Iris Irdina
Flutist, Drum Major
Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School Concert Band (Crestwinds)
My journey in band wasn’t just about the music—it was about resilience, teamwork, leadership, and growth. It taught me how to handle pressure, how to support others, and how to believe in myself. Most of all, it taught me that every note matters—not just in performance, but in life.
I still remember the first day I stepped into the band room. I was nervous, unsure of what to expect, and surrounded by unfamiliar faces. The sound of instruments played by the seniors was loud and chaotic. I had no idea then that this place would become one of the most meaningful parts of my life. I never imagined how much it would shape me—not just as a flutist, but as a person.
In the beginning, I struggled. The music was difficult, the pressure and expectations were high, and I often felt lost. Rehearsals felt endless, the standards seemed impossible, and I began doubting myself as I lagged behind my peers. I wasn’t sure if I truly belonged—I even considered quitting. But with the support of my conductors, seniors, and friends, I began to find my place. I learned how to listen, how to lead, and most importantly, how to be part of something bigger than myself.
Preparing for SYF as a band member is tough—but preparing as a drum major brought an entirely new level of challenge I wasn’t fully prepared for.
From the start, I knew the responsibility on my shoulders was heavy. I wasn’t just guiding the band musically—I was expected to lead by example, to motivate others, to manage discipline, and to carry the band’s spirit through every high and low. I was no longer just playing music; I was helping to build unity and discipline within the band. It meant learning how to stay composed, even when everything around me felt overwhelming.
The months of preparation leading up to SYF were some of the most intense moments I’ve faced. Rehearsals grew longer, and expectations sharper. Every small mistake felt magnified—because it wasn’t just about me; it affected everyone. I had to balance schoolwork and leadership responsibilities while keeping the band focused and on track. There were days I felt drained—physically and emotionally. I often questioned if I was doing enough, or if I was the right person for the role. But each time I saw growth in myself and my peers, I reminded myself: we were in this together. My job wasn’t to be perfect—but to keep us moving forward.
Through exhausting practices, tough feedback, and emotional ups and downs, something special happened. We grew—not just in skill, but in heart. It was worth it because we did it together. I saw my peers pushing past their limits, supporting one another during sectionals, motivating each other, and giving their all. We laughed, struggled, improved, and celebrated every small victory as a band. That spirit kept me going. It reminded me why I stepped up to lead in the first place.
SYF wasn’t just about the final performance on stage. It was about every drop of effort that led to that moment. And while the journey was tough, performing on stage with my bandmates—hearing us play our hearts out—made every challenge worth it. I remember taking a deep breath just before we began. It was nerve-wracking, but I reminded myself to have faith and trust. Every note, every beat, every breath we had rehearsed came to life with passion. We gave everything we had.
Hearing that we had achieved Distinction for SYF felt like a dream come true—a validation not just of our talent, but of our perseverance. As drum major, I had dreamed of this moment not just for myself, but for the entire band. From the very first rehearsal, we knew the road ahead would test us in every way. The achievement was the result of every challenge, every tear, and every moment we chose not to give up. But more than the award, what I’ll carry with me is the journey—the people, the pride, and the lessons.
Being drum major taught me that leadership isn’t about being the loudest or the best. It’s about showing up—even when things don’t seem promising—staying steady in the storm, and believing in the people you lead, even when they doubt themselves. That’s what SYF taught me, and it’s a lesson I’ll carry with me long after the applause fades.
Behind every achievement, there is a story—and behind every story, there are the people who made it possible. As I reflect on my band journey, I realise how important and strong my support system has been. Without the constant encouragement and guidance of my conductors and teachers-in-charge, I don’t think I would’ve come this far.
Throughout the journey, there were many moments when everything felt overwhelming—the intense practices, demanding rehearsals, the pressure to perfect our performance, and balancing it all with school. In those moments, it would’ve been easy to give up. But my conductors, Mr Hendrik Kwek and Mr Alan J, never failed to remind me why I started. Their passion and commitment lit the path for all of us. They didn’t just teach music—they taught discipline, teamwork, and self-belief.
Through it all, they never gave up on me. They corrected me when I needed it, encouraged me when I was unsure, and reminded me of the responsibility and strength they saw in me. Even when I felt like I was falling short, they continued to trust and guide me. They poured their time and energy into helping us improve. Even when they pushed us to our limits, it came from a place of care and belief in our potential. They saw something in me, even when I couldn’t see it myself. Their unwavering support helped me grow—not just as a flutist, but as a leader. And for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
As I close this chapter of my band journey, I look back with immense gratitude and pride. Every challenge, every rehearsal, and every performance shaped me into who I am today. Crestwinds wasn’t just a CCA—it was a family, and a stage where I learned how to lead, grow, and believe in myself. Though this chapter is ending, the memories, lessons, and bonds I’ve formed with my bandmates will stay with me for a lifetime. This is only the beginning. I still have a long road ahead—and as I move forward, I’ll carry the rhythm of this experience in my heart always, because “every note we played was a heartbeat—and together, we created a symphony worthy of a Distinction.”