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When Hong Kong Youth Philharmonia (HKYP) started, it wasn’t just about playing music. It was about creating a student-led community where young musicians could grow.
Six middle school students formed this group in 2021. Every summer, HKYP invites middle school and college students to prepare for its annual concert.
Isaac Chan has been playing with the group since its inception. This year, the 18-year-old served as conductor and committee member. He is studying music at the University of Cambridge in England.
“It’s very nostalgic to go from the musicians’ seats to the conductor’s podium and look back at the entire orchestra last year,” he said.
A Hong Kong conductor who also runs a family clothing business
What is HKYP?
Kingston Chan was also part of this year’s planning committee. The 18-year-old is currently studying at the Cologne University of Music and Dance in Germany. He cherished the experience of organizing concerts for HKYP.
“We don’t have coaches or adult help,” he said. “I learned a lot, including how to work with others. That’s what I like about this job.”
Kingston added that the event is a special opportunity for young musicians to become leaders. However, running the organization came with challenges.
For example, when the group’s usual rehearsal location was renovated this year, they had to adapt. They eventually found a space at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).
“Because we had to contact PolyU and use their concert hall, we didn’t have a lot of time to adjust the acoustics, which caused some problems,” Kingston explained.
Music selection is also an important part of the group’s work. Isaac, who selected the music for this year’s concert, talked about the process:
“Every year, after the concert, we survey both the audience and the performers to see what works for the concert…we also discuss that with the founders,” he said.
The Hong Kong Youth Philharmonia holds concerts every summer. Photo: Handout
Show Must Go On
This year’s concert was held in August and was HKYP’s 4th anniversary. The program included “Dreaming of Butterfly”, composed by one of the group’s founders. Mr Isaac said HKYP’s goal was to bring together young talent, from Form One beginners to final year university music students.
One of the youngest members is 13-year-old violinist Aries Chou.
During the performance, Aries focused on staying calm. “I’m just trying to have fun…even if I make a mistake, I keep playing because everyone makes mistakes,” she said.
For Isaac, this group is more than just an orchestra. It’s a community. “I always try to get to know the players…When the group knows each other and communicates well, there is a common morale and sometimes the coach doesn’t even need to be there. ”
Mr. Kingston hopes that HKYP’s mission will continue in the future, saying, “Once the founders and I are no longer involved, I hope young people will take responsibility and make it happen every year.” “I’m doing it,” he said.
He added: “A new generation of classical musicians is emerging and soon they will achieve more than Hong Kong.”
To test your understanding of this story, download the printable worksheet or answer the quiz questions below.
acoustic sound effects
How sound travels and is heard in a space, especially a theater or other performance venue
conductor conducting
a person who conducts an orchestra and controls how the musicians play
Shiki
Level of enthusiasm, confidence and spirit within the group
Nostalgic hut
When I remember happy days in the past, I feel a mixture of sadness and joy.
podium
a small platform on which a person stands when giving a speech or conducting an orchestra
Renovated translation new
Refers to a building under repair or improvement
