The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) is set to captivate audiences this June with two distinct concert programs that highlight the brilliance of Russian classical compositions and the cinematic magic of Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat.
On June 6 and 7, the Phil will present the Swire Denim Series "Russian Masterpieces," a program dedicated to the rich tradition of Russian classical music.
Esteemed conductor Chen Lin, who heads the Conducting Department at Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music, will lead the orchestra through an evening of passionate and technically demanding works.
The concert will feature rising violin virtuoso Chen Xi, a top laureate of the prestigious International Tchaikovsky Competition, performing Tchaikovsky's beloved Violin Concerto. Known for its emotional depth and technical challenges, the concerto remains a cornerstone of the violin repertoire.
Following the intermission, the orchestra will present Ravel's orchestration of Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition." Originally composed as a piano suite in memory of artist Viktor Hartmann, the work takes listeners on a vivid musical journey through an imaginary art gallery, culminating in the majestic "Great Gate of Kiev."
Later in the month, on June 20 and 21, the spotlight turns to the silver screen with "The Film Music of Alexandre Desplat."
The French composer, whose scores have graced numerous award-winning films, will have his work showcased under the direction of Solrey, his longtime collaborator and artistic director.
The program includes selections from Desplat's most celebrated compositions, including his Academy Award-winning score for "The Shape of Water," the whimsical themes from Wes Anderson's "The Grand Budapest Hotel" and "The French Dispatch," as well as his magical contributions to the "Harry Potter" series.
With eleven Oscar nominations and two wins to his name, along with multiple Golden Globe and Grammy awards, Desplat's music represents some of the most sophisticated and emotionally resonant film scoring of our time.
The "Russian Masterpieces" concerts will take place at the Tsuen Wan Town Hall Auditorium on June 6 at 8pm and June 7 at 4pm, with tickets priced at HK$320, $240, and $160.
"The Film Music of Alexandre Desplat" will be performed at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall on June 20 at 8pm and June 21 at 5pm, with tickets ranging from HK$50 to $880.
Tickets for both programs are now available through URBTIX.
Marco Lam (marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com)
