OBSERVER: Anna Lapwood
The Melbourne Town Hall organ is Australia’s largest romantic pipe organ, meaning it can be used for symphonic works.
To Anna Lapwood, the official organist of the Royal Albert Hall, it also has a personality and presence.
Together they revealed the capabilities and temperament of such an instrument that ranges from delicate chimes to waves of sound that resonate to the core.
Lapwood is the perfect ambassador of both classical music and organs in general. She encouraged the audience to use the torch on their phones when playing Zimmer’s work from ‘Interstellar’, building theatrical atmosphere.
She ensured the children could all see by inviting them to sit on the floor close to where she was playing. She even had the audience sing along at one point.
This personalises the instrument and the role of organist, given one normally plays with one’s back to the viewer.
Close circuit cameras on the keyboard and pedals testified to Lapwood’s dexterity and musicianship. She is playing different parts with hands and feet releasing stops and changing the tone and texture simultaneously.
The concert comprised her arrangements of well known cinema pieces – Pirates of the Caribbean and Lord of the Rings – but the classical pieces also highlighted the versatility of the organ. Lapwood’s exuberance and enthusiasm was infectious, her playing dynamic, and behind it all were some nine and a half thousand organ pipes being brought to life. Such is her conviction, Lapwood builds a relationship with the instrument believing each organ has its own character, and this inspires both her creativity and passion.
The recent sold out Australian concerts are testament not only to her playing, but this inspirational outlook.
Review by David McLean