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A train rumbles by, but it cannot drown out the girlish voices raised on high. Forty-odd girls are trying out this pitch or that in the auditorium by the sea of Holy Family Covent, Bambalapitya, under the able guidance of their musical director Soundarie David who is at the piano.
Pure enjoyment seems to be the name of the game as they practise. The Senior Choir of HFC is practising not just for any event but for something special - 'Familian Harmony', a performance for the centenary celebrations of their school.
The Choir has made a name for itself on its unique harmony and versatility since it won a carol competition in 1996. The girls have been on a musical crest since then and had the privilege of being chosen to sing for the documentary film on Mother Teresa, working closely with famous actors and actresses including Geraldine Chaplin. All voice tracks for the movie were by the girls of the HFC choir. The other achievements were taking part in 'Voice of Teens', 'Music Ablaze' and presenting the highly successful musical 'Smike' produced by Jerome De Silva.
Now they go on stage with their vast repertoire to bring to the public a wide range of songs from the sacred to the semi-classical.
"We sing for the love of it. We do it because we enjoy it and it is wonderful to be able to take part in this momentous event when the school is celebrating its centenary," says 17-plusTrevina Abeyesundere who with Lihini Fernando is leading the choir. Having been with the choir for five years during its "ups and downs" as she puts it, she assures us that she's not scared. "We won't be having even 20 practices, but we are not worried. It's just polishing up what we already know. We are like dead and suddenly come alive when Miss Soundarie turns up. We are able to get the perfect pitch with her. We are at our peak."
They will not be alone on stage. For, some past Familians like Gayathrie Peiris, well-known even internationally, will join their ranks to bring a sparkle to the evening which already promises to be memorable. More colour will be added to the performance with Familian ballerinas under the training of Kanthi Ranchigoda, presenting a few dance items.
"To me, what is wonderful is that special bond we have in the Choir," says Samindri Liyanage, 19, who has just left school but will be with the Choir for this performance. "We've done many productions and just grown together."
Yes, she's a bit nervous, but confident as well. HFC has been able to pull off many events. This will be the "best" because of the 100-year celebrations, assures Samindri.
Want to tap your toes to 'You Are My Sunshine', be taken on a spiritual journey with 'Our Father' or listen to the African sounds of 'Adiemus' (by the way, the HFC Choir is the only one in Sri Lanka to sing it)? Then be sure to make it to 'Familian Harmony'.
'Familian Harmony' produced by Jerome De Silva goes on the boards at 7 p.m. at the Lionel Wendt on March 9 and 10. The box plan is available at the HFC office and the Lionel Wendt.
(KH)
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