KUCHING — The newly consecrated St Peter’s Church in Padungan became a centre of musical grace and spiritual reflection on 1 July 2025, as the Echoes of Love: Yes Lord, You Know I Love You concert marked the opening of the church’s Consecration Week. This special evening brought together two well-respected Sarawakian choirs — Dolce Chanticleer and the Dolce Chanticleer Children Choral — both under the direction of conductor and vocal coach, Sabrina Tnay. The event drew a full audience and left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Sabrina Tnay, a Golden Kenyalang Award winner, has long played a vital role in Sarawak’s choral music development. Beginning her career in Sibu, she has grown into a key musical leader in Kuching. She is known not only for her performances as a soprano soloist with Koir Simon Orkestra Negeri Sarawak but also for her tireless work nurturing new talent. Having trained under UK conductor Stephen Carleston and participated in the Cambridge Choral Summer Course, she brings international expertise to her teaching and conducting. Her choirs have performed in countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and South Korea, spreading Sarawak’s musical culture across borders. Today, she continues to teach voice and piano at her private studio, mentoring young musicians with care and dedication.
Dolce Chanticleer, her adult ensemble, is known for its refined harmonies and expressive interpretations of classical, contemporary, and indigenous pieces. The group performed with remarkable vocal control and depth, offering heartfelt renditions of sacred music like Panis Angelicus and a beautifully arranged traditional Bornean lullaby. Their performance was accompanied by pianists Elaine Tan and Chia Kay Pin, who provided elegant support throughout the evening. With experienced vocalists such as Abigail Yii Chung En, Gabriel Dominic Thian, Grace Wong Loong Ching, and Jason Tang Swee Yong among the performers, the ensemble demonstrated why it holds a distinction in the ABRSM Advanced Choral Singing examination.
The Dolce Chanticleer Children Choral brought a youthful spark to the programme. Their performance was met with warm applause as the young singers confidently delivered pieces such as I’m Not Afraid and I’ll Be There. Pianist Elaine Tan accompanied their set, while Sabrina Tnay guided each child with gentle yet firm musical direction. The group included promising talents like Andrea Ting Xin Yen, Ariella Bates, Christabel Tan Xin Ru, Maxwell Tie Sian, Jessica Yang Yue Qi, and Shalom. Their clear voices and sincere delivery made a touching contribution to the evening.
The Echoes of Love concert was more than just a choral showcase. It was a moment of unity for the Kuching community, blending culture, spirituality, and artistry. Proceeds from the concert were directed to support further cultural programmes and events at St Peter’s Church. Rector Rev. Fr Vincent Chin expressed his gratitude and pride in the evening’s success, saying the performance was “a meaningful reflection of the power of music to bring people together in faith and love.”
This concert not only celebrated sacred music but also affirmed Sarawak’s growing presence in the regional choral scene. Through events like these, the state’s rich vocal traditions continue to thrive across generations, under the passionate guidance of dedicated leaders like Sabrina Tnay.
