Exchanging places a high note for Lucas Zhong
14 May 2025
Year 11 violinist Lucas Zhong has made the most of his Round Square cultural exchange, attending St. Paul’s Co-educational College in Hong Kong. He shares his experiences.
In April 2025, I had the privilege of participating in a Round Square cultural exchange programme at St. Paul’s Co-educational College (SPCC) in Hong Kong. This enriching experience allowed me to immerse myself in a dynamic academic setting while forming meaningful connections with students from diverse cultural and musical backgrounds.
Through a variety of workshops, joint orchestra rehearsals, and engaging classroom activities, I gained valuable insights into Hong Kong’s education system and SPCC’s emphasis on academic development. The exchange not only deepened my appreciation for cultural collaboration but also strengthened my musical skills and broadened my global perspective.
While at SPCC, I had the incredible opportunity to join the St Paul’s Co-educational College Orchestra on a tour to the Greater Bay Area in China, performing in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. This three-day musical journey was unforgettable, filled with six concerts that challenged and exhilarated us. We performed Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony No. 4 and Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro: Overture. Both are musically challenging and emotionally rich pieces, requiring precision, expression, and teamwork. Repeating these demanding works in such a short time frame was intense but immensely rewarding.
The trip also fostered camaraderie. Group assignments and shared accommodation – both in hotels and dormitories – gave us chances to bond in different environments. One of the most memorable aspects was our rigorous rehearsal schedule. Some days involved half-day sessions, with morning and afternoon rehearsals leading into evening concerts. Learning 16 pages of complex orchestral music in just five days pushed my abilities, strengthening both my musical and mental discipline.
Under the guidance of our conductor, Warren Lee, we were inspired to reach higher standards. His passionate leadership emphasised preparation, resilience, and clear communication. Through his direction, I gained a deeper understanding of SPCC’s orchestral culture and the dedication required from each musician.
This tour was not just a musical endeavour – it was a transformative experience. I returned with sharpened skills, meaningful memories, and a profound respect for the collective effort behind every performance.
I would highly recommend an exchange to anyone seeking an enriching, challenging, and unforgettable opportunity.
