Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) is committed to fostering the holistic development of its students, encouraging them to pursue diverse interests alongside their academic studies. The Hong Kong Metropolitan University Chamber Orchestra, a student group under the Student Affairs Office, was officially launched and presented its inaugural Annual Showcase on 27 June. The concert featured a range of classical pieces, showcasing the members' artistic talent and sharing their musical achievements with the HKMU community.
Under the direction of conductor Mr Hanson Tsang Shun-han, the orchestra delivered memorable renditions of three timeless classics: Fantasy overture “Romeo and Juliet”, Danse Macabre, and Rhapsody in Blue. The orchestra, which includes strings, woodwinds, brass and piano, captivated approximately 200 attendees, including students, alumni, staff, and friends and family of the orchestra members, with the enchanting melodies.
Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, President of HKMU, said the establishment of the HKMU Chamber Orchestra demonstrates the University's determination and commitment to promoting arts and cultural development. He expressed gratitude to the orchestra members, students, staff and alumni for their enthusiasm and dedication, which have brought vibrancy to the campus and enriched the learning experience of students. “The establishment of the Chamber Orchestra goes beyond musical performances,” he said. “It aims to cultivate students' artistic appreciation, foster teamwork and inspire the pursuit of beauty in life. Through music, we hope to spark students' creativity and motivate them to explore the world with fresh perspectives.”
In his opening address, Prof. Ricky Kwok Yu-kwong, Vice President (Research and Institutional Advancement) of HKMU, thanked the orchestra members and the Student Affairs Office for their efforts in making the performance possible. “Music is an art form that touches the heart and offers profound healing power, especially in today's complex world,” he said. “I encourage everyone to continue to support the orchestra's future performances, as they provide students with more opportunities to practice and gain stage experience.” He also invited music enthusiasts among students and alumni to join the orchestra.
The HKMU Chamber Orchestra began in 2023 with only three or four members as a small ensemble. Fuelled by passion, the conductor and members worked tirelessly to grow the group. By the 2024/25 academic year, their dedication and outreach efforts attracted more students with musical aspirations, significantly expanding the orchestra.
Behind the orchestra are interwoven stories of students, alumni and staff who share a passion for music. Among them is first violinist Mr Cheung Ka-hin, an HKMU nursing alumnus and current an emergency room nurse, who balances a demanding schedule by traveling from Tuen Mun to the HKMU campus for rehearsals during his off-duty hours, before returning home to Yuen Long. “I participate as an alumnus, hoping to unite the orchestra members and work together towards our performances,” he shared. “We are truly grateful for the University's support, which fosters tremendous cohesion among us, and we cherish these opportunities.”
Cellist Ms Fan Lap-yi, a year-4 nursing student, added, “I hope the orchestra continues to grow, attracting more new members and eventually performing beyond HKMU at venues across Hong Kong.”
So far, the orchestra has fully developed string and woodwind sections, and brass and percussion players are now being added. These additions have enriched the performances and broadened the orchestra's repertoire.
If you are interested in joining the orchestra, please email: ssa@hkmu.edu.hk
