The music world mourns the loss of a legendary figure, Dr. Shelton Premaratne, a veteran Sri Lankan music composer, who reportedly passed away on May 30 in Australia. He was 94 years old at the time of his passing, a fact confirmed by Family Friend Maithri Panagoda.
Dr. Premaratne was an iconic figure in the Sri Lankan music industry, known for his groundbreaking contributions as a composer, instrumentalist, and music director. At a time when Sinhala music was predominantly influenced by Hindi and Tamil traditions from India, Dr. Premaratne emerged as a trailblazer, creating a unique musical style that was distinctly Sri Lankan.
His expertise spanned a wide range of both Eastern and Western musical instruments, enabling him to leave a significant mark on various facets of Sinhala music, including cinema, theatre, and classical genres. Over his illustrious career, Dr. Premaratne composed and directed music for more than 30 stage productions and 21 Sinhala films. His notable works include the music for Henry Jayasena’s celebrated theatre production “Hunuwataye Kathawa” (The Caucasian Chalk Circle) and films such as “Daskon,” “Romeo Juliet Kathawak,” and “Hithaka Pipunu Mal.”
Dr. Premaratne’s innovative approach and dedication to his craft helped define and elevate Sri Lankan music. He was known for his ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements, creating compositions that resonated deeply with audiences and helped shape the national musical identity.
At the time of his passing, Dr. Premaratne was residing in Sydney, Australia, with his beloved son. His death signifies a profound loss for the music community, both in Sri Lanka and globally. Dr. Shelton Premaratne’s legacy is one of artistic brilliance and cultural significance, leaving an indelible imprint on the soundscape of Sri Lankan music.
The world of music has lost a luminary, but Dr. Premaratne’s contributions will continue to inspire and influence future generations. His work not only enriched the cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka but also ensured that the distinct sounds of Sinhala music would be cherished and remembered for years to come.
