According to Daniel Froschauer, the first violinist and chairman of the world’s greatest orchestra, Hong Kong has a special place in his and the Orchestra’s heart
Widely recognised as the world’s most prestigious orchestra, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra will perform in Hong Kong on October 24 and 25 as part of its Asia tour this year. Sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, this will be the city’s first concert by a major international orchestra since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Conducted by Franz Welser-Möst, the programme will include some of the most celebrated pieces by Wagner, Strauss, Dvořák and Brahms.
This 180-year-old orchestra debuted in 1842 with a performance of Beethoven’s famous Symphony No.7, and over the years have been conducted by some of history’s most famous composers, including Brahms and Strauss, as well as modern icons like Star Wars and Harry Potter composer John Williams. Its annual New Year and Summer concerts are also some of Europe’s most sought-after cultural events.
Tickets for their Hong Kong stop sold out within a few hours, but for those who can’t make the concert in-person, the performance will be livestreamed on RTHK TV32, RTHK Radio 4 and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department’s website.
Ahead of the concerts next week, Tatler talks to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra’s chairman and first violinist, Daniel Froschauer, about the group’s visit to Hong Kong, and the historical significance of the orchestra, which performed with Beethoven himself.
Don't miss: D’Strict, South Korean Art Tech Group, Brings Immersive Exhibition to Hong Kong