Seize the Chance

Baroque enthusiasts, brace for a double dose of excitement this month as British countertenor Michael Chance (below) makes his Hong Kong debut, then holds a master class for aspiring vocalists.

Chance, who has gained wide recognition as an opera, concert and recording artist, will perform on January 25 at City Hall. He joins conductor Stephen Layton and the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong in a six-piece programme featuring works of Haydn, Vivaldi, Handel and Britten.

Chance (www.michaelchancecountertenor.co.uk) has performed at Britain's Covent Garden and Glyndebourne, Italy's La Scala Milan and the Sydney Opera House, Australia, and sung the title roles in operas by Gluck, Monteverdi, Cavalli and Mozart.

On January 26, Chance will conduct a two-hour vocal master class at the Cultural Centre.

'Participants will perform their prepared song or opera aria by any Baroque composer [and] Chance will comment and teach according to each individual case,' says Margaret Li, the orchestra's marketing manager. 'He might also share some general aspect or insight with the audience.'

Participants of the master class, which costs HK$480, must bring their own accompanist but a harpsichord will be provided. For those who wish to observe, tickets are HK$80.

To register for the class, call 2864 2156 or e-mail [email protected]. Book the master class on or before January 20 and enjoy a 20 per cent discount on tickets for Chance's performance (original prices: HK$120, HK$200 and HK$300). For more information, visit www.ccohk.com.