About Anjan
Anjan Shah is a multifaceted musician and marketer who bridges cultural traditions and genres, creating music that resonates with emotion, story, and a universal appeal. From his early start as a saxophone graduate of Michigan State University to performing on global stages, Anjan has always infused his work with authenticity and curiosity. His journey took a pivotal turn when he won a position as tenor saxophonist in the prestigious US Army Field Band, where he became a notable soloist, performing over 670 concerts and leading master classes across North America and Europe during his 5-year tenure. This experience not only honed his musicianship but solidified his dedication to sharing music that captivates and connects.
After the Army, Anjan collaborated with iconic artists such as Phil Woods, Johnny Mathis, Natalie Cole, and Linda Ronstadt, and toured with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He performs regularly with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, sharing the stage with them on tours throughout Europe. As a founding member of the acclaimed Capitol Quartet, Anjan has performed with major symphonies across the United States, working with conductors Marin Alsop, John Russell Morris, Jack Everly, Jeff Tyzik and Marvin Hamlisch to name a few. The quartet’s recordings—American Sketches, Anything Goes, and DIG—earned praise for their innovative spirit, described as having “luscious color and uninhibited verve” by American Record Guide.
In recent years, Anjan’s exploration of his own heritage took center stage with Nightfall Rhapsody (aka Rhapsody in राग जोग), an original work by Drew Zaremba, blending jazz and Western classical music with Hindustani traditions. This 22-minute rhapsody, featuring bansuri flute, tenor saxophone, tabla, guitar, bass, and strings, is a celebration of diversity, cultural fusion, and personal acceptance. Born in Michigan as a first-generation Indian-American, Anjan grew up striving to “fit in.” Nightfall Rhapsody represents his journey to embrace both his American identity and his Indian roots, honoring the influences that shaped him. “This piece,” Anjan shares, “is a tribute to my father, Girish Shah, who inspired my first exploration into Indian music. I hope this fusion inspires others to explore the influences that shape their own appreciation for music.”
Anjan’s career has also taken him beyond the concert hall and into the world of marketing. After earning an MBA from Loyola University of Maryland, he combined his creative and strategic talents, leading marketing initiatives for organizations like the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Music & Arts, IKEA, and Yamaha. Anjan’s marketing expertise, with clients ranging from performing arts organization to recording labels, reflects his commitment to helping artists and audiences connect through shared stories and experiences.
Anjan currently resides in Baltimore with his wife, daughter, and their resilient three-legged cat. Through his music and marketing, he continues to build bridges across cultures, inspiring others to celebrate and share their unique stories.
