Tharupathi Munasinghe

Tharupathi Munasinghe, PhD (born 1975 in Sri Lanka) is a prominent figure in the fields of ethnomusicology,music composition, and sound design, known for his contributions toi Lankan television, cinema, and academia, which has been awarded locally and globally.
Dr. Munasinghe is recognized for his skilled integration of cultural Musical expression|musical expressions into Sri Lankan visual media, drawing upon his expertise in ethnomusicology. His compositions, including works such as "Machan (2008 film)|Machan" (2007), "Wala Patala" (Penumbra) (2006), and "Sikuru Hathe" (2006), have added emotional depth to Sri Lankan cinema and television.
In addition to film music composition, Dr. Munasinghe has contributed to sound design for films, including Ice Cream 2017 (Feature Film) and Get Ready 2012 (Short Film).
Dr. Munasinghe's journey into music and sound began under the guidance of his father, musicologist Austin Munasinghe. His expertise spans various musical genres, encompassing cinematic compositions and contributions to teledramas. He has also gained recognition for his work in sound design.
In academia, Dr. Munasinghe was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Kelaniya and a visiting lecturer at the University of Moratuwa, where he shares his knowledge. His contributions have earned him awards, reflecting his proficiency in ethnomusicology and sound design.
Dr. Munasinghe's academic journey includes a Master of Arts in Drama & Theatre from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in 2006. He further pursued a Master of Sound Design (By Research) at the University of Melbourne from 2010 to 2013, where his research project focused on audio artwork based on memories of Sri Lankan emigrants in contemporary Melbourne. His academic journey culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sound Study from Deakin University, Australia, from 2016 to 2023, with a research focus on the simulation and trans-contextualization in Sri Lankan Low-Country Drumming.
Dr. Tharupathi Munasinghe's life story is characterised by his musical heritage, artistic exploration, and academic dedication. He has significantly contributed significantly to souesign and has nurtured emerging talent, enriching Sri Lanka's auditory heritage.
==Early Years==
His family's strong ties to music influenced Dr. Tharupathi Munasinghe's entry into the industry. Born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, he inherited a heritage of musical traditions from his father, the composer Austin Munasinghe (04/09/1941-28/04/1997). He received further musical education from his mother, Achirawathie Yalagama, an experienced music teacher. Tharupathi's upbringing in a musically inclined household laid the groundwork for his subsequent journey in the field of music.
Growing up in Katubedda, Moratuwa, a community known for its rich musical traditions, Tharupathi developed an early appreciation for music's cultural and spiritual significance. His participation in the 'Devol Maduwa' ritual was a formative experience that deepened his understanding of the intricate relationship between music, tradition, and spirituality. Moving to the bustling Maradana area in Colombo expanded his horizons as he encountered diverse sounds, prayers, and melodies from various ethnic backgrounds, broadening his musical influences.
Under the guidance of his father, Austin Munasinghe, who was renowned for his contributions to music composition, Tharupathi's artistic talents were nurtured. This dual role as mentor and father provided Tharupathi with a combination of formal musical education and valuable insights passed down through generations, preserving their family's musical heritage.
As Tharupathi's artistic abilities developed, he became a significant figure in stage theatre and song creation, following in his father's footsteps. At just fifteen years old, he became an essential part of the musical landscape as a percussionist in his father's orchestra. His involvement spanned various performance contexts, from live shows to studio recording sessions. Notably, during his youth, he received the Best Music award for "Arundathi" at the State Drama Festival, organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs in 2000. His musical direction for "Dhammarathana Hari Narakai" also gained recognition at the State Short Drama Festival in the same year. These early accomplishments demonstrated Tharupathi Munasinghe's emerging artistic talent, hinting at his future role in shaping Sri Lankan music and drama.
Tharupathi Munasinghe artfully combined family, music, and tradition throughout his life, creating a meaningful and enduring connection. His sister, Swethekie Niranjala Munasinghe, also contributed to their shared artistic legacy.
==Early Education & Musical Influences==
Tharupathi Munasinghe's family was deeply ingrained in Sri Lanka's melodic heritage when he was born there in 1975, which had a significant impact on his journey into the music industry. His father, the esteemed composer Austin Munasinghe, and his mother, Achirawathie Yalagama, a dedicated music teacher, played pivotal roles in nurturing his early musical inclinations.
Growing up in Katubedda, Moratuwa, a region steeped in musical traditions, Tharupathi developed an early appreciation for music's profound impact. His immersion in the ancient 'Devol Maduwa' ritual provided him with an immersive spiritual experience that deepened his understanding of the intricate connection between music, tradition, and spirituality. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future musical endeavours.
===Transition to Mahanama College and Recognition===
Tharupathi's educational path took a significant turn when he enrolled at Mahanama College in Colombo. Here, he continued his studies and completed the Advanced Level examinations. His burgeoning talents did not go unnoticed, as he received recognition for his achievements, particularly in the realm of music. His involvement in the play "Vatuwatha" earned him an award at the National Inter-School Drama Festival in 1993, highlighting his multifaceted capabilities.
===Exploring Traditional Sri Lankan Music===
During his time at Mahanama College, Tharupathi's interest in traditional Sri Lankan music deepened. He sought the guidance of Piyasara Shilpadhipathi, a renowned traditional drummer and teacher. Under Shilpadhipathi's mentorship, Tharupathi honed his skills in low-country drumming, a discipline that would later influence his musical compositions.
===Higher Education and Academic Contributions===
Tharupathi's pursuit of knowledge continued as he embarked on higher education at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in 1995. Enrolling in the 'Diploma in Writership and Communication program, he explored creative writing and communication, learning from industry pioneers. His academic pursuits culminated in a significant thesis titled 'Evolution of Sinhalese Theatre Music from 1956-1974,' which substantially contributed to academic discourse and was published in 2000.
===Joining Professor Sarachchandra's Theatre Group===
In 1996, Tharupathi joined 'Professor Sarachchandra's pioneering theatre group, gaining invaluable knowledge before the maestro's passing in 1998. Tharupathi's roles as a chorus member and music conductor in productions such as 'Maname,' 'Sinhabahu,' 'Mahasara,' and 'Rathnawalee' marked a significant chapter in his artistic journey.
===Venturing into Music Orchestration, Stage and Television Success===
A pivotal moment in Tharupathi's career occurred in 1998 when he orchestrated 'Ridee Poru Selana Handin,' an original composition by his father. This marked his entry into professional music orchestration, setting the stage for future accomplishments. His breakthrough came with the television series 'Miringu Tera' 1999, directed by Gaya Ramaya Alwis and produced by the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation. His composition for the series garnered critical acclaim and earned him the prestigious "Best Upcoming Music Director" award at the Sumathi Tele Awards Festival 2000.
Simultaneously, Tharupathi showcased his versatility in stage theatre with his composition for 'Arundathi' in 1999. This production solidified his reputation and led to him receiving the "Best Music Direction" accolade at both the Youth Drama Festival and the State Theatre Festival in 2000.
==Career==
Dr. Tharupathi Munasinghe's career reflects his contributions to the fields of sound design and composition. His academic path and professional achievements testify to his multifaceted talents and dedication.
===Academic Role===
Tharupathi Munasinghe has held various educational positions in addition to his creative work. He served as a Senior Lecturer in Sound Design at the Department of Fine Arts, University of Kelaniya. In this role, he provided lectures, supervised research, and authored research papers and proposals. Tharupathi also worked as a Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Fine Arts, University of Peradeniya, and an Assistant Lecturer at the University of Kelaniya. These roles allowed him to share his insights and mentor emerging artists.
===Composition and Sound Design===
Tharupathi's compositions and soundscapes have been featured in numerous television series, films, and stage theater productions. His work spans 32 television series, 5 films, and 10 stage theater productions, showcasing his versatility and creative range.
* Sound Designer
As a sound designer, Tharupathi meticulously crafted auditory landscapes for films, enhancing the cinematic experience. Notable works include "Ice Cream" (2017) and "Get Ready" (2012), where he immersed audiences in captivating soundscapes.
* Music Composer
Tharupathi demonstrated his expertise as a music composer for films with projects like "The Invisible Moon" (2018), "Wala Patala" (2007), and "Sikuru Hathe" (2006). His collaborative efforts in the film "Machan" (2007) highlighted his ability to contribute creatively to collaborative ventures. "Dedunu Wessa" (2005) also showcased his talent in crafting evocative musical compositions.
* Music Director
Tharupathi served as a music director for stage plays, elevating productions such as "Maha Supina" (2017), "Rasin Deviyo" (Australia - 2010), "Horu Samaga Heluwen" (2006), "Walas Pawla" (2005), and "Yasodera" (2005), among others.
=== Ethnomusicology and Cultural Enrichment ===
Tharupathi's exploration of Sri Lanka's musical heritage and ethnomusicology enriched his compositions. His work contributed to preserving and celebrating the local cultural essence while captivating diverse audiences. Collaborations with esteemed figures like Joe Abeywickrama and Professor Ariyaratne Athugala elevated local talents and enriched the industry.
Tharupathi's music transcended borders, introducing Sri Lanka's unique sound to the world. His creative sound design added depth to various shows, captivating audiences globally. His work on shows like "Isuru Yogaya"," "Sakisanda Eliyes," and "Viya Sidura" showcased his ability to enrich storytelling through music.
Collaborating with industry figures like Uberto Passolini, producer and director from Fox Searchlight, marked a transformative journey in Tharupathi's career. This experience allowed him to deliver compositions that enhanced the filmmaking process of 'Machan.' Tharupathi's collaborations, including theme songs for the teleseries produced by Joe Abeywickrama, emphasised his unique ability to craft music that complemented narratives and stood as works of art.
Tharupathi Munasinghe's career is characterised by his dedication to education, creative innovation, and impactful contributions to sound design and composition.
== Scholarly Contributions ==
A commitment to education and research across various institutions and fields has marked Dr. Tharupathi Munasinghe's academic journey.
He began his academic career at the University of Kelaniya, where he served as a Program Producer at the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation from August 2001 to August 2007.
Subsequently, he took on the role of Lecturer (Visiting) in Sound Design at Sri Palee Campus, Faculty of Performing Arts, University of Colombo. He significantly contributed to Mass Communication, Performance Studies, and Humanities during this time.
Dr. Munasinghe's pursuit of knowledge led him to Federation Training in Morwell, where he focused on Music. Venturing abroad, he pursued further studies in Film and Television at the University of Melbourne. He also researched as part of his Master of Sound Design program at the University of Melbourne's Victorian College of the Arts (2013), contributing to his field's global pool of knowledge.
Returning to Sri Lanka in 2014, Dr. Munasinghe continued his academic pursuits at the University of Kelaniya, where he served as a Lecturer till September 2016. He also worked as a Lecturer (Visiting) in Sound Design at the University of Moratuwa. Dr. Munasinghe's influence extended to the Sri Lanka Television Training Institute, Colombo 07, where he served as a Lecturer (Visiting) in Sound Design. He further contributed to the field of Mass Communication as a Lecturer (Visiting) at the University of Kelaniya's Mass Communication department from May 2013.
Dr. Munasinghe made significant contributions to the University of Peradeniya's Department of Fine Arts, where he assumed the position of Lecturer from January 2017 to the present. He also served as an Associate Professor at the University of Kelaniya's Fine Arts department, further solidifying his influence in nurturing the artistic aspirations of young minds.
=== Intellectual Work ===
Dr. Tharupathi Munasinghe's intellectual contributions encompass a range of published works, including "The Trends of Sinhalese Theatre Music," "Discourse on Sounds," "Sound Studies: With Special Reference to Sri Lankan Sonic Experience," and "Sounds from the Past: An Audio Artwork Developed from Memories of Sri Lankan Emigrants in Contemporary Melbourne." These publications reflect his dedication to exploring sound from various perspectives, showcasing his multifaceted engagement within the field of study.
=== Blending Technology with Sounds ===
In the project titled "MEMORIES THAT MAKE US: Stories of post-World War II Italian migration to Australia," Tharupathi Munasinghe employed technology to enhance storytelling through sound.
Tharupathi's creative vision aimed to create an immersive auditory experience for audiences, transcending traditional visual storytelling. Using advanced audio technology, he skillfully recreated the atmospheres of post-war Italy and Victoria, Australia. This unique blend of sounds allowed viewers to form a deep emotional connection to history.
Central to this project was the meticulous preservation of authentic historical sounds. Tharupathi used advanced audio restoration tools to integrate genuine archival soundbites, ensuring that whispered conversations, nostalgic melodies, and ambient noises from the past remained unchanged.
A noteworthy aspect of this endeavour was the application of binaural recording techniques, which immersed the audience in the heart of the story. This technology made viewers feel like active participants in the journey, enhancing their emotional engagement with the narratives.
==Family==
Tharupathi Munasinghe is married to Gayani Gisanthika, an actress known for her work in film, theatre, and television. They have two sons, Mithun Sahas Munasinghe and Mayon Movindu Munasinghe. 
==Notable Achievements and Awards==
Year	Work/Production 	Award/Achievement
2021	Shabdika Cinamawa (Sound Design in Cinema - Theory and Practice)	Best publication (Film and Televison), State Literary Festival, Sri Lanka (State Literary Awards).
2020	Sulanga Maha Meraka 	Best Music Director - Raigum Tele's Award - Awarded for exceptional musical direction in a television production.
2019	University of Kelaniya 	Vice-Chancellor's University of Kelaniya Award, Sri Lanka.
2014	Cultural Exchange 	'BUNKA' Japan Sri Lanka Friendship Cultural Award - Recognized for promoting cultural exchange between Japan and Sri Lanka.
2007	Isuru Yogaya 	Best Music Director - State Tele Festival, Sri Lanka - Acknowledged for outstanding musical direction in a state television production.
2004	Performing Arts 	Presidential Scholarship, President Secretariat, Sri Lanka - Meritorious scholarship awarded by the President's Office.
2001	Evalution of Sinhala Drama History 156-1974 	Best Published Book (Third place), National Youth Festival, Sri Lanka - Recognized for excellence in published works as part of the National Youth Festival.
2000	Arundathi 	Best Music Director - State Drama Festival, Sri Lanka - Awarded for exceptional musical direction in a state drama production.
1999	Arundathi 	Best Music Director - National Youth Festival, Sri Lanka - Acknowledged for exceptional musical direction in the National Youth Festival.
1998	National Youth Festival 	Best Music Director - National Youth Festival, Sri Lanka - Recognized for outstanding musical direction in the National Youth Festival.
1998	Sayonara 	Best Music Director (Merit Award) - State Drama Festival, Sri Lanka - Meritorious recognition for musical direction in a state drama production.
1996	Hudaka Wu Gihiya 	Best Music Director - National Youth Festival, Sri Lanka - Acknowledged for exceptional musical direction in the National Youth Festival.
1982	Dethi Kiyatha 	Merit Award for acting - State Drama Festival, Sri Lanka
==Discograph==
===Music Composition for Film===
* "Machan" (2007) - Director: Uberto Pasolini
* "Wala Patala" (Penumbra) (2006) - Director: Vijitha Gunaratna
* "Sikuru Hathe" (2006) - Director: Giriraj Kaushalya
* "Dedunu Wessa" (2005) - Director: Buddhika Jayaratne
=== Sound Design for Short Film ===
* "Graveyard shift" (2011) - Director: Rukmal Nirosh
* "Get ready" (2012) - Director: Gayani Gisanthika
=== Music Composition for Television Series ===
* "Sulanga Maha Meraka" (2018) - Director: Sudath Devapriya
* "Anguru Sittham" (2014) - Director: G Shivagurunathan
* "Rathriya wee" (2007) - Director: Sanjaya Nirmal
* "Wala Kulu" (2006) - Director: Ajith Lokuge
* "Night Learners" (2006) - Director: Kelum Palitha
* "Pabelu Muhuda" (2006) - Director: D.G.Somapala
* "6th Lane" (2006) - Director: D.G.Somapala
* "Kumarayek Evith Giya" (2006) - Director: C. Mapitigama
* "Anuhas Vijitheya" (2006) - Director: Sanath Abeysekara
* "Kota Uda Mandira" (2006) - Director: Kelum Palitha
* "Raja Warama" (2006) - Director: Sumith Kumara
* "Abuddassa Kale" (2004) - Director: Joe Abeywickrama
* "Seri Vanija" (2004) - Director: Jayantha Chandrasiri
* "Isuru Yogaya" (2004) - Director: Susuiran de Silva
* "Naana Kaamare" (2004) - Director: G.Sivegurunathen
* "Warna" (2004) - Director: Gaya Ramya
* "Sbanda Pabilis" (2004) - Director: Joe Abeywickrama
* "Dhvili Maliga" (2003) - Director: Gaya Ramya Alwis
* "Sara" (2003) - Director: Sudath Devapriya
* "Viya Sidura" (2003) - Director: Anurudda Jayasinghe
* "Rathi Virathi" (2003) - Director: Indika Udugampola
* "Ranthali" (2003) - Director: Aruna Lokuliyana
* "Sakisanda Eliyes" (2002) - Director: Joe Abeywickrama
* "Depath Nai" (2002) - Director: Eranga Senaratna
* "Sakvalihini" (2002) - Director: Eranga Senaratna
* "Rathriya" (2001) - Director: Sumith Kumara
* "Sathmalagiravi" (2001) - Director: Sanath Abeysekara
* "Anthima Navathena" (2000) - Director: Santhusa Liyanage
* "Miringu Thera" (2000) - Director: Gaya Ramya Alwis
* "Randunu" (1999) - Director: Gaya Ramya Alwis
* "Kulawamiya" (1999) - Director: Prem Jayawardana
* "2015" (1998) - Director: Gaya Ramya Alwis
== Music Composition for TV Commercial===
* Various TV commercials for LOLC, Motha Confectionery Works, Nippolac, and more.
===Musical Compositions in Dance Performances===
* Australian Dance Awards in 2008
===Music Album:===
* Music Album: "Tharupathi Munasinghe: Musical Journey - 01" (2015)
* Music Album: "Tharupathi Munasinghe: Musical Journey - 02" (2015)
* Music Album: "Tharupathi Munasinghe: Musical Journey - 03" (2015)
===Original Music Performance:===
* 'Mano Ranga Gee' live music concert in Australia (2023)
* 'Jana Gee Miyasiya' live music concert in Australia (2018)
* 'Nim Therak' live concert in Australia (2014)
* 'Kokila Nade: live concert in Australia' (2014)
* 'Sobava De' live music concer in Australia (2013)
* 'Handuna Gaththoth oba Ma' live music concert in Australia (2010)
==Research Work==
Tharupathi Munasinghe is actively engaged in scholarly pursuits, primarily focusing on sound design and ethnomusicology. His dedication to advancing knowledge in these areas is evident through his research publications and participation in research grants. 
His research encompasses two main areas:
* Sound Design: Tharupathi examines the evolving trends in sound design and its impact on enhancing storytelling in visual media. His research highlights how sound design can create immersive experiences for viewers, thereby making narratives more engaging.
* Ethnomusicology: Tharupathi's work in ethnomusicology underscores his commitment to understanding and preserving Sri Lanka's rich musical heritage. He conducts investigations into the memories and experiences of Sri Lankan migrants in Melbourne, with a specific focus on how music serves as a bridge between cultures and generations.
Tharupathi Munasinghe's research findings have been published in respected peer-reviewed journals, underscoring the significance of his contributions to the academic community. Some of his notable publications include:
* "New Paradigms in Sound Design: an Effective Medium for Storytelling in Visual Media" (2017) - Published in "Prabha," Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya. This paper discusses the changing landscape of sound design in visual media and its potential as a potent storytelling tool
* "Audio Design: Creating Multi-Sensory Images for the Mind" (2016) - Published in "Roopavahini Sameeksha." This work explores the creation of sensory-rich experiences through audio design, offering insights into its artistic and emotional impact.
* Aural Mementoes: Memories of Sri Lankan Migrants in Melbourne" (2016) - Published in the "Journal of Aesthetics and Fine Arts." Tharupathi's research in this paper explores how music acts as a vessel for memories and cultural connections among Sri Lankan migrants in Melbourne
==Publications==
===Books===
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2020). "Sound in Cinema (Shabdika Cinemawa)." Sarasavi Publishers. ISBN: 978-955-2046-5 (Sinhalese Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2018). "Trends in Sinhalese Theatre Music 1956-1996." Sarasavi Publishers. ISBN: 979-0-710009-06-6 (Sinhala Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2017). "Discussions on Sound (Nada sankathana - Sinhala Medium)." ISBN: 978-955-38486-0-4.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2017). "Sound Studies: With Special Reference to Sri Lankan Sonic Experience." Bloomberg Publishing, Australia. ISBN: 978-955-38486-1-1 (Sinhala Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2016). "The Birthday Party (Godura) Translation." Bloomberg Publishing, Australia. Drama. ISBN:978-955-44850-9-9 (Sinhala Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2013). "Party Time (Sadaya) Translation." FAST Publishing Private Limited, Sri Lanka. Drama. ISBN: 978-955-448- 508-2 (Sinhala Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2000). "The Evolution of Sinhala Theatre Music 1956 - 1974." FAST Publishing Private Limited, Sri Lanka. ISBN: 978-955-677-001-08 (Two editions published in 2000 and 2010).
===Book Chapters===
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2019). "The Music Usage of the Brechtian Theatre and Its Sri Lankan Contextualization." Drama, Theatre Works Production. ISBN: 977-2682-733002.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2018). "Bob Dylan to Vimkthi Gee: Social Protest Musical Movement." Professor Rohana Luxman Piyadasa Felicitation Volume, Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya. ISBN: 978-955-7040-81-3.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2018). "Drama & Theatre as University Subjects." Gestures (Abhinaya – A Special edition about Theatre education), The Department of Cultural Affairs. ISBN: 978-955-3748-15-7 (Sinhalese Medium).
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2017). "A Synchronism as a Principle of Sound Film." Felicitation Volume of Professor Chadrasiri Palliyaguru, The Department of Mass Communication. ISBN: 978-955-7040-29-5 (Sinhalese Medium).
===Book Edits===
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2018). "Gestures – 12th Vol (Abhinaya – A Special edition about Theatre education)." The Department of Cultural Affairs. ISBN: 978-955-3748-15-7.
===Peer Reviewed Journals===
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2017). "New Paradigms in Sound Design: an Effective Medium for Storytelling in Visual Media." Prabha, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya Vol. 04: 268-283. ISSN: 2279-3127.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2016). "Audio Design: Creating Multi-Sensory Images for the Mind." Roopavahini Sameeksha. Vol: 10: 183-190. ISSN: 1800-2854.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2016). "Aural Mementoes: Memories of Sri Lankan Migrants in Melbourne." Journal of Aesthetics and Fine Arts – Volume - 01, Drama & Theatre and Image Arts Unit, Department of Fine Arts, University of Kelaniya. Vol. 01, 58-74. ISSN 2386-1428.
===Conference Proceedings===
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2019). "Drum and the Body: From Cognition to Performance of the Sri Lankan Drummer." The Second Symposium of the International Council for Traditional Music (ICTM) Study Group on Music and Allied Arts of Greater South Asia, University of Visual and Performing Arts (UVPA), Colombo, Sri Lanka, Dec. 12-14, 2019.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2019). "Shifting Identities: The Embodiment and Transformative Performing of Sri-Lankan Low-Country Drumming in Ritual and Non-Ritual Contexts." "Performing bodies", XXXV European Seminar in Ethnomusicology, Durham University, UK, 3-7 September 2019.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2019). "Shifting Identities: The Corporeal Simulation and Trans-contextualization in Sri Lankan Low-Country Drumming." Paper presented at the Body of Knowledge: Art and Embodied Cognition Conference, Deakin University, Australia, 27-29 June 2019.
* Munasinghe, Tharupathi. (2016). "Inside and Outside: The Variable Nature of a Sri Lankan Low-Country Drummer." Paper presented at the ICH - New Directions in the Humanities: Our Engagement with the Environment, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. http://repository.kln.ac.lk/handle/123456789/14594.
== Summary ==
Category 	Summary
Name 	Tharupathi Munasinghe, PhD
Birth Year 	1975
Birth Place 	Sri Lanka
Field of Expertise 	Ethnomusicology, Music Composition, Sound Design
Notable Contributions	Influence in Sri Lankan television and cinema
 	Skillful integration of cultural musical expressions
 	Accomplished music composer
 	Enriching cinematic and artistic encounters through sound
 	Scholarly works in sound design and ethnomusicology
Education 	Master of Arts in Drama & Theatre (University of Kelaniya)
 	Master of Sound Design (University of Melbourne)
 	Ph.D. in Sound Study (Deakin University, Australia)
Career Highlights 	Music composition for television, film, and stage
 	Sound design work in films
 	Contributions to Sri Lankan music and drama
Academic Roles 	Senior Lecturer in Sound Design (University of Kelaniya)
 	Visiting Lecturer at multiple universities
Published Work 	"The Trends of Sinhalese Theatre Music"
 	"Discourse on Sounds"
 	"Sound Studies: With Special Reference to Sri Lankan Sonic Experience"
Notable Projects 	"MEMORIES THAT MAKE US: stories of post-World War two Italian migration to Australia" - An innovative sound design project using advanced audio technology to recreate historical sounds and create an immersive storytelling experience.
Family 	Son of late music legend Austin Munasinghe and Music Teacher Achirawathie Yalagama. Brother of Swethaki Munasinghe. Married to Gayani Gisanthika, with two sons, Mithun Sahas Munasinghe and Mayon Movindu Munasinghe.
Category:Ethnomusicology
Category:Musical compositions
Category:Sound design
Category:1975 births
Category:Composers from Sri Lanka