Violist
Ras is a highly accomplished violist with over 15 years of performance experience, bringing warmth, elegance and emotion to weddings across Melbourne & it’s wine regions. Classically trained and internationally experienced, Ras creates unforgettable musical moments that beautifully enhance each stage of a wedding day, from the ceremony through to evening celebrations. Based in South East Melbourne, Ras is available for weddings across the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges and throughout Victoria.
Born in Sri Lanka and now based in Australia, Ras’s musical journey began at a young age under the influence of his father, a multi-instrumentalist proficient in violin, viola, cello and sitar. This early exposure laid the foundation for Ras’s formal classical training, where he quickly excelled. He went on to become the lead violist with the Symphony Orchestra and the Krasna Chamber String Orchestra of Sri Lanka for over a decade, and proudly represented Sri Lanka at the Asian Symphony Orchestra Week in Japan. Since relocating to Australia, Ras has continued performing with respected ensembles including the Heidelberg Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Strings Melbourne.
At weddings, Ras is especially sought after for ceremonies and cocktail hours, where his rich, expressive viola sound creates a romantic and refined atmosphere without overpowering the moment. He performs beautifully for processional and recessional music, signing of the register, and pre-ceremony guest arrival, tailoring song selections to suit each couple’s vision and style.
Ras also brings something truly special to first dances and feature moments, transforming well-loved songs into elegant, emotional viola arrangements that feel deeply personal. For couples wanting to surprise their guests or elevate a key moment, his performances often become one of the most talked-about highlights of the day.
Beyond the formalities, Ras can transition seamlessly into dinner or cocktail-style performances, providing a sophisticated live soundtrack as guests mingle, dine and celebrate. His repertoire spans classical favourites, golden oldies, romantic love songs and contemporary pieces, all reimagined through the warm, soulful voice of the viola.
For receptions and dancefloor moments, Ras can collaborate alongside a DJ or band, adding a striking live element that lifts the energy and creates a dynamic, memorable experience. Whether delivering subtle background elegance or stepping forward for a show-stopping performance, he intuitively adapts to the flow and energy of the celebration.
Couples love Ras not only for his musical excellence, but for the emotion and connection he brings to each performance. His ability to move effortlessly between refined elegance and heartfelt expression makes him an ideal choice for couples seeking something timeless, romantic and a little different.
If you’re looking to add depth, beauty and unforgettable atmosphere to your wedding day, Ras’s live viola performance offers a truly unique and meaningful musical experience. He brings his own battery-powered speaker to every booking, meaning he can perform at outdoor ceremonies and garden venues without access to power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wedding violist and how is it different from a violinist? The viola is a close relative of the violin, slightly larger with a deeper, warmer and more resonant tone. Where a violin tends to be bright and high, the viola has a rich, soulful quality that many couples find particularly moving during ceremony and intimate moments. Ras plays viola exclusively and brings that distinctive warmth to every performance.
What parts of the wedding does Ras perform for? Ras is available across the full wedding day. He is most commonly booked for ceremony processional and recessional, signing of the register, pre-ceremony guest arrival, cocktail hour, and first dance or feature moments. He can also provide dinner background music and collaborate alongside a DJ for reception performances.
Can Ras perform at outdoor or remote ceremonies? Yes. Ras brings his own battery-powered speaker to every booking, so he does not need access to power at your venue. This makes him an excellent choice for garden ceremonies, vineyard settings, and outdoor locations across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Does Ras have a song list? Yes. Ras has a repertoire spanning classical favourites, golden oldies, romantic love songs and contemporary pieces, all arranged for viola. He is happy to learn up to two new songs given at least two months notice. Mention your song preferences when you enquire and we will send through his full list.
Can Ras perform alongside a DJ? Yes. Ras can collaborate with any of the Spinning Disc DJs for reception and dancefloor moments, adding a striking live element that lifts the energy and creates a dynamic, memorable experience for your guests.
Where does Ras perform? Ras is based in South East Melbourne and performs primarily across the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges and surrounding regions. He is available for weddings throughout Victoria.
