Celebrated pianist David Fung, known for his refined and expressive performances, will travel to Prince George to perform with the local symphony orchestra, the Prince George Symphony Orchestra (PGSO), on Sunday, March 9, at Vanier Hall.
Fung will perform the iconic Grieg Piano Concerto, one of the most celebrated works in the Romantic piano repertoire. With its thunderous opening chords, this concerto is considered one of the greatest in the genre, and Fung’s performance promises to be a highlight of the concert. The program also features pieces by Jean Sibelius and British Columbia composer Leslie Opatril, concluding with Dvořák’s lively Czech Suite.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome a world-class talent like David Fung to our stage and to our community,” said Ken Hall, executive director of the PGSO. “Not only is he an incredibly accomplished international soloist, but he is choosing to come here in the prime of his career. We are proud to present this amazing artist to Prince George.”
Fung, who is based in Vancouver and New York, is a frequent guest of top orchestras around the world. During a recent telephone interview with The Citizen, Fung shared his excitement about visiting Prince George. “A part of my new chapter in life is to explore more,” he said. “Having heard about Prince George, I am very keen to visit, and I’m really looking forward to working with the musicians there. It will be my first time going, and I don’t know what to expect, which makes it all the more exciting. It’s a real honor to play with the musicians and for the audience.”
Fung emphasized the importance of a musician’s role in conveying the composer’s message. “In my many performances, I’ve learned that it doesn’t matter if the audience is large or small—the power of music is incredible. If I can touch one heart, that’s something I cherish—the communication and power of music,” he said. “That’s what I’m hoping to do in Prince George.”
The pianist also shared his enjoyment of exploring British Columbia, mentioning a recent performance with the Okanagan Symphony in Kelowna. “In the Okanagan Valley, I saw many venues filled with joy and music. That makes it special for me,” Fung said. “In Beethoven’s time, people made music in town halls and beer halls. Sometimes that informal, joyful music-making can be even more powerful than a performance in a major concert hall.”
He believes that intimate venues like Vanier Hall provide an opportunity to break down barriers and foster a more genuine music experience. “I feel very humbled to be able to perform, as there are so many talented pianists out there,” Fung said. “It’s important to remember that each performance is a gift. As musicians, we have to give every time because of the music. It’s not a job you do unless you can’t live without it.”
Though the life of a traveling musician can be challenging—Fung will see his family for just two days in the next 45 days—he remains deeply passionate about his craft. “Inspiration comes down to being born to do it,” Fung said. “I can’t live without it.”
Originally from a remote part of Australia, Fung continues to embrace his love for travel and exploration. “Australia is so vast, and to travel anywhere else requires a lot of effort,” he said. “I remind myself that in living my life of discovery, I am fulfilling my childhood dream. It’s in my DNA to seek and learn about different people, cultures, and cuisines.”
Though travel can be physically taxing, Fung stays focused on the joy of performing. “We’re always saying goodbye, but we’re also saying hello, and that’s beautiful to me,” he added.
As for his performance of the Grieg Piano Concerto, Fung recognizes it as one of the most iconic works in the piano repertoire. “It’s probably one of the most popular piano concertos, and everyone recognizes it, whether they attend concerts or not,” he said. “The first movement’s thunderous chords are unforgettable, and the second movement evokes the beautiful landscapes of Norway. The final movement is a lively Norwegian folk dance. The way all three movements flow together creates a powerful tapestry of Nordic culture and landscape. I hope that the audience in Prince George, if they imagine the drive west to Prince Rupert, can feel that landscape in the music.”
Fung added, “The Grieg Concerto is a beautiful piece to see live. It has one of the most glorious and exciting cadenzas in the piano repertoire. It’s virtuosic, exciting, and beautiful, and I’m sure the audience will adore it.”
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