Welcome to JAS Musicals - Where Tradition Meets Innovation

In the heart of West London's vibrant Southall neighborhood stands a small but mighty musical haven that has been shaping the soundscape of South Asian music in the UK since the 1980s. We are JAS Musicals, your one-stop destination for South Asian instruments and musical expertise. Our story is a harmonious blend of heritage, innovation, and a passion for music that transcends borders.

 

A Journey Through Time and Sound

Since our inception in 1985, we have been tirelessly supplying, manufacturing, modifying, and repairing South Asian instruments for musicians, dancers, and music enthusiasts around the world. From local temple groups seeking harmoniums for devotional recitals to Western rockstars wanting to infuse their music with South Asian sounds, we've been a go-to source for all things musical.

Instrumental to our journey have been Harjit and Jasmeet Shah, our founders, and their children who, born and brought up with the shop, have been key members of the team.

Harjit Shah’s journey into the world of music was not premeditated but rather a twist of fate. A chance meeting and a request to import a few harmoniums set the stage for what would become a lifelong passion for musical instruments. Harjit's background in business, commerce and engineering combined with his relentless curiosity saw him not only becoming an expert supplier of instruments, but delving deep into their construction and mechanics. His garage became a laboratory for learning, and his commitment to understanding the intricacies of instruments set him on a unique path.

The couple established JAS Musicals in 1985, purchasing their first shop, a first floor space on Southall Broadway, and with Jasmeet’s unwavering support and exceptional customer service skills combined with Harjit’s technical expertise and innovative-streak, the business soon grew to become a hub for South Asian instruments in Europe.

 

A Commitment to Quality and Innovation, Backed by Research

At JAS Musicals, our journey has been marked by a perpetual commitment to research and development. We seek out the best materials and the most skilled craftsmen for the production and repairs of our instruments, prioritizing quality and ethicality.

Crisscrossing India and immersing himself in the traditional techniques of crafting musical instruments, Harjit Shah’s dedication to preserving and enhancing these traditions while embracing modern technology has set us apart.

This commitment goes beyond the strings, keys and melodies that fill our store and is deeply rooted in the academic backgrounds of our founder Harjit, as well as his son, Sadhu.

With an MA and further MPhil research from London Guildhall University focusing on the application of modern technologies to traditional instrument manufacturing, Harjit’s research and innovative insights has inspired our approach to pushing the boundaries of musical instrument design and production, becoming a cornerstone of our mission to produce instruments that resonate with both tradition and innovation.

This passion for music and craftsmanship runs deep in the family, with Sadhu embarking on his own academic path, earning a BA (Hons) in Musical Instrument Technology at London Metropolitan University. Studying instrument design, construction, maintenance, and restoration with a particular focus on tool-making and organ building, Sadhu’s academic background has helped us to ensure that every instrument leaving our shop reflects our precision and excellence.

From revolutionizing the Bhangra dhol for the UK climate to designing and adapting harmonium reeds that withstand the test of time, every beat or note played on a JAS instrument is a testament to our steadfast commitment to quality and innovation.

 

Empowering Musicians Worldwide

The impact of JAS Musicals extends far beyond the walls of our shop. We've empowered musicians and music lovers through workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations. We've introduced South Asian instruments to schools, festivals, and audiences around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene.

Over the years, we have also had the privilege of serving a diverse clientele, from renowned musicians like Jimmy Page, David Grey, Ustad Zakir Hussain, and Talvin Singh to local musicians and music enthusiasts. Our instruments have even graced the scores of Hollywood films like Disney's The Jungle Book and The Matrix series.

 

The Future of Music

As we look ahead, JAS Musicals remains committed to our mission of making quality musical instruments accessible to all. We believe that music knows no boundaries, and our efforts are aimed at ensuring that every player, regardless of experience or financial situation, can access a good instrument. Our dedication to research and development has, and will always be, a key factor of the work that we do.

We aim to:

• Design and manufacture instruments that meet the needs of everyone, from beginners to professionals

• Apply modern technology to manufacture traditional instruments

• Investigate and ensure that materials and processes used in manufacturing instruments are ethically sourced and environmentally-friendly

• Develop traditional instruments in line with advancements in the global music industry

• Create instruments that are compatible with the contemporary music education system

 

Join the JAS Musicals Family

Whether you're a seasoned musician, a budding enthusiast, or someone simply curious about the world of South Asian music, JAS Musicals welcomes you with open arms. Our doors are always open, and our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you on your musical journey. From offering guidance to repairing instruments we are here to serve and inspire.

At JAS Musicals, every customer is an ocean of new ideas, and it is your requirements that drive our innovations. Together, we'll continue to shape the soundscape of the future, one instrument at a time.

Join us on this melodious journey where tradition, innovation, and a profound love for music harmonize into something truly extraordinary!