Violin virtuoso Kerson Leong, recognized as a prominent VC Artist, smoothly stepped into the spotlight on January 31 and February 1, 2024, filling in for the ailing Baiba Skride in performances with the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec (OSQ). Embracing the unexpected opportunity, Leong showcased his musical prowess by delivering a captivating rendition of Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 3 in G Major, the very piece originally scheduled for Skride. The performance was harmoniously conducted by Anna Rakitina.

The concert program featured additional masterpieces, including Ravel's Ma mère l’Oye suite and Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition in the Ravel orchestration.

Kerson Leong, a highly sought-after soloist, gained prominence after clinching the top spot at the International Yehudi Menuhin Violin Competition in 2010. His impressive career includes collaborations with esteemed orchestras worldwide, such as the Royal, Oslo, Brussels, Kansai, and Liège Royal Philharmonic Orchestras, as well as the Seattle, Singapore, Toledo, Montreal, Tucson, Bilkent, Toronto, Vancouver, Stavanger, and Wuppertal Symphony Orchestras.

Currently serving as an associate artist at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Belgium under the guidance of mentor Augustin Dumay, Leong continues to make waves in the classical music scene. His recent recording for Alpha Classics, featuring the Britten and Bruch violin concertos with the Philharmonia Orchestra and Patrick Hahn, received widespread acclaim.

The OSQ expressed gratitude for Leong's spontaneous availability in a statement, highlighting his global recognition for expressive playing and charisma. Despite the short notice, the orchestra assured audiences that the concert program remained unchanged and extended well wishes for Baiba Skride's swift recovery. Leong himself added a note of goodwill, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity and sending warm wishes for Skride's speedy recovery.