Manoj launches ‘Thablawa’
Popular musician Visharada Manoj Peiris who has surpassed 35 years in his tuneful career in music, has launched a musical guide book titled ‘Thablawa’ responding to numerous requests from many quarters. “There are hundreds of students who have learnt the tabla from me. These students and even people living overseas have requested me to write a guidebook for those passionate about learning to play the tabla. Some even ask me if I conduct classes, but my schedules are so hectic that I don’t have such a luxury. I am thankful to MD Gunasena Managing Director Rajiv Gunasena, Publishing Manager Jayampathi Rajakaruna and Editor Thanuja Nirmalee who motivated me to make this dream a reality. I am glad that I was able to write this book to share my knowledge with students. Those who wish to learn the tabla as a profession or hobby can make use of this book. It can also be used as a guidebook for those who wish to face professional exams even up to Visharada stage. My main guru was Sangeeth Nipun Visharada Sanath Nandasiri. He and Dr. Rohana Weerasinghe wrote the forewords in the book. There are four schools (Gharana) in tabla. I learnt the Delhi Gharana. I have included chapters about all four Gharanas. It is written in simple form so that anyone can grasp it. I later studied the art under D. R. Peiris, P. V. Nandasiri and also my other brother in law Wijeratne Ranatunga who are not amongst us today. I have dedicated this book to my parents, family and all my teachers. I will be presenting this book to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa this week,” said Manoj who will be receiving the Raigam Lifetime Achievement award on Saturday for his contributions to music. ”I am grateful to the Raigam Group and the jury panel for considering me for this lifetime achievement award, taking into consideration my contribution to the music field exceeding 35 years. What excites me most is that I am going to receive this landmark award together with two other colossal figures – Ms. Sumitra Peries and Liyoni Kothelawela. I have done a lot of music events for Dr. Lester James Peries and also been in theatre orchestras where Liyoni Kothelawela acted. Receiving this award on the same platform with these two legendary figures is indeed going to be a memorable one. I have received so many awards and honorary titles in my career, but this Raigam award is going to be a special one,” said Manoj.