Born in Hong Kong, Philip Chu was appointed chorusmaster of Willoughby Symphony Orchestra and Choir at the beginning of 2007 after finishing his role as assistant chorusmaster at Sydney Philharmonia Choirs. Apart from his role at Willoughby, he also holds the position of musical director/conductor of the Georgian Singers and Eminence Symphony Orchestra. He has been guest conductor for Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Cantillation, Sydney Philharmonic Choirs, Sydney Youth Orchestra and Sydney Chamber Choir amongst others.
Since 2007, Philip has prepared Willoughby Symphony Choir in works by Bach, Handel, Mozart, Orff, Purcell, Schubert and Verdi, as well as conducting the performances of Handel's Israel in Egypt. This year Philip will conduct Handel's Messiah at the end of this year, as well as taking the choir on an European tour in September.
Philip recently conducted three recordings for ABC Classics - Willoughby Symphony Choir in a recording of the River Symphony by Sean O'Boyle featuring The Queensland Orchestra, Cantillation in a recording featuring a selection of sacred works by Justice George Palmer, plus a recording featuring Karin Schaupp from the guitar ensemble Sapphire and Cantillation.
In 2008, Philip made his debut with the Sydney Youth Orchestra as well as taking the group on a regional tour. He also conducted SYO and Sydney Chamber Choir for a combined project with World Youth Day in the Domain during the Pope's visit in July.
In June, Philip conducted the recording Echoes of War with Eminence Symphony Orchestra in association with Blizzard Entertainment for international release, performing music from the best selling gaming titles including World of Warcraft, Diablo, Starcraft, etc.
Philip will make his debut with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra in 2009, more recordings for ABC Classics and Eminence Symphony Orchestra, as well as performing with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Cantillation, Willoughby Symphony Orchestra & Choir amongst others.