URGENT UPDATE: A last-minute scramble to secure a concert piano has successfully salvaged renowned pianist Timothy Young‘s recital at The Cube in Wodonga, scheduled for August 16, 2023. After an initial loan agreement fell through, St Matthew’s Church in Albury stepped in to provide a replacement, ensuring the performance will proceed as planned.
Just days before the highly anticipated show, Murray River Fine Music faced a devastating setback when their request to borrow a grand piano from Charles Sturt University was unexpectedly denied. Artistic director Helena Kernaghan described her reaction as “devastated,” emphasizing the urgency of finding a solution with the concert only days away.
“It was a panic mode; if this had happened two months ago, it would have just been the average level of disappointment,” Kernaghan stated. “But this was like ‘how do we do this?'” The situation intensified as inquiries for the piano began back in April, but miscommunication led to the denial of the booking.
Initially, Kernaghan had been directed to secure the piano through the university, believing it to be a straightforward process. However, confusion arose, and the Murray Conservatorium later claimed no formal booking was in place. “There was no written agreement in place,” stated a spokesperson for the conservatorium.
Despite the challenges, Kernaghan maintained her piano removalist booking while urgently seeking alternatives. Messages revealed attempts to cancel the removal, asserting that the piano was “property of the Murray Conservatorium and will not be leaving the premises.”
Fortunately, Father Peter MacLeod-Miller of St Matthew’s Church agreed to loan their piano for the performance, describing the situation as a “musical miracle.” “Imagine having no piano at a concert of this caliber; it would be like having a pub with no beer!” he remarked, expressing his excitement for the event.
As the community rallies around the concert, Kernaghan expressed gratitude for the support from St Matthew’s Church, indicating that this collaboration showcases the resilience and passion for music in the region. “I am thrilled with St Matthew’s and the potential collaboration there,” she said.
Timothy Young, who is also the adjudicator for the Geoffrey McFerran Young Victorian Piano Competition Regional Prize taking place on the same weekend, is set to grace the stage on August 16 and 17. The concert is expected to draw significant attention, and with the piano situation resolved, the community can now look forward to an unforgettable performance.
Next Steps: As the concert date approaches, all eyes will be on The Cube. This incident highlights the importance of communication and collaboration in the arts, ensuring that even in the face of setbacks, creativity and community spirit prevail.
