When Guo Yazhi belches into his instrument, people sit up and listen. The suona - a trumpet-like device that has been played for hundreds of years on the mainland in open air processions - has a piercing, boisterous and powerful sound that commands attention.
'It has a strong, individualistic character - even a full orchestra can't drown out its exuberant sound,' says the suona principal of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO). 'At the same time it can be very expressive and romantic. Like a saxophone, you can play classical and pop tunes with it.'
The versatility of both the instrument and musician will be on show this weekend at Guo Yazhi - The Suona Story, part of the HKCO's virtuosi series, marking its 30th anniversary.
Conducted by artistic director Yan Huichang, with pop singer Anthony Wong Yiu-ming as special guest, the Friday programme is technically sophisticated and challenging, featuring works such as Qin Wensen's Beckoning the Phoenix. The Saturday show caters more to popular taste, with tunes such as Unchained Melody.
That the suona repertoire has been extended to contemporary music is largely thanks to Guo's efforts. Until 1993, the instrument was unable to produce half notes (sharps and flats). Guo, a graduate of the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, invented a removable reed that gives the suona chromatic capabilities and expands its range of expression. Guo's invention won him an award for technological advancement from the Ministry of Culture in 1995.
'I'm a contemporary guy and love popular music, especially romantic tunes,' says the 40-year-old father of one. 'By expanding its range, suona players can now venture outside the classical repertoire.' Not that the wind instrument has a restrictive repertoire, says Guo, who has just completed his first new recording in 11 years.
The suona originated in the Middle East, but has a 1,500-year history in China. It was a musical instrument for common folk, Guo says. Because of its expressive sound, it was played at both weddings and funerals. Nowadays, the suona is both a solo and orchestral instrument.
