A vibrant fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions will take center stage at Hong Kong City Hall Theatre on September 6, 2025, as the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO) joins forces with Poland’s National Forum of Music for an unforgettable concert.
A cross-cultural collaboration born from acclaim
This unique collaboration, sparked by the HKCO’s celebrated performance at the inaugural Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo in October 2024, brings together the HKCO String Quintet, Eco-Gehu, and Eco-Bass Gehu Ensembles with the acclaimed Polish Cello Quartet. The concert promises a dynamic blend of Chinese and Western string instruments, showcasing the universal language of music through a carefully curated program.
Innovative program blending East and West
The event features a mix of timeless classics and world-premiere compositions by Hong Kong and Polish composers, highlighting innovative works that marry the soulful Western cello with traditional Chinese instruments like the erhu, pipa, and zheng. A standout piece by Hong Kong composer Ng Cheuk-yin weaves together the delicate sounds of Chinese strings with the rich tones of the cello quartet. Another premiere, composed by Poland’s Tomasz Skweres, showcases the synergy between the HKCO’s string quintet and the Polish ensemble. The performance will be recorded by Radio Television Hong Kong and shared with audiences across Europe through the European Broadcasting Union, extending its cultural impact far beyond Hong Kong.
The Polish Cello Quartet: A global sensation
Formed in 2011 by four distinguished cellists, the Polish Cello Quartet is renowned for its innovative approach to chamber music. As a resident ensemble of the National Forum of Music in Wrocław, Poland, the quartet has earned international acclaim for performances at major festivals and for projects like their Chopin Project, which reimagines Frederic Chopin’s works for four cellos. On September 4, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., the quartet will host a special session at the HKCO Recital Hall, sharing their musical journey and demonstrating their unique cello ensemble techniques. Priced at HK$150 but free for concert ticket holders, this talk offers a rare glimpse into the artistry behind their performances.
Leadership and vision of Chew Hee Chiat
Leading the HKCO is Chew Hee Chiat, Assistant Artistic Director and Resident Conductor, whose career blends a passion for Chinese music with global influences. A cellist and conductor with degrees from Southeast Missouri State University and the University of South Carolina, Chew has championed cross-cultural collaborations, including projects with pop artists and explorations of Southeast Asian musical heritage. His efforts to promote local talent through initiatives like the HKCO’s Music from the Heart program have inspired a new generation of Hong Kong composers.
A step toward global cultural exchange
This concert marks the start of an ongoing cultural exchange, with the HKCO ensembles set to perform in Poland in July 2026, furthering their mission to share Chinese music with the world. The event at Hong Kong City Hall Theatre begins at 5:00 p.m., promising an evening of musical discovery and cross-cultural harmony.
