#Sands China #Macao #Macau Band Directors Association #Amet's Family

A Grand Celebration of Music: The 30th Anniversary Concert of the Macau Band Directors Association

On November 10, 2026, the Macau Band Directors Association (MBDA) marked a significant milestone, its 30th anniversary, with a breathtaking concert at The Parisian Theatre. This event not only commemorated three decades of inspiring young musicians but also celebrated the 10th anniversary of The Parisian Macao. Organized in partnership with Sands China, the concert underscored the importance of cultural exchange, featuring an impressive lineup of over 550 young musicians from both Macau and France.

The concert, held under the Sands China Performing Arts Programme, showcased the phenomenal talent of 18 local performing groups. Musicians aged between eight and 40 took to the stage, along with MBDA alumni, who had initially discovered their musical passion through the association. Notable participants included four ensembles under MBDA, award-winning chamber groups from the Macao Young Musicians Competition, and young members from wind bands representing 11 local schools.

A highlight of the evening featured the illustrious Amet's Family from France. For the first time in Macau, young maestros Guillaume, Diane, and Baptiste Amet, aged 12 to 15, brought their exceptional talent to the stage, having garnered international acclaim for their outstanding musicianship. Their performance not only captivated the audience but also fostered cultural ties through shared musical experiences, enriching the artistic journey for both the Macanese and French musicians.

This concert was notable for its scale and the unity it inspired. More than 550 musicians from Macau and France joined forces in a powerful celebration of wind music, marking the largest gathering of performers since the founding of MBDA. In the lead-up to the concert, participants dedicated hours to rehearsals, aligning their artistic objectives and refining their performances to achieve excellence. The programming was meticulously crafted, unfolding in four captivating chapters that showcased the depth of talent and hard work exhibited by all participants.

The first chapter opened with performances by three award-winning chamber ensembles from various categories of the Macao Young Musicians Competition. Their artistry highlighted the extraordinary skill and vibrancy of Macau's young instrumentalists. Following these exceptional talents, the Amet siblings collaborated with local ensembles, creating a unique blend of musical styles that showcased the beauty of their cross-cultural connections.

Continuing the night, the Macau Continuo Winds ensemble, comprised of dedicated professionals, took the stage. This group, known for its long-standing passion for music, symbolized the enduring spirit of musical inheritance across generations. The concert culminated in a breathtaking massed performance, uniting around 550 local musicians in a glorious finale where melodies and harmonies filled the theatre in an awe-inspiring display of unity.

A rich and diversely selected repertoire of Romantic pieces, classical audiences, and contemporary wind band compositions catered to music lovers, as well as to parents and community members attending the event. The concert drew warm applause and admiration as both Macanese and French musicians showcased the unifying power of music, firmly establishing the concert as a significant cultural event.

In addition to the main concert, Sands China and MBDA organized the 'Charm de France Winds Concert' at the Chapel of Santa Rosa de Lima English Secondary School. This outreach program featured the Amet siblings alongside esteemed pianist Dr. Cherry Tsang, delivering a valuable opportunity for students and rising musicians to engage with the artistic talents of European youth musicians. This extension further broadened the artistic exposure and aspirations of the young attendees, enabling them to experience the magic of international music firsthand.

Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., expressed pride in how the MBDA has enriched Macau's cultural landscape over the past three decades. He celebrated the concert as a demonstration of the incredible musical talent nurtured by the organization and reasserted Sands China's commitment to supporting local artistic growth.

The president of the MBDA, Leong Pui Long, reflected on the milestone as a testament to the organization's achievements. He reiterated the association's dedication to fostering wind music education and strengthening international partnerships, essential for the growth and development of local musicians.

Throughout its history, the MBDA has played a crucial role in promoting wind music performance and education throughout Macau. With an enduring motto of