Hong Kong is a city known for its energy … and consequently, its noise level. Some people ask me whether being a musician, I am bothered by all the noise. I actually find the busy bustle and the noise endearing… because it shows me that Hong Kong is alive with vigour. I tell them therefore that I would not choose to live anywhere else on earth – because Hong Kong is my home, and it represents a big part of my "wonderful world".

Living in a busy commercial city like Hong Kong, we often tend to associate the word "wonderful" with direct experiences associated with "commodities" such as a good meal or a nice concert. Food and music are indeed wonderful – and I am not suggesting that they should not be associated with the word. However, I believe that we should go beyond just acknowledging the feeling of a good night out, and expand our horizons to be more aware of more subtle things that form the impression of our "wonderful world". Everyone's "wonderful world" is different – in content and in proportion.

Throughout Hong Kong Sinfonietta’s 2011/2012 season, I have prepared a programme on a loose theme on things that may make up your "wonderful world" – some may not be "wonderful" at first sight, or others which you may have missed because you had been too busy. Through music and other art forms, we remind you of the bountiful world we live in – with starry skies and shimmering seas; with dance and music; and the abundant opportunities around us… only when we are able to appreciate the world we live in – will we be able to create a "wonderful world" for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Hong Kong Sinfonietta is your orchestra! Let us lead you into our colourful world of possibilities and perspectives – a wonderful world which is all encompassing – for everyone!