In a world increasingly seeking solace in mindfulness and holistic well-being, Prof. Surinder Singh emerges as a beacon of transformation. A British scholar of Indian music, Singh has devoted over four decades to reviving and teaching Naad Yoga—the ancient practice of sound as a path to spiritual and emotional harmony. His journey from the vibrant streets of Kapurthala, India, to founding the globally recognized Raj Academy Conservatoire in London is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the healing power of sound.
Born in 1969 in Kapurthala, Punjab, Surinder Singh’s early life was steeped in the rich traditions of Indian classical music. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors like Mahant Ajit Singh and Gyani Najar Singh, he delved into the complexities of rhythm and melody. His formative years were further enriched by the Guru-Shishya Parampara, training under Pandit Kharayti Lal Tahim of the Delhi Gharana, and later with Surjit Singh Aulakh in England, a disciple of the legendary Pandit Ram Narayan Ji.
Singh’s academic pursuits mirrored his musical journey. He earned a BA in Economics from NJSA College, Kapurthala, followed by an MA in Classical Indian Music from APJ College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar, and an MPhil from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. This blend of scholarly rigor and deep musical immersion laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
Raj Academy Conservatoire: A Sanctuary for Sound
In 1994, recognizing the need to preserve and propagate the sacred traditions of Sikh music, Singh established the Raj Academy of Asian Music in London, which later evolved into the Raj Academy Conservatoire. This nonprofit institution has become a global hub for the study and practice of Gurmat Sangeet—the spiritual music rooted in Sikhism. Emphasizing the use of traditional instruments like the Rabab, Saranda, Jori, Sarangi, Taus, and Dilruba, the academy offers comprehensive programs that bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary applications.
Under Singh’s leadership, Raj Academy has pioneered academic courses in Sikh Music, Naad Yoga, and Classical Indian Music, including the world’s first Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in these disciplines in collaboration with the University of West London. The academy’s outreach extends globally, with over 3,000 students across the UK, Canada, USA, Germany, Spain, France, and India.
Naad Yoga: The Science of Inner Harmony
At the heart of Singh’s mission is Naad Yoga—the Yoga of Sound. This ancient practice focuses on the transformative power of sound vibrations to harmonize the mind, body, and soul. Through vocal training, listening skills, meditation, and the use of traditional instruments, practitioners learn to navigate their emotional landscapes, fostering inner balance and self-awareness.
The Naad Yoga Teacher Training program, a flagship offering of Raj Academy, is a 36-week immersive journey that equips individuals with the tools to master their emotions, enhance communication, and lead with empathy. Participants engage in self-study, receive personalized tutor support, and undergo intensive training sessions with Singh himself or lead teachers. The program’s holistic approach has empowered countless individuals to become emotionally intelligent leaders and healers in their communities.
Global Outreach and Cultural Preservation
Beyond the confines of the academy, Singh’s influence resonates through various initiatives aimed at cultural preservation and global outreach. The Naad Yoga Council, founded by Singh, serves as a community of practitioners dedicated to spreading the teachings of Naad Yoga worldwide. Through workshops, retreats, and educational programs, the council fosters a deeper understanding of the spiritual and therapeutic dimensions of sound.
Singh’s commitment to reviving traditional Sikh instruments and compositions has also led to the production of acclaimed works like “Mere Mun,” “Anhad – Beyond Sound,” and the documentary “Sikh Musical Heritage: The Untold Story.” These endeavors not only celebrate the rich tapestry of Sikh musical heritage but also make it accessible to a global audience.
A Legacy of Healing and Empowerment
Professor Surinder Singh’s journey is more than a personal odyssey; it’s a movement that bridges the ancient and the modern, the spiritual and the scholarly. Through his tireless efforts, he has illuminated the path of Naad Yoga for thousands, offering a sanctuary of sound where individuals can find healing, purpose, and connection.
In a world yearning for authenticity and inner peace, Singh’s work stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition, the universality of music, and the profound impact of a life dedicated to service.
For more information on Professor Surinder Singh’s work and the offerings of Raj Academy Conservatoire, visit Raj Academy and Naad Yoga Council.
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