Modern music with a choral twist
It was a humble beginning which started the journey for ‘Vocal Enigma’ – the brainchild of Maneesh Dasanayake, who formed the choir as part of the performing arts society at St Joseph’s College Bangalore, in 2010. Little did he imagine that an initial head count of the twenty would grow to 270 members in Bangalore, leaving behind a trail of choral inspiration.
The choir performing at last year’s show
Subsequently, the Sri Lankan branch of Vocal Enigma was initiated in April 2012 and their debut choral show “From a distance” in September 2012 was staged. They have had almost 30 performances to date, including performances with professionals like Jith Pieris and Bridget Halpe.
Today, Vocal Enigma is ready to present “The Playlist” – a contemporary choral concert. “The choir consists of members from diverse musical back grounds – be it rock, pop, jazz, hip-hop, gospel and classical. Striking a balance between ideas such as the music the choir should be doing, and coming up with arrangements which would suit all the members musical taste buds can be a daunting task,” says Maneesh, but it seems that he has perfected the art of catering to everyone’s musical needs. “The choir does not stick to a specific genre of music. The choir in the past have done music from all time periods which include the works of Vivaldi, Handel, Green day, Grease, Abba, Queen, CCR, Adele,” says Bassist, Shehan Wijemanne.
It’s not a secret that the choir also puts its talented choreographers and beat-boxers to good use where ever possible and Vocal Enigma cherishes their multifariously talented bunch. A little unique spice is always associated with their singing.
“Directing a bunch of young working professionals is no easy task, but it has been rewarding,” adds Maneesh. “The choir mainly consists of individuals who are within the ages of 17- 28 and therefore they all enjoy listening to music by current and upcoming artists. Therefore this show focuses on music of a more contemporary type with a bit of golden oldies thrown in for good measure.”
The audience will be treated to songs with a choral twist to them. The show will feature the works of Adele, Fun, Gotye, Carly Rae Jepsen, Adam Lambert, Queen, Green day, Cold play, Alicia Keys and Il Divo. These songs would be found on any individual’s playlist hence giving name to Vocal Enigma latest feat.
“The Playlist” goes on board at the British School Auditorium on November 9 and 10, at 7.30 pm.
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