Professor William Rodrigo – Bandmaster of the Ceylon Light Infantry
- Bandmaster of the Ceylon Light Infantry, who also conducted bands in London and Europe.
A Musical Pioneer
The history of Sri Lankan music is filled with remarkable individuals whose contributions shaped the nation's cultural identity. Among them is Professor William Rodrigo, whose work with military bands earned him a lasting place in the Rodrigo–Fernando family story.
Professor William Rodrigo served as Bandmaster of the Ceylon Light Infantry and the Ceylon Volunteer Force, the institution that would later become the Sri Lanka Army Band. At a time when military music was largely influenced by European traditions, he was known for his talent, discipline and leadership.
Conducting Beyond Sri Lanka
His work also took him beyond Sri Lanka's shores: family records describe him conducting bands in London and in Europe — a notable achievement for a Sri Lankan musician of his era.
A Lasting Foundation
Professor Rodrigo's work contributed to the development of military band music in Sri Lanka and inspired the musicians who followed him, including his own family.
He is the great-grandfather of Master Ranjan Fernando, founder of Ranjan Fernando Piano Centre, and the first of four generations of the Rodrigo–Fernando family's musical heritage. Read the full family heritage.
Our Heritage
Four Generations of Piano Heritage
Read the Rodrigo–Fernando family story and the history of the centre since 1986.
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