CIT’S A LASSIC
The three artistes who will be collaborating with the brothers had this to say.
‘It's a Classic' will be held on 1st July
at 7.30pm at the Lionel Wendt theatre featuring The De Lanerolle Brothers
with Sureka Amerasighe on the piano, Orchestral Enhancement by Neranjan De
Silva and a guest appearance at the piano by Ganjalee
De Lanerolle the mother of The De Lanerolle Brothers.
Q NERANJAN - YOU HAVE WORKED WITH THE BROTHERS THEN AND NOW. HOW HAVE THEIR VOICES CHANGED?
They always had beautiful voices.
Over the years, Ishan's voice has become deeper, his lower range has improved as has his breath control. Overall a much smoother voice. Rohan's voice which was quite strident a decade ago has got more rounded and his tone has greatly improved. Most importantly as the brothers sing together, the blend between the voices has improved by leaps and bounds, At times, at a transition point where one brother takes over from another, it is difficult to identify which one is singing!
Q AS THEIR MOTHER WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT THE DE LANEROLLE BROTHERS?
They have always been two wonderful children to us, their parents. Also, whenever they undertook anything at all, they always did it to the best of their ability.
Q HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE ON STAGE ACCOMPANYING YOUR TWO SONS FOR A CONCERT AFTER ALMOST A TWELVE YEAR BREAK?
When my two sons requested that I at least play for two songs, I didn't have the heart to refuse as this is definitely the last time I would be able to do so!
Q SUREKA IS THIS YOUR FIRST TIME ACCOMPANYING THE BROTHERS? HOW IS IT TO WORK WITH THEM AND WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ABOUT THEIR MUSICALITY ?
I've collaborated with the de Lanerolle brothers on piano about a decade ago when we did an entire classical recital for the Galle Lit Festival. I think it's great that both brothers are able to sing classical repertoire skillfully and bring all the technicalities into a musical end product. Their flexibility in switching to more popular styles, and ability to connect with the audience and colleagues, with a balance of professionalism and amiability is at the crux of their success.