The Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) recently unveiled the nominees for its 2024 awards, with special recognition given to two individuals of Indian descent, Alpesh Chauhan and Jasdeep Singh Degun.
Alpesh Chauhan, currently serving as the music director of the Birmingham Opera Company, made his debut in 2015 and garnered attention with the release of his inaugural album featuring Tchaikovsky’s orchestral works in June of the previous year. Collaborating with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under Chandos Records, his album received widespread acclaim, earning the title of BBC Music Magazine’s Orchestral Choice of the Month. Hailing from Birmingham, Chauhan has established a global presence, performing alongside renowned soloists and conducting notable projects such as the 2015 BBC Ten Pieces film, which significantly contributed to the promotion of classical music in UK secondary schools, earning him a BAFTA award. Additionally, his contributions to the arts were recognized in 2022 when he was honored in The Queen’s New Year’s Honours.
Jasdeep Singh Degun, mentored by Ustad Dharambir Singh, has showcased his talent across various prestigious venues worldwide, including Buckingham Palace, the Amphitheatre in Doha, and Westminster Abbey. Noteworthy achievements include his performance at the Royal Commonwealth Service 2022 in front of the British Royal Family and Prime Minister. In his debut album, “Anomaly,” Degun skillfully blended Indian classical music with contemporary elements, reflecting his unique artistic vision. Furthermore, his dedication to his craft was acknowledged in 2022 when he was appointed Artist-in-Residence at Opera North and received the 2022 Critics’ Circle Music Award for “Outstanding Achievement in Opera.”
This year, the awards ceremony will depart from its traditional London location, opting instead for the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester on March 5th. The decision to relocate aims to highlight Manchester’s thriving musical landscape, with ticket prices ranging from £10 to £25 to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for a diverse audience.
