Young musicians take centre stage in Hong Kong and Bangkok
From piano to drum set, singing to musical theatre, and solo performances to ensemble work, 471 finalists from a festival that attracted over 750 participants brought their diverse talents to the 19th Hong Kong (Asia Pacific) Music Competition.
Co-presented by London College of Music Examinations (LCME) and the Hong Kong Musician Association, the competition celebrated the breadth of musical expression, with young performers from Hong Kong, Macau, Mainland China, Bangkok, and Indonesia showcasing their skills across piano, guitar, violin, cello, drum set, singing, musical theatre, and ensemble performances.
The festival ran from June to November 2025, with events taking place at Hong Kong City Hall on 29 June, Hong Kong Sheung Wan Civic Centre on 4 October, Siam Patumwan House in Bangkok on 18 and 19 October, and Hong Kong Youth Square on 1 and 2 November. Run by Happy Sound Music, the competition demonstrated the growing reach of LCME qualifications across the Asia Pacific. Whether performing a delicate violin piece, delivering a powerful vocal performance, or driving a dynamic drum rhythm, each finalist demonstrated how LCME's flexible approach supports performers across all disciplines.
Professor John Howard from LCME joined the festivities as a judge alongside Dr Chu Ching Hong from Hong Kong Musician Association, Professor Zhao Jin from Xinghai Conservatory of Music, Dr Zhao Ming from Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ms Maggie Lai from Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, renowned music director Mr Cheung Ka Shing Alan, and other recognised musicians and music educators from Hong Kong and China. Professor Howard also met with performers and their teachers throughout the festival.
Beyond the competition stage, approximately 60 teachers gathered, both onsite and online, for a teaching session focused on LCME's updated Early Learning syllabus. The workshop provided an opportunity for educators to explore fresh approaches to nurturing young talent from the very beginning of their musical journey.
The partnership between LCME and Happy Sound Music continues to create pathways for young musicians across the region to gain international recognition while celebrating their achievements within their local communities.
Interest in taking an LCME exam in Asia?
You can find contact information for Happy Sound Music and other local LCME exam centres here.