Musicians with disabilities will get their chance to shine during the July 13 concert. — Photos by SHAARI CHEMAT/The Star
THE musical talent of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) will be showcased at an event in Petaling Jaya.
Musicians for Musicians (MFM) vice-president Edwin Nathaniel, who is the organising chairman, said the event was to foster inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance of persons with disabilities through their passion for music.
“Witnessing their talents, creativity, and resilience in the face of challenges inspired me to create this platform,” he said.
The audition call was circulated to the PWD community with the help of support groups, non-governmental organisations and schools.
“We limited auditions to Malaysians. I had to turn down a fantastic blind pianist from Indonesia as I wanted to prioritise Malaysian citizens.
“From the 100 audition clips we received, we selected 33 musicians,” said Edwin.
Present at the press conference were MFM president Francis Danker, BAC Education Group founder and managing director S. Raja Singham and Seadale Malaysia general manager Alvin Roberts.
Danker said he had wanted to bring together modern and traditional musicians and feature them in a five-star hotel.
“These children are really talented. With the patience, guidance, and love from their parents, they will make it,” he said.
Raja Singham said, “It was delightful to watch them play. The way they hear, feel and sense the music differently from the rest of us is something we should appreciate, encourage and support.”
(From left) Raja Singham, Danker, Edwin and Alvin at the press conference.
The event will feature workshops, a day-long exhibition, followed by a concert at night.
“There will be vendors from the PWD community showcasing their artwork, crafts and music.
“Workshops will cover two topics: ‘Expectations vs. Purpose, How to Nurture Children with Creative Potential’ and interactive drum circle sessions using percussion instruments to create rhythm and sound,” said Edwin.
In the “Unveiling Uniqueness” concert, PWD musicians will play music across multiple genres, using various instruments.
Edwin also said “We would like to take these groups nationwide and give them opportunities to perform outside the country”.
The July 13 event will be held at Menara BAC, 52 Jalan Utara, Petaling Jaya. Free exhibitions and workshops will be held from 10am to 6pm.
Performances will be from 7pm to 10pm. Tickets are priced at RM50 for the upper level and RM70 for the lower level.
“Senior citizens or physically challenged individuals are encouraged to buy upper-level tickets,” Edwin said.
Proceeds from the event directed to MFM will benefit PWD musicians and support able-bodied musicians in sustaining a living from performing in clubs, hotels, and pubs. MFM is a not-for-profit association.
