EP 16 | Kundera & Beethoven

Winner of the 2021 International Chopin Piano Competition, Bruce Liu has become a real sensation of the pianistic world and has been on an extensive tour across the world’s most prestigious stages. The recording of his title-winning performance was praised by Gramophone as "one of the most distinguished Chopin recitals of recent years, full of maturity, character and purpose." We are thrilled to welcome Bruce to this new episode of 'Music in Words'. In conversation with Prof. Daniel Chua, Bruce talks about his artistic inspirations, interests in jazz and karting, thoughts on his overnight success and how technology influences the evolution of artistic approaches. Playlist: '⁠Bruce Liu in the Time of COVID-19 Playlist⁠'Video: '⁠Bruce Liu in the Time of COVID-19⁠' on YouTubeSpeaker: Bruce LiuModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: August 2022

In his fifties, British pianist Paul Lewis made his second Schubert Piano Sonatas journey with a more 'human' reading in Schubert's music. Before the last two instalments of the cycle at HKU MUSE, he spoke with Prof. Daniel Chua about interpreting Schubert's works, including the last three sonatas. They explored the trilogy's charming lyricism, profound silences, and the harrowing moments of despair and hope that reflect aformidable pursuit of life's meaning. Tune in to discover what one of today's finest exponents of Schubert has learned about the human experience from the monumental cycle.Speaker: Paul LewisModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: Jan 2024

Step into the world of Renée Fleming, one of the most celebrated voices of our time! In this lively conversation with Prof. Daniel Chua, Ms. Fleming reflects on her lifelong devotion to music, from a rich musical childhood to her acclaimed operatic career. Through stories of mentorship, creativity, and advocacy for the arts, she reveals how music continues to inspire, heal, and transform.Speaker: Renée FlemingModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: Oct 2025

Tune in and listen to Hong Kong's own Aristo Sham, gold medalist of the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. In this conversation hosted by Prof. Daniel Chua, Aristo offers insights into how Hong Kong's dynamic music scene has shaped his artistry and success. Don’t miss this chance to discover the experiences and inspirations driving the next chapter of his extraordinary career.Speaker: Aristo ShamModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: Aug 2025

Tune in as Thai pianist Poom Prommachart unveils Fantasia Divina, a thrilling new work written for him by celebrated Australian composer Carl Vine and destined to become a piano masterpiece. In this episode, Poom sits down with Prof. Daniel Chua to discuss his connection with the composer and the captivating story behind his royal affiliation, having studied under the patronage of Princess Galyani of Thailand. He also reflects on the challenges of balancing a teaching career with his performance pursuits. Get an exclusive first look at this remarkable work before its world premiere!Fantasia Divina is commissioned by the Music Department and Cultural Management Office of the University of Hong Kong with support from the UOB (United Overseas Bank).Speaker: Poom PrommachartModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: Nov 2024

Berlin Philharmonic Concertmaster Daishin Kashimoto and pianist Alessio Bax share a deep friendship on and off stage. In this 'Music in Words' dialogue hosted by Prof. Daniel Chua, they reflect on their decade-long collaboration, the joy of making music together, and the challenges of balancing their busy orchestral and solo careers with chamber performances. Speaker: Daishin Kashimoto and Alessio BaxModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: May 2023

Conductor Elim Chan captivates audiences at prestigious halls and festivals worldwide. In this 'Music in Words' dialogue hosted by Prof. Daniel Chua, she shares her artistic journey from a young musician in Hong Kong to a globe-trotting conductor, reflecting on her challenges, passion, and dedication to contemporary music.Speaker: Elim ChanModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: November 2024

Dutch pianist Hannes Minnaar is set for his Hong Kong Debut: a 3-hour solo recital of Shostakovich's complete 24 Preludes and Fugues, and a chamber performance of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 with HK Phil string principals.Ahead of the concerts, Minnaar joins Prof. Daniel Chua for an online 'Music in Words' dialogue, offering insights into these iconic works and reflecting on a journey that began with the Queen Elisabeth Competition. Tune in and discover how Minnaar breathes life into every note he plays.Speaker: Hannes MinnaarModerator: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: March 2025

Explore how Milan Kundera's The Unbearable Lightness of Being intertwines with Beethoven's final string quartet, Op. 135. Professor Daniel Chua, Chair Professor of Music at HKU, delves into the philosophical themes of existence, decision-making, and the contrasts between lightness and heaviness. The episode also features the Czech Philharmonic String Principals, who perform musical excerpts to illustrate the rich interplay between music and literature.Speaker: Prof. Daniel ChuaMonth of Recording: March 2025

Legendary harpsichordist Andreas Staier talks with Prof. Daniel Chua before his recital at HKU MUSE.They discuss the philosophy behind his unique interpretations and the aesthetics of his latest solo album, Méditation. Speakers: Andreas Staier Moderator: Prof. Daniel Chua Month of Recording: October 2024