The Hong Kong String Orchestra embarked on its 2026 tour from May 1 to 4, with shows in Beijing, Langfang, Hebei province, and Jinshanling, a mountainous scenic spot in Luanping county in Chengde, Hebei province, weaving a tapestry of Eastern and Western musical traditions.
The concert at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing on May 3 was held as part of the ongoing NCPA May Festival, which showcases chamber music.
Under the direction of renowned violinist Yao Jue, the ensemble performed selections from Madame Butterfly, which resonated alongside The Butterfly Lovers' Violin Concerto.
Music by contemporary composer Zhou Long reimagined Chinese folk songs through Western string techniques, while arrangements like the Hong Kong Golden Film Era Medley, a fresh arrangement by Hong Kong composer Ronald Fu celebrating half a century of iconic cinema, recalled themes from films including A Better Tomorrow and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. For many in the audience, these familiar melodies — reshaped through strings — felt both nostalgic and new.
The Hong Kong String Orchestra has spent years expanding its repertoire through commissions, collaborations, and adaptations. Works blending Cantonese Opera elements with Western compositions, as well as newly commissioned pieces inspired by Hong Kong's history and urban life, are part of this evolving identity.
One of the highlights was the Cantonese Opera Fantasia (2024), a violin and string orchestra piece by renowned composer Ye Guohui, which captures the essence of Lingnan culture.
The ensemble staged other pieces, including A Puccini Trilogy for String Orchestra, arranged by Cliff Clonot, and Bela Bartok's Divertimento BB 118.
This commitment reflects a broader artistic philosophy: rooted in tradition, yet constantly innovating.
"Music is a universal language," said Yao, also the founder of the orchestra. "Through it, we hope audiences can better understand Hong Kong's culture, diversity and spirit."
