If music be the sound of harmony then play on
From L to r: Dushyanthi Perera, Tamara Holsinger, Sharmini Wettimuny, Nirupama Rao and Soundarie David Rodrigo
Celebrating 70 years of Independence, on Wednesday February 7, at the Ladies’ College Hall, musicians from Sri Lanka and India will perform at the highly anticipated concert, “Music Beyond Borders”, spearheaded by the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka (SOSL).
Speaking at the media briefing held on January 29 at the Maharaja head office, Resident Conductor of the SOSL Dushyanthi Perera, President of the SOSL and lead cellist Tamara Holsinger, Chairperson of the SOSL Sharmini Wettimuny, India’s former Foreign Secretary, ambassador and Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Nirupama Rao and musician Soundarie David Rodrigo outlined their vision for this collaborative effort.
Eight string players from India will join the SOSL for this path- breaking concert, the brainchild of Nirupama Rao. The programme will include Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27 performed by Vienna-based concert pianist Marialena Fernandes with guest conductor Viswa Subbaraman. Subbaraman will also conduct the joint orchestral performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 and Rossini’s Overture to La Cenerentola.
Music, an essential harmoniser is instrumental in bridging gaps between countries said Ms Rao. “I am thrilled that our dream of creating a South Asian Symphony Orchestra is being launched with this first step of bringing young Indian and Sri Lankan musicians together,” she said. As an initiative to promote peace and harmony among the nations, Ms Rao introduced the idea of an inclusive South Asian Symphony Orchestra to bring together musical talent from eight countries in the region.
“This has been my dream project,” Ms Rao stated passionately, talking of how Music Beyond Borders has been an idea she has fostered over the years – finally taking shape. “Music transcends borders,” she said, adding “sublime music speaks to a common community.”
“This concert is very close to my heart,” said Ms. Rao adding “it’s not just another show but it’s a concert with a message.” In light of the Independence day celebrations Ms. Rao shares, “When we think of freedom we associate it with communication,” adding with a smile “and what better way to communicate than with music.”
The Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka, one of the oldest orchestras in South Asia is “the only orchestra in this region that has regular performances and is made up of its own national players,” SOSL Chairperson Sharmini Wettimuny noted. “As both India and Sri Lanka are celebrating 70 years of Independence (India celebrating 71 years) this collaborative concert is fitting for the occasion.”
She also made note of the versatility of SOSL’s repertoire –squashing the “only classical music” stereotype. SOSL has gained popularity among even younger audiences with their “music from the movies” themed annual SOSL POPS concerts.
SOSL Conductor Dushyanthi Perera said the Orchestra’s aim over the past years has been to develop the musical abilities of youth – like school children for whom the orchestra regularly conducts music programmes in schools. Soundarie David Rodrigo who has collaborated with the SOSL on many occasions while praising the orchestra’s efforts in the local and now global music industry, said, “All this combined is what makes the initiative all the more beautiful and unique.”
Music Beyond Borders will take place on February 7 at the Ladies’ College Hall
from 7 p.m..