SPECIAL CONCERT
Chamber
Concert
Saturday, Nov. 1st 2025 • 4:00
pm
University of Music Trossingen
Hong Kong Harmonica Association Harmonica Orchestra
(Hong Kong SAR, China)
The Hong Kong Harmonica Association was founded in 2002, quickly establishing itself as a prominent force in the harmonica community. The Association's Harmonica Orchestra made its international debut at the 4th Asia Pacific Harmonica Festival in Atsugi, Japan, where it performed the world premiere of HUI Cheung-wai’s “Elites Gathering.”
In 2003, during the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Harmonica Festival, the Orchestra again showcased its talent with the world premiere of MUI Kwong-chiu’s “Prelude for Harmonica Orchestra.” Since then, the Orchestra has participated in numerous prestigious events, including the Asia Pacific Harmonica Festivals in 2004 (Hong Kong), 2006 (Taipei), 2008 (Hangzhou), 2010 (Singapore), and 2012 (Kuala Lumpur), as well as the World Harmonica Festivals in Trossingen, Germany in 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2017. The Orchestra's performances during these festivals have included opening ceremonies, gala concerts, and special concerts, often featuring a remarkable scale of 50 to over 100 players.
The Orchestra's repertoire is diverse, encompassing original works by Hong Kong composers, classical pieces spanning various historical periods, and a wide range of musical styles. This blend of compositions has garnered recognition, establishing the Orchestra as a benchmark for showcasing both scale and musical excellence at harmonica festivals. Over the years, the Orchestra has premiered more than ten original works by local composers, with generous support from the Composers and Authors Society of Hong Kong. The Orchestra remains committed to its mission of presenting elite local compositions on the international stage.
Beyond harmonica festivals, the Orchestra has made significant contributions to the community. In 2003, it performed at the finale charity concert for the “Anti-SARS Campaign” at the Hong Kong International Airport, an event viewed by over 100 million people. In 2005 and 2006, the Orchestra organized pre-tour full concerts to prepare for upcoming international harmonica festivals. It was also invited by the Hong Kong Composers’ Guild in 2006 to perform at “Musicarama,” highlighting original harmonica compositions.
The Orchestra has participated in the Yuen Long Arts Festivals in 2007 and 2009. In 2010, a 90-player ensemble showcased its talents during the Hong Kong Week at the EXPO Shanghai, performing in the “Harmonica Extravaganza for the EXPO” and “Style Hong Kong” series, as well as providing the official red-carpet performance before the opening ceremony. In 2011, a 25-player Chamber Orchestra represented the Association at the Hong Kong Week of the International Horticultural EXPO in Xian, China, performing “Hong Kong Style … Harmonica” for nine shows and participating in the official opening ceremony.
The Hong Kong Harmonica Association Orchestra continues to inspire audiences worldwide with its dedication to the art of harmonica music.