The entire Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra (HK Phil) has been quarantined after a musician tested positive for COVID-19. Some backroom staff have also been quarantined.
Bass clarinettist Lorenzo Antonio is the musician who tested positive. Music director Jaap van Zweden, who has been in the Netherlands since lockdown began, is not affected.
“On 13 October an HK Phil musician preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19,” said the orchestra in a statement. “Arrangement has been made with Centre for Health Protection to send the concerned orchestral members and backstage staff to stay at the quarantine centres and undergo testing. The HK Phil offices are temporarily closed and will be disinfected in the coming days.”
Four HK Phil performances on through 24 October have been cancelled. Details of refunds – and possible further cancellations – will be announced later this week.
Continued the statement: “The HK Phil always puts the health and well-being of its audience, guest artists, musicians and staff members as a top priority. We are sorry to inform you about this news and look forward to welcoming back our audiences when the situation permits.”
There are concerns that key Hong Kong officials may also have to quarantine – both Hong Kong Carrie Lam and secretary for home affairs Casper Tsui recently attended HK Phil events.