ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Oriental Music Re-Development Project was one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the past members of the Oriental Music Society as a part of the T150 Sesquicentennial Anniversary of our Alma Mater. The OMS T150 Project was a part of the TCK Co-Curricular Enrichment Initiative which aims to upgrade aesthetic and cultural program at Trinity, which eventually would lead to the enculturation of a student in an attempt to prepare the student to become a professional. Hence, an array of development interventions were set in place for the Oriental Music Society, namely;

1. Relocation of the Music Room

2. Upgrading to a concept of an “Oriental Music Arena and Studio”

3. Much needed replenishment of musical instruments.

The past memebers of the Oriental Music Society with the aid of many well-wishers raised funds worth of LKR 7.2 Million in a record time in the spirit of acheiving the set goals.

This publication is a compilation of the entire OMS T150 Project from day one to the end. This publication aims to document and preserve information on the T150 Project for the benefit of future generations. Documentation of the project was considered an important part of the project by all parties involved in the project since such attempt is of great importance in nemours aspects.

My sincere gratitude to Rev. Fr. Araliya Jayasundara (Principal), Mr. Manoj Lanerolle, Dr. Suranjaya Dharmadasa, Mr. Sameera Senerath, Mr. Chamila Maddegoda and members of the OMS T150 Committee for their commitment and continuous helping hand rendered for the compilation of this publication.

Respice Finem

Rajitha Ishantha Katugaha

(On behalf of OMS T150 Committee)

ExtractedfromthespeechbyRev.Fr.AraliyaJayasundaraOSB (Principal-TrinityCollege,Kandy)

I love walking in the rain. On a partially overcast day in the month of December 2021, I took a walk up to what was known in our days as ‘Siberia’ – a name rarely used today. It was mostly to revisit those memorable experiences I had at the Oriental Music Society. When I was passing the Oriental Music room that evening, I was shocked to see the state of the music room. I was also aware of the state of aesthetics in general at Trinity College; Kandyan dancing, Western music, drama and Carnatic music. Following day, I met Chamila and shared my concerns with him. The first step was for Chamila to send me a list of instruments, as there was an urgent need to replenish the instruments. During the second week in January 2022, I got in touch with Manoj. My last interaction with him was fifteen years ago. As always Manoj was hyper interested with this initiative and the project was initiated with a letter from the principal to the past members of the OM society. Let me quote from my letter,

“May I wish all of you a very meaningful T150 Sesquicentennial Anniversary of our Alma Mater. As I have repeatedly mentioned in my recent public appearances, the Hallmark of Trinity College is the unique ability to form a responsible citizen and an erudite professional. This process of formation is a series of education interventions spanning over 14 years - a robust academic program, a co-curricular enrichment initiative that prepares the child for a future professional carrier and trademark Trinity Sports. During this anniversary year, we are taking every opportunity to upgrade aesthetic and cultural program as a part of the TCK Co-Curricular Enrichment Initiative.”

This project included multiple engagements, such as relocation of the music room and introducing the concept of an “Oriental Music Arena and Studio”, much needed replenishment of musical instruments, etc. With these interventions, we intend to house and manage a grand Eastern Orchestra and Classical Singing Group in this facility. Further, with this initiative we hope to assist the student to acquire professional qualifications in Eastern music.

From this point on the ever-dynamic Manoj Lanerolle, took charge of this project, in consultation with four or five others. With this, all members rallied together to see to the successful and grand completion of this noble endeavor. To my utter amazement, the scope of the project went further. Undoubtedly, in the 150 years of the history of Trinity College, this was the fastest fundraiser. Within the span of 28 days, the past musicians were able to collect 7.6 million, out of which approximately 4 million were spent on musical instruments. The passionate venture has now gifted Trinity with a fully functional Oriental Music Arena.

Respice Finem

January

Principal raise concern over aesthetic department at TCK. Initial discussion with MIC

20th MIC sends a request to Principal

21st Principal writes to past members of OMS

OMS T150 Committee formed

24th OMS T150 Committee meets Principal

February

March

April

May

29th OMS T150 Committee meets via Zoom for the first time

Flyer shared with OMS membership

11th Fund Raiser hits LKR 2.2 Million

13th Initial architectural design for the refurbishment of Upper-Ryde House is completed and presented

15th Fund Raiser hits LKR 3.5 Million

25th Fund Raiser commences Fund Raiser Progress

24th Fund Raiser hits LKR 5 Million

26th Principal & MIC meets the OMS membership

28th Purchase of musical instruments

3rd Initial site visit to Upper-Ryde Architectural design in progress

2nd Fund Raiser hits LKR 6.7 Million

7th Fund Raiser hits LKR 7 Million

Purchase of equipment

24th Commencement of refurbishment of Upper-Ryde

24th Completion of refurbishment of Upper-Ryde House

27th Handing Over of fully refurbished Upper-Ryde House as the New Oriental Music Arena & handing over of newly purchased instruments

“mrmqrl werUqu.” Musical evening organised by the Oriental Music Society

Construction in progress

NDB Bank PLC