 Debut Soprano recital
by Mahes Perera
The popular soprano Anagi Perera
staged her debut recital two days ago (October 1) at the Russian
Cultural Centre, titled Amigo Para Sempre (Friends for Life). A soloist
with several choral societies Anagi has performed the music of Haydn,
Mozart, Purcell, Vivaldi and Bach.
From a very early age while a student at Methodist College, Colombo,
Anagi had a love for singing which resulted in her making a definite
effort to seek formal training in singing. Just before her debut recital
we were fortunate to speak with Anagi to find out more about herself and
her music career.
 What was the reason for waiting so long to stage your debut recital?
“Well, actually I studied under three teachers. I began professional
voice training with Kalasuriya Lylie Godridge when I was just eight
years. I spent many happy hours with him learning at no cost. He exposed
me to concerts, made me sing over radio to help me develop my vocal
capabilities. After his demise I continued my training under Ruwanie
Siemon with whom I completed my exams with the Trinity College of Music
London. I gave myself a hiatus of two-and-a-half years to be with my
family and then continued my professional training under Menaka de
Fonseka Sahabandu, who will be my accompanist on piano for the recital”.
You’ve sung arias by Haydn, Mozart, Purcell, Vivaldi and Bach who is
your favourite composer of arias?
“Mozart. To me his music is melodious and meaningful. At my recital
I’m singing arias from Mozarts’ Marriage of Figaro’and arias by Puccini,
Gabriel Faure and Cesar Franck. For those who enjoy the lighter side of
music I’ve included songs from well loved musicals. There’s “Another
Suitcase in Another Hall” from Andrew Lloyd Webers’ Evita, ‘You’ll Never
Walk Alone’ from Carousel by Rodgers and Hammerstein, and “In My Life”
from Les Miserables.
Will there be other artistes as well at the recital?
“Yes. I’m bridging my solos with Satish Casie Chetty (violin), and
the Menaka Singers singing a classical work by Mendelssohn and two
popular songs by Stevie Wonder and John Lennon.”
The concert is in aid of the Child Without Sorrow Foundation and it
coincides with International Children’s Day. After becoming parents my
husband Harith and I were made aware of the sad plight of our
underprivileged children. Child Without Sorrow was Founded with a group
of friends and this is my contribution towards it” says a committed
Anagi. |
