Inter-faith ‘Voices For Peace’ concert on 25 July at Shangri-La

The Muslim Choral Ensemble has announced the inauguration of the Sama International Choral Festival 2023, which is scheduled to take place from 24 to 30 July at multiple venues in Colombo.

The Sama International Choral Festival has been established to engage freely in multicultural presentations that allow for more people and traditions to be involved.

This ground-breaking initiative includes international and local artists. Collaborating with Muslim Choral Ensemble (MCE) are the members of the World Muslim Choral Ensemble, the award-winning Manado State University Choir from Indonesia (winners of World Choir Games 2012), and the acclaimed Boston-based ensemble, VOICES 21C. 

This event will include Shahid Shahbaz, (India) Nabeel Khan (India) and Aliraza Shaini (Iran), under the expert guidance of the Co-Founder Haadia Galely, with Artistic Director Professor André de Quadros (Boston University), MCE Associate Artistic Director/Vocal Coach Manoj Sanjeewa, St. Joseph’s Choir Choral Director Frances Almeida, and the Munisekar Shiva Dharshan Ensemble (Hindu Ensemble).

The Voices For Peace Concert will take place on 25 July at the Shangri-La Hotel Colombo, commencing at 7 p.m. This event is under the auspices of MCE where choirs from various faiths will come together as one united voice.  This will include: Christian Ensemble – St. Joseph’s Choir – conducted by Francis de Almeida; Buddhist Ensemble – Manoj Sanjeewa Voice Academy – Artistic Director Manoj Sanjeewa; Muslim Ensemble – Muslim Choral Ensemble – Associate Artistic Director and Vocal Coach Manoj Sanjeewa; and Hindu Ensemble – Munisekar Shiva Dharshan Ensemble.

“Music can evoke emotions, create connections, and touch people’s hearts,” says MCE Co-founder Professor Andre de Quadros.

Tickets are available at all Paan Paan outlets and Shangri-La. Call or WhatsApp +94741699825 for more details.