Gurdev Singh

Gurdev Singh was a noted Indian-born Hindustani classical musician, best known for his skillful playing of the sarod, a prominent string instrument in Indian classical music. He was born on 15 January 1948 in India and later became an internationally recognized artist, eventually settling in London, United Kingdom. 

From a very young age, Gurdev Singh showed a deep interest in music. He began learning at the age of seven under teachers such as Ustad Tara Singh and Piara Singh, who trained him in the dilruba, a traditional bowed instrument. He also received training in Hindustani classical vocal music under Mahadeo Prasad. This early exposure to both instrumental and vocal traditions helped shape his musical sensitivity and versatility. 

In 1967, Gurdev Singh became a disciple of the world-renowned sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan in Delhi. Under his guidance, he underwent rigorous training in the sarod, mastering its complex techniques and expressive capabilities. The sarod is known for its deep, resonant tone and its ability to produce intricate melodic patterns, and Gurdev Singh dedicated many years to perfecting his art. 

Over the years, Gurdev Singh built a successful career as a performer. He gave numerous concerts in India and abroad, especially during the 1980s and 1990s, gaining recognition for his soulful and technically refined performances. He also collaborated with artists from different musical backgrounds. Notably, he contributed to the 1993 album “Fate of Nations” by the English rock singer Robert Plant, showcasing a fusion of Indian classical music with Western music. 

Apart from being a performer, Gurdev Singh was also a dedicated teacher. He taught both sarod and dilruba to a large number of students across the world, especially in the United Kingdom. It is believed that he trained over a thousand students during his career, playing a major role in spreading Indian classical music internationally. One of his senior disciples is Gurbaksh Matharu, who continued his musical legacy. 

Gurdev Singh was also known for his ability to blend tradition with innovation. While firmly rooted in the Hindustani classical tradition, he explored new musical ideas and collaborations, helping bring Indian classical instruments to global audiences. His performances were appreciated for their emotional depth, clarity, and technical brilliance.

He spent much of his later life in London, where he continued to perform, teach, and promote Indian classical music. Gurdev Singh passed away on 10 February 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy as a performer, teacher, and cultural ambassador of Indian music. 

Overall, Gurdev Singh remains an important figure in the world of Hindustani classical music, remembered for his dedication to the sarod and his contribution to spreading Indian musical traditions worldwide.