MUSIC DIRECTOR & CONDUCTOR

A conductor and music enthusiast, Eugene Pook has set up effective community, youth, and professional orchestras from the ground up in his beloved country Malaysia; this includes the PSPA International Ensemble (2010), Kinta Valley Wind Orchestra (2010), Selangor Symphony Orchestra (2015) and Selangor Symphony Youth Orchestra (2020). Being the artistic head of these music organizations, he builds a team, empower individuals and understand being both on stage and working with committees and supporting staff backstage in long preparatory processes in bringing innovative and dynamic musical experiences to audiences from all walks of life. Eugene Pook’s selfless contribution to the music industry has benefited youths and communities of all races and backgrounds in Malaysia and around the world; in 2012, he was awarded the 10 Outstanding Young Malaysians Award for his cultural contributions and achievements in Malaysia. 

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As a professional conductor Eugene Pook has made guest appearances with professional orchestras such as the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, Lithuanian State Symphony Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Henan Symphony Orchestra, Xiamen Philharmonic Orchestra, Hong Kong Chamber Orchestra, Pleven Philharmonic, and many others. Eugene has a strong commitment to artistic excellence and keen understanding of current trends in the music industry. His vision is to create performances that resonate with diverse audiences, pushing boundaries while maintaining a high level of musical integrity. Eugene also has a passion for music education for the youths as well as underprivileged organisations and has developed orchestra programs for local schools and various orphanage organisations. Since 2009 Eugene has helped raise funds for the Alzheimer Disease Foundation Malaysia (in 2009 & 2014), Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (in 2016, 2015, 2013, & 2011), Dementia Society Ipoh (in 2017), National Stroke Association Malaysia (in 2018), Make-A-Wish-Malaysia (in 2016 & 2019), Assunta Palliative Care Center(in 2014), Perak Palliative Care Society (in 2014).

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In addition to conducting, Eugene Pook is also a professional clarinet performer and instructor. His clarinet recitals have been much sought after and performed at prestigious venues such as  the Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Malaysia Embassy (Washington DC, USA), and the European Union Embassy (Washington DC, USA).  His clarinet mentors include Harold Gomez, Jane Carl, and Kenneth Grant.  Eugene was a winner of the Concerto Competition of at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (USA) where he performed Copland's Clarinet Concerto with the University's orchestra, and has performed with the American Wind Symphony Orchestra, Eastman Wind Ensemble, Kansas City Philharmonic, Northland Symphony Orchestra, and others.

 

Eugene Pook studied at the Royal Conservatory of Music (Canada), University of Missouri – Kansas City (U.S.A), and the Eastman School of Music (U.S.A), his mentors include Professor Jane Carl (clarinet) and Brad Lubman (conducting). Eugene was born in Ipoh, Malaysia and is currently on Board of Trustee of Alzheimer Disease Foundation Malaysia.