Honouring interconnectivity through devotional music

• World Muslim Choral Ensemble concludes on a high note

The Muslim Choral Ensemble (MCE) Ambassadors for Peace, as a conclusion of phase two of the World Muslim Choral Ensemble (WMCE) Ambassadors for Peace, recently held its closing ceremony at the Lionel Wendt Theatre.

Ten international choristers and instrumentalists from India, Iran, Pakistan, the US, and Sri Lanka took the stage breathing new life into the genre of Islamic devotional music traditions of South Asia and Iran. Starting the night was Jananath Warakagoda, accompanied by a skilled drum ensemble, who invited the rest of the choristers to take their place on stage. As one of the first “three-in-one” musicians, skilled as a percussionist, singer, and composer, Warakagoda of course, needs no introduction and had the audience buzzing with excitement over what was to come.

The repertoire, largely embracing Islamic spiritual styles including Nasheeds, Qasidas, and Naats – all connected to South Asia – had the audience in awe, silently mesmerised by the unique sounds that were echoing throughout the theatre. Despite the ongoing fuel crisis, many had made their way to the event and the thunderous applause after each song went on to show how well-received the ensemble was. The international choirs, in a move to honour the interconnectivity and sanctity of all life without discrimination, were able to creatively communicate the power of unity through song, all while taking the project beyond borders, breaking the barriers of silence to unite and raise awareness as one global family.

 

After a small break to award certificates of recognition as well as a speech from the organisers, the night of music continued. Closing the eventful night was a soulful rendition of Bhar Do Jholi initially written and performed by the Sabri Brothers. By the end of the concert, our belief that a piece of art is not just about entertainment and it can never be a masterpiece if it does not make one measure the various depths of an ocean exploring the majesty of spirituality and mysticism was cemented. The singers brought their passions and beliefs into each song that was performed, even bringing some of the audience to tears. Once the vote of thanks was given by two of the international choristers and the last song was performed, the atmosphere was electric by the end of the night, which concluded with a standing ovation.

In conversation with Brunch, WMCE Founder Haadia Galely expressed that she believes concerts such as these can help promote unity amongst Sri Lankans and create a better understanding despite the differences in faith. According to Galely: “Interfaith understanding strengthens the idea that, regardless of religion or religious traditions, every human being deserves to be loved and respected where friendships and connections with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs are strengthened.”

In Galely’s eyes, the WMCE is a space created to develop a deep sense of understanding not only of one’s own journey of faith but also to help forge friendships between people from other backgrounds. Sharing her opinion, she noted that the WMCE will work as a platform to create a foundation that breaks stereotypes and misunderstandings stemming from a lack of knowledge and misconceptions.

All choristers that are part of the WMCE and instrumentalists will continue to embrace unity in diversity by acting as Ambassadors for Peace following their commitment to serve, celebrate, and use their voices and music for peacebuilding.

The WMCE, planned as an annual event with a vision to grow globally in order to link more Islamic devotional music traditions from diverse regions across the world, saw a successful conclusion to a week of events, and hopes to extend its vision beyond the performing arts to include peacebuilding by participating in joint performances with choral ensembles of other traditions.