Nothing could have been timelier than the launch of the World Interfaith Choral Ensemble. These talented groups of choral singers and guest artistes took to the stage as Ambassadors for Peace on February 27, 2022 to present the second edition of the concert ‘Voices for Peace 2’; which is the second edition following the first in 2019. With the cloud of political disharmony hanging over our heads globally this initiative reminded us of the value of peace. Partnered by Shangri-La Hotel Colombo the Ballroom came alive mesmerising their audience not only by their singing, but also by their call for solidarity.

One could ask what was so different about this presentation and the answer would be that it was a beautiful evening of spiritual and secular renditions from the Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Muslim faiths on a grander scale. All of them were brought together by the tireless effort of Haadia Galely the Founder / Producer/ Director of the Muslim Choral Ensemble. The grandeur of the Shangri La ballroom with its superb lighting by lighting experts Hussain with visual effects by Tariq did much to enhance the quality of the production while Kishan and Denham exceeded all expectations by providing the performers with excellent technical support.

Commencing the programme, choristers representing the Muslim, Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist faiths walked in presenting an electrifying rendition of their respective chants, with a representative from each of the communities participating in the lighting of the oil lamp. They were followed by Patron of the World Interfaith Choral Ensemble Mr. Hanif Yusf,Artistic Directors Prof Andre de Quadros, Soundarie David Rodrigo, Francis De Almeida Manoj Sanjeewa, Fonder |ED Haadia Galely, and Herve Duboscq General Manager of Shangri-La Colombo. Next was a presentation of two songs sung by each faith group consisting of male and female sopranos, tenors, alto, and Bass voices that were truly haunting.

Guest Artistes Dumi Fernando, Davina and Suren De Kauwe, CC De Silva Shenuk Wijesinghe, Ian Ranasinghe and young Ayra Wadood’s Debut onto the big stage added to the high quality of these singers who were simply amazing. The host for the evening Mohamed Adamaly took the evening through seamlessly. Kudos to these Ambassadors for Peace who donated their time to contribute to a program that they believe will communicate a message to the rest of the world.

If this was the quality of the performances one cannot ask for anything better. All who enjoyed this truly inspirational evening congratulate the producer and the talented groups and individual artistes; while we can look forward enthusiastically to what is in store for us in 2023 for which we are told, plans are already underway.

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