Temasek Foundation x SSO National Day Concert
11 AUG 2024
Esplanade Concert Hall
SSO Chamber and Organ Series October
3 OCT 2024
7.30pm, Victoria Concert Hall
SSO CHAMBER SERIES A LOVE OF FRENCH MUSIC
4 OCT 2024
7.30pm, Victoria Concert Hall
SSO CHAMBER SERIES ENCHANTING RAVEL
27 OCT 2024 4pm, Victoria Concert Hall
SSO ORGAN SERIES A GOTHIC HALLOWEEN
Male Chorus of the Singapore Symphony Chorus
Eudenice Palaruan
Choral Director & organ
Ellissa Sayampanathan
Assistant Choral Conductor
Shane Thio celesta & piano
Boey Jir Shin organ
Sponsored by
Tickets from $10
Gulnara Mashurova harp Musicians of the SSO
Gulnara Mashurova harp Musicians of the SSO
Temasek Foundation catalyses programmes that build social cohesion and harmony in Singapore and the region
Temasek Foundation supports a diverse range of programmes that uplift lives and communities in Singapore and beyond. Temasek Foundation’s programmes, made possible through philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek, strive towards achieving positive outcomes for individuals and communities now, and for generations to come. Collectively, Temasek Foundation’s programmes strengthen social resilience, foster international exchange and regional capabilities, advance science, and protect the planet.
For more information, visit www.temasekfoundation.org.sg
PHOTO: Harmony Champions from Temasek Foundation - Roses of Peace Harmony Champions Programme
TEMASEK FOUNDATION X SSO NATIONAL DAY CONCERT
LEGACY AND FUTURE
Sun, 11 Aug 2024
Esplanade Concert Hall
Concert will be streamed live on SSO YouTube channel (youtube.com/singaporesymphony)
Singapore Symphony Orchestra
Members of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra
Combined Choir
Combined Band
Leonard Tan conductor
Ellissa Sayampanathan Assistant Choral Conductor
Lily Goh deaf artist-performer
Naomi Yeo host
Accessibility: Singapore Sign Language Interpretation will be available for the concert.
For the enjoyment of all patrons during the concert:
• Please switch off or silence all electronic devices.
• Please minimise noises during performance. If unavoidable, wait for a loud section in the music.
• No photography, video or audio recording is allowed when artists are performing.
• Non-flash photography is allowed only during bows and applause when no performance is taking place.
Go green. Digital programme books are available on www.sso.org.sg.
Photographs and videos will be taken at these events, in which you may appear. These may be published on the SSO’s publicity channels and materials. By attending the event, you consent to the use of these photographs and videos for the foregoing purposes.
POST-CONCERT SURVEY
To help us improve your concert experience, we invite you to participate in our survey. After the concert, be the first 120 to show proof of survey completion at the foyer, level 1, to receive a gift.
Giocoso – Largamente by Leong Yoon Pin
Tapestries I – Time Dances by Eric Watson
homemade recipe: nasi ulam by Emily Koh
Our Story: Passage through Time* by Lim Han Quan
Intermission
Red Dot Dreaming* by Felicia Teng
Illuminating the skies* by Gu Wei
Sing! by Lee Jinjun
Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow* (with Combined Choir and Band) by Terrence Wong
Winning pieces from NDC 2024 Call for Compositions
*World Premiere
Since its founding in 1979, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has been Singapore’s flagship orchestra, touching lives through classical music and providing the heartbeat of the cultural scene with its 44-week calendar of events.
In addition to its subscription series concerts, the orchestra is well-loved for its outdoor and community appearances, and its significant role educating the young people of Singapore through its school programmes. The SSO has also earned an international reputation for its orchestral virtuosity, having garnered sterling reviews for its overseas tours and many successful recordings. In 2021, the SSO clinched third place in the prestigious Orchestra of the Year Award by Gramophone. In 2022, BBC Music Magazine named the SSO as one of the 23 best orchestras in the world.
In July 2022, the SSO appointed renowned Austrian conductor Hans Graf as its Music Director, the third in the orchestra’s history after Lan Shui (1997-2019) and Choo Hoey (1979-1996). Prior to this, Hans Graf served as Chief Conductor from 2020.
The orchestra performs over 60 concerts a year, and its versatile repertoire spans all-time favourites and orchestral masterpieces to exciting cutting-edge premieres. Bridging the musical traditions of East and West, Singaporean and Asian musicians and composers are regularly showcased in the concert season. The SSO makes its performing home at the 1,800-seat state-of-the-art Esplanade Concert Hall. More intimate works, as well as outreach and community performances take place at the 673-seat Victoria Concert Hall, the Home of the SSO.
Beyond Singapore, the SSO has performed in Europe, Asia and the United States. In May 2016, the SSO was invited to perform at the Dresden Music Festival and the Prague Spring International Music Festival. This successful five-city tour of Germany and Prague also included the SSO’s second performance at the Berlin Philharmonie. In 2014, the SSO’s debut at the 120th BBC Proms in London received praise in major UK newspapers The Guardian and The Telegraph. The SSO has also performed in China on multiple occasions. In the 2024/25 season, the SSO will perform in Kyoto as part of the Asia Orchestra Week, as well as a three-city tour of Australia.
The SSO has released more than 50 recordings, with over 30 on the BIS label. Recent critically acclaimed albums include Herrmann’s Wuthering Heights (Chandos) and Scriabin – Poems of Ecstasy and Fire (BIS). With Singaporean violinist Chloe Chua, the SSO has recorded the Four Seasons, as well as the Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto, and a Mozart Violin Concerto cycle with Hans Graf to be released by Pentatone Records in the 2024/25 season. The SSO also leads the revival and recording of significant works such as Kozłowski’s Requiem, Ogerman’s Symbiosis (after Bill Evans) and violin concertos by Robert Russell Bennett and Vernon Duke.
The SSO has collaborated with such great artists as Vladimir Ashkenazy, Gustavo Dudamel, Charles Dutoit, Joe Hisaishi, Neeme Järvi, Hannu Lintu, Lorin Maazel, Martha Argerich, Diana Damrau, Janine Jansen, Leonidas Kavakos, Lang Lang, Yo-Yo Ma, Mischa Maisky, Gil Shaham and Krystian Zimerman.
The SSO is part of the Singapore Symphony Group, which also manages the Singapore Symphony Choruses, the Singapore National Youth Orchestra, the Singapore International Piano Festival and the biennial National Piano & Violin Competition
Our Story
Singapore Symphony Orchestra
The Group’s vision is to be a leading arts organisation that engages, inspires and reflects Singapore through musical excellence. Our mission is to create memorable shared experiences with music. Through the SSO and its affiliated performing groups, we spread the love for music, nurture talent and enrich our diverse communities.
The Orchestra
HANS GRAF
Music Director
RODOLFO BARRÁEZ
Associate Conductor
CHOO HOEY
Conductor Emeritus
LAN SHUI
Conductor Laureate
EUDENICE PALARUAN
Choral Director
WONG LAI FOON
Choirmaster
ELLISSA SAYAMPANATHAN
Assistant Choral Conductor
FIRST VIOLIN
(Position vacant) Concertmaster,
GK Goh Chair
David Coucheron
Co-Principal Guest Concertmaster
Kevin Lin
Co-Principal Guest Concertmaster
Kong Zhao Hui1
Associate Concertmaster
Chan Yoong-Han2
Fixed Chair
Cao Can*
Duan Yu Ling
Foo Say Ming
Jin Li
Kong Xianlong
Cindy Lee
Karen Tan
William Tan
Wei Zhe
Ye Lin*
Zhang Si Jing
SECOND VIOLIN
Nikolai Koval*
Sayuri Kuru
Hai-Won Kwok
Margit Saur
Shao Tao Tao
Tseng Chieh-An
Wu Man Yun*
Xu Jueyi*
Yin Shu Zhan*
Zhao Tian
VIOLA
Manchin Zhang Principal, Tan Jiew Cheng Chair
Guan Qi Associate Principal
Gu Bing Jie* Fixed Chair
Marietta Ku
Luo Biao
Julia Park
Shui Bing
Janice Tsai
Dandan Wang
Yang Shi Li
CELLO
Ng Pei-Sian Principal, The HEAD Foundation Chair
Yu Jing
Associate Principal
Guo Hao Fixed Chair
Chan Wei Shing
Christopher Mui
Jamshid Saydikarimov
Song Woon Teng
Wang Yan
Wu Dai Dai
Zhao Yu Er
DOUBLE BASS
Yang Zheng Yi Associate Principal
Karen Yeo Fixed Chair
Jacek Mirucki
Guennadi Mouzyka
Wang Xu
FLUTE
Jin Ta Principal, Stephen Riady Chair
Evgueni Brokmiller Associate Principal
Roberto Alvarez
Miao Shanshan
PICCOLO
Roberto Alvarez Assistant Principal
OBOE
Rachel Walker Principal
Pan Yun Associate Principal
Carolyn Hollier
Elaine Yeo
COR ANGLAIS
Elaine Yeo Associate Principal
CLARINET
Ma Yue Principal
Li Xin Associate Principal
Liu Yoko
Tang Xiao Ping
BASS CLARINET
Tang Xiao Ping Assistant Principal
BASSOON
Liu Chang Associate Principal
Christoph Wichert
Zhao Ying Xue
CONTRABASSOON
Zhao Ying Xue Assistant Principal
HORN
Austin Larson Principal
Gao Jian Associate Principal
Jamie Hersch Associate Principal
Marc-Antoine Robillard Associate Principal
Bryan Chong^
Hoang Van Hoc
TRUMPET
Jon Paul Dante Principal
David Smith Associate Principal
Lau Wen Rong
Nuttakamon Supattranont
TROMBONE
Allen Meek Principal
Damian Patti Associate Principal
Samuel Armstrong
BASS TROMBONE
Wang Wei Assistant Principal
TUBA
Tomoki Natsume Principal
TIMPANI
Christian Schiøler Principal
Mario Choo
PERCUSSION
Jonathan Fox Principal
Mark Suter Associate Principal
Mario Choo
Lim Meng Keh
HARP
Gulnara Mashurova Principal
With deep appreciation to the Rin Collection for their generous loan of string instruments. Musician on temporary contract
Kong Zhao Hui performs on a J.B. Guadagnini of Milan, c. 1750, donated by the National Arts Council, Singapore, with the support of Far East Organization and Lee Foundation.
Chan Yoong-Han performs on a David Tecchler, Fecit Roma An. D. 1700, courtesy of Mr G K Goh.
Musicians listed alphabetically by family name rotate their seats on a per programme basis.
Guest Musicians
TEMASEK FOUNDATION X SSO NATIONAL DAY CONCERT 2024 | 11 AUG 2024
FIRST VIOLIN
Zanna Phua*
Liam Young*
SECOND VIOLIN
Allison Chng*
Jesper Tai*
VIOLA
Kuah Ying Ching*
Samuel Tan*
CELLO
Daryl Heng* Christoph Yang*
DOUBLE BASS
Olga Alexandrova
CLARINET
Jeremy Chua
HORN
Gao Xiaoxuan
TRUMPET
Kenneth Lun
PERCUSSION
Julia Tan
Mark De Souza
Kilian Muliady* Isaac Ng*
Michael Tan Pei Jie
*Member of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra
FOR A CARING & RESILIENTSingap ore
© ALAN LIM
LEONARD TAN conductor
Singaporean musician Leonard Tan is a prolific conductor with a strong presence in the Singapore arts scene.
He earned his doctoral degree from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where he studied orchestral conducting with David Effron, Arthur Fagen, and Murry Sidlin. Additional conducting studies were with Leif Segerstam and Alexander Polischuk in Russia, where he worked with the St. Petersburg Chamber Philharmonic, and with Johannes Schlaefli, where he worked with Academic Orchestra Zurich.
He has conducted numerous leading ensembles, including the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO), the Philharmonic Winds, and Indiana University Orchestras. During his tenure as Principal Conductor of SNYO from 2014–2018, SNYO benefitted from his artistic direction, including a thematic programming approach of core orchestral repertoire and a joint concert of Singaporean compositions with the Singapore National Youth Chinese Orchestra celebrating Singapore’s 50th anniversary. He also led the orchestra and Singapore Symphony Children’s Choir in a successful concert tour performing at the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.
Performances under Maestro Tan’s direction have been lauded by local and international critics. Singapore’s The Straits Times described his performance of Corigliano’s Symphony No. 3 as “masterfully helmed,” while the American press lauded his artful conducting. He served “with distinction” as Principal Conductor of the SNYO, where he was praised by the press for his performance of “rare blazing intensity.”
Leonard Tan is an Associate Professor of Music at the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This evening’s National Day Concert marks his 12th appearance with the SSO.
ELLISSA SAYAMPANATHAN
Assistant Choral Conductor
Ellissa Sayampanathan is a Singaporean conductor and music educator who believes in the building of community and music literacy through choral singing. Ellissa assumed the role of Assistant Choral Conductor of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) in 2024, after serving as the Choral Fellow (Conducting) since 2021. Over these years, Ellissa has been active as an instructor and singer with the SSO’s Choral Programmes, developed the Singapore Symphony Children’s Choir’s current musicianship curriculum, and has been involved in a variety of other community outreach programmes within the SSO.
Ellissa graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Master of Music (Choral Conducting) and studied Music Pedagogy at the Kodály Institute in Kecskemét (Hungary). She was a choral scholar with The Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, has had the pleasure of traveling extensively with a variety of ensembles as either conductor, workshop clinician, singer, or soloist, and is ever-inspired by the lens of culture and history in music-making. She is grateful to have received mentorship in choral conducting from Stephen Layton, Pad Zoltán, Graham Ross, Geoffrey Webber, and Éva Rozgonyi.
Besides her work at the SSO, Ellissa currently serves as the Vice-President of the Choral Directors’ Association (Singapore), is a Founder and Director of Chroma, a choral collective based in Singapore, and conducts a number of school choirs, including choirs at the Methodist Girls’ School and St. Margaret’s School (Primary). She remains active as a singer in various ensembles and relishes every opportunity to use her voice in music-making. She spends part of her life teaching music in Special Education classrooms, developing and teaching curriculum for a number of preschools, and advocates for the arts to be accessible to all.
© MICHELLE TNG YING
NDC COMBINED CHOIR AND BAND
This National Day Concert sees a collaborative movement that features the youths of today. Gathering passionate young choristers and band musicians from schools across Singapore, together in performance with our national orchestra, the Singapore Symphony, the NDC Combined Choir and Band will present the finale piece and an ode to the concert theme of Legacy & Future – composer Terrence Wong’s Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow.
COMBINED CHOIR
Ellissa Sayampanathan Choirmaster | Low Jinhong rehearsal pianist
Uniting the voices of choristers from diverse backgrounds in celebration of the best national songs, 84 student singers from 6 schools supported by choristers of the Singapore Symphony Choruses have forged a very special partnership as the NDC Combined Choir.
Over five intensive weeks of combined rehearsals, the choristers have journeyed hard in their preparation – new friendships fostered, shared memories etched. Guided by the SSO Choral Programmes’ artistic team, they have dedicated added time participating in open rehearsals with the Singapore Symphony Choruses, gaining valuable insights of the classical choral repertoire and technique. Today, they will share the stage as one alongside the orchestra. Let their voices bring you through the songs of our home, our Singapore heartbeat.
The NDC Combined Choir comprises Anglo-Chinese Junior College, Deyi Secondary School, Methodist Girls’ School (Secondary), Pathlight School, Punggol Secondary School, Serangoon Garden Secondary School and members of the Singapore Symphony Chorus, Youth and Children’s Choirs.
Choral Programmes’ Artistic Team
Eudenice Palaruan Choral Director
Wong Lai Foon Choirmaster
Ellissa Sayampanathan Assistant Choral Conductor
Ng Sheh Feng Choral Associate
Wong Yang Kai Choral Associate
Nicolette Foo Choral Conducting Fellow
Combined Choir
SOPRANO
Callie Ang
Miya Ang
Hana Alishay
Lily Emilyn
Lisa Hayley Chang
Verene Cheow
Elizabeth Chern
Emma Foo
Nicolette Foo
Dylan Francis
Faith Heng
Isabelle Ho
Isabella Jamal
Olivia Kennedy-White
Kayla Lam
Esther Lau
Liang Zhi Quan
Jayna Lim
Kaylen Lim
Amelia Lim
Bernice Lim
Giselle Lim
Jerayne Lo
Joseph Nyan
Ong Sze Ying
Faith Poh
Kaeshav Rajasekaran
Felicia Su
Ashlyn Tan
Caleb Tan
Carine Tan
Rebecca Tay
Germaine Teo
Raeanne Wong
Evelyn Xue
Giovanna Yeo
Dayna Yeo
Charlyn Yeo
ALTO
Amanda Ang
Jane Bacsal
Puteri Aliyah
Dhia Qistina
Chloe Ann Cheam
Samuel Joseph Chen
Gracelynn Chia
Allistair Chia
Chien Zi Ying
Choo Yu En
Deng Handing
Samantha Goh
Samantha Ho
How Jing Ge
Alethea Hui
Nishanthini Iyappan
Ropheka Joyce Khoo
Angel Koh
Lei Ren Xuan
Jermaine Leong
Edlyn Leow
Lim Shi Yi
Estee Lim
Zachary Lim
Jolyn Mok
Cheryl Mok
Claire Ng
Brielle Ng
Ng Sheh Feng
Izsa Un Nisa
Riann Ong
Phang Ying Xuan
Sharveena Rajasinggam
Bhavini Ravi
Poorna Gayathree
Lakshmi Saravanan
Janaelia Shim
Angeline Sun
Tan Xian Li
Tang Yu Hui
Kristen Tang
Jerrica Yik
Alex Zhang
Felix Zhang
TENOR
Jean-Michel Bardin
Arjun Bhayani
Chin Yi Hao
Paul Dominique Galvez
Samuel Koh
Gaston Liew
Jon Loh
Jeroven Marquez
David Maund
Oh Chin Aik
Ronald Ooi
Sam Rodriguez
See Cheng Xun
Sanuwa Sng
Gabriel Tan
Jayden Tan
Michael Tan
Wong Yang Kai
Stanley Yuan
BASS
Ang Jian Zhong
Furqan El Faqri
Muhammad Sabir
Leonard Buescher
Joshua Chan
Chan You Xu
Jaymas Chng
Jarryl Chow
Gabriel Chow
Keni Chung
Arthur Davis
Andy Jatmiko
Justin Lee
Raphael Lim
Kayson Lim
Laurent Lim
Felix Liu
Loy Sheng Rui
Bennett Peng
Samuel Situmeang
Max Tan
Javier Tan
Tan Hee
Isaac Tay
Elliott Titcombe
Jeremy Tuscano
Randal Wong
Wong Hin Yan
Wong Zhen Wei
Yeo Tze Jien
Hayden Yoo
COMBINED BAND
Joining hands too, are the talented young band musicians of Bendemeer and Peirce Secondary, both known for their impressive brass sections, supported by members of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO). Together, they share synergy as the NDC Combined Band.
Rehearsed by conductor Mr Joseph Teo, these musicians have dedicated countless hours together in practice. With SNYO members leading as mentors, the musicians have built strong camaraderie and developed musical unity.
Under the baton of conductor Leonard Tan today, they will share the stage as one alongside the Combined Choir and orchestra. Let their performance bring you through the songs of our home, our Singapore heartbeat.
The NDC Combined Band comprises Bendemeer Secondary School, Peirce Secondary School and members of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra.
Combined Band
HORN
Keak Jing Yi
Andrew Lee
Rylie See
Maya Shafirah
Keon Rosales
Olivia Tan
TROMBONE
Reema Chatterjee
Calista Lee
Aaron Wilson
Loh Yu Wen
Eugene Ng
Isabelle Lo
Ravienna Ravi
Kayla Lam
TRUMPET
Sara Han
Tobias Tan
Ng Yao Zu
Tiffany Lim
Caden Lim
Wesley Ho
Clara Tan
Bryan Lee
Chiew Shi Wei
Julian Chiang
EUPHONIUM
Luis Tang
Tee Jia Ding
Teo Angus
Julien Goh
TUBA
Jayden Moktan
Aaqil Ariann
Kelyn Ong
Kaelyn Teng
Audition for the Singapore Symphony Children’s Choir
The Singapore Symphony Children's Choir (SSCC) offers training and performance opportunities to children by developing their vocal technique, music literacy and musicianship, with an aim to help fledgling singers achieve their fullest musical potential.
Recommended for children aged 8 (born 2016) to 14.
Audition Details:
Date: 29 Sep 2024
Fee: $25 per participant
Registration closes: 20 Sep 2024
Audition timeslots will be assigned at a later date.
Learn more: sso.org.sg/sscc-auditions
Photo by Bryan van der Beek
LILY GOH deaf artist-performer
Lily Goh is the founder of ExtraOrdinary Horizons, which is a learning platform where everyone learns Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) from Deaf. Having worked with the Singapore Association for the Deaf for 8 years as a facilitator, Lily decided to set up ExtraOrdinary Horizons in 2011, to promote arts, culture, heritage, language and music within the Deaf community, fostering a more inclusive Singapore.
An ardent advocate for the Deaf community, Lily utilises her unique talent in Deaf music to raise awareness. Her exceptional contributions have been recognised with
prestigious accolades, including the Singapore Woman Award in 2024, and the Humanitarian and/or Voluntary Leadership award in Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World in 2017.
Performing since 1989, Lily specialises in Deaf music, including percussion and visual theatrics. Her performances are a testament to her passion and dedication to the arts. She holds a Degree in Sociology with Communication from the Singapore University of Social Sciences.
Committed to making continuous breakthroughs in the Deaf performing arts scene in Singapore, Lily’s work exemplifies the profound impact of inclusive arts in enriching the local cultural landscape.
Acknowledgements
Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) Interpreters: Fang Shawn Azzam Akbar
NAOMI YEO host
Naomi Yeo is a Singapore-based actress, host, voice-over artist and former radio DJ. Her tenacity and proficiency in all mediums have led her to be one of the most indemand talents locally.
She had her start in the industry at 18, clinching a role in Yee Wei Chai’s 2013 musical film That Girl In Pinafore “我的朋 友，我的同学， 我爱过的一切”. Her debut single, “细水长流”, hit number #1 on the iTunes charts.
She starred in MeWatch’s first thriller series, The Intruder, alongside Benjamin Kheng, Eugena Bey, Edwin Goh and James Kumar. Her latest works include Royston Tan’s “HIGH” (Singapore’s first interactive film), MeWatch’s dark comedy series KHLOE and the Kelvin Tong’s feature, A Year Of No Significance which premiered at 2023 Singapore International Film Festival.
Her ability to put people at ease with her bubbly personality has put her on the map in hosting any type of event – from casual to formal. Her latest credentials include a range of launches, galas, corporate functions and online series for Shu Uemura, Disney, Dyson, Tiffany & Co., Jewel Changi, DBS, DELL and The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) to name a few.
You can catch her soothing voice across local and international platforms and broadcasting stations, with Apple, Google, Circles Life, Scoot and more.
LEONG YOON PIN
Giocoso – Largamente
Leong Yoon Pin completed his Second Symphony in 1979 and the work was premiered in the same year by the Metro Philharmonic Society’s chorus and orchestra. It is based on the poetic sentiments of the well-known poet Li-Bo. Giocoso –Largamente is the third movement of the Symphony. The movement attempts to express two contrasting moods – happiness and sorrow.
In the Giocoso section, the joyful element, a Yunnan folk theme, is immediately brought out by the trombones and bassoons accompanied by Chinese drum and cymbals, and sustained by the upper woodwinds. Soon the main theme is announced by ensemble trumpets and developed through various instruments. The Largamente section begins with the solo trumpet singing a pensive melody which is picked up by solo horn and bassoon to the subdued string accompaniment. The theme gradually blossoms into higher registers to the triplet accompaniment on the upper strings and reaches a climatic point. The jovial element then returns but finally dies off in the distance.
Instrumentation
2 flutes, piccolo, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, bass clarinet, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones, tuba, timpani, cymbals, Chinese cymbals, bass drum, Chinese small drum, Chinese bells, strings
LEONG YOON PIN (1931–2011)
One of the most historically important forefathers of classical music in Singapore, Leong Yoon Pin was a composer, conductor and educator best-known for his choral compositions. He went on to become the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s first composer-inresidence in 2000.
Leong was born in Singapore in 1931 and was a self-taught musician until he began lessons in his 20s with Noreen Stokes. He went on to study music at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London before studying with the legendary Nadia Boulanger in Paris from 1966-67. Leong also worked as
a conductor, founding the Rediffusion Youth Choir in 1953, the Metro Philharmonic Society in 1959 and the Singapore City String Orchestra in the 1970s. In 1982 he was awarded the Cultural Medallion for his contributions to music in Singapore.
His compositional legacy includes symphonies, tone poems, operas, a piano concerto, choral and many other instrumental works. In 1980, his concert overture Dayong Sampan became the first work by a Singaporean composer performed by the then one-year-old Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
ERIC WATSON
Tapestries I – Time Dances
The composer was intrigued and inspired by the examples of tapestries woven as historical documents and of the accounts of the diaspora to Southeast Asia. The music attempts to weave the many stories of Nanyang and Singapore history together with the vibrant interweaving strands, blending the colours of tapestry.
Nanyang refers to Southeast Asia in the 19th and 20th century when migrants venturing from Southern China, India and other places, established a life for themselves, and both integrated with and influenced the local culture. In this work, the composer aims to re-tell their history, journey and life through the tapestry of his music.
The structure of this piece of music cyclical – pausing as it moves along, lingering over a stretch of melody or harmony but always with a central theme recuring. Its flavour and texture draw from diverse influences including Southeast Asian gamelan orchestra, Indian classical and Western orchestral music.
The sub-theme “Time Dances” is derived from photographer-poet Carlos ReyesManzo’s poem from his collection of poetry Oranges in Times of Moon a description of his artistic experience.
Composed by Eric Watson who was previously Singapore Chinese Orchestra’s composer-in-residence, this work was awarded the First Prize at the inaugural Singapore International Competition for Chinese Orchestral Composition in 2006.
Notes by Eric Watson
Instrumentation
2 flutes (1 doubling on piccolo), 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, triangle, suspended cymbal (with violin bow), tam-tam, snare drum, bass drum, vibraphone, tom-tom, temple blocks, congas, marimba, harp, strings
ERIC WATSON ( b . 1946)
Born in the UK, Eric Watson received musical training at Trinity College of Music, his principal studies being piano, violin, composition and conducting for which he was awarded the Ricordi prize.
He has lived in Singapore since 1991 and is active as composer, conductor, and pedagogue. His experience embraces opera, musical theatre, film and television, writing scores in many different genres. In 2001 he was the composer and musical director for the Singapore National Day parade, recording with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), and again in 2007 he wrote and arranged music for National Day with four orchestras, the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO), SSO, an Indian and a Malay ensemble.
In 2008, Eric was awarded First Prize in the first Singapore Chinese Orchestra International Composition Competition with the work Tapestries I – Time Dances; and in 2011 he wrote the First Prize winning piece Aftermath for the Singapore Piano and Violin Competition. In 2014, Eric was awarded the Kou Pao Kun Award in Arts and Culture for New Immigrants, and in 2016 to 2018 he was composer-in-residence to the SCO.
Eric takes a special interest in teaching classical and contemporary orchestration, composition, jazz and improvisational techniques and he is one of the composers and conductors
for the Asian Traditional Orchestra, active as performer, composer and lecturer in many parts of Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Australia and Europe.
In 2019, Eric Watson was conferred the Cultural Medallion, Singapore’s highest award in recognition of artistic excellence and distinction in arts and culture.
homemade recipe: nasi ulam
homemade recipe: nasi ulam is a sonic reimagination of a recipe of nasi ulam, a Peranakan mixed herb rice that can be found in Malaysia, Indonesia (Bali), Thailand and Singapore. Nasi ulam consists of cooled cooked rice, mixed with shallots, galangal, lemongrass, coconut, chili, calamansi juice, with chopped herbs such as daun kaduk (wild pepper leaf), daun kesum (coriander leaf), kafir lime leaf, mint leaf, turmeric leaf, Thai basil and ginger flower. Shredded fish or shrimp is often mixed in as well. The work includes melodies and interlocking rhythmic patterns that evokes sounds from the straits of Southeast Asia.
Notes by Emily Koh
Instrumentation
2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 3 trombones, tuba, timpani, suspended cymbal, snare drum, bass drum, hi-hat, tom-tom, vibraphone, xylophone, strings
EMILY KOH ( b . 1986)
Emily Koh is a Singaporean composer based in Atlanta, Georgia whose music reimagines everyday experiences by sonically expounding tiny oft-forgotten details, and explores binary states such as extremities/boundaries and activity/ stagnation. She especially enjoys collaborating with creatives of other specializations.
Described as “the future of composing” (The Straits Times, Singapore), Emily is the recipient of awards such as the Copland House Residency Award, Young Artist Award (National Arts Council, Singapore), Yoshiro Irino Memorial Prize (Asian Composers League), ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award, Prix D’Ete (Peabody), and the Macagnoni Prize for Innovative Research (University of Georgia). Her work is supported with commissions, grants and fellowships from the National Endowment of the Arts, National Arts Council (Singapore), Opera America, New Music USA, MacDowell, the Barlow Endowment for Music Composition, American Composers’ Orchestra, Women’s Philharmonic Advocacy, the Paul Abisheganaden Grant for Artistic Excellence (National University of Singapore) and others.
Described as “beautifully eerie” (New York Times), and “subtly spicy” (Baltimore Sun), Emily’s music has been performed around the world, and is published by Babel Scores (Europe)
and Poco Piu Publishing (worldwide).
Emily is currently Associate Professor of Music Composition at the University of Georgia, USA.
LIM HAN QUAN
Our Story: Passage through Time (Winning piece from NDC 2024 Call for Compositions / World Premiere)
Our Story: Passage through Time details the chronological development of our Lion City through its humble beginnings to the bustling metropolis it is today in a five-minute musical summary. The seven sections: Genesis, Discovery, Vision, Striving, Tension, Determination, and Futuropolis (a mix of future and polis) are connected by two motifs (one lofty, the other introspective) which are heard, harmonised and orchestrated in different shapes and forms. Genesis and Discovery draw inspiration from the story of Sang Nila Utama discovering Singapore (then Singapura) in 1299, and the remaining sections narrate the journey of our founding father (the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew) who transformed Singapore into who she is today.
As we celebrate 59 years of independence this year, let Our Story: Passage through Time be a jubilant celebration of our legacy thus far, and give hope and drive to our future generations to continue flying our flag proud.
Notes by Lim Han Quan
Instrumentation
2 flutes (1 doubling on piccolo), 2 oboes (1 doubling on cor anglais), 2 clarinets (1 doubling on bass clarinet), 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, tuba, timpani, wind chimes, cymbals, suspended cymbal, snare drum, bass drum, glockenspiel, tom-tom, harp, strings
With music that has been described as ‘a sound world that was ethereal and otherworldly’ and ‘imbued with a spiritual heft to move mountains’ (Chang Tou Liang, The Straits Times), Singapore’s Lim Han Quan (also affectionately known as ‘Mr Orange’) skilfully fuses the classical, contemporary and popular music traditions with his unique ‘MR ORANGE STYLE’ (as he calls it) in his multifaceted career as a composer, arranger, performer and educator.
LIM HAN QUAN ( b . 1997)
Han Quan was trained holistically under the Yamaha Music Education System in his younger days, and subsequently embarked on formal composition studies under esteemed composer Dr Zechariah Goh at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Under his dedicated tutelage, Han Quan graduated with a Diploma with Distinction (and the Best Graduate Award) in 2017, and First Class Honours (and a Best Graduate nomination) from the joint NAFA-RCM Bachelor of Music (Honours) degree in 2022.
Recent composition accolades include the Honourable Mention Award at the 6th International Choral Composition Competition 2021 based in Tokyo, Japan for his choral work Beauty and Song, and the winner of the 2022 Leong Yoon Pin Composition Competition for his chamber work appear and disappear: jigen wo koeru tabi. His electone works sonic focus and 希望 (HOPE) were featured in the Yamaha International Highlights Concerts 2022 and 2023. Han Quan is also sought after as an arranger, having written for Ean Keng Si Buddhist Choir, Ding Yi Music Company, Asian Cultural Symphony Orchestra and NAFA’s Popular Music Ensemble, to name a few.
An avid performer, Han Quan is a six-time winner of the Yamaha Electone Festival in Singapore and has represented Singapore in electone festivals around the Asia-Pacific region. He also recently clinched the First Prize of the Open Age Category at the Yamaha Electone Festival Grand Finals in Osaka in December 2022.
Apart from music, Han Quan also completed a Graduate Diploma in Applied Positive Psychology in 2020 from The School of Positive Psychology (Singapore). He strongly believes that music can be used to touch people’s hearts.
Han Quan is currently an Adjunct Lecturer in Aural and Musicianship Studies at the School of Music of NAFA, and also an Associate Conductor of the Vox Camerata Community Choir.
FELICIA TENG
Red Dot Dreaming
(Winning piece from NDC 2024 Call for Compositions / World Premiere)
Red Dot Dreaming opens with a broad and grand gesture from the brass and winds that leads to the first theme. The rhythm from this first theme is loosely based on the Morse code for “people”. It weaves through different fabrics of the orchestra, forming a colourful backdrop for the piece.
Amidst this backdrop appears the lyrical second theme presented by the high strings and winds against gentle accompaniment. Some light-hearted tussle between the first two themes ensue before the third theme appears. Built on canon, it is a sombre conversation amongst the strings.
Towards the end, a storm of tutti rhythm interrupts brusquely, unrelenting. Eventually, the storm gives way to the calm and everything resolves to a gentle harmonious close.
Notes by Felicia Teng
Instrumentation
2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, triangle, mark tree, cymbals, snare drum, bass drum, wood block, castanets, cowbell, tambourine, whip, strings
FELICIA TENG ( b . 1995)
Felicia is a Singaporean composer with a comprehensive training in classical and popular piano. She combines an enthusiastic interest in the vast variety of musical instruments from around the world. As a piano teacher, she focuses on developing musical appreciation and the skills needed for her students to express their musicality, regardless of their experience level. Her creative practice is informed by her popular music studies in Freiburg, and her ongoing composition lessons.
Illuminating the skies
(Winning piece from NDC 2024 Call for Compositions / World Premiere)
Inspired by daybreak, Illuminating the skies reflects on the tremendous power of our sun — brightening up both our world every morning and distant worlds as a star. As such, the music takes on a cosmic journey and seeks to capture the beauty of the celestial realm, with textures of shimmering strings and percussion representing the starfield we traverse in. The melodic content is derived from the Hindustani Bhairav raga, a quintessential raga traditionally performed during daybreak.
Besides having a visual imagery, the title is a metaphor for the transformative power of music and our imagination. The plural form of ‘sky’ is used here since there is not only one sky, but multiple skies from each individual’s perspective. The music invites its audience to look upward to behold the vastness of our universe, and look forward to vast potential of our future that can only be illuminated with our imagination.
Notes by Gu Wei
Instrumentation
2 flutes (1 doubling on piccolo), 2 oboes (1 doubling on cor anglais), 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, triangle, cymbals, suspended cymbal, tam-tam, glockenspiel, xylophone, vibraphone, marimba, harp, strings
GU WEI ( b . 1991)
Gu Wei is an award-winning Singaporean composer whose music has been described as having ‘warmth of real splendour…’. His music has been performed by ensembles including Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Alarm Will Sound, Peabody Symphony Orchestra, Singapore Wind Symphony, The Philharmonic Winds, among others.
As a composer, Gu Wei is fascinated by dialogues between disciplines, cultures, social groups, and has collaborated with organizations including National Gallery Singapore, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Space Telescope Science Institute, and Asian Art Initiative. His musical explorations led him to sometimes perform on the toy piano, for which he has commissioned many contemporary works. He is also a student of Hindustani classical music and strives to immerse himself in different cultures in order to bring intercultural aspirations in his music.
Gu Wei graduated with a Doctor in Musical Arts degree in composition from the Peabody Institute of The John Hopkins University, where he was also appointed as the Graduate Assistant in Music Theory. He currently teaches at School of the Arts (SOTA) and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA).
© HUAN STUDIOS
Sing!
Sing! was commissioned by the Singapore Wind Symphony for their inaugural Singapore! A Musical Celebration concert series in 2012. It is a piece that celebrates the unity of Singapore’s diverse population over the past half a century of independence, and uses adaptations of some local folk tunes from each of the racial groups and some national songs. Eventually the tunes all come together in perfect harmony and concludes in a rousing ending.
Notes by Lee Jinjun
Instrumentation
flute, piccolo, 2 oboes (1 doubling on cor anglais), 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 3 trombones, tuba, timpani, triangle, cymbals, suspended cymbal, snare drum, bass drum, glockenspiel, tambourine, harp, strings
LEE JINJUN ( b . 1990)
Award-winning Singaporean composer Lee Jinjun has been actively involved in the music scene as both a composer and performer for the past 10 years. His works have been conducted by celebrated conductors such as Chan Tze Law, Philip Tng, Johan de Meij, Mark Heron, and performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Singapore Armed Forces Central Band, Orchestra of the Music Makers and the Philharmonic Wind Orchestra. His piece Autumnal Fireworks clinched the First Prize at the Singapore International Band Festival Composition Competition in the Grade 4 category. In 2014, What Does the Future Hold? won the First Prize at the World Projects Composition Contest and was premiered by the Riverside City College Wind Ensemble in the Walt Disney Concert Hall as part of the 2015 Los Angeles International Music Festival. His orchestral work Terraces earned him a Fellowship in the Banaue Music Composition Competition 2018.
Jinjun was commissioned by the Ministry of Education Arts Education Branch to compose the set pieces for the Singapore Youth Festival 2019 Arts Presentation for concert bands, resulting in the creation of two modular wind band works, Festival on Earth and Party in Space. His trumpet solo showpiece Variations on Chan Mali Chan was premiered by trumpet virtuoso Joe Burgstaller in 2014. The Straits Times hailed Variations as “the local answer to Arban’s fantastic
Carnival of Venice Variations”. It has since been performed by leading euphonium soloist Steven Mead in a euphonium edition both in Singapore and many other countries worldwide, including China, United States of America, Belgium, Germany and Spain. He has since then received commissions from major figures and organisations, such as Timothy Reynish, the Royal Northern College of Music, Brighouse and Rastrick Band and the Orchestra of the Music Makers. Jinjun also writes arrangements for symphonic bands and orchestras, including music by major Singaporean musical figures such as Dick Lee, Shun Ng and Jeremy Monteiro.
Jinjun studied composition at the Royal Northern College of Music at the Masters level, under the tutelage of Adam Gorb and Paul Patterson.
TERRENCE WONG
Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow (World Premiere)
The year is 2000. A new era beckons; few can say that they have lived at the turn of any millennium, much less so during a time of relative peace, stability and prosperity. Singapore is still a young nation, and there is still much to work towards and look forward to.
Enter 2024. The turbulent and uncertain times of the pandemic now seem like a lifetime ago, but the world is still recovering from its after-effects. Many nations begin turning inwards, doubling down on their own interests even more aggressively than before, sometimes at the expense of other nations. Singapore is not spared; terms like ‘inflation’, ‘rising cost of living’ and ‘uncertainty’ weigh heavily on the minds of many Singaporeans, even as we continue to thrive socially and economically. Still, hope remains that better days will return once again.
It is now 2065. The worst has come to pass, and Singapore has grown to become a mature nation owing to the collective diligence, adaptability and unity of its people. The Republic’s past now stretches back a century, but the road ahead stretches farther than what any living Singaporean can envision. New, unforetold challenges make the nation’s impending journey unpredictable, yet there is no doubt in the hearts and minds of its citizens that the future remains a bright and fulfilling one for all.
A medley comprising three Singapore National Day theme songs from yesteryear:
My Island Home (2006)
Music and lyrics by Joshua Wan
Performed by Kaira Gong
Reach Out For The Skies (2005)
Music by Elaine Chan
Lyrics by Selena Tan
Performed by Taufik Batisah and Rui En
Together (1999)
Music and lyrics by Ken Lim
Performed by Evelyn Tan and Dreamz FM
Notes by Terrence Wong
Instrumentation
Chorus, band (2 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, euphonium, tuba), 2 flutes (1 doubling on piccolo), 2 oboes (1 doubling on cor anglais), 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons (1 doubling on contrabassoon), 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, cymbals, suspended cymbal, tam-tam, rain stick, snare drum, bass drum, drum set, xylophone, glockenspiel, bird call, shaker, marimba, harp, strings
My Island Home
This is my home
She’s everything to me
Grace and beauty
In all that you see
My island home
Wherever I may be
I never will forget her
Nor will she forget me
And I will sing
A song of home
A land of peace
Where dreams are born every day
My home, wherever I may be I believe
You will always be a part of me
My island home
Home of my family
This is my future
Where I want to be
(This is my future
This is my home)
And I will sing
A song of home
A land of peace
Where dreams are born every day
My home, wherever I may be
I believe
You will always be a part of me
My home, wherever I may be
I believe
You will always be a part of me
A part of me
Reach Out For The Skies
At a time when hope was low
The journey seemed unsure
But through it all
We’ve kept the flame alive
Now standing proud and tall
Our spirit strong and free
Building on hopes and dreams
It’s here we want to be
Let’s reach out for the skies
With wings we soar up high
Our dreams we’ll all achieve
We’ll make our destiny
Let’s reach out for the skies
With wings we soar up high
Our dreams we’ll all achieve
Let’s soar and reach for the skies
When I think about my dreams
The future it can be
The time has come for me
To strive and to achieve
With hopes within our hearts
As one hand in hand
For family and our friends
Let’s do the best we can
Uh huh~ Yeah~
Our dreams we’ll all achieve
Let’s soar and reach for the skies
We can touch the skies
Together
Let us be together
Aspire to achieve
No matter what, no matter when, Working hand in hand
Let us go the distance, reach for goals that shine
Creating our future, with everyone in mind
Together we make a difference, one voice, one destiny
We remain undivided, our hearts in harmony
Together we make a difference, our friends, our families
We will share a special dream
Together we feel the Singapore heartbeat
Let us find in our strides, new strength to go on by Nothing is ever easy, we have to hold on and strive
Let us never be afraid, if we have to change our ways
Through the years, we’ll always stay, one in every way
Together we make a difference, one voice, one destiny
We remain undivided, our hearts in harmony
Together we make a difference, our friends, our families
We will share a special dream
Together we feel the Singapore heartbeat
TERRENCE WONG ( b . 1989)
A multi-faceted musician that engages different levels of the community to promote understanding of Singaporean culture through his heartfelt compositions, Terrence Wong Fei Yang graduated with a Master of Music in Composition in 2021 from the Royal College of Music (RCM) with the support of the Robert Anderson Award from the RCM as well as the National Arts Council Arts Scholarship (Postgraduate). Wong has studied composition with William Mival, Zechariah Goh Toh Chai and Kenneth Hesketh, as well as conducting with Lim Yau and Leonard Tan.
Wong has been commissioned to compose music for notable Singaporean ensembles such as The Philharmonic Winds and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO). His compositions have been performed by international artists such as Joseph Alessi (Trombone) and Steven Mead (Euphonium), and in countries as far as Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Lithuania and the United Kingdom. Most recently, Wong was commissioned to write the set pieces for the National Piano and Violin Competition 2023, a prestigious Singaporean biennial competition that sees hundreds of young musicians contend for the country’s highest accolade for classical Western piano and violin performance.
Wong is most well-known for his accessible and relatable compositions
for wind band, which have been performed by numerous school and community bands. These works speak of unsung Singaporean heroes, such as war hero Lieutenant Adnan Saidi in Battle of Opium Hill (2020), describe historical places as in Keppel Harbour (2021), and re-tell historical events such as The Fall, and Hope (2021), which illustrates the story of the fall of Singapore during the Second World War. He is also often sought after to write music that features inter-cultural elements, such as in Monsoon for oud, tabla, erhu and the Singapore Wind Symphony (2017), Fortitude (2021) for the Asian Cultural Symphony Orchestra and Light at Tunnel’s End (2022) for Ding Yi Music Company.
All in all, Wong believes that his musical journey encompasses a lifelong and fulfilling process of research, appreciation, creative thinking and performance, and aims to express the intricacies of life, love, loss and death through his work.
To Our Donor Patrons
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to the following individuals and organisations who support our mission to create memorable shared experiences with music in the past year.
Without your support, it would be impossible for the SSO to continue to strive for artistic excellence and touch the hearts of audiences.
PATRON SPONSOR
Tote Board Group
(Tote Board, Singapore Pools & Singapore Turf Club)
MAESTRO CIRCLE
Mr & Mrs Goh Yew Lin
Stephen Riady Group of Foundations
Estate of Tan Jiew Cheng
Temasek Foundation
The HEAD Foundation
SYMPHONY CIRCLE
Dr & Mrs Antoine & Christina Firmenich
Christopher Fussner
Holywell Foundation
Lee Foundation
Lee Li Ming
Paige Parker & Jim Rogers
Jacqueline Yeh
Yong Hon Kong Foundation
Dr Thomas & Mrs Mary Zuellig
CONCERTO CIRCLE
Prof Chan Heng Chee
Cara & Tamara Chang
Geraldine Choong & Dennis Au
Elaine and Eduardo Saverin Foundation Ltd
Far East Organization
Frans & Marie-Pierre
Geh Min
Miriam & Merle Hinrich
IMC Group Asia (S’pore) Pte Ltd
Karim Family Foundation
Kris Foundation
Mavis Lim Geck Chin
NEO Group
Paul & Lena Ng
Andreas & Doris Sohmen-Pao
Dr Edwin Tan
UOB
Geoffrey & Ai Ai Wong
Wong Hong Ching
GU BING JIE
FIXED CHAIR VIOLA
OVERTURE PATRONS
Odile & Douglas Benjamin
BINJAITREE
BreadTalk Group
Lito & Kim Camacho
Cavazos Tinajero Family
Cham Gee Len
Prof Cham Tao Soon
Alan Chan
Vivian P J Chandran
Chen Xiaoyan
Robert Chew
Chng Hak-Peng
Daniel Choo & Family
Chopard Asia Pte Ltd
Dr & Mrs Choy Khai Meng
Prof Arnoud De Meyer
Embassy of France in Singapore
Energeo Systems Pte Ltd
Karen Fawcett & Alisdair Ferrie
FRED Jewelry
Dorian Goh & Rathi Ho
Goh Swee Chen
Haidilao Hotpot
Hong Leong Foundation
Illumia Medical Pte Ltd
Vanessa & Darren Iloste
JCCI Singapore Foundation
Ross & Florence Jennings
Jin Lu
Vivian Kao & Shou Zi Chew
Jeffrey Khoo
Dr & Mrs Adrian Koh
Mr & Mrs Koh Chye Hock
Kenneth Kwok
Mark Lee & Kelly Keak
Lee Ming San
Leong Wai Leng
LGT Bank (Singapore)
Liew Wei Li
Lim Boon Heng
Marina Bay Sands
Devika & Sanjiv Misra
NEON Global
NSL Ltd
Christina Ong
PCS Pte Ltd
Poh Khim Hong
Prima Limited
Xu Ren
Priscylla Shaw
Martin Siah & Wendy Long
Prof Gralf & Silvia Sieghold
Sirivadhanabhakdi
Eugene Sng
Tan Meng Cheng Ivan
Joy & Han Li Toh
Tow Heng Tan
Tower Capital Asia
V3 Group Limited (OSIM)
Watson Farley & Williams LLP
Woh Hup (Private) Limited
Grace Yeh
Yong Ying-I
Zeng Fuzu
Zeng Liqing
Anonymous (4)
SERENADE PATRONS
Marcelo Viccario Achoa & Silvia Bordoni
Su Pin & Mervin Beng
John & Eliza Bittleston
Bryan Carmichael
Chua Hwa Choon
Hartley & Hong Lynn Clay
Gan Seow Ann
Liwen & Steven Holmes
Rebecca Hong
Katherine Kennedy-White
Maisy Koh
Lorinne Kon
Mr & Mrs Paterson Lau
Leong Wah Kheong
RHAPSODY PATRONS
Ang Jian Zhong
Lawrence & Celeste Basapa
Hans Michael Brandes
Cheong Hee Kiat
Evelyn Chin
Chor Siew Chun
Adrian Chua Tsen Leong
Ee Kim Lock
Gallery Nawei Pte Ltd
The Gangoso Family
Jerry Gwee
Ho Bee Foundation
Hwang Chih Ming
Sylvie Khau
Belinda Koh
In Memory of Timothy Kok Tse En
Krishnan Family
Winston & Valerie Kwek
Lau Soo Lui
Jennifer Lee
Sean Lee
Gin & Douglas Leong
Darren Lim & En Yu Tan
D-Y Lin
Michelle Loh
Joanna Ludkiewicz & Robert Hunziker
Christopher & Clarinda Martin
msm-productions
Ms Oang Nguyen & Dr Dang Vu
Poh Tiong Choon Logistics Limited
SC Global Developments Pte Ltd
Dr June & Peter Sheren
Tan Seow Yen
G. Yu & G. Hentsch
Anonymous (6)
Caroline Lim
Charmaine Lim
Dr Victor Lim
JN Loh
Prof Tamas Makany & Julie Schiller
Francoise Mei
Meng
Stephanie Mualim
Kenneth Oo
Esmé Parish & Martin Edwards
Terese Poh
Ian & Freda Rickword
Farhana Sharmeen
The Sohn Yong Family
Julian Tan
Aileen Tang
Tang See Chim
Anthony Tay
Amanda Walujo
Eric Wong
Wu Peihui
Anonymous (5)
PRELUDE PATRONS
Hyder Ahmad
Aloha Dental Clinic
Ang Seow Long
Anthony & Chloe Tan from ACE Team Foundation
BDA Partners Pte Ltd
Maria Christina van der Burgt
John Cai
Gavin Chan
Pauline Chan
Chang Chee Pey
Chang Julian
Jeanie Cheah
Cynthia Chee
Christopher Chen Li Hsian
YC Chen
Zhihong Chen
Andrew Cheong Zhiren
Dr Chew Chee Tong
Faith Chia
Chin Soon Yenn
Anthony Chng
Pamela Chong
Ruby Chong
Tiffany Choong & Shang Thong Kai
Clarissa Chow
Belinda Chua
Jennie Chua
Pierre Colignon
CP
Jeremy Ee
J-P & Colette Felenbok
John & Pauline Foo
Dr Foo Swee Sen
Foo Yunxuan
Gan Yit Koon
Soumyadip Ghosh
Goh Chiu Gak
Goh Hui Kok Michael
Prof Goh Suat Hong
Yvette Goh
Heinrich Grafe
Ilya Gutlin
Winston Hauw
HC & Jennifer
Henry & Tiffany
Nishioka Hiroyuki
Dr Ho Su Ling
In memory of 黄招娣 (Huang Zhao Di)
Arjun Jolly & Priyanka Nayar
Ad Ketelaars
Khim
Elizabeth Khoo
Ernest Khoo
Dr & Mrs Khoo Teng Kew
Dr Khoo Wei Ming
Khor Cheng Kian
Koh Siew Yen Terri
Kye
Colin Lang
Dr & Mrs Winson Lay
SuYin L
Kristen Lee
Lee Mun Ping
Dr Norman Lee
Lee Wei Jie
Colin & Janet Leong
Voon S Leong
Wendy Leong Marnyi
Li Danqi & Liu Yi
Derek Lim
Edith & Sean Lim
Lim Yuin Wen
Rachel Lin
Ling Yang Chang
Sam & Claire Loh
Low Boon Hon
Alwyn Loy
Fabian Lua
Benjamin Ma
April Mak
Andre Maniam Mattopher
Minwei
Dr Tashiya Mirando
John Morley
Ngiam Shih Chun
Mdm Ngo Hwee Bee
Ong Chee Siong
Ong Kay Jin Jason
Xinyi Ong
Victor Ow
Pigar & William
Robert Khan & Co Pte Ltd
Danai Sae-Han
Jason Salim & Tan Hwee Koon
Kadir Satar
Hisaaki Sato
Sayawaki Yuri
Thierry Schrimpf
Shi Lei
Marcel Smit & Hanneke Verbeek
Soh Leng Wan
Ronald & Janet Stride
Superb Cleaning Pte Ltd
Andrew & Jacqueline Tan
Casey Tan Khai Hee
Christine Tan & Jeremy Ting
Gillian & Daniel Tan
Gordon HL Tan
Dr Tan Lay Kok
Michelle Tan
Min Tan
Dr Giles Tan Ming Yee
Dr Pamela Tan
Tan Peng Peng
Tan Siew Ling Celine
Linda Tan Soo
Tan Yee Deng
Tay Kim Ann
David Teng
Teo Eng Chai
Teo Kien Boon
Kyra Teo
Teo Wee Poh
Alessandro Tesei
Alicia Thian & Brian Bonde
Alan & Akashnee Thompson
Yang Tian
The Tomsik Family
Wang Lei & Gao Bo
Wang Meng
Wang Pei Zhong
Kris Wiluan
Dr Wong Hin Yan
Jinny Wong
Wicky Wong
Valerie Wu
Elaine Xu
Yan Xia
Yeow Ooh Teng
Lillian Yin
Yong Seow Kin
Zhang Zheng
Zheng Hongbo
Zhu Yulin
Anonymous (37)
This list reflects donations that were made from 1 Jul 2023 to 30 Jun 2024. We would like to express our sincere thanks to donors whose names were inadvertently left out at print time. The Singapore Symphony Group is a charity and a not-for-profit organisation. Singapore tax-payers may qualify for 250% tax deduction for donations made. You can support us by donating at www.sso.org.sg/donate or www.giving.sg/sso.
SUPPORT THE SSO
How can you help?
While SSO is supported partially by funding from the Singapore government, a significant part can only be unlocked as matching grants when we receive donations from the public. If you are in a position to do so, please consider making a donation to support your orchestra – Build the future by giving in the present.
As a valued patron of the SSO, you will receive many benefits.
COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS*
Subscription/ Chamber and Organ /Family/ SIPF Gala/Christmas/ Pops
SSO Special Gala Concerts
DONOR RECOGNITION & PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Concert booklets and website
Patron of the Arts Nomination
Donors’ Wall at VCH
OTHER BENEFITS
Invitation to special events
Donations of $100 and above will entitle you to priority bookings, and discounts^ on SSG Concerts. For tax residents of Singapore, all donations may be entitled to a tax deduction of 2.5 times the value of your donation.
*Complimentary ticket benefits do not apply to Esplanade & Premier Box seats, or supporters who give through a fundraising event.
^Discounts are not applicable for purchase of Esplanade & Premier Box seats.
Through the SSO and its affiliated performing groups, we spread the love for music, nurture talent and enrich our diverse communities.
The Singapore Symphony Orchestra is a charity and not-for-profit organisation. To find out more, please visit www.sso.org.sg/support-us, or write to Nikki Chuang at nikki@sso.org.sg
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
A Standing Ovation
We recognise major gifts that help sustain the future of the Singapore Symphony Group. The recognition includes naming of a position in the SSO or in our affiliated performance groups such as the Singapore National Youth Orchestra and the Singapore Symphony Choruses.
SSO CONCERTMASTER GK GOH CHAIR
In July 2017, the SSO established the GK Goh Chair for the Concertmaster. Mr Goh Geok Khim and his family have been long-time supporters of the national orchestra. We are grateful for the donations from his family and friends towards this Chair, especially Mr and Mrs Goh Yew Lin for their most generous contribution.
Mr Igor Yuzefovich was the inaugural GK Goh Concertmaster Chair. The position is currently vacant.
NG PEI-SIAN PRINCIPAL CELLO
JIN TA PRINCIPAL FLUTE
SSO PRINCIPAL CELLO
THE HEAD FOUNDATION CHAIR
In recognition of a generous gift from The HEAD Foundation, we announced the naming of our Principal Cello, “The HEAD Foundation Chair” in November 2019. The Chair is currently held by Principal Cellist Ng Pei-Sian.
SSO PRINCIPAL FLUTE
STEPHEN RIADY CHAIR
In recognition of a generous gift from Dr Stephen Riady, we announced in May 2022 the naming of our Principal Flute, “Stephen Riady Chair”. The position is currently held by our Principal Flutist Jin Ta.
SSO PRINCIPAL VIOLA
TAN JIEW CHENG CHAIR
In recognition of a generous gift from the Estate of Tan Jiew Cheng, we announced in February 2024 the naming of our Principal Viola, “Tan Jiew Cheng Chair”. The position is currently held by our Principal Violist Manchin Zhang.
For more information, please write to director_development@sso.org.sg.
MANCHIN ZHANG PRINCIPAL VIOLA
CORPORATE PATRONAGE
JIAN ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL HORN
HEARTFELT THANKS TO OUR CORPORATE PATRONS
Temasek Foundation
The HEAD Foundation
Stephen Riady Group of Foundations
Lee Foundation
Holywell Foundation
Aquilus Pte Ltd
TransTechnology Pte Ltd
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Raffles Hotel Singapore
SMRT Corporation
Singapore Airlines
Conrad Centennial Singapore
Symphony 924
Form a special relationship with Singapore’s national orchestra and increase your brand recognition among an influential and growing audience.
CORPORATE GIVING
We provide our Corporate Patrons with impressive entertainment and significant branding opportunities. Through our tailored packages, corporates may benefit from:
• Publicity and hospitality opportunities at an SSO concert or your private event,
• Acknowledgement and mentions in SSO’s key publicity channels,
• National Arts Council (NAC) Patron of the Arts nominations,
• Tax benefits.
Packages start at $10,000 and can be tailored to your company’s branding needs.
PARTNERSHIP
We partner with various corporates through tailored in-kind sponsorship and exchange of services. Current and recent partnerships include Official Hotel, Official Airline, and we offer other exciting titles.
For more details, please write to Chelsea Zhao at chelsea.zhao@sso.org.sg.
GAO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & COMMITTEES
CHAIR
Goh Yew Lin
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Yong Ying-I (Deputy Chair)
Geoffrey Wong (Treasurer)
Chang Chee Pey
Chng Kai Fong
Prof Arnoud De Meyer
Warren Fernandez
Kenneth Kwok
Liew Wei Li
Sanjiv Misra
Lynette Pang
Prof Qin Li-Wei
Yasmin Zahid
Yee Chen Fah
Andrew Yeo Khirn Hin
NOMINATING AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Goh Yew Lin (Chair)
Chng Kai Fong
Prof Arnoud De Meyer
Lynette Pang
Geoffrey Wong
Yong Ying-I
HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE
Yong Ying-I (Chair)
Chng Kai Fong
Prof Arnoud De Meyer
Heinrich Grafe
Doris Sohmen-Pao
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE
Geoffrey Wong (Chair)
Sanjiv Misra
David Goh
Alex Lee
AUDIT COMMITTEE
Yee Chen Fah (Chair)
Warren Fernandez
Lim Mei
Jovi Seet
SNYO COMMITTEE
Liew Wei Li (Chair)
Prof Qin Li-Wei
Benjamin Goh
Vivien Goh
Dr Kee Kirk Chin
Clara Lim-Tan
SSO MUSICIANS’ COMMITTEE
Mario Choo
David Smith
Wang Xu
Christoph Wichert
Yang Zheng Yi
Elaine Yeo
Zhao Tian
SSO COUNCIL
Alan Chan (Chair)
Odile Benjamin
Prof Chan Heng Chee
Dr Geh Min
Heinrich Grafe Khoo Boon Hui
Lim Mei
Paige Parker
Dr Stephen Riady Priscylla Shaw
Prof Gralf Sieghold
Prof Bernard Tan
Dr Tan Chin Nam
Wee Ee Cheong
SINGAPORE SYMPHONY GROUP ADMINISTRATION
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Kenneth Kwok
DEPUTY CEO, PROGRAMMES & PRODUCTION
Kok Tse Wei
DEPUTY CEO, PATRONS & CORPORATE SERVICES
Jenny Ang
ORGANISATION DEVELOPMENT
Lillian Yin
CEO OFFICE
Shirin Foo
Musriah Bte Md Salleh
ARTISTIC PLANNING
Hans Sørensen (Head)
Artistic Administration
Jodie Chiang
Terrence Wong
Jocelyn Cheng
Michelle Yeo
OPERATIONS
Ernest Khoo (Head)
Library
Lim Lip Hua
Wong Yi Wen
Adlina Bte Ashar
Cheng Yee Ki
Orchestra Management
Chia Jit Min (Head)
Charis Peck Xin Hui
Kelvin Chua
Production Management
Noraihan Bte Nordin
Nazem Redzuan
Leong Shan Yi
Asyiq Iqmal
Khairi Edzhairee
Khairul Nizam
Benjamin Chiau
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Community Engagement
Kua Li Leng (Head)
Whitney Tan
Samantha Lim
Lynnette Chng
Choral Programmes
Kua Li Leng (Head)
Regina Lee
Chang Hai Wen
Mimi Syaahira
Singapore National Youth Orchestra
Ramu Thiruyanam (Head)
Tang Ya Yun
Tan Sing Yee
Ridha Ridza
ABRSM
Patricia Yee
Lai Li-Yng
Joong Siow Chong
Freddie Loh
May Looi
PATRONS
Development
Chelsea Zhao (Head)
Nikki Chuang
Sarah Wee
Sharmilah Banu
PATRONS
Communications, Digital & Marketing
Cindy Lim (Head)
Communications
Elliot Lim
Elizabeth Low
Digital & Marketing
Chia Han-Leon
Calista Lee
Myrtle Lee
Hong Shu Hui
Jana Loh
Remy Pang
Customer Experience
Randy Teo
Dacia Cheang
Joy Tagore
CORPORATE SERVICES
Finance, IT & Facilities
Rick Ong (Head)
Alan Ong
Goh Hoey Fen
Loh Chin Huat
Md Zailani Bin Md Said
Human Resources & Administration
Valeria Tan (Head)
Janice Yeo
Fionn Tan
Netty Diyanah Bte Osman
SINGAPORE SYMPHONY CHORUSES
Delivering choral excellence since 1980
A premier body for classical choral singing, the Si ngapore Symphony Choruses comprise the Singapore Symphony Chorus, Si ngapore Symphony Youth Choir and Singapore Symphony Childre n’s Choir.
Drawing membership from diverse ages, nationalities and walks of life, our Choruses embody a comprehensive singing ecosyst em that nurtures the brilliance of our brightest young talents, insp ires youthful passion for the art and celebrates the best of choral excel lence!
Scan the QR code and visit our website for more det ails on audition and training opportunities.
@singaporesymphony
@sgsymphonychorus
@sgsymphonyyouthchoir
@sgsymphonychildrenschoir
Scan for more information Or visit our website at sso.org.sg/choruses
The vision of the Singapore Symphony Group is to be a leading arts organisation that engages, inspires and reflects Singapore through musical excellence. Our mission is to create memorable shared experiences with music. Through the SSO and its affiliated performing groups, we spread the love for music, nurture talent and enrich our diverse communities. The Singapore Symphony Orchestra is a charity and not-for-profit organisation. You can support us by donating at www.sso.org.sg/donate
SEASO N P A R T N E R S
SEASO N P A T R ON S MAJ
Mr & Mrs Goh Yew Lin
Estate of Tan Jiew Cheng
Official
Official Air line
Official Outdoor Media Par tner
Official Community Par tner
Official Hotel
Stephen Riady Group of Foundations