Andrew Wu Kong-fung recalls his triumph at the Barbara Fei Vocal Solo Prize earlier in 2025 – a defining milestone in his artistic journey – with feeling. Contestants had to perform a Chinese contemporary art song composed specifically for the competition.
“It was challenging because there were no existing interpretations to reference. We had to discover the essence of the piece entirely on our own,” Wu said.
A graduate from St Stephen’s College now pursuing a degree in politics and public administration at the University of Hong Kong, the 18-year-old entered the prestigious competition during an exceptionally demanding period in his life.
Wu received the song assignment while preparing for the public university entrance exams, leaving him torn between academic responsibilities and musical preparation.
“The song was rhythmically and vocally complex,” he said. “We had just two months to prepare, and at one point, I nearly gave up due to the intense workload and time pressure.”
Preparing for the competition required more than technical mastery – it demanded emotional probing and insight. Singers were expected to analyse the score meticulously and infuse their renditions with personal expression to captivate the judges. It was this original, heartfelt input that breathed life into the music on stage.
A self-confessed perfectionist, Wu holds himself to high standards and thrives on new challenges. He was named as one of the finalists in the Performing Artist category at the 2024/25 Student of the Year Awards, organised by the South China Morning Post and solely sponsored by The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
His professional-calibre performance at the presentation ceremony in July left the audience awestruck, earning him thunderous applause.
“I strive for consistency by rehearsing songs repeatedly, so I can deliver the same quality whether I’m performing live or practising in the studio,” Wu said.
Wu’s passion for music led him to enrol in the Junior Music Programme at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), where he received comprehensive training in vocal performance and composition.
“The programme nurtures emerging musicians and helps shape their artistic identity,” he said. “As I’ve developed my skills as a conductor, I’ve become more analytical and critical in how I appreciate music.”
His education at HKAPA also inspired him to co-found and serve as artistic director of the multimedia project “Cityscapes of Central”. The innovative work blends original classical scores with videography to explore the unique character of Hong Kong’s Central district – a place Andrew sees as a microcosm of urban life.
“It captures the vibrant rhythm of Central from dawn to midnight. Through storytelling, I hope to make classical music more accessible and engaging for a broader audience,” he said.
Beyond commissioning original compositions from fellow musicians, he also conducted the youth chamber orchestra during the piece’s live premiere. From shaping the musical narrative to coordinating visual elements, “I left my stamp all over it,” Wu said.
“The experience transformed my approach to conducting. I learned how to harness … every instrument in the orchestra,” he said. “It’s a cherished memory and a deeply rewarding journey for me and my friends.”
Wu also continues to embrace his role as an ambassador for the arts in Hong Kong: “I want to inspire the next generation and experiment with new ways to make music resonate more with people.”
