Meet Lawrence, a member from the bowed strings section.

TCO: How long have you been with the TCO?
L: Too long….(thinking….) Maybe since 2000.

TCO: What keeps you coming back?
L: Challenging. Since I am not very skilled but every concert seems to have some pieces harder than the last one. It pushes me to upgrade myself. But most important is the group and the people. They are all very good friends and care for each other. We are like a big happy family.

TCO: What instrument do you play and how long have you been playing?
L: I play Erhu only since the beginning until this year I have switched to Zhonghu. I started learning Erhu since my college days. That’s at least 10 years ago (wished I started younger).

TCO: How did you get started with this instrument?
L: I have always like instrumental music, especially Chinese music. Possibly got influenced from my father who loves Chinese Opera with a passion. One day while I am watching a TV Erhu performance, it struck me like lighting and wanted to get one to play with it. Then with my dad’s connection I’ve got through to become a student of John Lam 林日章. Then I have been Master Lam’s student ever since. It was John who first suggested to me to join TCO so I can have more fun and upgrade myself through concerts and group practices. “Thanks Master John Lam.”

TCO: What other instruments do you play?
L: I have been solely playing Erhu and only recently I started Zhonghu. I wish to learn other instrument as well.

TCO: Other activities that you enjoy on spare time?
L: I love badminton and golfing on my spare time. And, in the winter, I go for downhill skiing.

TCO: Anything you’d like to share with other TCO members and fans that come to the concerts?
L: Thanks to all TCO members. And fans, please come join us and let us add more colour to your life.