Even after Malaysia Day celebrations have wrapped up, two young Malaysian luthiers are giving the country another reason to celebrate after taking home gold medals at one of the world’s major violin-making competitions.
Chang Song Jie, 28, and Samuel Wong Li Wei, 29, both obtained gold in the professional category at the 20th International Violin Making Competition organised by the National Association of Artistic Italian Lutherie (Anlai).
The competition brings together skilled string instrument makers from around the world to showcase their craftsmanship and artistry.
The results were announced on Sept 19 in Pisogne, Italy, following judging by an international panel of luthiers and musicians from Italy, Russia, Bulgaria, Argentina, China, Japan and South Korea.
Chang, who hails from Kuantan, Pahang, won gold in the professional antique-style viola category.
Meanwhile, Wong, who is originally from Sibu, Sarawak, claimed gold in the professional viola category.
This achievement marks the first time Malaysian contestants have secured double gold medals in the professional division of the competition.
Additionally, Wong Zi Hui from Kuala Lumpur won a silver medal in the non-professional category with her cello. She is a graduate from the National School of Violin Making of Mirecourt in France.
From apprentices to award winners
The two luthiers are proteges of Kuala Lumpur-based Tan Chin Seng, Malaysia’s first professional violin maker.
He has accumulated numerous awards and prizes through his participation in international violin-making competitions.
Chang shares that the antique-style viola that won her the medal has been named "Ramlee".
Wong’s award-winning viola, meanwhile, has been named "Solomon".
"Every bit of effort was worth it," says Wong as he reflects on his win.
This recognition is a big step in highlighting Malaysia’s craftsmanship capability while placing the winners’ instruments alongside the works of established makers on the international stage.
It also represents a significant milestone for the duo, who had already made their mark at the competition three years ago by winning gold and silver medals in the non-professional viola and violin categories.
The award-winning instruments from this year’s competition are exhibited at the Church of Santa Maria della Neve in Pisogne, Italy from now until Sept 26.
