Big Stage for Eunice Lai:
First Asian Female
to specialize in Tuba
Asian female to specialize in Tuba, Ka Hei Eunice Lai
continues to push barriers that other female musicians
have not faced in this musical niche. She is not only
continue performing and promoting brass through
virtual and in-person events, but also to educate others
of the impressive sound tuba has to offer.
Lai has performed with some of the greats when it
comes to her brass experience. She has collaborated
with musicians such as Yundi Li, JoAnn Falletta,
Kuokman Lio and Roger Bobo and has been a “highly
sought-after tuba player” for chamber groups and
brass quintets. She has even performed tuba in government events as spotlight artist in both
New York City and Hong Kong on numerous occasions. Though she has a remarkable resume
of experience, she does not plan to stop when it comes to progressing forward.
With creative musicality and expression being one of the things that sets her apart, Lai puts
those talents into play when creating music programs and masterclasses for students across
the globe. The pandemic has brought many people down mentally, but music can uplift people
students that will uplift their spirits and enrich their minds.
Q: What makes your music and experience with brass unique?
A: “There are not many tuba players in the world when compared to pianists and string
players. It is a relatively small community and everyone knows everyone. Traveling around and
meeting different tubists and collaborating with them makes me fall in love with tuba music
even more. One thing I have heard from some great tubists like James Gourlay, is that I have
great musicality and expression. I guess that is because women are more emotional and
sensitive and thus make their music more unique. I would love to make music that touches
people’s hearts. People never imagine how expressive a tuba can be, I want to show them it
does.”
Q: Why is it important to build educational programs for brass – especially in the current
state of the world?
A: “People are suffering from the pandemic not being able to attend concerts or even
hang-out. Being trapped indoors for so long can be frustrating. The younger generation could
not go to school and missed opportunities to socialize with their peers. How would they
express themselves staying at home? How could they vent it out?
stress and communicate with other real human beings. Even it is through a cold monitor, the
warmth from the human connection compensates. It is something that keeps them sane and
closer to normalcy. They enjoy playing music together while creating a great memorable
experience that they will be thankful for. It brings hope and comfort.”
Q: Tell us about co-founding Hong Kong Tuba and Euphonium Association”
A: “I am working on educational outreach programs as well as recording work. I co-founded
the Hong Kong Tuba and Euphonium Association many years ago and have held successful
masterclasses and concerts for students around the world. The annual Hong Kong TubaMania
Academy was one of the most successful annual events yet. We have participants from all
over the world to join us for music camps, competition and concerts with various Tuba artists
such as Steve Rosse, Anne Jelle Visser and Sergio Carolino. We have also held concerts and
masterclasses with Steven and Misa Mead, renowned Low Brass soloist. Unlike piano and
strings, there are not a lot of worldwide competitions for tuba players, therefor we bring in top
tubists and hold big competitions for the younger generation, giving them the opportunity to
learn and grow with peers.
I wish to develop more like that to North American musicians where students from around the
world can join and meet famous maestros and learn from them. I want to bring the brass
community closer. I aim to conduct and coach brass quintets and chamber music as well as
open a music school and performing space in the future.”
Q: You have performed in many famous music halls, such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall
and Sydney Opera House. Which is the most memorable to you?
A: “I was lucky to have performed and competed around the world, but the most memorable
venue was in Hong Kong. I was invited to perform a few times in Victoria House, the Hong
for children. Henry Tang, the Chief Secretary back then, joined me with a sleigh bell while I was
playing a solo piece with the brass quintet! That was so much fun. Nothing can be better than
bringing happiness to people through music.”
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