Barbara Fei - A Shining Light in the World of Music

No one will doubt the bond of Barbara Fei's business and music since this "Su Zhou" born soprano is well known as a concert singer as well as for her contribution to many music activities. She is the founder and conductor of the choir - Allegro Singers, and sponsor of the International Music Conference. It is amazing to find that her first choice in music was not singing. "At the very beginning. I learnt to play piano but later I put all my efforts on vocal when I found I could not become an excellent pianist as my hands are too small "said Barbara. From then on, Barbara has started her vocal career under the teaching of famous soprano Madame Lotte Schoene in France.

Music is a kind of culture

According to Barbara, pop music has a large influence over the development of classical music in Hong Kong. "Classical music is a kind of culture that is worthy to be promoted to the public though it is difficult for children and the aged to understand its artistic and academic elements," she said. " In China, development of singers and choirs is greatly supported by the government. In Hong Kong, though there is insufficient resources for choirs, its development is reasonable. The reunification a good opportunity for music exchange between China and Hong Kong."

Being a singer, Barbara also keeps an eye on outstanding musical performance in the world. For instance, the drama <Marco Polo>, which is composed by the Chinese composer and conductor Tan Dun, has been staged in Hong Kong and around the world. Her opinion of this drama was published in a newspaper, " In the music of Tan Dun, sounds are full of Chinese colors and always personal. Music like this will be a stepping stone for the development of opera in China."

Patience is the best solution

"Allegro Singers", the first "child" of Barbara, is now over 30 years old. It brings her joy and worry, yet teaches her a good lesson. "Patience is the best solution in Allergro Singers. The turnover of members is a problem and we need to look for new ones to replace them. New members need training from the beginning that require time and attention."

"Life is meaningful when some members are benefited through the practice of Allegro Singers. Some of them visit me after many years touches me a lot."

Seeds turn to flowers blossoms anywhere

"Art is my sole life-time-career that will never stop.""I am not paid for any music activities but the interest of music comes from my heart, that is a kind of commitment.""I am so satisfied with my work even though it reaps no money. Indeed, money cannot buy all things in the life."

Sincerity in music can be felt in Barbara's philosophy. "What I am doing is the planting seeds in the soul. You can never tell what will become of the seeds but even if only a few of them take root and blossom into beautiful flowers all my efforts will be worth it."