Lashikala Hettiarachchi

Why I Perform Music Music has always been a powerful way for me to connect with people, cultures, and emotions. Through both the bamboo flute and the Western concert flute, I explore the shared beauty of Eastern and Western musical traditions, creating performances that transcend cultural boundaries. I believe that music has the ability to tell stories, evoke cherished memories, and transform important moments into lasting experiences. Whether performing a traditional Indian raga, a Western classical work, a contemporary arrangement, or a fusion composition, my goal is to create an atmosphere that reflects the spirit and significance of each occasion. Education and Professional Training My musical journey began in Sri Lanka, where I developed a strong foundation in both Indian and Western classical music. I hold a Bachelor's degree from the University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Sri Lanka, and a Master's degree in International Music Management from the University for the Creative Arts, United Kingdom. My professional qualifications include the Licentiate of Trinity College London (LTCL) and Visharad from Bhatkhande Sangeet Vidyapith, Lucknow, India. These qualifications have enabled me to develop expertise in both Western classical flute performance and North Indian classical bamboo flute traditions. Performing Highlights I am currently a member of the Just Flute Orchestra in the United Kingdom. Prior to moving to the UK, I served as Principal Flautist for the Gustav Mahler Society and the National Unity Orchestra in Sri Lanka and performed with the National Symphony Orchestra as a part-time member. My orchestral experience began with the Colombo Wind Orchestra and the National Youth Orchestra. In Indian classical music, I have been recognized nationally on four occasions through the National Youth Awards (2012, 2015, 2017, and 2019), receiving First Place in the North Indian Classical Instrumental – Flute category. These achievements reflect my dedication to preserving and advancing the traditions of bamboo flute performance. I have also contributed extensively to Sri Lanka's light music industry, performing for television productions and collaborating with artists across a wide range of musical genres. As a member of the Viraaga Orchestra, I continue to promote Sri Lankan musical heritage within the British Sri Lankan community. Composer and Creative Artist As a composer and arranger, I am deeply interested in bringing different musical cultures together. My original composition, 'Ambivalence of Life', combines Indian classical ragas with Western harmonic structures, creating a dialogue between two rich musical traditions. I have also arranged well-known Sri Lankan works for flute ensembles, celebrating cultural heritage through contemporary musical interpretation. This creative approach allows me to design performances that are both culturally authentic and universally engaging, making them particularly suitable for multicultural weddings, ceremonies, receptions, and community events. Why Choose Me for Your Event My performances offer something truly distinctive: a seamless blend of Eastern and Western musical traditions. Using both bamboo flute and Western concert flute, I create elegant musical experiences that honor cultural heritage while appealing to diverse audiences. I am particularly well suited for weddings, cultural celebrations, and ceremonial occasions where different cultures and traditions come together. Through carefully selected repertoire and creative arrangements, I can incorporate Indian, Sri Lankan, , and Western musical influences into a performance tailored specifically to your event. Whether you are planning a traditional ceremony, a multicultural wedding, a formal reception, or a special celebration, I bring professionalism, artistic excellence, and cultural sensitivity to every performance. My mission is to create meaningful musical moments that unite people, celebrate diversity, and leave lasting memories through the beauty of the flute.