Japanese pianist Naoko Aburaki impressed audience during fundraising event

The Gallery of St Augustine´s Monastery in Old Bakery Street in Valletta was filled to the last seat during an exceptional concert by Japanese pianist Naoko Aburaki.

It was the second concert of the new cultural series called “Concert & Dinner” – a charity project to raise funds for the restoration of the chapel in the Interpretation Center of the Monastery. The Foundation St Augustine in Valletta receives funds from the EU to restore the building, but the chapel is not included. This is the reason why cultural manager Xenia Lorenz-Rebers launched this project for the priory.

“A sum of €9,000 is needed for the restoration” explained Father Alex - Prior of St Augustine- in several TV interviews beforehand “and we are grateful for such a support”. Xenia Lorenz-Rebers herself German, felt in love with Malta, it´s heritage and especially with the little Chapel, and promised Father Alex to engage herself as a volunteer for this project.

“With a huge international network of pianists and artists, she is able to motivate high-class pianists to voluntarily join this project, with the result that all entrance fees can be collected directly for the restoration of the Chapel,” the statement read.

The expectations from the audience were high when they were waiting for the pianist.

Chevalier Mifsud, General Honorary Consul of Japan to Malta welcomed the young pianist, who won several 1st and 2nd prizes in Japan and international piano competitions. Naoko Aburaki is well recognized in the music world.

VIP´s, musicians, tourists and Maltese found their way to the Monastery, curious as to whether their expectations would be fulfilled.

When the young woman entered the hall, she modestly bowed and began playing “sheep may safely graze” from Johann Sebastian Bach.

A beautiful start, followed by Schubert´s Impromptu Nr 3 and Nr 4. Already now, the pianist´s ability became apparent. With the Scherzo Nr 2 from Chopin the audience expressed their entire enthusiasm about her ability with loud shouts including “Bravissima” or “Brava”.

While playing Debussy´s “Claire de Lune” Naoko Aburaki showed that she was not only a Master of virtuosity, but also a Master of expression and feeling.

Standing ovations and a long lasting applause honoured this exceptional young pianist.

A pasta night following the concert in the refectory prepared by the Monastery brought the evening to a close.