figure in Indian classical music, he was a disciple of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and was internationally celebrated for his remarkable contributions to the art form.
Born on January 15, 1948, in a remote village in Haryana, North India, Gurdev Singh’s musical journey began at the young age of seven. Under the tutelage of Ustad Tara Singh and Piara Singh, he mastered the Dilruba, an ancient bowed instrument, which he continued to play with exceptional brilliance throughout his career. His training in vocal music under Pandit Mahadeo Prasad further enriched his artistry, blending both contemporary and traditional Dhrupad styles.
In 1967, Gurdev Singh became a disciple of the legendary Sarod virtuoso Ustad Amjad Ali Khan in Delhi. With the divine blessings of H.H. Shri Satguru Jagjit Singh Ji, he took up the Sarod, an instrument known for its demanding technique and profound expressiveness. Through his dedication and skill, he gained widespread recognition, enthralling audiences with the instrument’s haunting melodies and exhilarating speed.
In India, he played a pivotal role in organising Namdhari Sangeet Samellans in memory of Sri Satguru Partap Singh Ji. These musical gatherings featured renowned Indian classical musicians and were open to audiences free of charge. A significant highlight of his career was his performance alongside the legendary tabla maestro, Ustad Zakir Hussain, at the Satguru Partap Singh Ji Sangeet Samellan in Aurangabad in 1980. This tradition continues today, following the same format, in the annual musical concerts held at Sri Bhaini Sahib in memory of Sri Satguru Jagjit Singh Ji.
Gurdev Singh’s success was marked by his immense popularity in India and his growing international acclaim. He performed extensively in the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe, gracing prestigious platforms such as the BBC, Midland TV, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Bath and Oxford University, and the Liverpool Garden Festival. His North American performances included concerts in Vancouver, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle University, and the esteemed Amir Khusro Society in Chicago. He was also a regular performer at major festivals across India and Europe, including Switzerland, Denmark, and the Darmstadt Festival in Germany.
His musical legacy is preserved through numerous recordings, including his acclaimed album “The Art of Indian Sarod” released by ARC Music in Germany, among other celebrated CDs and records.
Beyond his solo career, Ustad Gurdev Singh was a devoted exponent of Gurmat Gurbani Kirtan, frequently performing alongside Ustad Harbhajan Singh Ji in the UK. He was a cherished figure within the Indian classical music community and played a pivotal role in introducing and nurturing classical music audiences in the UK. Through his dedicated efforts, including organising Sangeet Samellans in memory of Sri Satguru Jagjit Singh Ji under the banner of Surnaad Music Academy, he provided a platform for both emerging and established artists.
Day 03 Surnaad Concerts 30 Aug 2015
Sarod performace by Ustad Gurdev Singh (disciple Ustad Amjad Aki Khan). He is accompanied by tabla mastereo
Sukhvinder Singh Namdhari and Shri Illyas Khan on sarangi.
Ustad Gurdev Singh’s passing is an immense loss to the world of Indian classical music. His profound artistry, dedication, and contributions will continue to inspire generations to come. He leaves behind a rich musical heritage and a legacy of passion, devotion, and excellence.
He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.