Globally renowned musician brings the sounds of India to York

Posted on Wednesday 19 October 2016

Recipient of the highest Indian civilian award, Padma Vibhushan, Amjad is recognised the world-over for his mastery of the Sarod, a stringed instrument that is prominent in Hindustani classical music.

He was just six years-old when  he gave his first Sarod recital and has gone on to perform at sell-out concerts in venues across the world, including the Royal Albert Hall in London; Carnegie Hall in New York; and the Opera House in Australia.

Music for peace

Professor Ambrose Field, Head of Music at the University of York, said: “Amjad Ali Khan is a musician of the very highest skill and distinction. It is a privilege for us to welcome him to the University. His career is extraordinary, and he is a truly international musician in the widest sense.

“Bringing music of sublime delicacy and sensitivity to audiences worldwide, Amjad Ali Khan has influenced the lives and thinking of many, for several generations.”  

Amjad, who is an honorary graduate of the University of York, recently performed with his two sons, also highly respected musicians, at the Chant4Change concert for peace at Washington’s Lincoln Memorial. 

Human emotion

As a major advocate for the unifying powers of music, Amjad has performed at a number of Nobel Peace Prize ceremonies and at a Peace Concert at the United Nations to mark the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the US.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan said: “I am looking forward to being back in York and meeting students of music and the arts.  I believe that music can unite people from all walks of life and it is particularly important during challenging times to experience its uplifting powers. 

“I hope to meet people in York who may never have considered classical music before and demonstrate to them how unique it can be in communicating human emotion.”