It’s more than a month since the Voices for Peace IV: A Celebration of Unity Through Music and the Arts was staged at the Lionel Wendt – on December 9 to be exact. All the same albeit the time lapse the vibrant voices of the choristers still ring loud and clear in our ears. It was indeed an inspirational concert with no holds barred as various genres of choristers came together to inspire audiences with their music. The title of the show says it all that music is for peace and unity.
A vibrant mix of choristers came together to unite Sri Lanka’s diverse communities through the transformative power of music and the arts to uphold its tradition of fostering harmony by featuring performances that celebrated the rich cultural and traditional backgrounds of Sri Lanka’s diverse faiths. It was indeed a powerful celebration of music.
Haadia Galely founded Voices for Peace following the tragic events that unfolded on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019. ‘Voices for Peace’ was launched on July 9, 2019, in partnership with the Shangri-La Hotel Colombo. The need for healing between communities was paramount at this juncture. Putting aside ‘prejudices’, which were earlier unheard of, could only be done thru music is a foregone conclusion.
The Voices for Peace IV: A Celebration of Unity Through Music and the Arts mission is to foster healing, dialogue and understanding among Sri Lanka’s diverse communities clearly endorsed when each Choral group sang. Haadia’s concept of bringing diverse groups to sing on a single stage rang true to her vision. “Through the universal language of music, we can unite people, honour our shared humanity, and nurture a peaceful and inclusive future” is her single refrain.
Renowned artistic directors Soundarie David Rodrigo (Soul Sounds Academy), Francis de Almeida (Acoustics Chorale), and Manoj Sanjeewa (Muslim Choral Ensemble and Buddhist Ensemble) ensured that the choristers virtually ‘shook’ and set alight the Lionel Wendt stage with their powerful and vibrant singing. The performances showcased the island’s artistic and spiritual heritage in no uncertain terms. It was a gathering of a diverse array of choristers giving the audience a real taste of what diverse singing means.
More than 80 voices from the Sri Lankan Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities rang out loud and clear on that day. It was indeed a mesmerising experience for one and all. The collaboration transcended religious and cultural barriers when we saw them giving of their best while their voices rang loud and clear.
‘Voices for Peace’ has made a significant impact by offering a platform for collective reflection and renewal and a space for people of all backgrounds to come together, to celebrate and strengthen their bonds of solidarity.
Pix by Sudath Malaweera