Musical Travels: The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra – Between Tradition and Innovation

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra was founded in 1977 and is set up as a ‘Chinese Orchestra’. This ensemble uses modernised Chinese instruments and incorporates some elements of Western music traditions such sitting in a fan shape, having a conductor, equal temperament, etc. [1] The improved instruments needed to play in the Chinese Orchestra were developed during the 1950’s, for example by the musicians of the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra [2] (also see a previous article on the Chinese Orchestra here [https://sonograma.org/2017/10/north-korea-catalonia-enora-suona-jangsaenap/]). The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is situated within a tradition that is intrinsically linked to Chinese history and culture. However, it is also an innovative institution that exceeds the mere purpose of continuing a musical tradition.