Videos
Gulangyu's 20-year bond with a pipe organ engineer
Updated: Feb 5, 2025
By Hu Meidong, Li Xin, Sun Weiwei, Qiao Yuhao
chinadaily.com.cn
Print
Share - WeChat
In 2005, Ian brought an organ from the UK to Gulangyu, embarking on his journey of tuning and restoring organs on the island.
The uniqueness of Gulangyu lies not only in its collection of numerous large organs but also in the way these collections are open to the public. People can observe the internal working components of the organs, a display method that is quite rare worldwide, making the organs in Gulangyu particularly special.
Over the past two decades, the musical atmosphere in Gulangyu has undergone remarkable changes. In 2003, there was only a piano museum on the island. However, today, with the establishment of the Organ Museum and the holding of various musical activities, organs have become an indispensable part of the music scene in Gulangyu. Here, music and architecture blend perfectly, which also complements the characteristics of the East-West integration in Gulangyu.
Although the tourism industry in Gulangyu is more developed now compared to 2003, the historical heritage and unique charm of this place remain intact. The tranquil and welcoming atmosphere has always been there. Ian has long regarded Gulangyu as his home. In the future, he is willing to continue to safeguard the organs here and write a new chapter in the musical legend of Gulangyu.
