St. Mary’s Choral Group, founded over 55 years ago by renowned tenor, Fr. Claver Perera, continues to celebrate his remarkable legacy and his contribution to St. Mary’s Church, Bambalapitiya. This year, the choir honours his memory with an evening of well-loved choral classics titled “I Will Never Forget You My People”. In addition, they will present “The Gift We Bring”, inspired by the story of the Little Drummer Boy, as they prepare for the Christmas season. We spoke to two long-standing members of the choir to learn more about these performances and the journey behind them.
Geoffrey Alagaratnam
1. The St Mary’s Choral Group has a remarkable 55+ year legacy. How would you describe the group’s evolution from Fr. Claver Perera’s era to today?
Fr. Claver Perera came from a strong classical background, having studied in Rome. When he founded the choir, the repertoire focused on classical and Italian music, mountain songs, church music, and modern operas. Although he valued classical traditions, he also appreciated modern music, including the Beatles, which made his musical vision diverse. Over the years, the choir has evolved through several generations who were inspired by him. Today, St. Mary’s Choral Group performs a wide range of music, from traditional and classical to liturgical, operatic, and contemporary works. We believe art should always evolve, and that belief has helped us grow while still preserving our roots.
2. As the current Choral Director, how do you balance tradition with introducing new musical ideas?
Music is never static. While we continue to perform older pieces that are part of our heritage, we also introduce new religious and secular works to reflect the connection between different musical eras. Modern music often carries influences from the past, so blending genres helps us stay relevant without losing our identity. Art must develop, and we embrace that evolution.
About the Concert, “I Will Never Forget You My People”
3. Could you share a personal memory or story connected to Fr. Claver Perera that influenced your direction for this performance?
Fr. Claver was a perfectionist. If practice began at 6:30, he expected everyone there on time. Attendance had to be full unless there was a very good reason. His discipline, high standards, appreciation of good music, and rigorous rehearsals taught us that choir work is not just about singing, it is about teamwork, commitment, and striving for excellence. His influence continues to guide our approach even today.
4. What can audiences expect musically and emotionally from this evening of choral classics?
This concert celebrates Fr. Claver’s life and the legacy he left behind. It reflects almost six decades of musical continuity and growth within the St. Mary’s Choral Group. Audiences can expect a rich mix of music, including light classical pieces, Italian mountain songs, Christmas selections, religious hymns, and operatic works. Emotionally, the evening will be warm, nostalgic, and uplifting, capturing both his influence and the group’s evolution.
5. How do you keep the choir motivated and united, especially during intensive preparation periods like December?
Our members are dedicated and genuinely enjoy singing. The atmosphere is positive and encouraging, rather than pressured. We have inspiring conductors, committed accompanists, and enthusiastic singers who contribute to a supportive environment. This spirit keeps everyone motivated, even when rehearsals become demanding.
Neomal De Alwis
About the Christmas Concert, “The Gift We Bring”
6. “The Gift We Bring” draws inspiration from the story of the Little Drummer Boy. What made you choose this narrative as the foundation for the performance?
The inspiration came from the message of the song. The Little Drummer Boy had no material gifts, so he offered what he could, his music. We felt this perfectly represents what we also give Christ at Christmas, our music, our effort, and our hearts. The narrative reflects humility, gratitude, and the spirit of giving, making it a beautiful foundation for the concert.
7. What has the rehearsal journey been like for these two back-to-back concerts?
Challenging, but very rewarding. There were only three days between the concerts on the 17th and 20th, so balancing rehearsals was difficult, especially with everyone’s personal and family commitments. However, the themes of both performances meant a lot to the choir, which made the process enjoyable. Despite the intensity, we embraced every moment.
8. Finally, what are your hopes for the future of the St Mary’s Choral Group as it enters its next chapter?
St. Mary’s is moving forward with great promise. Many young members, girls and boys alike, are taking on important roles and contributing to the future of the choir. We plan to continue strengthening our Christmas and Easter programmes, which are major highlights in the Catholic calendar. We have also begun a pre-Mass recital series featuring instrumentalists such as violinists and trumpeters, and we hope this will develop into a full midday concert series. Our aim is to continue growing, inspiring others, and keeping the spirit of choral music alive for years to come.
On 17 December 2025 at 7.30 pm, audiences are invited to attend an evening celebrating his legacy and contributions to St Mary’s Church, Bambalapitiya, through a programme of well-loved choral classics titled “I Will Never Forget You, My People.”
In addition, the St Mary’s Choral Group will present “The Gift We Bring,” based on “The Little Drummer Boy,” as part of its Christmas preparations on 20 December 2025 at 7.30 pm.
