Regina Symphony Orchestra (RSO) musicians, Hyon Suk (principal clarinetist) and Heng-Han Hou (principal second violinist), recently travelled to London to play among seven orchestras from across the United Kingdom at the coronation of King Charles. The RSO musicians were notified by RSO management in March, but had to keep the news a secret. King Charles, a “music enthusiast,” according to the official website of the British Royal Family, personally involved himself in the commissioning process for the music program.
Hou and Suk had two months to prepare for their travel but only two weeks to learn the music before the event. The duo had 60 pages of sheet music to prepare, which called for both the musicians to work hard during the two weeks. Hou found it nerve-wracking to play with unfamiliar musicians at the event, but he said everyone was patient and understanding. The musicians didn’t have the clearest view of Charles being crowned.
“I think I’m still high from the event. It’s just such a fun moment to play with all the musicians and be able to participate in this historic event. I still feel it’s unreal,” Hou said. They performed at Westminster Abbey, and Hou stated that playing music is a universal language through which musicians communicate.
The King’s coronation on May 6 was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for both RSO musicians. The opportunity stemmed from a long relationship between King Charles and the Regina Symphony Orchestra. The King appreciated the work of RSO and personally reached out to the musicians for the commissioning process of the music program.
Hou and Suk have returned to Saskatchewan, Canada. Their next performances with RSO are on May 13 and 20.
