Sunday November 8, 2009
Malaysian group is world harmonica champion
By RASHVINJEET S. BEDI
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia might not have an Olympic Games gold medal to its name, but when it comes to harmonica playing, we have bragging rights.
Malaysia’s very own “World Class Harmonica Ensemble” were crowned champions at the four-day World Harmonica Festival in Trossingen, Germany, which ended on Nov 1.
The group won the top prize in the trios category and were categorised as outstanding and excellent in two other categories respectively.
More than 30 countries took part in the festival, which is held every four years.
The group consisted of harmonica players Tan Boon Hean, 23, Ho Chee Kin, 29, Low Chew Nie, 21, Yap Mei Wei, 21, and pianist Lim Lenn See, 34.
Music to the ears: (From left) Ho, Low and Yap performing with their harmonicas of all sizes in Petaling Jaya recently. The gold medal trio were Tan, Ho and Low.
All five are former students of SMJK Yu Hua in Kajang, a school well known for its prowess in the harmonica. The gold medal tune was the Harmonicadence composed by the Adler Trio.
For the group, it was a dream come true, although there were a lot of sacrifices made. They started preparing for the festival one year in advance, holding training sessions at least thrice a week, including weekends.
And every Sunday, it was non-stop jogging for at least half an hour before a gruelling practice session. But all these sacrifices turned out to be worth it in the end, said Ho.
“We spent a lot of time and energy for this festival, so we are very happy,” he said.
One month before the competition the members had to control their food intake. Cold drinks, spicy and fried food were off the table.
And although they were aiming to become champions in at least one category, they did not expect it to become a reality.
“We had to set a high target and hope for the best. But when we were crowned champions, we were surprised because the level of competition was very high,” said Ho.
Yap said the group also took the opportunity to visit factories making harmonicas.
The group is planning a concert to celebrate their success.
In the long run they are hoping to make a living out of playing the harmonica.
“It is a hobby now, but we hope to make it a career,” said Yap who wanted to thank the group’s sponsors for their support.
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