DARKNESS INTO LIGHT
On Sunday the 25th of November at 6pm, at the Cathedral of Christ The Living Saviour - Colombo 7
The cathedral choir through the last seven years has taken great strides under the Direction of its Conductor Trainer and Leader Ishan De Lanerolle. Ishan who makes up one half of the De Lanerolle Brothers is no stranger to the western music and chorus field in Sri Lanka.
Q ISHAN WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE SUCCESS OF THE CHOIR?
The programmes presented by the choir from time to time have seen almost over 800 people gathering up as a congregation.
The choir of the Cathedral has always been of a high standard, Aunty Neela before me too strived and maintained a very high standard. I believe that we owe this success you mention to God from whom all talent flows. We are just instruments and I am only a leader of a group of talented singers, whom I am honoured and humbled to lead.
I am also grateful to the Bishop of Colombo and our Archdeacon and vicar together with the finance committee and organists together with the entire congregation for supporting us in all our endeavours.
Q LET US KNOW WHAT YOUR EXPERIENCE IS LIKE BEING IN THE CHOIR AND GETTING READY FOR THIS MUSICAL
Chamath De Alwis Says it is a wonderful fulfilling experience which is unique. The choristers are all committed and wanting to do their best. I am extremely glad to be a part of the musical ‘Darkness into Light’.
Q WHAT IS IT TO TRAIN UNDER THE BATON OF ISHAN DE LANEROLLE
Dilsarah Derrick says Uncle Ishan has always been that motivating and spirited Choir director who is not only an expert in vocals and at training the choir but is also someone who taught us that we sing praises to God and not to man, that we sing with purpose and not to merely just perform. New and completely unheard of music with multiple chromatic notes and drastic key changes is nothing for the choir as we know that our director will do everything possible and impossible to make sure we learn our music and perfect it. Whether it’s little pointers on breathing techniques or just a good hearty laugh, the training we receive under uncle Ishan is something of value and to be cherished.
Q HOW DO YOU THINK THE MUSICAL WILL RELATE TO THE CONGREGATION THAT WILL GATHER AT THE CATHEDRAL ON THE 25TH OF NOVEMBER.
Irene Boco who is a Nigerian says the 25th of November which will be a month away from Christmas day, the choir will be sounding a reminder that, it is that time again when Christians all over the world celebrate and welcome the plan of redemption and salvation of mankind through the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. He should be the centre of our merry making all the days of our life.
Q WHAT ARE THE FUTURE PLANS FOR THE CHOIR
Devika Brendon says, To grow and develop our vocal gifts, and learn to collaborate and support each other in our growth, and celebrate our shared experience.
Entrance by Token Programme Rs 800 available at the Commons Coffee House and The Cathedral Office. All proceeds towards the outreach projects of the Cathedral.