Harry Singh
19 April 2007
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sibusiso Ndebele has expressed his condolences to the
family of Mr Omie Singh, Member of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, on the
passing away of his dad, Master Harry Singh. Master Harry Singh was the direct
disciple of Sangeet doyen, Ustad Sultan Khan, ex-rector of Baroda University
India who made waves in the music world for over half a century.
Master Harry Singh, who spent over 36 years of his life studying North
Indian Classical music under his world-renown master, perfected classical
singing and the playing of various instruments. In partnering his master at
concerts throughout South Africa and other parts of Africa, his mesmerising
rendition is still renowned by many who appreciated the fine art learned from
the shastras. Master Harry Singh has written hundreds of songs ranging from
Bhajan, Thumri, Ghazal and Quawali and others in Hindi and Urdu and has also
mastered raags and thaal to an astonishing level. His performance at the level
of 'Khyaal Asthai and Dhurpad' is considered compelling and rare.
Master Harry Singh continued with the responsibility of propagating the
knowledge and skills brought to the shores of Africa by his master. He taught
music at various schools in the then Cape, Transvaal and Natal and made an
unparalleled contribution to local music. In the 1990s' he was nominated Chief
Cultural Promoter for the Department of Arts and Culture. Many of his students
have excelled in the field of music and some have played with world greats.
Master Singh's stage performances in South Africa and other parts of Africa
have made him a legend. He is a recipient of over 30 awards. Significant awards
include the "Nadaraja Award" from the Indian Academy of South Africa, "Sangeet
Ratna Award" from the Hindi Shiksha Sangh (SA) as well as awards from
organisations such as the Arya Prtihinidi Sabha (SA), the South African Hindu
Maha Sabha, Muslim League of Africa and the World Hindu League.
Master Harry Singh will be remembered as a humble, simple, unassuming human
being who taught music with a singular motto, "God through Sangeet." May his
soul rest in peace!
Issued by: Office of the Premier, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
19 April 2007
