The Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra opened the 35th Hong Kong Arts Festival this week with an all-Russia programme featuring works by Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Rachmaninov.
Lauded for their technical perfection, expressiveness and versatility under the leadership of their musical director, Yuri Simonov, the orchestra demonstrated confidence and exuberance both on and off stage.
And despite pre-performance tension, some musicians were able to find a few quiet moments to relax and even send a text message or two.
More photographs of the orchestra's debut visit to Hong Kong can be seen in 'Behind the Scenes: The 2007 Hong Kong Arts Festival Photo Exhibition', on show at The Rotunda, Exchange Square (March 6-11); West Bridge, the link between Alexandra House and Landmark (March 12-18); and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (March 12-25).