Colombo Discourse 05

Colombo Discourse Explores Musical Taste Through Aesthetics, Culture and Technology

The Library of the University of Colombo successfully hosted its latest Colombo Discourse, titled “Is Musical Taste a God-Given Gift? Aesthetics, Algorithms and Acquired Taste,” on 15th October 2026, from 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m.

The discourse featured renowned composer, singer, songwriter, musicologist, and author Mr. Nadeeka Guruge, alongside Prof. Chandana Aluthge, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Colombo, who is also a well-known educator, children’s drama producer, and stage lighting designer. Together, they led an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on the nature of musical taste, exploring the roles of aesthetics, cultural influences, personal experiences, and digital algorithms in shaping individual musical preferences.

Drawing on perspectives from anthropology, archaeology, and history, Mr. Guruge traced the evolution of music and its close relationship with human societies, cultural traditions, and historical experiences. His interdisciplinary approach offered participants a broader understanding of music as a form of artistic expression deeply embedded in human civilisation, highlighting how musical preferences develop and evolve within different social and cultural contexts.

The discussion also examined the growing influence of digital technologies and recommendation algorithms on contemporary music consumption, raising thought-provoking questions about the interplay between innate preferences, acquired taste, and technology-mediated musical experiences.

A special highlight of the programme was a musical performance by Mr. Guruge, featuring one of his own compositions. This artistic contribution added a vibrant dimension to the intellectual discussion and enriched the overall experience of the participants.

The event brought together university academics, staff, students, and external invitees, creating a stimulating platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, critical reflection, and the exchange of ideas.

The successful conclusion of the Colombo Discourse reaffirmed the University of Colombo Library’s continued commitment to fostering intellectual engagement, interdisciplinary learning, and critical inquiry. The programme further demonstrated the Library’s evolving role beyond traditional library services, positioning it as a dynamic centre for academic and cultural exchange.