Computing takes second fiddle as graduate follows his heart

Benny Man Ka-shing is one university graduate who has opted for a road less well travelled.

He studied information engineering at the University of Hong Kong but knew even before completing the course that his future lay elsewhere. While his degree might have led to a well-paid job, his heart was in music, particularly the violin, which he has been playing since he was seven.

The 23-year-old recently switched to the viola to satisfy a shortage of players in the Students' Union Philharmonic Orchestra, with which he still plays.

'I don't consider the switch as something inferior. Indeed, it's good for my musical development. Also, my sense of music is better now,' he says.

'I get a sense of satisfaction from a performance. I hope people like my music and I will continue to bring them good music.'

Although he has never worked as a computer engineer, Mr Man has kept busy with his music. He gives lessons to children, both individually and in groups, which form his main source of income. Last year he also set up a business called L'amour Strings with some of his orchestra friends to perform at functions, including banquets, cocktail parties and weddings.

'I noticed that at some weddings and parties, live music was in demand and I came up with the idea,' Mr Man says.