SOTY 2022/23: Performing Artist second runner-up’s musical journey is driven by curiosity
- Martin Lam Ka-him received recognition at competitions like the Hong Kong Children and Youth Piano Contest and the International Fringe Music Festival
- He believes learning an instrument from a young age can cultivate one’s sentiments, and persistence will yield results
Martin Lam Ka-him (right) with his twin brother Louis. Photo: Handout
Martin Lam Ka-him, a 17-year-old Form Five student from PLK Tang Yuk Tien College, has been on a musical journey through the realms of passion, dedication, and achievement. His narrative began with an early fascination for music, ignited by the enchanting work of his favourite composers.
“After listening to the music of composers like Rachmaninoff, Ravel, and Joe Hisaishi, I fell in love with the different types and styles of music,” Martin shared. This diverse musical exposure led him to explore various instruments, starting with the piano, driven by an innocent curiosity and familial encouragement.
Martin’s musical exploration extended to jazz drums and violin, each chosen thoughtfully and influenced by his life’s circumstances.
“I initially learned the piano. Why the piano? I vaguely remember hearing piano sounds from somewhere in our building when I was a child,” he recalled. The transition from African drums in kindergarten to jazz drums in Primary Four marked his evolving musical interests.
A pivotal moment came during Primary Five when academic challenges prompted a reassessment of his extracurricular activities.
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“My academic results were not quite satisfactory, and my family suggested reconsidering how I allocated my time, perhaps pausing some extracurricular activities,” Martin recalled. This period of academic struggle compelled him to focus on the piano over jazz drums, rooted in a profound connection to the instrument.
Achieving recognition at competitions such as the Hong Kong Children and Youth Piano Contest and the International Fringe Music Festival has been both affirming and motivating for Martin.
“These achievements are both a validation for me and one of my motivations to move forward,” he stated, emphasising the importance of the journey over the destination. His approach to preparing for major competitions like the Hong Kong Schools Music Festival is meticulous, involving rigorous practice, detailed discussions with his piano teacher, and pre-competition rehearsals to ensure readiness and confidence.
Martin was named the second runner-up in the Performing Artist category at last year’s Student of the Year (SOTY) awards. This prestigious event, organised by the South China Morning Post and solely sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, is a testament to his dedication and talent in performing arts.
Martin offered advice to young musicians inspired by his journey: “Learning an instrument from a young age can cultivate one’s sentiments, and persistence will lead to results.” He eagerly anticipates future collaborations with his school orchestra and participation in interschool music concerts, continuing to inspire and be inspired on his musical voyage.