Music in the Afternoon presents tenor Asitha Tennekoon

On Thursday, May 8th, Music in the Afternoon presents Sri Lankan-Canadian tenor Asitha Tennekoon in a solo recital “Belonging” with pianist Steven Philcox, featuring works by Cusson, Vaughan Williams, Loren, and Muhly. Praised by The Globe and Mail for his “silky, emotional presence on stage,” Asitha has established himself as one of Canada’s most versatile and sought-after tenors. His acclaimed portrayal of Paul in Tapestry Opera/Scottish Opera’s Rocking Horse Winner earned him a Dora Award for Outstanding Opera Performance in 2017, and he continues to be recognized for his work across a wide range of genres—from Baroque to contemporary experimental repertoire. This season, Asitha made his debut with Symphony Nova Scotia in Handel’s Messiah. He will also appear as Evangelist in J.S. Bach’s St. Matthew Passion with the Grand Philharmonic Choir, as well as Britten’s War Requiem with Vancouver Bach Choir. On the operatic stage, Asitha recently performed in the world premiere of Eurydice Fragments with re:Naissance Opera, and took on the role of Bill in Vancouver Opera’s Flight. He is also Co-Founder of Amplified Opera, a Toronto based indie Opera company. Asitha will also be joined by a string quartet with Aysel Taghi-Zada, violin, Yolanda Bruno, violin, Laurence Schaufele, viola, and Amahl Arulanandam, cello.