Reviewed by Chaniru Senhas, Muhammed Jameel and Rehan Anandakumar (Web Content Team)
Euphony, a mesmerising classical chamber performance, graced the hallowed halls of Trinity College on the evening of October 28th, at 7 p.m. Organised by the Western Music Society, this exquisite event was a blend of musical grace and serenity, embracing the hearts of Western Classical Music lovers.
Featuring a stellar lineup of pianists, violinists, cellists and guitarists, playing overtures, symphonies, and operas composed by renowned maestros such as Frederick Chopin and Richard Wagner, the Western Music Society of TCK undoubtedly presented their best, to an enthralled audience.
The accompaniments were also complimented by vocal duets sung by the soloists of the society. This event was a landmark occasion, not just because it showcased the burgeoning talents of young Trinitians but also because it offered the Kandy audience a rare glimpse into the realm of classical chamber music at its finest.
The evening commenced with a vocal solo accompanied by a piano performance of “Lascia Chio Pianga” by Masters Amrit and Chanuth. This was followed by a delightful violin duet, “Minuet in G,” performed by Masters Savith, Sobath, and Amal.
The audience was then treated to a magical guitar solo with piano accompaniment, as Master Sharon and Master Amal played “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring“. Master Nishith’s piano solo rendition of “Rondo alla Turca” was truly captivating. The highlights continued with a unique vocal duet accompanied by piano, “Let us Wander,” performed by Masters Amal, Sanuka, and Mevindu.
The pinnacle of the evening was the performance of Mozart’s “Violin Sonata in A Major No. 22.” This intricate masterpiece was brought to life by Master Savith Ranaweera on the violin and Master Nadil Abeyratne on the piano. Their rendition displayed the delicate balance between bounciness and sombreness, leaving the audience in awe.
Master Amal Ahamed took the stage once again, with a touching vocal solo of “Caro Mio Ben” by G. Giordani, accompanied by Master Sanuka Illangasekara on the piano. Afterwards, the piano took centre stage as Master Nadil Abeyratne performed three enchanting compositions: “Wedding Day at Troldhaugen” by Edvard Grieg, “Waltz in A Flat Op. 39, No. 15” by J. Brahms, and “Ritual Fire Dance” by Manuel de Falla, each piece a testament to his virtuosity.
A mesmerising guitar trio composed of Masters Hansana Jayasundara, Chamath Sinhalage, and Bumitha Nanayakkara graced the stage with a spellbinding performance of “The Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi, specifically the third movement of summer.
“Dolly Suite” by Gabriel Faure was a timeless classic brought to life as a piano duet by Masters Amal Ahamed and Mevindu Attanayake, showcasing their impeccable synchronization. Master Mark Jayaratne followed with a captivating vocal solo, “Voi Che Sapete (Marriage of Figaro)” by Mozart, accompanied by Master Nadil on the piano.
The evening took an electrifying turn with “Sonata for Four Hands” by F. J. M. Poulnec, performed by Masters Ian and Nadil, leaving the audience in awe.
The Junior Chorale group of WMS of the College presented a different style of chamber music with “Evening Breezes” by Franz Schubert, a refreshing change in the program.
A piano trio consisting of Masters Lithum Lokuyaddehige, Chandeepa Gunaratne, and Ashen Wijesinghe enchanted the audience with their performance of “Largo Al Factotum” by Gioachino Rossini, showcasing their exceptional musical prowess.
Masters Nadil and Hansana returned for an interactive vocal duet of “Au Fond du Temple Saint,” also known as “The Pearl Fishers“. Master Ian’s piano accompaniment added an extra layer of depth and emotion to this exquisite piece.
The evening continued with “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel, performed by masters Kumath Epa and Binupa Jayawardena, evoking a sense of timelessness and beauty.
The grand finale featured a unique performance with Master Savith Ratnaweera on the violin, Master Hasaranga Premawardena on the cello, and Mr. Mark Vernon on the piano, as they performed A. L. Dvorak’s “Humoresques Op. 101,” leaving the audience awestruck.
Master Nadil closed the evening with three enthralling piano pieces: “Waltz in A Minor” and “Polonaise in A Flat” by F. Chopin, and the audience was left enchanted and inspired.
Euphony was a testament to the remarkable talents of young Trinitians, and it would not have been possible without the dedication and support of Mrs. Chryshanthi Surendrakumar, Miss Ridmi Weerasinghe, Mr Mark Vernon, the College Media Unit and all those who directly and indirectly supported the event. Their expertise and unwavering commitment made this event a resounding success, leaving the audience yearning for more of these enchanting classical performances in the future.
The students who graced the stage that evening displayed a level of dedication and confidence that was truly remarkable. Their tireless hours of practice and unwavering passion for music shone through in each performance. The commitment and hard work of these budding musical talents are a testament to the nurturing environment here at Trinity College, where young individuals are encouraged to explore their passions and showcase their talents.
It was evident that Euphony was not just a showcase of music but a celebration of the potential and promise that our student hold. The future of classical music at Trinity College looks brighter than ever, and we eagerly anticipate more inspiring performances in the days to come!
