Preview: SSO Gala – Missa Solemnis · Masaaki Suzuki

In 1819, the year Raffles landed in Singapore, Beethoven wrote the first notes of Missa Solemnis. A grand setting of Mass, the work is considered one of the composer’s greatest achievements at the height of his career, a point in his life when Beethoven was practically completely deaf. The great composer never got a chance to hear his work, and on the opening page wrote “From … Continue reading Preview: SSO Gala – Missa Solemnis · Masaaki Suzuki

SSO Raise S$1.16M For Orchestra’s 40th Anniversary Benefit

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) raised $1.16 million at its annual Benefit Gala, on 30 March 2019. Minister for Finance Mr Heng Swee Keat was Guest of Honour. The annual fundraiser that supports the national orchestra is a closely-watched society event. This year’s gala was themed “Rhapsody with the Symphony” and included a dinner menu curated by Ritz-Carlton Millenia Executive Chef Massimo Pasquarelli, a silent wine … Continue reading SSO Raise S$1.16M For Orchestra’s 40th Anniversary Benefit

Preview: Red Balloon Series – Rhythms, Rites, and Renewals by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

Don’t miss this heart-pounding, eye-opening Asian premiere of Threshold for percussion and orchestra. Written by LA Philharmonic Principal timpanist Joseph Pereira, requiring six timpani and a vast array of percussion instruments ordinary and extraordinary, this performance promises nothing but wonder with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s very own Principal Timpanist Christian Schiøler, and guest percussion duo Maraca2. Contemporary music champion Pascal Rophé leads the SSO in his … Continue reading Preview: Red Balloon Series – Rhythms, Rites, and Renewals by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

I Can, We Can: An Interview with Singer-Songwriter Jesse Ruben

Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben is a beacon of hope. With two albums already under his belt, the 32-year old musician is enjoying strong success on the road as he promotes his latest EP Hope. On how he got started, Jesse explains: “I’ve always had a very special relationship with music, and I grew up listening to all sorts of genres – rock & roll, folk, … Continue reading I Can, We Can: An Interview with Singer-Songwriter Jesse Ruben

Preview: Singapore International Piano Festival 2019 by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

The 26th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival returns this May and gathers virtuoso pianists from all four corners of the world. Presented by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, naturally, the festival will be held at their home at the Victoria Concert Hall, doubling in significance as the iconic birthplace of the festival. Well known for its intimate setting, audiences can expect concerts up closer and … Continue reading Preview: Singapore International Piano Festival 2019 by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

Preview: Mendelssohn Violin Concerto presented by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

This April, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra presents Mendelssohn’s the Hebrides, the Violin Concerto, and the Scottish Symphony; three of Mendelssohn’s finest violin classics capturing the composer’s Romantic spirit, inventiveness and vibrant capacity for melody at Mendelssohn Violin Concerto. Conducted by leading Spanish-Catalan conductor Josep Pons, the performance will also feature  guest soloist, young American violinist Stefan Jackiw, considered one of America’s foremost violinists, captivating audiences on both … Continue reading Preview: Mendelssohn Violin Concerto presented by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

Preview: VCH ORGAN SERIES – Martin Setchell by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

International concert organist Martin Setchell, well-known as both transcriber and performer, is set to introduce and play transcriptions (mostly his own) of favourite music from the 18th and 20th centuries, perfect for the VCH Klais organ – from the ornate vigour of the Baroque, to the effusive, genteel dances of popular vein, culminating in the relentless oriental verve of the famous Sabre Dance. Showcasing the versatility … Continue reading Preview: VCH ORGAN SERIES – Martin Setchell by Singapore Symphony Orchestra

In Kuala Lumpur 2019: Gold Rain & Hailstones by The Instant Cafe Theatre Company (Review)

A timely reminder of the genius and timelessness of Jit Murad in this reflection on the Malaysian identity. KUALA LUMPUR – It’s been 13 years since Jit Murad’s Gold Rain & Hailstones was last produced in his own home country of Malaysia. So it’s about high time then that a revival is in order by the Instant Cafe Theatre Company this March. Gold Rain & Hailstones follows the outspoken and … Continue reading In Kuala Lumpur 2019: Gold Rain & Hailstones by The Instant Cafe Theatre Company (Review)

NUS Arts Festival 2019: Variations and Variables (Review)

The power and variation of classical music on show. Pianist Abigail Sin and violinist Loh Jun Hong come together for this musical showcase to open the 2019 NUS Festival of the Arts, performing chamber music pieces together to reveal the many variations and variables inherent in music. Oddly enough, this is similar to concepts in Mathematics, where there are endless varieties and variations in formulae … Continue reading NUS Arts Festival 2019: Variations and Variables (Review)

NUS Arts Festival 2019: A Disappearing Number (Review)

Math is hard. Math and theatre initially seem like odd bedfellows. After all, math is grounded in undeniable realities, while theatre tends to take liberties with that, shuttling between the abstract and absolute to produce art. Yet, with 2019 NUS Arts Festival opening show A Disappearing Number, director Edith Podesta attempts to prove the theorem that math and theatre can coexist, with surprising parallels that can be applied … Continue reading NUS Arts Festival 2019: A Disappearing Number (Review)