Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra

Orchestra

Founded in 1977, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is the only professional, full‐sized Chinese orchestra in Hong Kong. It came under the management of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra Limited on 1st April, 2001 when the latter took over from the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of Hong Kong. Under the leadership of the incumbent Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Yan Huichang (1997‐date), and former Music Director — Ng Tai‐kong (1977‐1986), Kuan Nai‐chung (1986‐1993) and Henry Shek (1993‐1997), the mission of the Orchestra has been to promote Chinese music.

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is deeply rooted in the Chinese cultural heritage. Both traditional Chinese music and contemporary full‐scale works  are included in its repertoire. The Orchestra also explores new musical frontiers, commissioning new works of various types and styles. Over the years, has commissioned more than 2,100 original compositions and arrangements. The Orchestra currently has an establishment of 85 musicians who perform in the four sections comprising bowed‐strings, plucked‐strings, wind and percussion instruments. Traditional as well as improved Chinese instruments are incorporated.