Cover Flautist Andrea Griminelli, tenor Michael Austin, sopranos Emily Burnett and Sophie Rowland
Flautist Andrea Griminelli, tenor Michael Austin, sopranos Emily Burnett and Sophie Rowland
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For one weekend only every year, the island of Pangkor Laut sings with extra timbre
Holding almost a kilo of pure gold, flautist Andrea Griminelli said, “I’m here with my 24-karat gold flute and I’m going to play Flight of the Bumblebee in one breath.” Griminelli is one of the three headliners for Opera in Paradise, presented by YTL Hotel’s Pangkor Laut Resort in October, where approximately 200 guests enjoyed an unforgettable symphony amidst a backdrop of sun, sea, sand, and two-million-year-old virgin rainforests.
“Great memory here in Pangkor Laut because I came here for the first time with Luciano Pavarotti in 1994 to play a concert,” said Griminelli, reminiscing about his time at the resort three decades ago before introducing the programme for the night.
Read more: 5 best resorts in Malaysia for a romantic getaway
Above The performance paid homage to the legendary Pavarotti
The performance paid homage to the legendary Pavarotti
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Griminelli together with tenor Michael Austin and sopranos Belle Voci, paid homage to a historic performance by the legendary Pavarotti, who, in 1994, had graced the grounds of the private island. The maestro’s presence had left an indelible mark on the resort, where he was said to be so moved that he pronounced, “This place is enchanting, it is paradise here,” and dedicated the song O Paradiso during his recital as a testament to the resort’s beauty.
Three decades later, the acts chosen for the 2023 Opera in Paradise weekend are orchestrated as tribute to that transformative moment in the resort’s history.
Above Andrea Griminelli
Andrea Griminelli
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Griminelli, an Italian with a remarkable 34-year career, has garnered worldwide acclaim for his sensitive interpretations and astonishing technique, earning accolades such as a Grammy, the Prix de Paris, and an Italian Knighthood.
See also: World-famous Asian singers who are breaking barriers with music
Above Emily Burnett and Sophie Rowland, better known as Belle Voci
Emily Burnett and Sophie Rowland, better known as Belle Voci
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Belle Voci—Italian phrase for “beautiful voices”—is a sensational double act composed of Emily Burnett and Sophie Rowland, whose serendipitous journey began when they applied for The Voice UK. Their path led them to the live final of the show in 2018, performing for over five million viewers on primetime television with their idol and coach, Jennifer Hudson. Soon after, they conquered Wembley Stadium as they sang live at the FA Cup Final 2019 to a global reach of 88 million viewers.
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Above Micheal Austin
Micheal Austin
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Austin, an American performer with a Master of Music from New York’s Juilliard School of Music, is celebrated for his groundbreaking achievements as the only African-American Othello of his time and the first non-Chinese performer to sing a leading role in a Chinese opera.
For one special weekend every year forward, Opera in Paradise will welcome renowned musicians such as Griminelli, Belle Voci and Austin to fill the island with an unforgettable symphony.
The Sea Villas at Pangkor Laut Resort
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Credits
Images: Pangkor Laut Resort
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About
Lynette loves travelling and dancing to Latin music almost as much as she enjoys period films and pastry desserts. She is constantly in search of the perfect nude lipstick and finds her best ideas through walks in nature.
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As the Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Malaysia, Lynette leads the content teams for print, digital and social media platforms of the brand. She has over 20 years experience in media, having been editorial director and editor-in-chief for lifestyle titles such as Cleo, ELLE, Esquire, Men’s Health, and Women’s Health.
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