Tan Dun to set tempo of cultural promotion

Renowned Chinese composer and conductor Tan Dun has been appointed ambassador for cultural promotion. His five-year duties start on January 1.

As the ambassador, Tan will initiate large-scale art projects and invite local artists to promote international cultural exchanges.

He plans to organize in-person mentorship for young artists, promote collaborations among local tertiary institutions and represent Hong Kong in international conferences to showcase the city's cultural uniqueness.

Speaking at the appointment ceremony yesterday, Tan said he was deeply honored to be appointed and hopes to connect with youngsters to explore creativity and innovation.

"To me, Hong Kong is one of the most multicultural cities," he said. "The exchange of different kinds of culture is flourishing in this metropolis, where East meets West."

Tan has won multiple international awards, including the Grammys.

He was Unesco's goodwill ambassador in 2013, and is currently the dean of the Bard College Conservatory of Music in New York, and an honorary artistic director of the China National Symphony Orchestra.