Participant Image (270 x 155 px):

The Chamber Music Society of Colombo, active as a concert-giving ensemble for the past couple of years, in fact had its genesis as far back as 10 years ago when a group of Sir Lankan based musicians (most with international concert hall experience) sat down to discuss the creation of a chamber music group that would be unique to the country – and the region. High on the agenda was the wish to promote new music; music that may reflect a particular culture or region but at the same time reached across cultural borders. In addition to championing new work, the Chamber Music Society of Colombo sees itself as a platform for talented, skilled and dedicated musicians to actively engage in the discovery of music, old and new, and draw audiences into the excitement of the artistic experience. Taking its cue from internationally respected ensembles, this “historically informed, modern instrument” group performs without a conductor, led from the first chair by violinist/artistic director Lakshman Joseph de Saram, the Society offers programmes designed to reflect three distinct concert hall repertoires: Baroque, Classical and Contemporary (the last category emphasizing new music originating in Sri Lanka and the region). While chamber music is often considered an elitist, almost exclusive domain, the guarded preserve of a privileged minority, the Chamber Music Society of Colombo seeks to spread the joys and riches of the chamber genre to the entire music-loving community. It strives to do this through public concerts, workshops and other outreach and educational programmes.

The Chamber Music Society of Colombo will be featured at the following events:

Saturday 30 January, 6 PM- 7 PM, Dutch Reformed Church: Concert at Dusk