I was really looking forward to returning to the Hong Kong Philharmonic after last working with them in 2011. It’s such a fascinating place to travel to, so full of energy and the orchestra and I get on very well. This visit was no exception as the concerts featured the talents of Australian icon and all-round genius James Morrison. He isn’t perhaps as well known in Hong Kong as in other places around the globe (when I was living in Salzburg he was often the first Australian mentioned in conversation with other musicians) although the brass section all knew of him and were excited to work with him.

James and I have shared the stage many times and I am always inspired by his extraordinary musicianship and positive attitude to life. Apart from his mind-boggling ability to play so many different instruments equally well – his soprano sax playing for example is outstanding – he is also very active in the community, particularly in Queensland where he runs the Queensland Music Festival.

During a previous visit to London a supporter of mine had bought me two really high quality fabrics from Saville Row to be made into suits. They had...