By Dimithri Wijesinghe
Photos Saman Abesiriwardana
Voices for Peace, a musical night of solidarity, was held at Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo on 9 July from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The event is the culmination of the efforts of a group of talented and caring individuals coming together in song on one stage for unity and solidarity, following the devastating events of 21 April.
The opening number really set the scene with a beautiful rendition of “Danno Budunge” performed by the instrumental duo Lydia Goonathilake on violin and Thilanka Jayamanne on flute, both part of the Symphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka.
The event also featured Soul Sounds directed by Soundarie David Rodrigo, University of Visual and Performing Arts (UOVPR) directed by Manoj Sujeewa, the Muslim Choral Ensemble of Sri Lanka, Oriental Group directed by Dinanjana Madhusanka, and Bollywood artist Shahid Shabaz. Additionally, it also included guest artists Umara, Ridma Weerawardena, and Dmitri Gunatilake.
The three singers joined the Muslim Choral Ensemble, who are an inclusive collective, which has several non-Muslim vocalists amongst their ranks as well.
Another highlight of the event was Dmitri Gunatilake’s almost chilling delivery of Ave Maria which was hauntingly beautiful and simply perfect.
Speaking about the importance of such events, Shangri-La General Manager Timothy Wright expressed his gratitude to the attendees and performers who gathered that day to celebrate the importance of solidarity and to leave aside any and all differences to focus and carry forth the message of peace and togetherness.