Front-row ticket

He says that BSO has perfected the art of online performance during the pandemic — something fans in Hong Kong will now benefit from: "We all are keen to connect with Hong Kong deeply through music. Everyone is aware that what we are to play is a real privilege — and programmatically, the absolute highlight of our season."

As for the pros and cons of the medium, "Of course, there's nothing more authentic than to listen to concerts or opera performances live," says Hr?a. "But in cases like this — when we'd like to travel to Hong Kong but can't — the online format makes it possible to connect at all." Also, the audience gets to see more intimate details. "It's exciting to watch masters of their instruments closely while they're creating … deeply inspired by the present moment. The camera work can be quite moving: the musicians always give their best, and to witness that up close — the feeling coming out of great music is multiplied."