VENTUS and BAS Spotlight Local Composers
In celebration of Singapore’s 60th anniversary, Band Academy Singapore (BAS) and VENTUS have taken a bold and heartfelt step: presenting an all-Singaporean programme in its upcoming concert “Tutti”. This decision is more than a musical choice; it’s a declaration of belief in the talent and stories that reside within our own shores.
At the heart of this initiative is Music Director Adrian Chiang, a tireless advocate for Singaporean music. Across his work with VENTUS, Band Academy Singapore, the Asian Cultural Symphony Orchestra, and numerous school ensembles, Adrian has consistently championed local compositions. Whether at national celebrations, festivals, or community concerts, he has always held the conviction that if we don’t perform the works of our local composers, who will?
SG60 presented the perfect opportunity to celebrate the depth, diversity, and development of Singaporean music.
“Supporting local composers isn’t just about recognition; it’s about creating a space for them to grow. A composer matures through having their works performed, critiqued, and appreciated. By giving these works a platform, we nurture a living and dynamic creative ecosystem. It’s a clear message to audiences and aspiring musicians alike: our music is worth hearing, and our stories are worth telling,” Adrian said.
For VENTUS and Band Academy Singapore, this concert is a statement of identity. Performing solely Singaporean works for a national milestone grounds the celebration in a uniquely local context. While international composers bring excitement, homegrown music offers deep meaning. These works are woven with familiar stories, emotions, and landscapes – they remind us of who we are, where we’ve been, and what we value.
“For the young musicians involved, this is more than just a performance. It’s a journey into their heritage and a hands-on learning experience that connects them to something larger than themselves. Working closely with local composers personalises the music-making process, transforming notes on a page into living, breathing stories. It also helps students understand that creativity and excellence in music aren’t exclusive to distant countries; they thrive here too, in Singapore,” said a BAS represenative.
This SG60 concert also serves as a snapshot of Singapore’s musical evolution over the past 60 years. It features compositions that have shaped and defined the voices of some of our most respected local composers. For instance, The Sisters’ Islands by Wang Chenwei, originally composed in 2006, has proven its timelessness through adaptations for Chinese orchestras, symphonies, and now a wind orchestra. Other featured composers, Benjamin Yeo, Terrence Wong, Lee Jinjun, Dax Wilson, Mohd Rasull, and Germaine Goh, represent a vibrant generation nurtured by our robust music education ecosystem. The concert stands both as a tribute to that lineage and a celebration of how far Singaporean music has come.
Many of the featured works delve into themes of identity, history, and the cultural fabric of Singapore. Some tell stories drawn directly from our folklore, such as The Sisters’ Islands and Redhill. Others explore more abstract but equally powerful themes such as optimism, resilience and legacy. Pieces like Winds of Tomorrow and The Legacy of Teresa Hsu reflect our emotional landscape, capturing what it means to live, strive, and belong in Singapore.
Looking ahead, this concert aims to plant seeds for the future.
“By showing what’s possible with an all-local repertoire, we hope to inspire other bands, school and community alike to include more Singaporean works in their programmes. We also send a message to budding composers: your music matters, and we’re here to help bring it to life,” said a VENTUS band member.
If every band committed to programming even one local composition each year, the impact on our music scene would be profound. As Singapore steps into its next chapter, the hope is clear, that the sound of our home will continue to evolve, resonate, and be heard for generations to come.
Tutti – An SG60 Symphonic Celebration!
Friday, 30 May 2025
SOTA Concert Hall, 7.30pm