Interview by William Chan
Macao Orchestra (OM) Principal Conductor Lio Kuok Man told The Macau Post Daily in an online interview last week that he will be conducting the “Makoto Ozone with Macao Orchestra” concert on December 23.
According to a statement from integrated resort operator Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), the upcoming show at the Galaxy International Convention Centre will mark the first music performance in the auditorium. The statement highlighted the return of Japanese jazz musician Makoto Ozone, who will once again join forces with the Macao Orchestra, following their previous collaboration in 2010. Makoto Ozone has received high praise from The New York Times, which described him as “thrilling, virtuosic, and unabashedly personal.” The 62-year-old has even garnered a Grammy Award nomination.
In addition to Makoto Ozone, the performance next Saturday (December 23) will feature bassist Shimpei Ogawa and drummer Kunito Kitai.
Makoto Ozone & Macao Orchestra
When asked about his inspiration to collaborate with Makoto Ozone, a renowned jazz artist, Lio*, who is not only a recognised classical musician but also the music advisor to the orchestra, emphasised the limitless nature of music. He quoted Leonard Bernstein, whom he greatly admires, as saying, “There is no ‘serious’ music or ‘unserious’ music, just good music and bad music.” Lio said that he enjoys listening to various genres of music and believes in working with artists beyond the boundaries of classical music.
Lio, a local-born musician, noted that he had the wonderful opportunity to meet Makoto Ozone and perform with him in Tokyo, and through their shared admiration for each other’s artistry, they developed a strong friendship. He recalled their collaboration with the NHK Symphony Orchestra, where Makoto Ozone showcased his versatility by playing Prokofiev’s 3rd piano concerto, with a touch of improvisation in the middle. Lio expressed deep admiration for Makoto Ozone’s ability to navigate both the classical and jazz worlds seamlessly. He emphasised that Makoto Ozone’s talent and adaptability are qualities he greatly admires.
“When I was planning the Macao Orchestra season, Makoto Ozone was the first artist who came to mind for a crossover jazz concert,” said Lio, who underlined his excitement about the upcoming event, adding that it would be a special occasion to celebrate Christmas with the audience through this unique programme.
Jazz fascinations & challenges
When asked about the concert programmes, Lio emphasised that it would be a dynamic and spontaneous experience, akin to stepping into a jazz bar where the audience wouldn’t know what to expect until the moment unfolds. The first half of the concert would feature Makoto Ozone performing with his piano trio, showcasing some of his signature compositions. In the second half, Makoto will collaborate with the Macao Orchestra, performing his own composition as well as a Mozart concerto with jazz improvisations. I have a feeling that Mozart would be delighted to hear someone improvising a jazz-style cadenza for him!” Lio said.
Lio acknowledged the challenge involved in embracing the “on the spot” moments of improvisation, as classical musicians are accustomed to following scores and rarely engage in spontaneous improvisation. However, Lio highlighted that the best classical musicians are skilled at improvising on stage to ensure each concert feels fresh and unique, a belief he shares as well. He underlined the need for flexibility during rehearsals while also being able to “feel the stage” and be spontaneous during live performances, particularly when collaborating with jazz artists. Lio expressed his excitement about the upcoming evening, believing it would be a highly thrilling experience that he couldn’t wait for.
The ticket prices for the concert at Galaxy Auditorium on December 23 starting at 8 p.m. are 400, 300, 250 patacas. For more information, visit:
www.galaxymacau.com/offers/entertainment/galaxy-entertainment-group-christmas-presents-makoto-ozone-macao-orchestra/
*Lio’s biography, music insights, and perspectives on the Macao Orchestra are available in a previous exclusive interview with The Macau Post Daily, which was published on August 30: www.macaupostdaily.com/article19011
Japanese jazz pianist Makoto Ozone poses with his grand piano in this undated file photo provided by Macao Orchestra yesterday.
This undated photo shows local conductor Lio Kuok Man posing in front of the Ruins of St. Paul’s. – Photo provided by Lio
Principal Conductor Lio Kuok Man conducts the Macao Orchestra during its season-opening concert in September at the Macau Cultural Centre (CCM). – Photos provided by Macao Orchestra
