In celebration of National Day, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) will present a special concert titled “Music of Heroes and Legends,” under the baton of its Principal Guest Conductor, Long Yu. The performance is set to take place on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall.
The program will open with Shostakovich’s exuberant Festive Overture, a piece renowned for its grand brass fanfares and vibrant energy.
As more instruments join in, the music builds in color and intensity, driven by compelling rhythms that create a majestic and captivating atmosphere—a fitting opener for a celebratory occasion.
The concert continues with the Hong Kong premiere of Tan Dun’s Violin Concerto, “Hero”, performed by the orchestra’s own Concertmaster, Jing Wang.
Tan Dun, an Academy Award-winning composer and UNESCO Global Goodwill Ambassador, is celebrated for works that transcend musical and cultural boundaries. This concerto, adapted from his original score for the acclaimed film Hero, evokes themes of sacrifice and patriotism through its emotional depth and dramatic power.
The finale will feature another Hong Kong premiere: Wuxia - Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Birth of Jin Yong by local composer Elliot Leung.
This symphonic work pays tribute to the legendary writer Jin Yong, whose martial arts novels have captivated generations. Structured in five movements, the piece depicts themes of heroism, conflict, love, and intrigue, weaving together distinctive motifs to form a cohesive epic. Dizi virtuoso Feng Tianshi will be featured as soloist, adding a traditional Chinese voice to this expansive orchestral canvas.
The “National Day Concert: Music of Heroes and Legends” will begin at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at HK$520, $420, $320, and $220 and are available through URBTIX.
Marco Lam (marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com)
