Natasha Senanayake from Sri Lanka:
As one of the only female composers of Sri Lanka, my work is deeply entrenched in my roots. My education in the USA and England has enhanced my understanding of music and has brought a wealth of other influences to my compositions. Through the numerous opportunities I have had to travel and soak in different sounds and cultures, I have always encountered one common truth; the escape and peace that people find through music, regardless of status, wealth, or power, brings all individuals a sense of clarity. I would like to embrace the opportunity to use music to spark higher collaboration within the Commonwealth community.

 

United
Winning entry, Commonwealth Music Competition 2014
Listen here...

This Too Shall Pass
Commissioned by the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
Intermezzo for Strings
Listen here...
Performed by members of the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
Conducted by Paul Carroll
Recorded on 1 December 2014 at Abbey Road Studios, London

The Piece from Within
Commissioned by the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
For String Orchestra, Soprano, Flute and Tabla
World-premiered at Marlborough House
Performed by members of the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
Conducted by the composer Natasha Senanayake
Score...

And All Will Be Still Hereafter
Commissioned by the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
For Alto Saxophone and String Orchestra
Score...

Commonwealth Week March 2016 –
The Piece from Within,
Commissioned by the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra,
World Premiere performance of At Marlborough House
Performed by members of the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra
Conducted by the composer Natasha Senanayake.

Photo credit: Piers Allardyce