Pictured above: Mark Coughlan and the Fazioli concert grand, which will be premiered on Friday night

This Friday, 18 May, pianist Mark Coughlan will unveil Perth’s new limited edition Fazioli concert grand, for an evening soiree in St George’s Cathedral.

Mark travelled to Venice to select the hand-crafted piano, which was gifted to Perth’s Anglican Cathedral by Zenith Music, with support from private donors, Sam and Leanne Walsh, and a bequest from Jenny Wright. 

Mark said the instrument has a mellow singing quality and luxuriant sound, perfect for the venue. He will be performing in “Lieder to Cabaret”, an enchanting evening soiree with the talented singer Andrew Foote. Mark and Andrew have been performing together for many years, their skill and charm guaranteed to delight the audience.

Popular songs such as ‘Autumn Leaves’ and ‘All the Things You Are’ can’t fail to please, while Andrew’s entrance after the interval plays to the solemnity of the Cathedral’s towering architecture. Schumann’s romantic songs are in turn powerful, delicate and seductive, while Vaughan Williams’ more extravert ‘Songs of Travel’ are simply wonderful poetry.

The concert will lead up to some playful cabaret tunes and feature the uplifting piano piece, ‘Invitation to the Dance’. Mark said the varied pieces will show off the piano’s versatility, from the light textures of the love songs to mellow jazz bar music.

Tickets are selling fast for Lieder to Cabaret this Friday 18 May, 7.30pm at St George's Cathedral. Secure your spot at this landmark occasion here.