Rukshan Perera’s ‘A Musical Journey’ tomorrow

As the evergreen and debonair Rukshan Perera prepares to celebrate a special birthday, we wish him much success in the years to come.  Undoubtedly, this multi-talented maestro can look back at the last seven decades and say: "I've had the time of my life".  And who can deny that? 

And so it is that Colombo looks forward to Rukshan's Birthday Concert at the Bishop›s College Auditorium on Sunday 21 June 2026 - and what a night that promises to be.

Although music has been an integral part of his life, there is more to Rukshan than music.  He has enjoyed a successful career in IT, has traversed the world both for work and music, is a genuinely doting family man, enjoys fun/travel/adventure, and is most certainly a friend for all seasons.  He is an activist, a humanitarian and a philanthropist, and strives every day to make it a better, more meaningful world. 

But let's face it - music is indeed his big love.  This composer, director, recording artist, performer and multi-instrumentalist is widely recognised as an innovative artiste who continuously pushes musical boundaries - and how!

Amongst other things, Rukshan's claim to fame is that perhaps he is the only person I know who can whistle a two-part harmony simultaneously.  Furthermore, he might well be the only person in the world, allegedly, who can jazz-scat in harmony - something delightfully unique.

Rukshan›s mother, a music teacher, introduced him to his first piano lesson at the tender age of 5 years, and from that point on there was no looking back for Rukshan.  Coming from a musical family, not only did he enjoy learning to play multiple instruments, but the performing stage was a big part of this musical journey, starting as a young teenager and continuing to this day.

Rukshan has performed in a dozen countries covering all continents, be it an international music festival, international jazz festival, or other concerts, dances, and special events. 

Rukshan›s talent and versatility is beyond amazing.  After the death of his 'hero' - Michael Jackson - Rukshan composed and recorded a tribute titled 'You are the World' and presented it to Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson.  Rukshan has also composed songs for 3 Nobel Laureates Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzi, and Dr. Muhammad Yunus, in admiration of their profound contribution to society.

To date, Rukshan has composed hundreds of songs in multiple genres - Pop, Jazz, Blues, Fusion and Acapella arrangements.  He has released a CD of his English originals, 2 live DVDs from his concerts, and a music DVD describing Rotary values through songs, and another promoting moral values to young children through a national program.

What is outstanding about Rukshan is that he has always been driven by a vision to use music for a greater purpose, be it social conscience, charity, or even teaching ethics to a younger audience.  And his life›s ambitions have not gone unnoticed.

Audience can look forward to a vibrant and memorable evening of music, featuring much-loved songs by the Bee Gees, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Santana, Clarence Wijewardena, and Rukshan’s finest creations of jazz, East-West collaboration, and a cappella performances. With creative arrangements, lively moments, and something for every musical taste, the concert promises to be both entertaining and uplifting. Most importantly, the event will raise funds for the RCU Loyalty Pledge scholarships, helping deserving children pursue their education. It will be an evening of music, joy, and purpose—celebrating a remarkable journey while supporting a meaningful cause.

A limited number of tickets are still available. Get yours from Bishop’s College (11 239 1265) or the Royal College Skills Centre (077 318 0365). For more information, call 077 783 7401.