It was a meeting of two maestros; one conducts all of our amazing events (and waves his arms around a lot) the other is the musical genius behind arguably Australia’s greatest ever performer, John Farnham as well as some of our biggest international events. How could so much talent possibly fit in the same room? Just as well Peter and Chong are such great mates! If only Peter could sing…?
Peter: How do you take your coffee?
Chong:
Latte – one sugar or sometimes none. Some people might say I’m sweet enough!
Peter: Worst joke ever Chong but do continue…….
Chong:
Minimum of 2, maximum of 6 per day. Usually not after 4pm, but I have been known to have one 30 minutes before bed and still get to sleep!
Peter: What is your background?
Chong:
I was born in Malaysia, but moved here to study Mechanical Engineering at Melbourne University, after completing my final year at Geelong College. I then worked for John Holland Engineering in Melbourne and Tenaga Eubank in Kuala Lumpur, and even enrolled for a PHD for further studies. My career as an engineer had already started.
Peter: So how did an engineer end up in music?
Chong:
I wasn’t sure I’d be the best engineer and I always had an interest in music so it kind of developed from there. The more I learnt about music, the more I enjoyed it and my interest in engineering gave way. I’m basically a self-taught musician even though I do have a diploma in classical Piano. So that’s been my gig for the last 30 years.
Peter: How did you become Farnham’s Musical Director?
Chong:
I was asked to try out for the position of keyboard player in the band, and the rest is history. 23 years later and I’m still playing with John.
Peter: What are some of your proudest moments/highlights in your career?
Chong:
Definitely the Sydney Olympic Games where I composed the music for both the nature segment and for the flag raising ceremony featuring my composition Journey of Angels. I also produced Heroes Live Forever for Vanessa Amorosi and Dare to Dream for John and Olivia. I also worked with Kylie on Dancing Queen at the closing ceremony. The Asian Games in Doha was also a highlight, writing the music for the lighting of the cauldron. I was also involved with the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games closing ceremony. Performing with John Farnham and Coldplay at the SCG was another career highlight!
Peter: Why is Melbourne such a great city to host major events?
Chong:
I’ve been lucky enough to travel, and I can honestly say Melbourne is the greatest city in the world to live in. I even love the weather.
Peter: Good on you Chong – not too many people would say that often but I agree, unless it’s 40 degrees!
Chong:
We are able to host great events because of our venues, transport system, and a culture to attend no matter what the event is. We’re also a safe and clean city and that can’t be taken for granted.
Peter: What is your favourite event to attend in Melbourne?
Chong:
Besides the ones I work on with your team, I’m a big A-League fan and support Melbourne City. I also enjoy the Tennis but I really don’t go to a lot as my work hours are a bit unpredictable.
Peter: Who are some of your most admired Melburnians?
Chong:
People who make a difference and contribute to the community are those that I admire most. Sir Gustav Nossal and his medical research is one. Olivia Newton John is another, particularly in the way she went and raised millions to build the Cancer and Wellness Centre here in Melbourne. The Master of Ormond College at Melbourne University when I was there, Davis McCaughey was certainly a great inspiration and role model to me, to try and make a positive difference to the world we live in.
Peter: We have worked together so many times, yet I think this is the first time we have sat down together for a coffee. I have really enjoyed catching up and I am glad that all of my musical advice has paid off. Keep up the good work, Chong and you’ll go far!!
Chong:
Thanks for all your sound advice through the years Peter!
