Sri Lanka Music

Like many other aspects of Sri Lankan society and culture, its music is also a beautiful specimen of many influences coming together to dorm a whole new musical identity. The major participants in this amalgamation are India, Portugal, Dutch and English.

Baila Music
Inspired by the Portuguese tradition, Baila is a form of dance music. With the passage of time, this form saw new inclusions and modifications. Now it is a mainstream music genre.

Traditional Open-Air Drama
Also known as kolam, sokari or nadagam, the open air drama has been in Sri Lanka for centuries. It was a form of refreshment and entertainment for the village folks at the end of a tiring and busy day.

Influence of Indian Film Music
The Indian film music also is a popular musical identity in Sri Lanka. It started during the 1960s when it made way through the borders and became a house hold entity.

Artistic Revolution
The revolution in Sri Lankan music came through the attempts to reach out to the people’s wishes and cravings. The lyrics represented the scent of the soil and people like Mahagama Sekara Shantha and Molligoda championed the cause. The national anthem is also the outcome of this phase with Ananda Samarakoon, a respected lyricist as its composer.

Unique Sri Lankan Music
The native contemporary music has its own style and expression. Names like Mohamed Ghouse, W.D. Amaradeva, Premasiri Kernadasa and Nimal Mendis led the trend. Inspired by Caribbean folk singer Harry Belafonte, pop groups like Los caballeros, The Humming Birds and Los Muchachos also made their appearances.

Music Instruments
The indigenous musical instruments like Kandyan Drum, Thammatama, Yak Bera an Hand Rabana are developed by the tribals of the nation. They are still used in many occasions.