A SYMPHONY OF NOSTALGIA: “මතක තනු 2024” BRINGS BELOVED SRI LANKAN CLASSICS TO LIFE

November 20, 2024 at 4:57 PM

In a ground-breaking musical event, the acclaimed Gustav Mahler Orchestra of Colombo is set to present “මතක තනු 2024” (Melodic Memoirs 2024) on Friday, November 29th, 2024, at the Royal-MAS Arena, Colombo 07. This unique concert promises to be a mesmerizing fusion of Sri Lankan musical heritage and Western orchestral grandeur.

What makes this concert particularly special is its innovative approach to presenting timeless Sri Lankan compositions, featuring masterful orchestral arrangements by Darshana Amarasinghe. A talented multi-instrumentalist known for his work as Principal Cellist with the Gustav Mahler Orchestra, Amarasinghe brings a unique perspective to these arrangements. His deep understanding of both Western classical music and Sri Lankan musical traditions allows him to create sophisticated orchestral textures that honour the original compositions while adding new dimensions to these beloved works. The program features carefully selected works from legendary composers including Dr. Premasiri Khemadasa, Pandit Dr. W.D. Amaradeva, Dr. Rohana Weerasinghe, and Clarence Wijewardena, alongside contemporary hits by artists like Kasun Kalhara.

The concert brings together an exceptional line-up of performers. Leading the orchestra will be Maestro Srimal Weerasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s foremost conductors and the Music Director of the Gustav Mahler Orchestra. Adding a dynamic percussion dimension to the evening will be the renowned Sri Lankan percussionist Rakitha Wickramaratne and his celebrated ensemble NAADRO.

The Gustav Mahler Orchestra of Colombo, which recently made history as the first Sri Lankan orchestra to tour internationally, has consistently pushed boundaries in classical music performance. Their dedication to excellence and innovative programming has earned them critical acclaim, including their recent landmark performances of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Mahler’s Fourth Symphony.

The venue itself adds to the concert’s appeal – the Royal-MAS Arena offers a unique 360-degree viewing experience, ensuring an immersive musical experience for the expected 1,000-member audience. This modern setting provides the perfect backdrop for this fusion of traditional and contemporary musical expressions.

Concert Details:

  • Date: Friday, November 29th, 2024
  • Time: 7:30 PM
  • Venue: Royal-MAS Arena, Colombo 07

This concert represents a rare opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s rich musical heritage through a new lens, making it a must-attend event for music lovers across generations. Whether you’re a fan of classical orchestral music or traditional Sri Lankan compositions, “මතක තනු 2024” promises an unforgettable evening of musical excellence and cultural celebration.

Audiences can expect an engaging program that bridges generational gaps, offering both “old school” classics and modern hits, all reimagined through sophisticated orchestral arrangements. This unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements makes it an ideal evening for families and music enthusiasts of all ages.

WhatsApp 077 798 7030 for ticket reservations.