Hugo Mak

Where are you from?

Hong Kong.

When did you start playing your instrument?

I played the piano and violin as a kid, but fascinated by its sound, I picked up a school bassoon and started teaching myself how to play it when I was 12.

When did you start working with Malmö Symphony Orchestra?

Since the beginning of 2024.

What is your educational background?

I studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London, UK.

What is your favourite memory with MSO?

My trial week with the orchestra performing Strauss' Tod und Verklärung and Mahler's Das Lied von der Erde here in Malmö Live as well as in Konserthuset Stockholm was particularly memorable.

Which orchestras did you play with before joining us at Malmö Live Concert Hall?

I stayed in London after completing my studies and have played with symphony orchestras across the UK including the London Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, The Hallé, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, National Orchestra of Wales. I have also played with the Kungliga Filharmonikerna and Göteborgs Symfoniker here in Sweden.

Who is your favorite composer?

I always find myself returning to J S Bach!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy working on music arrangements and orchestration as well as videography besides playing the bassoon.

What is your favorite food?

Steak, ramen, dim sum, seafood... anything with umami!

Why do you think people should listen to classical music?

Listening to classical music is a truly unique experience! The music is filled with the most humane and intimate emotions where you can just close your eyes, forget about everything else in life and just let your imagination run wild.