YOU may not know the title of the song, but when you hear it, chances are you’ll be able to sing along to the chorus.
This is the promise by Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) to Cantopop fans at their upcoming concert, “Symphony of Memories: Nostalgic Hong Kong Classics” on March 22.
The two-hour concert at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) will start at 8pm.
In gauging the popularity of the Chinese pop genre played live by a full orchestra, it is to be noted that close to 80% of the tickets have already been sold.
This is not the first time MPO has presented a Chinese popular music concert.
In 2023, there was the Teresa Teng Tribute Concert with Chinese singer Chen Jia.
When Chen sang The Moon Represents My Heart, hailed by Teng’s fans to be her greatest hit, the audience sang a line from the chorus.
The same reaction is expected at Symphony of Memories, where the 60-strong orchestra will present fresh arrangements for 15 songs that were big hits from Hong Kong drama series and movies, or performed by famous Cantopop singers.
Traditional Chinese instruments that will be incorporated into the orchestra are the erhu, yangqin, dizi and pipa.
Performing as vocalists are four Malaysian singers: Amy Chan, Lim Yong Huat, Kaho Loh and Tan Soo Suan.
Loh, a former student of SMJK Sam Tet in Ipoh, Perak, said one number he looks forward to performing is Lament of Life’s Lessons, a hit by Hong Kong singer Sam Hui.
Malaysian film buffs will remember that it was also used as a movie soundtrack for Sepet, a 2005 film by the late Yasmin Ahmad.
As such, he is confident many non-Chinese would also know the chorus to this song, which translates as “When it is destined, it will happen. If it’s not, don’t force it”.
“My father is a big fan of Hui, and I will be dedicating this song to him,” said Loh.
Though it will be Loh, Chan and Lim’s first time performing on the DFP stage, these seasoned vocalists say they are not nervous.
“Our challenge is not about getting the pitch right or reaching the high or low notes.
“The challenge lies in how we can further improve the delivery of these famous hits.
“Of course, as professional singers, we have our sifu (master) who will give us guidance on this,” said Chan.
The Pahang-born singer who will present her rendition of Myriad Emotions from Hong Kong drama series The Bund starring Chow Yun Fat, has planned two costume changes.
Chan said she is working with her designer to ensure the voluminous gowns planned for that segment befitted the grandeur of the drama series’ famous opening lyrics, “long ban, long lau” (rushing waves, flowing waves).
Lim, who hails from Bagan Datuk, Perak, and is the 2018 champion of the Astro Classic Golden Melody Contest, said the audience could look forward to a memorable performance.
He will perform Boundless Oceans, Vast Skies by Hong Kong rock band Beyond.
As a show of support, Lim said about 100 of his relatives from Bagan Datuk had bought tickets to watch him perform.
“Just imagine the sound of the orchestra and the vocalists coming together to present famous Cantonese hits of the ’70s to the ’90s,” he said, adding that it would offer a unique experience compared to listening to the recorded versions.
“There will be a different kind of sparkle to the music.
“Not only will you be able to feel the melody in your blood, but it will also evoke a certain nostalgia of yesteryear,” said Lim.
For details, visit www.mpo.com.my
