One of the hallmarks of a cultured city is its orchestra, says maestro Hans Graf.
“Orchestras are the crown jewel of bourgeois society. Like museums or universities that teach Latin or philosophy, they are the most beautiful expressions of culture,” says Graf, who was appointed the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s music director last month after two years as its chief conductor.
During his career spanning over 40 years, the 73-year-old Upper Austrian conductor has served as music director of numerous notable orchestras globally, including the Mozarteum Orchestra Salzburg and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
The charming and chatty music director reveals he intended to step back from music directorship duties in 2013 after helming the Houston Symphony. But after conducting concerts for the SSO in 2015 and 2018, he saw something special, which inspired him to become more involved.
He was attracted by its efficiency and competitiveness. “The orchestra is well run and maintained at an international standard. The musicians are open-minded and keen to produce good results. The way they perform is not biased,” says Graf, who includes the Sydney, Melbourne, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Malaysian Philharmonic orchestras among his regular guest appearances.
This story is from the August 2022 edition of The PEAK Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2022 edition of The PEAK Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
SECRET FUN
Behind imposing angular structures lies a portal to the family's very own clubhouse, complete with a pool and basketball court.
RATTAN REIMAGINED
From chance discovery to mastery, Ng Si Ying’s journey into rattan weaving bridges tradition and modernity with every piece she creates.
AN APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE
Forget the pampering body wraps and hot stone massages. Andrew Leci discovers that adventure is the best path to a spiritual awakening.
PARADISE, PRESERVED
Luxury and purpose are embraced at this idyllic retreat tucked away in Indonesia’s Anambas Archipelago.
GRAPES OF CHANGE
The time is ripe to explore the burgeoning potential of Asia's wine regions, where innovative winemakers are cultivating distinct flavours and putting their mark on the global wine scene.
VESSELS OF THE HEART
Daisuke Shibuya, head sommelier at one-Michelin-starred Terra, shares his penchant for collecting cups and glasses, and how his eclectic collection mirrors his approach to wine.
ONE OF ONE
At the by-appointment-only Rolls-Royce Private Office Seoul, where clients can commission bespoke, one-of-a-kind Rolls-Royce creations, nothing is too complex or unattainable.
WATCH HIS WORLD
Radiologist and self-professed watch addict Dominic Liew, who began collecting at 15, shares what makes him tick.
PERFECTION PERSONIFIED
Swiss master artisan Agnes Paul-Depasse, who makes straw, feather, and silk thread marquetry dials for Hermes, reveals eight fascinating truths about such rare historical crafts.
FACES OF CHANGE
These days, it's not unusual for watch brands to have exclusive boutiques.
