September, Friday 20, 2024

How Anna Lapwood Utilized TikTok to Fulfill Her Dream of Performing at the Royal Albert Hall


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Anna Lapwood, a renowned organist, has gained fame as the "Taylor Swift of classical music." At the age of 28, Lapwood is currently performing at the Royal Albert Hall, captivating the audience with a rendition of Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. While it may seem unconventional to practice at 2:00 BST, Lapwood explains that it is the only time organists can have the place to themselves and play this magnificent piece loudly without disturbing others. The instrument in question is the Henry Willis organ, which has a rich history and boasts 9,999 pipes. Lapwood has expanded the fan base of this traditionally viewed instrument through her popular social media accounts, where she shares videos of her performances. These videos often receive millions of views, and Lapwood credits the suggestion to join TikTok to her students. Lapwood not only captivates with her performances but also provides behind-the-scenes insights into the workings of pipe organs and surprises her audience with unexpected mash-ups. She has attracted attention not only for her talent but also for her encounters with celebrities such as Benedict Cumberbatch, who joined her performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Lapwood aims to challenge the negative associations some people have with the organ, emphasizing the importance of being oneself and honest about one's identity. Her exceptional talent and meteoric rise have garnered praise, and she aims to create a welcoming environment for the next generation of female organists. Lapwood has faced gender biases in her career and believes in changing the narrative. With aspirations to inspire more people to play the organ, she highlights that many churches possess these instruments and is eager to encourage young individuals to explore their interest in playing. Lapwood expresses the contagious and infectious nature of playing the organ, indicating that once someone experiences it, they never want to let it go. Currently, Lapwood has released her debut album, Luna.