From not knowing music to performing in 10 months, Hong Kong Blind Orchestra players hit right notes in launch ceremony
Hong Kong Blind Orchestra founder Timothy To says the visually impaired have a natural affinity for music
After just 10 months of preparation, the Hong Kong Blind Orchestra – the fifth of its kind in the world – hit the right notes at its launch ceremony.
The group’s founder and director, Timothy To Wing-ching, hopes the ensemble will pave the way towards a better future for its members.
He said he was inspired to set up the orchestra by his desire to help others by helping his friend Johnny Chang Siu-lung, who suddenly became blind over six years ago as he approached the age of 40.
“The visually impaired often have a natural affinity for music and the reproduction of songs. Music became my natural answer.”
“I hope the Hong Kong Blind Orchestra is not only able to create a better future for its members, but also one day be as good or even better than the world’s leading orchestras,” To said.
Chang is now one of the trombone players in the orchestra, which also includes 24 primary and secondary school pupils from Ebenezer School and Home for the Visually Impaired in Pok Fu Lam.
“The orchestra has given me hope, discipline and a thing to put genuine effort into. It has brought me so much happiness,” Chang said.