After a 17-year hiatus, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO) has made its grand return to Guangzhou with a highly anticipated performance at the Xinghai Concert Hall on December 28, 2024.
The orchestra’s Artistic Director and Principal Conductor for Life, Professor Yan Huichang, shares his thoughts on this long-awaited reunion, the orchestra’s mission, and the cultural significance of their performance.
A Triumphant Return to Guangzhou
Reflecting on the 17-year gap since their last performance in Guangzhou, Professor Yan explained that HKCO had devoted much of its time to international tours and other commitments in recent years.
However, the strategic development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area presented an opportunity to strengthen cultural ties.
“The invitation from Xinghai Concert Hall was the perfect catalyst,” Yan said, emphasizing their shared vision of building a lasting collaboration to bring HKCO’s repertoire to Guangzhou audiences consistently.
The overwhelming enthusiasm for the event was evident when tickets sold out just days after being released.
“This response reassures us that audiences have been eagerly awaiting our return. It also reflects HKCO’s continued reputation as a world-class orchestra,” Yan noted, expressing gratitude for the support from fans and the cultural resonance of their work.
A Richly Curated Program
The concert program is a testament to the orchestra’s versatility and commitment to showcasing Chinese culture in all its diversity.
Among the highlights is Guangdong Xiaodiao Lianzou (Cantonese Folk Tune Medley), a piece that resonates deeply with the region’s cultural identity.
This work, commissioned by HKCO and arranged by celebrated Guangdong composer Qiu Yongji, blends traditional themes with contemporary orchestration.
HKCO also performed The Grand Victory, a vibrant piece inspired by northern Chinese traditions and infused with celebratory energy for the New Year.
Another standout is Eulogy, an avant-garde work composed by Dr. Chan Ming-chi, which challenges traditional melodic structures to explore the essence of East Asian cultural aesthetics.
“It’s a piece that represents Hong Kong’s innovative spirit while celebrating our roots,” Yan remarked.
The concert culminated with Tang Echoes, a masterful composition by Hong Kong composer Ng Cheuk-yin.
Inspired by the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty, the piece fuses ancient Chinese musical traditions with modern jazz elements.
“It’s a journey through time, showcasing the cultural richness of the Tang era and its relevance to today’s dynamic, interconnected world,” Yan said.
Further enriching the evening, the orchestra transported the audience to the scenic landscapes of Yunnan with Yunnan Capriccio, a suite capturing the region’s diverse musical traditions through joyful festival tunes and heartfelt love songs.
The Role of HKCO in Cultural Preservation and Innovation
As the world’s leading Chinese orchestra, HKCO is dedicated to preserving and innovating Chinese music.
Under Yan’s leadership, the orchestra has commissioned over 2,400 works, spanning traditional, modern, and avant-garde compositions.
Beyond their artistic endeavors, HKCO has pioneered environmental sustainability in the music industry with its development of the eco-huqin.
These instruments address logistical challenges faced during international tours, as traditional huqin often encounter restrictions due to their snake-skin membranes.
“The eco-huqin maintains the authentic sound of traditional instruments while being durable, climate-resistant, and environmentally friendly,” Yan explained.
The orchestra also serves as a cultural bridge, promoting Chinese music on a global stage while engaging in community outreach programs.
From youth orchestras to music workshops for seniors, HKCO’s initiatives aim to make Chinese music accessible to all.
Strengthening Cultural Ties in the Greater Bay Area
The return to Guangzhou is part of HKCO’s broader vision of fostering cultural connections within the Greater Bay Area.
The orchestra has collaborated with ensembles in Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and beyond, sharing their expertise and repertoire.
“Through music, we can bridge communities and create a more cohesive cultural identity for the Bay Area,” Yan emphasized.
HKCO’s efforts also align with the region’s push for greater cultural integration.
By blending tradition with modernity, the orchestra serves as a model for artistic innovation and cultural preservation.
“Our success lies in staying true to our roots while continuously evolving to meet the needs of modern audiences,” Yan said.
Looking Ahead
As HKCO continues to expand its presence across the Bay Area and on the international stage, its return to Guangzhou marks the beginning of a new chapter.
Yan expressed hope that the performance would inspire greater interest in Chinese orchestral music.
“We want to show the world the beauty and depth of Chinese music. It’s about creating a shared experience that transcends borders and brings people together.”
For those lucky enough to attend, the December 28 performance was not just a concert — it was a celebration of heritage, innovation, and cultural exchange.
And for the orchestra, it served as a reminder of its mission to preserve and promote Chinese music, ensuring its resonance for generations to come.
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