A family musical bond takes centrestage
View(s):- As Sanjeev Jayaratnam and his two sons get ready for their first concert together, they share their experiences
By Sajani Ratnayake
A family trio: Cheran and Tharuka with Sanjeev. Pic by M.A. Pushpa Kumara
On April 25 at 7.30 p.m., the stage of the Lionel Wendt Theatre will come alive with this very magic. Voices blending and merging into one, father and sons will stand side by side, celebrating their bond through music. ‘Sanjeev in Concert’ will feature renowned choir director Sanjeev Jayaratnam and his two sons, Tharuka and Cheran Jayaratnam, in a performance that promises to be as personal as it is spectacular.
This marks the first time the trio will share the stage in this way, an experience Sanjeev describes as “something very new and a very interesting experience for us too.”
The concert will feature an eclectic mix of genres—pop, rock, gospel, and jazz—with most of the musical arrangements crafted by Sanjeev himself. As the director of ‘Revelations Mixed Voice Choir’ (who will also make a guest appearance alongside Manique Abeyratne), Sanjeev is no stranger to putting together grand performances. However, this concert holds a different significance. “It must be done very differently,” he shares, “but it is also very fulfilling,” acknowledging the unique challenges and joys of collaborating with his own sons.
Cheran, the younger of the two, emphasises the collaborative nature of their preparation, explaining how they “bounce ideas off each other,” shaping the structure of each song—quite literally, having equal voices in the creative process. In addition to performing, Cheran takes on the role of Music Director, while Tharuka manages the concert’s marketing, both playing integral roles in bringing this vision to life.
The evening’s music will be enriched by a dynamic ensemble of young musicians, most of whom are from the institution ‘Music Matters’. The talented lineup includes Dinuka Jayasooriya (lead guitar), Mahira Dissanayake (rhythm guitar), the versatile Neranjan De Silva (keys and orchestration), Shevan De Alwis (keys), Steffan Mendis (bass), and Yohan Jayasooriya (drums). Interestingly, this will also be the first time these musicians perform together as a band, adding another layer of fresh energy to the concert.
While Tharuka and Cheran have performed on various stages before, this marks their most significant solo showcase yet. “It is nerve-wracking in that aspect,” Tharuka admits, but the excitement outweighs the nerves. The show will also introduce audiences to fresh interpretations of familiar pieces, featuring unexpected three-part harmonies, well-loved musical theatre classics (from Chess, Les Misérables, Beauty and the Beast), and even selections from opera. With its unique concepts and inventive arrangements, ‘Sanjeev in Concert’ promises to be a refreshing and memorable experience.
All together now: Rehearsal time
The production is helmed by Pemanthi Fernando, who has been instrumental in bringing the event together. Reflecting on the difference between this and his usual choir concerts, Sanjeev acknowledges, “There is more pressure for this concert than a usual choir concert—now there is more focus on us.” However, he remains deeply grateful for the dedication and emotion brought by both his sons and his extended musical family, making this performance all the more meaningful.
More than just a ‘night of pure entertainment’, ‘Sanjeev in Concert’ represents years of shared musical history; Sanjeev comes from a family of 10 where all his brothers and sisters were singers too (all six brothers being in the choir at the same time). Now, in a full-circle moment, it is time for his sons to join him in taking centre stage. After much anticipation, this family has decided that now is the time to share their own journey.
Tickets range from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 1,000 (balcony unreserved)
and are available online.
For reservations, contact 0777346806 or 0778543382.
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