Festival ofSacred SoundsSouth Asia
Beyond differences, towards a deeper understanding of shared humanity.
- First edition, as Sama
- 2023
- Ways to take part
- 4
- Home of the festival
- Colombo
01 The idea
Many traditions, one listening
Every faith has its sacred sounds: chant, hymn, recitation, song. The festival brings these traditions onto shared stages so audiences can hear what connects them, and talk about it.
Each edition gathers local and international artists in Colombo for concerts, residencies and collective music-making.
02 How it began
From Sama to The MCE Festival
The festival began in 2023 as the Sama International Choral Festival, a 10-day residency in Sri Lanka with local and international artists. It has grown into a regular gathering of artists and audiences from many faiths.
Read the full story03 Formats
Four ways to take part
Come for a single concert or stay for several days, and bring the conversation home with you.
- 01
Concerts
Choral, devotional and tribute performances from Sri Lankan and international artists.
- 02
Conversations
Panels and talks on music, faith and the things we share.
- 03
Workshops
Hands-on sessions with artists, open to participants of every level.
- 04
Films
Screenings that carry the conversation beyond the concert hall.
04 What it stands for
Music as common ground
- 01
Shared stages
Muslims and non-Muslims perform and listen side by side.
- 02
Local and international
Sri Lankan artists share the bill with guests from around the world.
- 03
Listening and talking
Concerts sit alongside conversations, so audiences can talk about what they heard.
Future editions
Bring sacred sound to more stages
Future editions will be announced here first. Artists, venues and partners who would like to take part are welcome to get in touch.