COLOMBO — The Russian School of Music successfully held its annual music concert themed around Orthodox Christmas, celebrating the rich musical and cultural traditions associated with this important occasion. Orthodox Christmas is traditionally observed on Friday January 23 and in keeping with this tradition, the concert was held a week later, allowing students and audiences alike to come together in a festive spirit of music and reflection.
As the oldest school under the Russian Cultural Centre, the Russian School of Music has a long-standing legacy of excellence, nurturing generations of talented musicians and achieving numerous milestones over the years. This year’s concert once again reflected the school’s dedication to artistic growth and cultural exchange.
The event was graced by the presence of Madam Maria Popova, Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka, and Maldives and Director of the Russian House in Colombo, Mr. Buddhapriya Ramanayake, Chief Executive Officer of the Russian House, whose continued guidance and support have been instrumental in the school’s journey. Along with these distinguished guests we also had the honour of joining Dr Vasanthi Ramanayake, spouse of Mr Buddhapriya and Mrs Chandi Aluvihare, the Cultural Officer of the Russian House, who is also a former Cordinator of the Russian School of Music.
The event commenced with two lovely students from the school, Masha Kochetova and Senera Wijerathna beautifully laying facts about Russian Orthodox Christmas to the local audience. The concert programme featured captivating performances on the piano, violin, and guitar, along with a beautiful group vocal performance trained by Ms. Rozali Fernando, a piano teacher of the school. The dedication and guidance of the teaching staff were clearly reflected in the confidence and musicality of the students on stage.
The teaching team further includes Ms. Kishani Amarasekara, Ms. Eshanthika Fernando, Ms. Lilibeth Fernando, Ms. Taniya De Zylva, and Ms. Tharushi Amanda as piano teachers; Ms. Lasni Vidyaratna as guitar teacher; and Mr. Mahela Deshan as violin teacher along with Ms Komudi Pinnedoowe as the Russian School of Cordinator.
The event was hosted by Ms Buthmi Perera along with ideas, inspiration and support by Mrs Manohari Seneviratne & Ms Chamodi Wimalendra. With a strong foundation, committed leadership, and a talented community of teachers, students, and staff the Russian School of Music looks ahead with enthusiasm, with many exciting plans and initiatives lined up for the future.
