Introducing... Dennis Chan, Digital Marketing Manager
How did you become involved with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO)?
I was working in music marketing in Hong Kong and my organisation was scheduled to present an RPO tour there, until COVID struck. After all that research about the Orchestra, it was exciting to join the RPO team when I moved to London this year.
What was your first experience of orchestral music?
I Dreamed a Dream from Les Misérables. The first thing I played in my school orchestra was a Suite from the musical and it holds a rather special place in my heart.
How did you find yourself on this career journey?
Arts administration somehow sneaked into my blood when I became the admin of my university orchestra (and met my future wife). Over the years that followed, I founded various music organisations and joined various professional performing arts organisations in Hong Kong. It wasn’t a dream as such at the start but I’ve very much enjoyed every moment.
What is the best thing about being part of the RPO family?
The people. Honestly, I couldn’t have found myself surrounded by better people as I have introduced myself to UK over the last few months.
Tell us about your favourite RPO journey.
Touring around London to the various concert venues and then enjoy an evening concert at each has been a highlight so far. It’s an exclusive experience!
Do you have any pre-concert rituals?
Working in marketing, over the years I have often had more chances to sit right outside the hall rather than watching performances live inside! Pre-concert we set up our marketing desk, organise tickets and more – essential rituals to keep the events running smoothly.
Must listens – if you had to recommend one artist or composer, who would it be and why?
Tchaikovsky. Just so emotional. If you have grown up enjoying intimate or passionate love tunes in pop music, definitely try Tchaikovsky and it could give you the same goosebumps.
Symphonic crossover – if you could work with any artist on a performance or project, who would you choose?
I dream of playing with one day with my kid (currently aged 4) and wife on some stage as a strings trio. I just need to re-polish my viola first…
Away from music tell us two of your favourite hobbies and why they strike such a chord?
Hosting parties with close friends, carefree and uncensored talking about anything we want. And playing video games with my family and kid. Really treasuring the pure little joy that I know I’ll look back in the future and feel proud I’ve been part of those special moments.
Dream dinner party – who would you invite, what would you cook?
Just close friends, family and everyone important to me. I had realised that dream at my wedding and I couldn’t imagine anything better.