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Lin Sheng-shih (1914-1991) has been described as an "evergreen musician" in the history of Chinese music, and he made remarkable achievements in composition, conducting and music education. To pay tribute to this talented musician the Hong Kong Public Libraries of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department have organised a thematic exhibition entitled "The Hong Kong Musicians Series: 'Ode to China', Lin Sheng-shih". The exhibition will introduce Lin's life and work by showcasing records, musical score sheets and photographs as well as news clippings about him.
Lin was born in Xinhui, Guangdong province and started learning to play the piano at a young age. He later majored in piano at the National Conservatory of Music (now known as Shanghai Conservatory of Music), where he studied music harmony and composition theories. After his graduation in 1935, Lin embarked on a career as a composer, music teacher and conductor. Having won numerous rewards during his lifelong music career, Lin, along with composer Huang Yau-tai and lyricist Wei Han-tseung, was named one of the "Three Veterans of Hong Kong Music".
In his music career of nearly 60 years Lin composed over 300 songs, including his famous works "River of Crimson" and "Home Behind the Clouds". His work was full of admiration for the country and a passion of life. He was also actively involved in music education and taught at various tertiary schools including the National Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou (now known as Sun Yat-sen University), Hong Kong Union College (now United College, Chinese University of Hong Kong) and Lingnan College (now Lingnan University). Lin was also a conductor of the South China Philharmonic Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of China.
The exhibition is now being held in the Arts Document Reading Room at 10/F, Hong Kong Central Library until June 30. Admission is free. For enquiries, please call 2921 0259.
Ends/Monday, March 2, 2015
Issued at HKT 16:31
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