The Sinhala Sandeshaya of the BBC World Service is preparing to serialize the life story of Sinhala Music Maestro, Pundit W.D. Amaradeva to mark his approaching 80th birthday.
It will be broadcast on the 'Himau Arana' programme of the Sandeshaya.
In this connection Professors K.N.O. Dharmadasa and Carlo Fonseka, Ratna Sri Wijesinghe and W.A. Abeysinghe participated in a 'Himau Arana' discussion that was recorded recently at Colombo.
Amaradeva's contemporaries including lyric writers, musicians and artistes will be featured in the felicitation programme to be broadcast on SLBC Sinhala Service at 9.15 p.m.
As his name suggests, the voice of W.D. Amaradeva is immortal, there is no other musician or vocalist has influenced contemporary Sri Lankan music as maestro W.D. Amaradeva who celebrates his 80th birthday today (05th).
His contribution to the music scene in Sri Lanka which has spanned over five decades is immeasurable.
Maestro Amaradeva has an indigenous and truly Sri Lankan voice which has given life to folk songs, semi classical and classical songs, and theater and film songs.
In recognition of his immense contribution to Sri Lankan arena of music, he has been presented with many prestigious awards including Padma Shri award which was presented to him on India's Republic Day and Ramon Magsaysay award.
He can proudly boast of a host of students who have been guided by him and who are following his foot steps.
Similarly, the popular classical musical concert, “Amara Gee Sara” of Maestro, Pandit W D Amaradewa will be staged in Dubai on Friday the 29th February 2008 part of his world tour.
