In a collaboration seldom thought of in the local band scene, this evening’s concert will see the coming together of two well established alumni bands in a joint performance at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) Lee Foundation Theatre.
Organized by Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) Alumni Band and Maha Bodhi School (MBS) Alumni Band, ‘Pops and Classics 2018’ will feature several ensembles and a combined band under the baton of conductors Mr Yeo Poong Poh and Mr Yeo Jieyuan, from each respective band.
“This is the first project that we have planned which involves a partnership with another alumni band, and it is only possible because the two bands have a similar goal. The role of an alumni band is generally to mentor and giveback to its main band through various programs, and it has been evident in both of our bands that we share this same mindset,” said James Ng, President of NP Alumni Band.
When the project was announced in December last year to its members, more than fifty players from both bands signed up, and committed their time and efforts through six weeks of ensemble training and band rehearsals at both schools.
“It has been an eye opening journey for us the past few months as we shared our musical experiences with each other. The idea of doing ensembles follows the rising trend in the scene, and the exposure for ensemble music will only do good for our members,” he continued.
Tonight’s concert will not only presents pop music from the movie ‘Dreamgirls’, but also classics from Merry Widow, Amazing Grace and William Tell. In a rare opportunity, audience members will also get to hear a lower brass ensemble perform, which features just the euphonium and tuba players.
“We are very thankful for this project and the opportunity to perform ensemble music in a concert for the first time. Initially, we were worried that the age gap between both bands may affect the learning outcomes of our members. However, the feedback we gathered turned out to be positive as they were able to learn from the big brothers and sisters from NP Alumni Band who have been patiently guiding them,” said Ng Gim Kai, MBS Alumni Band’s President.
When asked about more of such collaborations in future, both bands have thought that it would be possible, especially when its members have already worked with each other through this first project.
“This concert does not only benefit our members, but also allow our committees to understand and learn about how another alumni band is run, possibly in a different approach. I hope that we are able to collaborate with more alumni bands in future, so that we can share our music and management experiences, which will enable us to fulfil our primary roles more effectively,” James reflected.
Pops and Classics 2018
21 April, Saturday
NAFA Lee Foundation Theatre, 7pm
Tickets: $12 (available from door)
A contributing editor at TBP.