HONG KONG — The Fourth International Conducting Competition for Chinese Music concluded on July 27, 2024, after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Huang Wei-cheih, a master’s student at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, emerged as the winner, also claiming the “Audience’s Favorite” and “Media’s Choice” awards.
Initiated by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra in 2011, this competition, originally triennial, saw its fourth edition delayed. The initial round in late 2019 drew 59 participants from diverse countries, including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Canada, France, the United States, Malaysia, Vietnam, and South Korea.
Huang expressed surprise and gratitude for his win, acknowledging the high caliber of his fellow contestants and the support from judges and orchestra members.
Yan Huichang, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor for Life of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, explained the competition’s origins. He noted a shortage of talented Chinese music conductors a decade ago, which inspired the creation of this platform to discover and promote young conducting talent.
Zhao Jiping, renowned composer and former Chairman of the Chinese Musicians Association, hailed the competition as “a milestone in Chinese music development.”
Bian Zushan, co-head of the judging panel, highlighted the growing international interest in Chinese music, crediting the Chinese Orchestra’s efforts in promoting it globally.
Other notable winners included Feng Tianyou (second place), Guo Pan (third place and “Best Interpretation of Works of Hong Kong”), and Cui Yuanyuan (“Musicians’ Choice”).
This competition continues to play a crucial role in nurturing leadership talent in the Chinese music industry and promoting Chinese musical culture worldwide.
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