Santoor Maestro

Ustad Kiranpal Singh is a distinguished Santoor virtuoso and the senior disciple of the legendary Santoor master, Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma. With the blessings of Sri Satguru Jagjit Singh Ji Maharaj, he embarked on his musical journey in 1977, studying Santoor and Hindustani Classical Music under his Guruji in Bombay. Over the years, he has mastered the delicate nuances and intricate techniques of the 100-stringed instrument native to Kashmir.

Born in Tanzania, East Africa, into a family of classical vocalists, Kiranpal’s initial passion was for the Tabla. After his family moved to England, he continued his education while simultaneously receiving Tabla training for eight years from Ustad Ripudhamman Singh Plaha of the Punjab Gharana. His musical education also included learning Raga, Tala, and Bandishes from his Guruji and guidance from Satguruji.

Kiranpal Singh is celebrated for his advanced technical proficiency, creative expression, and spontaneous improvisation, all of which have made his performances uniquely captivating. His remarkable career includes performances for UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during UK-India Week 2023, an invitation to the prestigious 144th Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Samellan in Jalandhar, India, and a performance at Buckingham Palace for Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He has also graced stages at the South Bank Halls, Royal Albert Hall, and numerous festivals such as the Spitalfields Music Festival. His tours have taken him across Europe, Kenya, the United States, Canada, Australia, and India.

In addition to his performance career, Kiranpal Singh has dedicated over 30 years to teaching Classical Music in London schools. He has also conducted workshops at universities across the UK, nurturing many students who have gone on to build successful musical careers, including those pursuing degrees in Music.

Kiranpal is married to Davinder, a Sitar player, and they have three children. Their son, Kartar Singh Deoora, is a talented Santoor player who also learned Tabla from his father, continuing the family’s musical legacy. Kartar Singh holds a BSc in Construction Management and works in London. Their elder daughter, Gurkartar Kaur Raja, has a Master’s in Osteopathy and works on London’s prestigious Harley Street; she is also skilled in Santoor, Vocal, and Dilruba. The youngest daughter, Kirpal Kaur Deoora, holds a BSc in Quantity Surveying and works in London; she too learned Santoor and Vocal from her father.

Kiranpal Singh has released several CDs worldwide, including notable titles such as Sounds of India: Santoor-Keda Virtuosos Vol.3 (2023), Santoor Nirvana (2023), 100 Strings (2018), The Good Disciples – The Mountain Path (2017), Morning Meditation (2001), and Moments in Time (1996). His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the globe.

My Recordings:

Blessed by the divine grace of Satguru Jagjit Ji Maharaj, a significant chapter of my musical journey unfolded in 1988. Under the guidance of Kuljit Bhamra from Keda Records at Red Fort Studios in Southall, London, I had the privilege to record my maiden audio cassette. 

During this auspicious venture, Ustad Sukhvinder Singh – Pinky lent his masterful Tabla accompaniment to my Santoor, adding depth and richness to the melodic tapestry. Additionally, my dear friend Yogesh Singh Sahota, a steadfast supporter in myriad ways, contributed to the recording by playing the Tanpura. Not only did he capture the essence of the project through his lens, using a Hasselblad camera for the cover photo, but he also generously gifted both the Santoor and the Tanpura – treasures that hold profound sentimental value.

Hiren Roy of Calcutta, a distinguished craftsman, created the Tanpura that accompanied my Santoor, further enhancing the resonance of the music. Yogesh Singh Sahota, a true connoisseur of the art, left an indelible mark on my musical journey, and his absence is deeply felt.

In a heartfelt tribute to the passage of time, this recording, after 35 years, is now accessible to my cherished fans on Spotify and iTunes. The timeless ragas featured in this musical collection include Asa, Shudh Sarang, and Abhogi – a soulful offering that transcends the years, resonating with love and reverence. 

This pivotal recording marked the beginning of my artistic exploration expressed in my recording which followed……

Discography:
My discography showcases my journey through the intricate world of Indian classical music, highlighting their mastery of both ragas and rhythmic accompaniment. See Full List

2023 – DWARKA