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New Impetus to Culture
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Exciting progress has been made in foster- ing the arts in Hong Kong which enjoys a rich blend of cultural activity. While traditional Chinese opera, music and enter- tainment continue to flourish, such notable events as the Hong Kong Arts Festival and the Festival of Asian Arts have increased substantially the range of artistic events, introducing local audiences to many lead- ing companies and performers from over- seas. Not only are performances held at complexes such as the City Hall and the Hong Kong Arts Centre, many are staged free in playgrounds and parks for all to experience. Major achievements in the arts in recent years include the opening of the Hong Kong Arts Centre, the establishment on a professional footing of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the setting up of a Music Administrator's Office, and the blossoming of ballet and theatre. It is mainly through our young people that new impetus is being gained in Hong Kong's cultural development. An example of their growing involvement in and appreciation of the arts was given in the summer when two youth orchestras, demonstrating a wealth of talent, made a triumphant tour of the United Kingdom. The emergence of a cultural scene with great potential and diversity reflects the tireless striving of teachers and patrons of the arts, officials of government, civil and cultural institu- tions, the sponsors of large-scale events, and countless others. Their efforts have been rewarded by the enthusiasm of Hong Kong people who are acquiring a stimula- ting cultural dimension in their lives.
Previous page: The internationally-acclaim- ed pianist, Fou T'song, rehearses for a public performance with the Hong Kong Youth Symphony Orchestra. Left: Accom- plished players with the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra play a new composition on the trumpet-like Bass Suo-na (top); the enchanting Pi-pa (centre); and the unique woodwind instrument, the Sheng (bottom).
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