A solo concert - with a difference

By Mahes Perera

A first meeting with Melanie Bibile and you are amazed at her friendliness, her simplicity and you'd never guess that she is a singer with a melodious mezzo-soprano voice. I've seen her once on stage in the musical 'Evita', playing the lead role of Eva Peron, but subsequently I missed her performances although I learnt through the grapevine that she has taken part in various other productions. The meeting with Melanie Bibile to learn more about her and her scheduled concert was something I was looking forward to. Her concert will be held on November 22 at the Russian Cultural Centre and the music for the evening will reflect all genres including gospel, swing jazz and Broadway melodies.

Question: You say you have a passion for singing and performing on stage. Can you trace back your musical beginnings and what can the audience expect from your program at the concert?

Answer: My passion for singing started at the tender age of five when I acted in a church concert. This passion grew further when I was studying at Ladies' College, Colombo, where I worked with Christine Perera who was in charge of music.

Subsequently I sang in school productions as well as various productions done outside.

I furthered my singing skill with the renowned vocal coach Mary Ann David to whom I owe much of my mentoring and vocal development and I thank her for all the patience, time and effort she has put into training me.

I'm still a student of hers. Jerome de Silva and Jith Peiris have passed on invaluable knowledge which I treasure and my husband Darrell has always pushed me to achieve the best.

My program for the evening will be songs that are favourites such as 'What I Did For Love', 'I Dreamed a Dream', 'You Raise Me Up', 'I've Got You Under My Skin', 'Angel', 'They Can't Take That Away From Me' and 'My Tribute'. Other featured musicians are Joshna Asokan, singers Ruwanaka Leanage, Adele Beling Bibile, Kumudini Perera David and Camerati.

Q: In a scenario where there has been concerts literally following one after the other what made you decide to stage this concert of yours at this time?

A: There's a Swedish proverb that goes "Those who wish to sing will always find a song". I have always been passionate about expressing myself in song and dance, and although it sounds like a cliché, it's been true with me.

Through my initial exposure with amateur drama and theatre, whether through my alma mater, my local church, the Mary Ann School of Music and all the people who have invested hours in me, I felt the need at this moment in life, to stage my recital, which is something I've always aspired to do.

It is tribute to the talent God has blessed me with and also appreciation to all my musical influences. I lead worship at People's Church and this is the my way of giving back to God what he has given me.

Q: What about the music scene in Sri Lanka today? Do you think with the countless names of youth involved in music, we have progressed or are we just imitating global big names and shedding our own creativity?

A: I think the music in our country has gleaned out many paths and avenues for new talent to raise its head. The many talent shows that have been staged reflect professionalism and so much know how. All music lovers - be it folk music, fusion, pop, rock, classical, Broadway or jazz are never left unsatisfied but begging for more.

The music scene is getting better and so is creativity among the youth, and what's more, unity among the singers and musicians. It is also great to see the older musicians coming back to the country and displaying their skills in music. Some of them have made Sri Lanka proud by bringing home awards which endorses their talent and prowess.

At her concert Melanie Bibile and the featured singers will be accompanied by Neranjan de Silva, Ashane Bernard, Christo Prins, Ranjan Josiah and Nilantha Ariyaratne.

Melanie Bibile's voice is down to earth reflecting an emotional authority that gets under your skin.