MUSE is more than a concert series—it’s a joyful, creative project that connects Hong Kong audiences with classical music in fresh and thought-provoking ways.
Organized by professors Daniel Chua and Chan Hing-yan, along with programme director Sharon Lu, MUSE has reached millions since 2013 through world-class performances and engaging public programmes.
From pianist Paul Lewis to the Czech Philharmonic Principals Quartet, the series has featured leading artists alongside illuminating pre-concert talks, bringing emotion, philosophy, and cross-cultural collaboration into conversation.
- Paul Lewis: In this Music in Words session, Professor Chua and pianist Paul Lewis explored the introspective intensity of Schubert’s piano sonatas, especially the final three he wrote before his death. This conversation preceded Lewis’s performance of Schubert’s Piano Sonata in G major along with Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations.
- Ink Art & New Music: Ink Art & New Music brought together Chinese and Western instruments in an innovative concert inspired by the M+ Ink Art collection, showcasing new compositions and cross-cultural collaborations led by Professor Chan.
- Messiah sing-along: The Messiah Sing-Along is one of MUSE’s most beloved traditions. Every year, nearly a thousand voices fill HKU’s Grand Hall for a joyful, community-driven celebration of Handel’s oratorio.
Founders:
Dr. Junling Gao, Venerable Sik Hin Hung, Venerable Dr. Sik Hin Yan, Dr. George Lee, and Dr. Wai Yan Bonnie Wu
HKU researchers are transforming mental healthcare by integrating traditional Buddhist practices with neuroscience. Their work has led to Asia’s first Buddhist Counselling Centre, which offers free support and has had significant impacts on reducing participants’ depression and anxiety.
From mindfulness workshops for parents to EEG-guided meditations games in classrooms, as well as one-on-one therapy sessions, this initiative blends tradition and science to build emotional resilience. With over 1500 hours of free therapy, 500 hours of workshops, and 300 trained carers, the Buddhist Counselling Centre shows how arts, culture, and science can come together to foster well-being.
Over 200 parents have joined workshops like "Spiritual Oasis for Parents" to learn meditation tools for managing stress. One parent called it life-changing, reporting that it has helped her cope with grief and anxiety, helping her reconnect with her wellbeing during the pandemic.
Led by Professor Youngah Do, this groundbreaking initiative champions the preservation and teaching of Hong Kong Sign Language (HKSL), a vital yet endangered language. The team’s pioneering AI-driven recognition model supports improved sign language education.
Through exhibitions and public outreach, this project not only safeguards HKSL for future generations, but also fosters a more inclusive Hong Kong. Professor Do’s project is a powerful example of how research and compassion can create lasting social impact.
