1,200 musicians set Guinness World Record at concert in Hong Kong

More than 1,200 musicians set a Guinness World Record for the largest reed ensemble featuring the sheng – a traditional Chinese free-reed instrument – at a Hong Kong concert on Sunday.The “Endless Sheng, Thousand Reeds in Harmony” marathon opened the International Sheng and Reeds Festival of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, marking one of the first major cultural performances at Kai Tak Sports Park, one of the city’s newest venues.Players of all ages, from professional soloists to students, including musicians from mainland China, performed together across the mega sports park on instruments including the sheng, bagpipes and harmonica.Alan Chan and his grandson Ethan with their harmonicas. Photo: Dickson LeeAmong the participants was retiree Alan Chan Lun, 74, a member of the Clover Five Harmonica Ensemble with 12 years of experience, who joined as part of the Hong Kong Harmonica Association’s 329-member contingent.“Whether or not we actually break the world record is secondary to me. Hong Kong needs more events like this to boost our morale and our image – just like the Standard Chartered Marathon,” Chan said.He played at the event with his 11-year-old grandson, Ethan Chan, who said they practised together a few times a week whenever they met.“I can’t even imagine that I might be participating in a Guinness World Record. It’s completely mind-blowing, and I can’t believe it,” the pupil said. “His [grandfather’s] musical passion is huge. And mine is too.”Marcus Lee Lock, 17, a bagpiper for five years, also took part.