Brian Jeffrey
Olivier Ochanine, the French conductor, impresses audiences not only with his striking appearance and graceful demeanor but also with his lively conducting style.
As the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Sun Symphony Orchestra (SSO), Olivier Ochanine will lead the 2024 “Điều Còn Mãi” (Things Everlasting) National Concert, becoming the first foreign conductor to do so. This event, captivating audiences for 15 years, is anticipated to receive a fresh perspective under his leadership.
Expressing his excitement for conducting the Sun Symphony Orchestra at the “Things Everlasting” concert on Vietnam’s National Day, September 2, Ochanine stated, “It is a great honor for us to participate in this event that holds special significance for the people of Vietnam.” He also acknowledged the long-term warm reception of this concert by the Vietnamese public.
Previous to this event, Ochanine conducted numerous major concerts featuring classical works by distinguished composers and highlighting Vietnamese compositions. However, the upcoming performance post-COVID-19 will showcase exclusively Vietnamese pieces, marking a special occasion for both Ochanine and the orchestra.
Appreciating the Vietnamese musical talent, Ochanine mentioned his fondness for composer Tran Manh Hung and the beautiful melodies created by Van Cao. He expressed admiration for Vietnamese composers who deeply convey their love for their homeland through their works. Both the Vietnamese and international musicians of the Sun Symphony Orchestra are eager and touched to be part of this program.
Recognized for his charisma on and off the stage, Ochanine shares glimpses of his personal life on social media, showcasing his love for music and his joy in simple pleasures like exploring Hanoi on a motorbike and spending time with his beloved dog.
Exploring his interests outside of music, Ochanine enjoys meeting people from diverse backgrounds, traveling, and specifically cherishes his experiences in Vietnam, particularly in Ha Giang. His cherished dog also plays a significant role in his life outside of his musical pursuits.
Having embarked on his musical journey as a flutist, Ochanine pursued a Master’s degree in orchestral conducting from the University of Southern California and furthered his studies with a Doctorate in symphonic conducting from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.
Ochanine’s accolades include winning prestigious awards such as the first prize at the Antal Dorati International Conducting Competition in Hungary, the American Prize in music, and the second prize at the International Symphony Orchestra Conducting Competition in London. Before his role with the Sun Symphony Orchestra in Vietnam, he served as the youngest Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
Prior to the Sun Symphony Orchestra’s performances post-COVID-19, Ochanine articulated his desire to innovate and create distinctive audience experiences beyond the traditional concert format. His performances are known for offering fresh and captivating experiences, deviating from the stereotypical view of classical music as formal and rigid.
PV
