As the final notes of Wagner’s epic world continue to resonate, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) is stepping onto a new international stage with the release of its first album under the historic label Deutsche Grammophon.
Released on March 20, the recording features Richard Wagner’s The Ring – An Orchestral Adventure, conducted by incoming Music Director Tarmo Peltokoski. Captured live at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall in June 2025, the album marks a milestone for the orchestra, bringing its long-standing engagement with Wagner’s music to a global audience.
The work itself offers a reimagined journey through Wagner’s monumental Ring cycle. Arranged by Dutch composer Henk de Vlieger, the piece condenses the vast operatic saga into a continuous symphonic narrative, tracing the story from the depths of the Rhine to the fall of Valhalla.
For HK Phil, the release also reflects a continuation of its artistic identity. The orchestra previously gained international recognition for its complete recording of Wagner’s Ring cycle, which contributed to its being named Orchestra of the Year by Gramophone magazine in 2019—the first ensemble in Asia to receive the honor.
“I’m honoured to present the Hong Kong Philharmonic’s first album on Deutsche Grammophon, with the Ring adventure by de Vlieger who has combined the infamous bleeding chunks into a symphonic journey from the depths of the Rhine to the burning Valhalla,” said Peltokoski.
“The orchestra is specialised in Wagner, and we are also excited to embark on the European tour in November and December playing this very piece, happy to be sharing our musicmaking also with audiences overseas.”
Now available across major streaming platforms, the album also signals a growing international presence for the orchestra. A vinyl edition is set for global release in July, while the performance can also be experienced through Deutsche Grammophon’s digital platform, STAGE+.
marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com
