In recent years, a resurgence of retro culture has seen vinyl records embraced by a new generation. Dr Wong Chi-chung is a prominent local music enthusiast as well as a radio DJ, curator, university professor, and music producer. In the 1980s, he volunteered at Commercial Radio's second channel (now known as CR903) during his undergraduate years. He created music programmes that showcasing local and international music and their backstories, establishing a nearly 40-year DJ career that has made him a pioneer in expanding the local music scene. Recently, Dr Wong collaborated with the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) on the "V Music" initiative, which launched the "V Music Library" in October 2024. 復古文化興起，黑膠唱片近年再度為年輕人追捧。香港知專設計學院（HKDI） 開設「V Music Library」，並特邀擁有近40年音樂文化及教育經驗的資深 DJ 黃志淙博士擔任 HKDI 駐校創作家，展示他多年收藏的黑膠唱片。 The music industry has undergone numerous transformations alongside changes in formats, from vinyl to CDs and now streaming. However, Dr Wong's love for vinyl has remained constant. Many records in the library are part of his extensive personal collection. He acknowledges that while playing vinyl is not particularly convenient, its unique sound quality offers a humanised, raw texture that streaming cannot replicate. He explains that vinyl represents a lifestyle choice; just as some prefer the convenience of capsule coffee while others cherish hand-brewed coffee, some enjoy bespoke clothing or modified ready-to-wear items — each choice reflecting a shared joy in creative living. In the land-scarce context of Hong Kong, the concept of a music library is both novel and luxurious. The library features a diverse collection of music from various regions and styles, with regular opening hours allowing the public to explore music through vinyl records. To top it off is a series of workshops, exhibitions, and lectures. The "Timeless Ideas & Icons" exhibition, for example, shares Dr Wong's insights into the careers of The Beatles, David Bowie, and Ryuichi Sakamoto. He notes that students from various disciplines — design, photography, fashion, and interior design, among others — are welcome to participate. By using the music of these icons as a springboard, Dr Wong hopes to inspire students' creative thinking. The most valuable asset in the creative industry is active thinking. The exchange of ideas among creative individuals from diverse backgrounds often spurs new concepts. On the opening day of the "V Music Library", key figures from various sectors attended to show their support. Dr Wong envisions the V Music initiative as a pivotal platform that connects academic education with different parts of the industry, thereby influencing the overall development of the music sector. Dr Wong remarks, "Vinyl records may seem unfamiliar to the new generation. I do not expect students to immediately grasp their charm, but I believe 'V Music Library' can be a long-term initiative; students may develop curiosity over time. The library is a treasure trove, allowing students and locals to discover the joy of music, possibly becoming a 'gateway' for them to enter the music industry." As the starting point of modern music, vinyl holds symbolic significance for reflecting on contemporary music marketing. Dr Wong admits that witnessing the decline of vinyl was initially disheartening, but he believes change is inevitable, "I once thought that the rise of streaming would lead to the decline of cinemas, bookstores, and record shops. While many have closed, certain small shops have thrived for decades. Some people love Starbucks, but there are also loyal customers at independently run coffee shops; together, they create an interesting 'coexistence'." Dr Wong concludes by sharing his personal journey: "I have always understood my position. I never aspired to be the trendiest DJ; rather, I connect my life and love for music with my audience. The journey has been challenging, but there are always new generations who resonate with the music I play. Trends may come and go, but culture endures." 儘管音樂媒介歷經黑膠、CD 到串流的 轉變，黃志淙對黑膠的熱愛始終如一。 他認為黑膠雖不便於攜帶，但類比技 術輸出的獨特聲音質感，為數碼串流 所無法替代。此外，他將黑膠視為一 種生活態度，類似手沖咖啡與菲林攝 影，享受的是慢工細作的創意與樂趣。 「V Music Library」提供黑膠唱片予 有興趣之人士探索音樂，並定期舉辦 工作坊、展覽與講座，旨在啟發不同 學科的學生的創意思考；並透過了解 世界知名音樂巨匠的創作歷程，激發 學生們的創造力。黃志淙期待黑膠唱 片館能連結學術教育和音樂產業，成 為行業的創意中心, 促進音樂與設計 的交叉融合。 39
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