Sixteen emerging vocalists from the highly-rated talent program, including Feng Xixie, Ke Yufei, Hu Zibei, Zhang Jinming, Xu Huiqing, Bu Ziyin, Lu Zhuoqian, and Xian Yiyu, are set to headline their graduation concert, “This is OUR STAGE,” on August 18 at MacPherson Stadium. This milestone event marks the first time the finalists will perform together on a concert stage, presenting a significant opportunity for the burgeoning artists to share the spotlight with their mentors, prompting them to collaborate extensively with producers to perfect the ambitious showcase.
The concert represents a culmination of months of intense training and transformation witnessed by their coaching panel. Veteran artist and mentor Tam Yiu-man, who guided Bu Ziyin, Hu Gangfeng, and Siao Hoi-yan, reflected on the initial challenges. He noted that early in the process, the students exhibited a degree of procrastination and a limited understanding of stagecraft and competitive criteria, often clinging to their comfort zones.
“It took considerable effort and repeated prodding for them to realize that increasing their competitiveness demanded fundamental change and a willingness to break molds,” Tam explained. “They eventually learned the truth of the saying: ‘One minute on stage represents ten years of work backstage.’”
Tam expressed immense pride and anticipation for the concert, viewing it as the students’ true debut following the competition. He emphasized that this event must also serve as a reminder of gratitude. “This is merely the beginning of their journey in the entertainment industry. They face a very long road ahead, so they must always remember everyone who helped them along the way. That is what defines a truly outstanding and successful artist,” Tam asserted.
Another mentor, Shermaine Chung, who coached Xian Yiyu and Szeto Yat, observed a marked maturation in her students. “From our initial interactions to the completion of the competition, their mental fortitude has visibly strengthened, making them capable of handling greater challenges,” Chung said. She shared her excitement about reuniting for rehearsals, noting that the shared experience has deepened their rapport, predicting a more engaged and impactful performance.
Chung also offered practical advice for aspiring contestants: learn to monitor one’s voice across various acoustic environments to mitigate the impact of sound issues; practice at home as if performing for a massive live audience to normalize the stage pressure; and most critically, “don’t overthink things” to maintain optimal performance flow.
Mentor Liu Ho-lung, who guided Lam Kit-sum, marveled at the rapid progress of the entire cohort, describing the three-month transformation from novices to polished performers as “miraculous.” Liu is particularly eager for the chance to perform alongside his student. “I’ve coached Lin Kit-sum for a long time, but we have never performed a duet. I truly want to create that shared memory on stage,” he confessed.
Liu stressed the importance of commitment for anyone considering a talent competition. He cautioned that participation requires genuine self-reflection and a willingness to confront personal flaws. “Do not approach this as a casual endeavor,” Liu warned. “Every mentor and staff member is 100% seriously dedicated to this process, so attitude is paramount.” He affirmed that only a rigorous, professional approach allows for the best possible presentation on stage. The graduation concert thus not only spotlights emerging talent but also underscores the demanding professional ethos instilled by their seasoned mentors.
