THE world of the classical orchestra is often punctuated by heady outbursts of fiery temperament. The Hongkong Philharmonic is no exception.
Rocked in the past decade by a series of changes of musical director and wracked by sackings two years ago, it was hoped the black-clad ladies and gentlemen of the Cultural Centre's orchestra pit had settled into a harmonious rhythm.
But the temporary truce at the Hongkong Philharmonic is about to be shattered yet again. For Marcus Lehmann, long serving and, say friends, long suffering First Associate Concertmaster has been told his contract will not be renewed at the end of the summer season. The blow comes after 14 years with the company.
Worse, the violinist has been ordered to stay at home in his Causeway Bay flat until August, unable to publicly play a single note.
This, it is claimed, comes a month before he appears before the Supreme Court in a legal action concerning an injury he received during the interval of a concert where he was a leading performer. The Hongkong Philharmonic Orchestra is part of the action.
As a result of his termination, fellow musicians, usually muted in their anger at such abrupt changes, are incensed. The feeling is said to be so strongly in support of Lehmann's plight that a petition is being prepared for presentation to the orchestra's management, board and, ultimately, to the public.
Also, claim senior players, the management may find up to 40 of the company's musicians handing in their resignations this summer.