As an extension of the first series, the sequel of RTHK’s treasured recordings of live performances showcases the station’s own productions. From studios to a chorus to its name, Radio 4 has gradually emerged from a facilitator of fine music to an active music-maker in itself. The evolving process has been documented with recording of international artists. It was a time of the city’s economic takeoff in the 1970s, and there was always an interaction with musicians from the Mainland. All these features are captured in the next five episodes to celebrate the 90th anniversary of broadcasting in Hong Kong.

跟10月份第一輯比較,慶祝香港廣播九十週年的第二輯珍貴現場錄音,更多突出了港台製作的角色。從錄音室到以電台為名的合唱團,第四台的美樂平台逐漸由音樂提供者,發展成為積極音樂製作的參與者。過程中有國際級音樂家的足跡,有錄音為證,記錄港台以至香港1970年代起全方位起飛。邁向國際的同時,不離與國內音樂家的互動。11月份開始的五套節目,正是這段歷史的音樂檔案。

1/12 (Sat 星期六) 8pm

Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra: Haydn’s Creation

香港管弦樂團:海頓《創世記》

The last episode is a precious recording of Haydn’s Creation performed by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra on Palm Sunday in 1970. It offers an invaluable clue to the sound of the HK Phil before it turned professional four years later. The concert took place during Easter and the annual schools

music festival. The latter brought in music experts from the UK, such as the scholar-conductor Anthony Hopkins who directed both the Philharmonic and the Combined Christian Choir, along with top local soloists, including soprano Nancy Zi as Gabriel and baritone Hwang Iurhen, as Adam. The orchestra

leader was Y. S. Liu, the incumbent chair of HK Phil. Little wonder Dr Bard once sighed to this writer how he wished the pre-professional HK Phil would be granted some recognition for its contribution to classical music in Hong Kong. This vintage recording is a testimony to the late maestro’s wish.

業餘時期的香港管弦樂團的水平一直是個謎。這場1970年3月22日在大會堂實況演出的《創世記》是個重要參考。演出當日正好是棕櫚聖日,也是香港學校音樂節檔期,促成由訪港英國音樂學者鶴健士指揮樂團,連同教會合唱團,以及女高音徐美芬、男中音黃友仁等聯合演出。當時

樂隊首席為現任港樂主席劉元生。白德醫生生前曾唏噓表示,1974年職業化前港樂的貢獻,應予以肯定。這個錄音可以作證。