Musical jewel returns to orginal glory
From left: Prof Paul Grabowsky AO Executive Director MAPA, Jurgen Ahrend, John O’Donnell (seated) and Heiko Ahrend at the console of the organ at Robert Blackwood Hall. Photo by David Sheehy.
The crowning musical jewel of the Monash Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA) is being returned to its original glory thanks to the sons of its’ creator.
The one-of-a-kind Ahrend pipe organ, that takes centre stage in the Robert Blackwood Hall at the Clayton campus, has long been one of the most iconic structures of the University since it’s unveiling in 1980.
Built in honour of the University’s first Vice-Chancellor, Sir Louis Matheson, the pipe organ was constructed by famed organ builder Jürgen Ahrend in Germany before being shipped to Australia.
MAPA have commissioned the sons of Jürgen – Hendrick and Heiko – to refurbish their father’s unique piece of musical art 35 years after it was unveiled.
MAPA Executive Director, Professor Paul Grabowsky said the organ was a truly unique piece.
“This is one of the most spectacular pipe organs, not only in Australia, but the entire southern hemisphere, and to have Jürgen’s sons overseeing the refurbishment of their father’s masterpiece makes it all the more special,” Professor Paul Grabowsky said.
A project seven years in the making, the idea of a pipe organ being constructed in the Robert Blackwood Hall was first mooted in 1973 when Sir Louis was asked if the construction of an organ was a fitting memorial to his soon-to-be-completed term as first Vice-Chancellor.
His response was positive. He was pleased to hear that those who approached him believed they could ‘raise the wind’.
The organ was built entirely according to the methods of the great 17th century builders.
To celebrate the refurbishment, MAPA will be hosting a series of free lunchtime concerts in the Robert Blackwood Hall from late April to early May.
Professor Grabowsky said the free concerts were a perfect opportunity to introduce the sounds of the Sir Louis Matheson pipe organ to a new generation.
“To see the organ returned to its past glory for a new generation to discover is very exciting," Professor Grabowsky said.
The Lunchtime Organ Series runs on Monday’s for three weeks, starting on 20 April at 1:10pm.