If it’s true what they say about the piano – that it is the most versatile instrument in the world – then Cambridge Town Hall has been blessed.
Cheers: from left: Town Hall Community Trust’s general manager Simon Brew, Monique Susilla and chair Kirsty Johnson with Lions’ repre-sentatives, Ian Crabb (trust chair), Karen Johnson (vice president), Julie Mayes (past secretary), Brent Montgomerie (president). Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
The community trust in charge of breathing new life into the town hall has taken possession of a $36,000 grand piano that its general manager insists will “transform” the space.
And it is thanks to the Cambridge Lions and the Lloyd Morgan Charitable Trust that Simon Brew was able to choose a piano befitting its new environment.
The Yamaha C3 may be second-hand but it is ideal for the town hall’s acoustics. Brew did extensive research and consulted pianists before selecting the piano from Japan.
Town Hall general manager Simon Brew on the steps of the Victorian Room.
“It ensures a richer, more immersive experience for audiences and performers alike, significantly enhancing the hall’s appeal for events of all sizes,” said Brew.
Pianos are welcomed in most musical situations because of their versatility and a first rate one is deemed essential by touring acts and musicians.
“Many touring operators and performance organisers specifically request information about a venue’s piano before considering it as a location,” said Brew, a conductor, classical saxophonist, and arts manager who can do a bit of tinkering on the piano himself.
He has already signed the New Zealand Trip and acclaimed pianist John Chen for a concert next year and wanted to ensure top pianists would feel confident performing in the town.
“Having a high-quality piano not only supports their needs but also elevates the hall’s reputation as a serious performance venue.”
Cambridge Lions’ vice president Karen Johnson said working with the Town Hall had been a pleasure and ensured the community was able to enjoy an incredible range of rewarding cultural experiences.
“The Town Hall is the historical heart of our town and it is our pleasure to assist in continuing her cultural heritage for the benefit of our wider community,” she said.
- The online version differs from the printed version correcting Brent Montgomerie’s position as president and attributing the correct quotes to Simon Brew and Karen Johnson.
Pride of place: from left: Town Hall Community Trust’s general manager Simon Brew, Monique Susilla and chair Kirsty Johnson with Lions’ repre-sentatives, Ian Crabb (trust chair), Karen Johnson (vice president), Julie Mayes (past secretary), Brent Montgomerie (president). Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
