GEORGE TOWN, Aug 2: The historic Church of the Assumption recently resonated with the majestic sounds of a magnificent pipe organ at a recital here on July 27 that captivated a fairly large lunchtime audience with its rich musical heritage.
The recital, held in the church’s choir loft, was one of the highlights of the George Town Festival 2024 that showcased the power and beauty of the country’s oldest pipe organ, affectionately known as “The Old Lady.”
Built in England in 1914 by Morton and Moody of Oakham and installed by Robinson Piano Co Ltd in 1916, the organ is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, made of oak, pine and mahogany, and boasting 640 pipes of lead and zinc.
The recital featured an ensemble of talented local organists led by Leonard Selva Gurunathan, the renowned resident pipe organist of the church.
The recital also tapped the exceptional skills of other musicians like Matthew Arwinraj Jaya Paul, Daniel Joel De Costa, Victor Cheah Eu Jin, Jason William and Hannah Thoraisingam.
The performance was described as a journey through a diverse selection of classical and local pieces, each one demonstrating the organ’s incredible range and power.
From hauntingly beautiful melodies to thunderous crescendos, the musicians held the audience spellbound, their fingers dancing across the keys with precision and passion.
Attendees were not only mesmerised by the music but also by the breathtaking acoustics of the 238-year-old church, the third oldest Roman Catholic church in Malaysia located in the UNESCO World Heritage Zone here.
The sanctuary, with its rich history and stunning architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the timeless classics performed.
Pieces by Penang’s own legends, such as the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee, Jimmy Boyle, Edwin Rajamoney and Tan Sri Ahmad Merican filled the air, adding a touch of nostalgia and pride.
“We were honoured to host Gurunathan, our resident organist, and the young musicians for this incredible recital,” said parish priest, Reverend Father Edmund Voon. “Their talent and passion for the pipe organ are truly remarkable, and we are thrilled to share their music with the community.”
WE