Sunday Times 2
200 voices choir to give life to timeless spiritual classics at “The Church’s One Foundation”
In late 2011, the walls of the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour reverberated with the music of a hundred young voices blending as one. Aptly titled, “The Church’s One Foundation” the event was organised under the patronage of the Bishop of Colombo and presented by the De Lanerolle brothers.
The orchestra at rehearsals
For Ishan De Lanerolle, the image of a hundred youngsters from five to six schools in their colourful cassocks is a vibrant memory that still comes alive whenever he recalls that wonderful evening. Six years later, the brothers hope to recreate that same feeling and more , together with the co-operation of the Bishop of Colombo Dhiloraj Canagasabey as they prepare for another instalment of “The Church’s One Foundation”
This time, the event is even bigger as on July 29 the choirs of Bishop’s College, Ladies’ College, S. Thomas’ College,S. Thomas’ Preparatory School, Holy Family Convent- Bambalapitiya, Trinity College and St. Joseph’s College and Wesley College Octave and the Cathedral Choir give new life to timeless spiritual classics. The 200 voice choir will be accompanied by a complete orchestra and organist Neranjan De Silva will see two new figures – organist Dr. Joanthan Clarke from England and Italian conductor Battista Pradal.
“Anything we do- we like to do it well,” Ishan explains, a refrain he and older brother /singing partner Rohan continually echo. It’s no surprise then that this year’s event will stretch the boundaries of choral and spiritual music. The task of coordinating 200 voices and a 40 piece orchestra – a vast step up from the last production is both a nerve wracking and exciting prospect for Ishan. “We’re taking it up a few notches,” he says humbly.
“The Church’s One Foundation” hosted by the De Lanerolle Brothers will take place on July 29 at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour at 7 p.m.
Entrance by token programme priced at Rs. 1,000 will be available at Commons Café, Park Street Mews and the Cathedral office. Proceeds in aid of the Church’s Educational Fund.