Coming back for more than just the music
For two regulars at the Country Roads Concert that has been around for the past 25 years, the time has once again rolled around to pack-up for the sunny island, with a song in their minds and smile on their faces. Dirk from the German band , the Mavericks and British songbird Astrid Brook tell us that returning every year is for more than just the music.
Staring out in 2007, folk singer Astrid Brook from the UK has been an eagerly anticipated performer at the Country Roads concerts. Distinctly recalling her first experience of singing for a Sri Lankan crowd, she says the Ballroom of the Mount Lavinia Hotel had “a warm and magical atmosphere throughout the evening.” It was a call at short notice when the CMF were looking for solo artists, jumping at the opportunity to perform here, she says. “I must have done alright- they have called me back quite a few times since then!”
The Mavericks: Good vibes for Country Roads
Her favourite part of the concerts is easily the end when all the artistes rally onstage to sing John Denver’s classic Country Roads which has become the concert’s signature tune. Despite the fact that the concert shares a name with the song and is performed every year, for Astrid it is a reminder that “good music is a powerful force, which can heal and be used for good.” It is also fitting she says, that the song is performed given its story. “This song really is the perfect choice for us to sing together,” a tale of a wanderer singing of returning to a safe place is synonymous with the efforts of the Country Roads Concerts and the Country Music Foundation (CMF) in trying to create a safe place for children.
It has never really been only a celebration of country music for the Country Music Foundation which tirelessly puts the concert together year after year. Behind all the meticulous preparations and stresses that come with organising the show, is the ultimate goal of funding a project beneficial to children. Last year’s cause was to set-up a child friendly court system and this year the CMF working with Save The Children, will start and fund a programme that facilitates the certification of tea as being produced in a child-friendly environment. This type of certification for tea products is a first not only in the country but the world over.
In Astrid’s opinion, the concert is “a noble team effort.” From the CMF who put it together, artists who perform and even those buying tickets to watch it, all are working towards bettering the lives of children in Sri Lanka. While bringing together country music lovers is one objective, she says the cause is what makes the work of the CMF important. Feeling honoured to be called back year after year to be a part of Country Roads she says “in my heart I am a humanitarian and I feel compassion towards people who are in need”. Rendering her services as a musician to raise funds is her contribution.
“If I’m honest, I enjoy singing wherever I am,” she says, nevertheless Sri Lanka holds a special place in her heart. Every part of her is relaxed whenever she is in the country Astrid says, and moreover she enjoys the warmth, values of peace and calmness that seem to permeate the air. The locals she has met over the years have inspired her to slow down and “enjoy every minute of life, rather than rush around.”
Her favourite part is gearing up for the concert- “I learn new songs for each show,” she says. It can be a slight challenge but it is however one that is fully worth the effort, given the enthusiastic reception she gets.
The Mavericks have become a fixture at the Country Roads events. Received with much excitement and anticipation by the audiences over the years, Dirk who comes from Germany with his crew has rendered his fullest support to the causes the CMF has supported.
Drawn to the country for its people who “solve problems with a smile” and have displayed immense strength during tough times, he says that whenever it is time to leave he knows that he will be back. Sitting like a “sunbeam in the ocean,” Dirk feels the people with warm hearts and the ability to hope in the darkest of times leave him with “good vibrations.”
Sharing the stage with Sri Lankan talent such as Anno Domini, Cosmic Rays and the Country Revival Band, Astrid and Dirk look forward to seeing a full house at this year’s Country Roads Concert, called ‘Music with Power to Heal’. “So please be prepared to receive some healing from good ole’ country songs” as Astrid puts it and know that your presence is contributing to a worthy cause.
The Country Roads Concert- is on next Sunday, October 5 at the Mount Lavinia Hotel at 6.30 p.m. Tickets priced at Rs.2000 and Rs. 1500 will be available at the Hotel and at selected Cargills Food City outlets.