The Unique Fusion of Cultures in Modest Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition

The Unique Fusion of Cultures in Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition

On October 24, 2026, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra will host its 414th concert at Suntory Hall, featuring a remarkable reinterpretation of Modest Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition. Conducted by Kah Chun Wong, this concert promises to be a standout event, showcasing the dynamic integration of Western orchestral music with traditional Chinese instruments.

Kah Chun Wong, the chief conductor of the orchestra, has skillfully arranged this composition while preserving the integrity of the original piano score. Unlike the more common orchestration by Maurice Ravel, Wong's version emphasizes the structure of Mussorgsky's work and employs a Concerto Grosso format, which creatively incorporates Chinese ethnic instruments. The audience will be treated to performances by soloists from the Singapore Chinese Orchestra, who will enhance the orchestral sound with their unique instruments:

- Dizi (Chinese transverse flute): Li Ching-Tsun
- Yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer): Ma Huan
- Huqin (Chinese bowed string instruments like erhu): Tan Man-Man
- Pipa (Chinese lute): Wang Su-Wen
- Percussion: Benjamin Wu

Wong's approach reflects the multicultural identity of Singapore, where he hails from—a nation known for its blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures. To infuse local flavor into his arrangement, Wong has creatively woven in sounds representing traditional Malay hand drums called Kompang and phrases mimicking the calls of the native Asian Koel bird, resulting in a rich tapestry of multicultural sounds that resonate with the audience.

A Success in the Classical World

This ambitious arrangement has already garnered acclaim, having its world premiere at the Nuremberg Classic Open Air Music Festival before an audience of 75,000. It's also been widely broadcast on classical music channels such as 3SAT and BR-Klassik in Germany, affirming its impact on the international classical music scene.

The concert will also feature a performance by the talented pianist Keigo Mukawa, who has been recognized in prestigious international competitions. He will perform Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1, further elevating the concert to an extraordinary level with its renowned romanticism and technical demands.

Concert Details

Event Name: Japan Philharmonic Orchestra 414th Concert
Date: October 24, 2026 (Saturday) at 14:00
Venue: Suntory Hall
Ticket Sales Start: July 7, 2026
Performers:

- Conductor: Kah Chun Wong
- Piano: Keigo Mukawa
- Percussion: Benjamin Wu
- Dizi: Li Ching-Tsun
- Yangqin: Ma Huan
- Huqin: Tan Man-Man
- Pipa: Wang Su-Wen

Program:

- Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23
- Mussorgsky (arr. Kah Chun Wong): Pictures at an Exhibition

Ticket Prices:

- S Seat: ¥9,000
- A Seat: ¥7,500
- B Seat: ¥6,500
- C Seat: ¥5,500
- P Seat: ¥4,500
- Gs (70 years and older): ¥5,500
- Ys (25 years and younger): ¥2,500

Ticket Purchase

For tickets, please contact the Japan Philharmonic Service Center at 03-5378-5911 (weekdays 10:00-17:00) or via e-ticket available at https://eticket.japanphil.or.jp.

Sponsors: Elecom Co., Ltd.
Support: Temasek Foundation
Endorsement: Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Japan

This concert not only highlights the brilliance of classical music but also serves as a cultural bridge that connects various traditions, reflecting the ethos of the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra. As they continue to explore unique music programming under the baton of Kah Chun Wong, audiences are invited to experience the transformative power of orchestral music.