A Magical Candlelight Concert at Plantations
by Ingenia Lifestyle, Woolgoolga
String Musicians Australia recently had the privilege of performing a candlelight concert at Plantations by Ingenia Lifestyle, a beautiful retirement village just outside of Coffs Harbour. Our string quartet, led by artistic director Jennen Ngiau-Keng (first violin), featured the talented Annabelle Swainston (second violin), Koby Clarke (viola), and Mercedes Hohenlohe (cello). Together, we created an evening of live music that left a lasting impression on both the musicians and the audience.
From the very first note, it was clear that this performance was going to be something special. The audience was warm, attentive, and deeply appreciative. They listened with full hearts as we performed an eclectic program ranging from timeless classical works to beloved folk songs and modern favourites. The setting — an intimate candlelit space in the heart of the retirement village — added to the magic, transforming the evening into a memorable celebration of music and community.
A Concert Filled with Stories and Song
One of the unique features of our candlelight concerts is that Jennen takes the time to share little-known stories and trivia about each piece we perform. Rather than simply presenting the music, we invite the audience on a journey — uncovering the history, inspiration, and fun facts behind the repertoire. For example:
- Amazing Grace was written in 1772 by John Newton, a former slave ship captain who turned Anglican clergyman. Today, it is performed over 10 million times a year worldwide.
- Let It Be by The Beatles was inspired by a dream Paul McCartney had of his late mother, Mary. It also became the final single the Beatles released before their breakup.
- What a Wonderful World was recorded by Louis Armstrong in 1967, famously completed in just one take. Despite initial hesitation from his record label, it went on to become one of the most beloved songs of all time.
- Edelweiss, the gentle ballad from The Sound of Music, was the very last song written by Oscar Hammerstein II before his death, and is often mistaken for a traditional Austrian folk tune.
These insights helped the audience connect more deeply with the music, sparking smiles, memories, and even a few tears.
A Heartwarming Highlight: Edelweiss
One of the most moving moments of the evening came when Jennen invited anyone in the audience to join us in singing Edelweiss. To our delight, two gentlemen, Don (97 years old) and Scott (79 years old), bravely rose to the occasion. As our quartet played, they sang with heartfelt emotion, their voices filling the room with warmth and sincerity. It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of live music — uniting generations through shared song.
The entire audience erupted in applause, and many commented afterward that this was their favourite part of the evening. It was a reminder that music is not just something to listen to, but something to participate in, something that connects us all.
An Eclectic and Memorable Repertoire
Our program included a rich mix of genres and styles:
- Timeless hymns and folk songs like Amazing Grace, Greensleeves, Danny Boy, Bonnie Banks O’ Loch Lomond, and Australia’s own Waltzing Matilda (arranged by Nic Buc).
- Golden-era classics including Summertime by George Gershwin, I Say A Little Prayer by Burt Bacharach, and Your Song by Elton John.
- Beloved film music such as Edelweiss from The Sound of Music, Nearer My God To Thee from Titanic, and Somewhere Over The Rainbow from The Wizard of Oz.
- Classical gems including Massenet’s Meditation and Elgar’s Salut d’Amour.
Each piece was carefully chosen to appeal to the diverse tastes of our audience, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.
An Evening of Connection
What made this candlelight concert particularly special was not just the music itself, but the atmosphere of connection. The residents of Plantations by Ingenia Lifestyle welcomed us with open arms, and it was clear how much live music meant to them. After the concert, many people came to speak with us personally, sharing stories of how certain songs brought back memories from their youth or important moments in their lives.
We were truly touched by the heartfelt feedback and were thrilled to hear that the retirement village has already expressed interest in having us return for another performance. For us as musicians, that is the greatest compliment we could receive.
The Power of Live Music
This concert was a reminder of why we do what we do at String Musicians Australia. A string quartet performance is not just about playing the right notes — it is about storytelling, connection, and creating moments that linger long after the final bow. Live music has the power to uplift, to comfort, and to bring people together, no matter their age.
We are grateful to have shared this magical evening with the residents of Plantations by Ingenia Lifestyle and look forward to returning soon.
If you would like to bring the magic of a candlelight concert or string quartet performance to your community, wedding, or event, please contact String Musicians Australia. We would love to create unforgettable memories with you through the timeless beauty of live music.