Hector Olivera

I don't think I can find the right word or enough superlatives to describe this man. Prodigy? Musical genius? Amazing? Seems inadequate to describe a man that's truly God's gift to the music world.





I had the privilege to attend a workshop conducted by Mr Hector Olivera at the Roland Training Center this afternoon and came away with the utmost respect for him. Even after many decades of performing to tens of thousands of organ and keyboard fans and enthusiasts, he is still as passionate about his concerts as day one. This man is not slowing down even a wee bit. Hector, who was a special guest on NTV7's Breakfast Show this morning, said that he especially loves to perform to children.

During the workshop, Hector took us on a journey and explored the Roland Atelier organ. We learnt so much from him and discovered so many new features of the organ. His pure, unadulterated technique, style & arrangements make him one of the very few organists who takes every concert to a level that only a genius like him can. He makes the organ sound good, not the other way around. Listening to his orchestral arrangements played on the organ is like listening to a live orchestra! I was truly blown away!!!

Yet, this man, who likes to use analogies and with lots of humour thrown in for good measure, is unassuming, down-to-earth and "pooh poohs" the standing ovations that has become part and parcel of his concerts. We talked like we are old buddies.

So, I'm soooo looking forward to the concert tomorrow (Sat). Actually, I can hardly wait for it... really. If Roland promises to bring him here again next year, I'm going to book my ticket now :-).