UOC Centenary Theme - Sachiththa Fernando

Описание: This theme was written on a special commission I received from the University of Colombo, in celebrations of its 100th anniversary. Being a recent graduand of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, It was truly an honour to have had the opportunity to be a part of its centenary celebrations, in the capacity of a composer. Programme note is included below. Enjoy! ☺️

|UOC Centenary Theme – Sachiththa Fernando|

As an alumnus of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, it gives me immense pleasure to be contributing to its centenary celebrations in the capacity of a music composer. When I was commissioned the “UOC Centenary Theme” back in December, I couldn’t be happier since I felt it to be just the perfect way for me to pay homage to my alma mater.

This short work runs for 100 seconds depicting 100 years of UOC’s journey since 1921. It opens with a characteristic motif played by low strings which underpins the core of the rhythmic structure. The brass passage in the introduction is reminiscent of a bugle call that sets the ambiance for the subsequent exposition of the primary subject.

I wanted the primary subject to be promptly captivating, enthralling, youthful, spirited and energetic, all the while reflecting the legacy of 100 years. It is in a simple 4-phrase structure and is initially exposed by the French horn. For brief excursions, it touches upon the mixolydian mode and the tonic minor for added contrast. It is succeeded by the second statement of the subject, this time played by the trumpet, with more support from percussion that further embellishes the rhythmic structure. A brief codetta brings the work to a climatic end.

Writing the centenary theme, to me, was not just writing a piece of music, but in fact an expression of my innermost affection towards UOC. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Hiran for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime occasion and I wholeheartedly wish my alma mater the very best in years to come.

-Sachiththa Fernando