After recently conducting the Swire Symphony Under the Stars, Elim Chan returned last weekend to lead the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra in two exhilarating concerts and enchant audiences.

The conductor was born and raised in Hong Kong. She began her musical journey at the University of Hong Kong before attending the Royal Northern College of Music in the UK. There, she developed a unique artistic voice, quickly gaining recognition for her exceptional musicality and leadership.

Chan was the Principal Conductor of the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra from 2019 to 2024 and the Principal Guest Conductor of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra from 2018 to 2023. After her highly praised debut with the BBC Symphony Orchestra at the 2023 BBC Proms, Chan returned to conduct the orchestra again during the First Night of the Proms in 2024.

Her guest conducting appearances have included collaborations with the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. The young conductor is particularly noted for her innovative programming, often blending classical masterpieces with contemporary works.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Chan is passionate about making classical music more accessible. She actively engages in outreach programmes to inspire young musicians and nurture the next generation of talent.

Last weekend's concerts opened with the world premiere of "... aux cendres, study II for orchestra," composed by the esteemed local talent Angus Lee. A conductor, flautist and educator, Lee graduated from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and the Royal Academy of Music. His work reflects a deep commitment to contemporary music and showcases his exceptional skills as a composer.

Lee is currently an assistant lecturer in the Department of Music at the University of Hong Kong and teaches woodwind chamber music at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts.

The weekend concerts continued with Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto, highlighting the talents of Canadian violin superstar James Ehnes, who was named Gramophone Magazine's Artist of the Year in 2021.

The evening culminated in a profoundly moving performance of Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony.

Chan is a pioneering figure in classical music, and her achievements highlight the rich musical talent emerging from Hong Kong. The opportunity to showcase two of our leading talents, Elim Chan and Angus Lee, during the 35th anniversary of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, was a source of immense pride for everyone in the city.

Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd

Elim Chan and Angus Lee set the stage ablaze. afp, hkpo

Top musicians do Hong Kong proud