MUSIC lovers in Penang can look forward to the first-ever Asia Pacific International Accordion Festival, scheduled to take place on Penang Hill on May 19.
Making its debut in Malaysia this year, the festival follows successful editions held in South Korea in 2015, and Japan in 2018.
Welcoming the festival, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai announced a public performance by professional accordion players at Penang Hill, commencing at 10.30am.
“These experts will engage in a cultural exchange with local musicians and artists while exploring the beauty of Penang Hill.
“In the evening from 7pm to 9.30pm, Gurney Plaza will host accordion performances by experts from China, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Admission is free,” Wong told a press conference in Komtar today.
The event is organised by the Hohner Arts Foundation and the Asia Pacific International Accordion Festival Organising Committee. It is supported by the Penang Rose Charities Association and Dream Makers, guided by the Accordion Society of the Chinese Musicians Association.
Wong said his office and several strategic partners, including the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC), Gurney Drive MPKK, Penang Walkabouts, Cadenza Music and Performing Arts Academy, Zero Orchestra Penang and Gurney Plaza have been actively contributing to the endeavour.
“There will be 46 participants from China, two from Russia, and two from Kazakhstan. We aim to promote diverse accordion arts through this platform,” he said.
Aside from this, Wong described Penang as a culture exchange centre, attracting accordion enthusiasts and artists across the Asia Pacific.
“Participants will have the rare opportunity to enjoy the iconic landmarks such as Esplanade, Weld Quay, Sia Boey Park, Karpal Singh Drive, and Street of Harmony,” said Wong.
Among those present during the press conference were Rose Charities representative Susan Tan, Asia Pacific Accordion Festival vice-chairman Piao Yu Han, and PYDC liaison officer Nur Shafinaz.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian