📅 Saturday 11 September 2026
🕖 7:00pm
📍 Seven Arts, 31 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds LS7 3PD
🎟️ Standard £20 | Concession £15 | Under 30s £10 | SAA-uk Parents £10 | SAA-uk Students FREE
'Tohfa', meaning gift, reflects the spirit of this special evening, bringing together young musicians from Yorkshire and Lancashire on one stage to share the rich tradition of Indian classical music.
This unique concert celebrates a new generation from the North of England and the tradition of Parampara, where music becomes the medium through which Sanskar (values) are imparted, enabling and empowering learners of this music to navigate life in a global, ever-changing world while remaining rooted in their identities.
Opening the concert are Jamie and Sukhraj, two young musicians who have reached adulthood and are now ready to move on from the SAA-uk Music Academy.
However, before going on to university, they are taking to the stage to give a Tohfa (Gift) to their tabla tutors/Guru/Ustad, their parents, donors and funders for supporting their musical journey and imparting their knowledge.
A Celebration of Rhythm showcases the artistry, beauty, complexity and energy of tabla, passed down by legendary tabla maestros from father to son, as is the case with Kayam Hussain and Ali Hashim Hussain, trained by their father, Ustad Shahbaz Hussain. Their duet will close the concert.
The evening promises audiences, family and friends an uplifting journey through intricate rhythms, dynamic improvisation and powerful musical dialogue.
Featuring:
Ustad Kirpal Singh Panesar
One of the UK's most respected tabla masters, renowned for his artistry, teaching and contribution to the development of Indian classical music, who has kindly agreed to accompany our young and emerging musicians for their debut performances in Leeds.
Jamie Shilliday (Solo)
A quiet and gentle soul, sharing his love and passion for playing the tabla.
Sukhraj Singh Virdee (Solo)
Presenting a dynamic solo performance that demonstrates precision, skill and a deep understanding of rhythmic traditions.
Kayam Hussain and Ali Hashim Hussain (Duet)
Parampara – A captivating duet celebrating the passing of musical heritage from one generation to the next through virtuosity, discipline and creativity.
