Thomian spirit in harmony: Priya Peiris launches 175th Anniversary Tribute Song
View(s):By Sanath Weerasuriya
A legacy of music, memory and tradition came alive as S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, marked its 175th anniversary with a series of colourful celebrations on February 3 within the historic college grounds. Blending nostalgia with creative expression, the milestone was further commemorated with the presentation of a specially produced music video, captured in a collector’s edition DVD, to the Warden on February 5, adding a modern artistic tribute to one of Sri Lanka’s most storied educational institutions.
Adding a deeply personal note to the 175th anniversary celebrations, veteran Moratuwa-based musician and composer Priya Peiris, an old Thomian himself, has created a heartfelt tribute song honouring his alma mater, an institution that has shaped generations since its founding in 1851.
Founded by Reverend James Chapman, the first Anglican Bishop of Colombo, at Mutwal and later relocated to its iconic Mount Lavinia setting in 1918, S. Thomas’ College has long stood as a beacon of tradition, discipline and excellence. As a series of commemorative events unfolds to mark this historic milestone, Priya Peiris’ musical contribution adds a deeply personal and artistic dimension to the celebrations, capturing the living bond between the school and those who once walked its corridors.
Titled ‘Eight Score Years and Fifteen On…’, the commemorative piece marks the symbolic launch of the anniversary tribute. Penned and musically arranged by Peiris, the project was initiated by his alumni batch, the Thomian Group of ’56, as a collective expression of gratitude, pride and enduring brotherhood.
Blending nostalgia with stirring orchestration, the song stands as a musical homage to 175 years of tradition, discipline and camaraderie, capturing the spirit of S. Thomas’ College through melody and memory.
The photograph captures Priya Peiris handing over the commemorative song to the Warden of S. Thomas’ College, Asanka Perera, marking a proud and symbolic moment of the 175th anniversary celebrations. Also present at the occasion were active members of the Thomian Group of ’56, Gihan (GAF) Fernando, Lohan Goonewardene and Lokeswara Seneviratne , who played a key role in initiating the tribute project.
Adding further depth to the production, eight old Thomians representing different school batches lent their vocal talents to the recording: Viranjan Perera, Hiran Fernando, Richard Jansz, Sulesh Coorey, Gayan Fernando, Eshantha Peiris, Ruchira De Silva and Joy De Alwis. Their collective voices bring a rich choral dimension to the song, reflecting the unity and brotherhood that define the Thomian spirit.
Keyboard arrangements and the audio-visual production were handled by recording engineer and technician Udara Fernando at his studio in Moratuwa, ensuring professional finesse to the heartfelt tribute.
Searching for that next furry family member but couldn’t find one in your area? Hitad.lk has the solution with our extensive listings of dogs for sale in Sri Lanka!