Interview by William Chan
The 42nd Macao Young Musicians Competition, being hosted by the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), will run until tomorrow. The contest, dedicated to both Chinese and Western instruments, includes solo and ensemble sections for participants to compete in.
Local musicians Alex Cheng Chun Chong and Yukie Lai U Kei spoke to the Post online about their students’ involvement in the competition.
Lai said that she had 16 percussion students participating, divided into intermediate solo and percussion ensemble categories. “Half of them have only been learning for a year, participating for the first time, while others have been studying for several years and have gained experience,” she noted.
According to Lai, her students respectively achieved third place in the intermediate solo category, second place in the ensemble category, with others receiving distinctions and merit ratings. “The students are all very happy, particularly those in the ensemble category. I believe that collaborating with peers and succeeding together is more fulfilling than individual accolades. The delight of teamwork not only offers a gratifying experience but also serves as a testament to the bonds of camaraderie among peers.”
The ensemble spent about six months practising, with rehearsals once a week, Lai said, pointing out: “Since there were many new students, it took more time to hone their skills and establish an understanding with teammates.” Regarding solo performances, she mentioned a similar practice timeframe of six months, with weekly reviews of past lessons. “In contrast, solo performances can often pose greater technical challenges, demanding increased personal practice time – underscored by the students’ discipline and commitment,” she underlined.
For Lai, while it’s great that they won awards, the greatest joy for her comes from witnessing their progress, starting from scratch and achieving something meaningful.
Cheng, a trumpet and saxophone teacher, said that eight of his students participated in the music competition, competing in the saxophone solo elementary and intermediate categories, as well as the elementary solo junior category.
“For most students, this was their first formal music competition. They all received awards, with positions including third place in the elementary saxophone category and first place in the elementary trumpet category. Additionally, several students achieved distinction and merit ratings, Cheng said, adding that the youngsters were very proud and excited about their performances.
Cheng noted that they started intensive practice for this competition in mid-June. “The students dedicated a significant amount of time each week to practise and put in a lot of effort. I am very happy and delighted with the results they achieved,” he said.
Cheng said he felt that the overall organisation of the competition was excellent. “The venue was spacious, well-equipped, and the staff were very professional and enthusiastic.”
Lai agreed, pointing out the difficulty in finding suitable venues for percussion competitions. “Instrument transportation, loading and unloading the lorries, as well as ensuring appropriate backstage areas are all important factors to consider for finding venues.” This time, the percussion competition took place at Escola Oficial de Seac Pai Van, which, while far away, has good facilities to support the competition.
Both underlined that the competition was a great experience for their students. “I believe that through this valuable experience, their musical skills and stage presence will be further improved,” Cheng noted.
Local musician Alex Cheng Chun Chong (right) poses with his trumpet student at Escola Oficial de Seac Pai Van recently. – Photos provided by Cheng
Local musician Yukie Lai U Kei (left) poses with her students at Escola Oficial de Seac Pai Van recently. – Photos provided by Lai
