Canadian jazz musician Shirantha Beddage brings Sri Lanka’s rich musical heritage into a contemporary setting with “Musaladi Vannama (The Hare),” an inventive reimagining of one of the country’s 18 traditional Vannamas.
Through the expressive language of a contemporary jazz quintet, Beddage transforms a centuries-old musical tradition associated with the royal courts of the Kandyan kings into a fresh and compelling listening experience.
Rooted in Sri Lankan cultural history, the Vannamas represent a distinctive collection of traditional compositions that have been preserved across generations. With “Musaladi Vannama (The Hare),” Beddage draws inspiration from this historic repertoire, exploring its musical possibilities through contemporary jazz arrangements and the creative interplay of an accomplished ensemble.
The recording brings together a distinguished lineup of musicians, with Beddage on baritone saxophone, Kevin Turcotte on trumpet, Florian Hoefner on piano, Jodi Proznick on bass and Jim Doxas on drums. Together, the quintet creates a setting in which traditional Sri Lankan musical influences meet the improvisational freedom and expressive depth of modern jazz.
Rather than simply reproducing a traditional work, Beddage approaches the material as an opportunity for musical exploration, bridging cultural heritage and contemporary expression. The result highlights the enduring relevance of traditional music while introducing its distinctive character to new audiences.
“Musaladi Vannama (The Hare)” reflects the possibilities that emerge when musicians engage thoughtfully with their cultural roots, allowing historical compositions to evolve through new interpretations and collaborative creativity.
With this release, Shirantha Beddage offers a distinctive musical perspective that connects Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy with the evolving language of contemporary jazz.
Shirantha Beddage is a baritone saxophonist and composer whose musical work explores the expressive possibilities of jazz. Through projects that connect diverse musical traditions with contemporary jazz, he brings together cultural influences, ensemble collaboration and creative interpretation.
With “Musaladi Vannama (The Hare),” Beddage presents a compelling example of how historical musical traditions can inspire new artistic directions, creating a dialogue between Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and the modern jazz landscape.
