Sands China Performing Arts Program Outreach Series – Winter Showcase Receives Enthusiastic Response

Three captivating performances draw 3,200 audience members
Promoting the revitalization work in Macao's targeted districts

(Macao, Jan 17, 2024) – A combined audience of more than 3,200 recently enjoyed the Sands China Performing Arts Program Outreach Series – Winter Showcase, which presented three outdoor orchestral performances at Macao Cultural Centre Square and The Venetian^® Macao's lagoon area between Dec. 16 and 30 – as part of Sands China's revitalization efforts.

Supported by the Cultural Affairs Bureau, the Sands China Performing Arts Program Outreach Series – Winter Showcase was a result of the joint effort of Sands China and the Macau Band Directors Association. The meticulously curated concerts were intentionally delivered at one of Macao's public areas and at an integrated resort's outdoor area, letting the public immerse themselves in the charm of wind music with a unique experience during the festive Christmas season. It was also an opportunity to enhance artistic and cultural exchange between a group of 230 gifted musicians – from Japan's Hachioji High School Wind Orchestra and the Macau Youth Symphonic Band – to learn from each other.

"We are thrilled that the new Sands China Performing Arts Program Outreach Series is achieving great success," said Dr. Wilfred Wong, president of Sands China Ltd. "Sands China utilised the area of the Macao Cultural Centre Square, where we successfully hosted the 120-member Hachioji High School Wind Orchestra from Japan to bring an exceptional performance to the audience. The orchestra made their debut in Macao with an extraordinary, interactive performing style, not only broadening people's horizons toward performing arts, but also breaking new ground in promoting music in the community. In addition, the other two performances of the series delivered by the 110-member Macau Youth Symphonic Band also received widespread acclaim and an encouraging response. Our company will continue to support the revitalization work in Macao and to organise cultural and arts events in the community. Our thanks go to the Cultural Affairs Bureau for their continued support, the local and overseas musicians for their stunning performances, and Macao residents and tourists for joining us to make it a successful event."

The first performance of the series featured the introduction of the 120-member Hachioji High School Wind Orchestra from Japan at Macao Cultural Centre Square on Dec. 16. The event earned enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience, as it brought them a unique opportunity to witness a lively, large-scale marching band performance. Sands China invited a total of 130 participants from the Against Child Abuse (Macau) Association Child Protection Centre and the Good Shepherd Sisters Women's Mutual Help Centre, as well as Sands Cares Ambassadors, to enjoy this enchanting show to share the joy of the festive season with the community.

In addition, the Macau Youth Symphonic Band – a long-time hub for nurturing local music professionals – played festive Christmas favourites on Dec. 28 at The Venetian Macao's lagoon area and well-known anime and J-pop songs on Dec. 30 at Macao Cultural Centre Square, stirring the audience with nostalgic charm.

Leong Pui Long, conductor of the Macau Youth Symphonic Band, said: "With a unique approach in each performance, this event attracted a large number of audience members and received overwhelming support – all exceeding our expectations. We are grateful to the audience for their enthusiastic response as it was the first time we performed at Macao Cultural Centre Square. We would like to express our gratitude to Sands China for organising such an amazing event and fostering artistic and cultural exchange between Japan's and Macao's musicians. I truly believe that it has created unforgettable memories among these young music talents."

The Macau Youth Symphonic Band is one of the ensembles of the Macau Band Directors Association, which was established in 1996 and has been actively involved in conducting band training in numerous schools in Macao for over two decades. The Hachioji High School Wind Orchestra has received numerous accolades and has participated in prestigious competitions such as the All-Japan Band Competition, the All-Japan Marching Contest, and the All-Japan Ensemble Contest.

The Winter Showcase was part of Sands China's revitalization efforts, which include other initiatives such as the revitalization and optimisation plan of the areas around the Iec Long Firecracker Factory, Pátio da Eterna Felicidade and Rua das Estalagens, in cooperation with the Macao SAR government. It is also the company's objective to organise a diverse range of activities encompassing culture, arts and sports at Macao Cultural Centre Square, making it a new option for hosting outdoor events in Macao.

 

Photo caption: Sands China invited a total of 130 participants from the Against Child Abuse (Macau) Association Child Protection Centre and the Good Shepherd Sisters Women's Mutual Help Centre, as well as Sands Cares Ambassadors, to enjoy the enchanting show of the Hachioji High School Wind Orchestra on Dec. 16, sharing the joy of the festive season with the community.