Nearly five decades after its beginnings, the National Theatre Symphonic Band (NTSB) is coming together once more, not just as musicians, but as old friends, mentors, parents and grandparents, brought together by a shared love for music and memories that have stood the test of time.
The idea for this long-awaited reunion was first sparked by the late Mr Ng Hoe, one of NTSB’s pioneer members. Within their close-knit “NTSB gang” chat group, conversations about meeting up and making music again would surface from time to time. What began as casual reminiscing slowly grew into a shared desire to relive the joy of playing together.
“After hearing the idea come up a few times, some of us decided to make it happen,” shared Tan Soh Hwa and Walter Soh. “This performance brings back fond memories, both old and new, as we continue making music together.”
For many members, NTSB was never just a place to rehearse. It was a second home.
In the late 1970s and 1980s, adult wind bands were still uncommon in Singapore. NTSB became a gathering point for young musicians from school, military and police bands who shared the same passion and ambition.
“We saw each other more than our own siblings,” recalled pioneer member and euphonium player Richard Ng. “We grew up together through careers, marriages, families and now grandparenthood. Many even met their life partners here.”
Over the years, NTSB also became a trailblazer in Singapore’s music scene. It pioneered themed concerts such as Concerto for Winds, Evening of Pops and Music from the Movies, and in 1989 became the first Singapore wind band to compete at the World Music Competition in Kerkrade, Netherlands, winning First Prize in the Second Division.
“Watching our national flag fly overseas made us incredibly proud,” Richard said. “We painted that little town red and white.”
For flautist Wong Leng See, many of his memories are tied closely to place.
“We used to practise at the old National Theatre on River Valley Road,” he shared. “That building holds so many memories. Seeing how far Singapore’s music scene has come, and now performing at the Esplanade, is really special.”
Saxophonist Dr Yeong Kuan Yuan remembers most vividly the music itself.
“What made it special was playing pieces we enjoyed, local works, movie music and orchestral arrangements,” he said. “The practices were stress-free and fun. I loved being able to whistle the tune at home afterwards.”
He also fondly recalls the simpler moments: late-night suppers after rehearsals, overseas trips and friendships that extended far beyond the rehearsal room.
Returning to regular rehearsals after decades away was both emotional and challenging.
“It’s wonderful to feel that harmony again,” said Dr Yeong. “And reassuring to know I haven’t completely lost it.”
For Richard, the journey back was tougher.
“The first few practices were horrible,” he laughed. “My lips ached, my sound was squeaky. I knew how it should sound, but I just couldn’t produce it.”
With encouragement from fellow bandmates, he gradually found his way back. “The excitement of having a concert again feels just like the old days.”
Leng See described the experience as almost surreal.
“I never really left my flute,” he said. “But reconnecting with so many long-lost friends through music is something special.”
Being part of NTSB has left a lasting imprint on its members’ lives.
Dr Yeong credits the band for broadening his perspective. “I met people from all walks of life. It made me more holistic as a person.”
Richard reflected on the values he gained, from leadership and teamwork to creativity and responsibility.
“These qualities helped me in my family, church and career,” he said. “Music became my way to rest and recharge.”
For Leng See, the lesson was simple but profound. “Music is about learning to perform together. NTSB taught me how to be a better musician and teammate.”
As veterans of Singapore’s wind band movement, the members are deeply invested in nurturing the next generation.
Dr Yeong encourages young musicians to listen and blend. “Enjoy making music together. Don’t lose yourself chasing technical difficulty.”
Richard stresses commitment. “A good band needs consistency. Don’t band-hop. Build something you can be proud of.”
Leng See offers gentle wisdom. “Music is a lifelong journey. Talent alone isn’t enough. It must be nurtured through hard work.”
This reunion concert is more than a performance. It is a celebration of shared history, resilience and lifelong friendships forged through music.
From the old halls of the National Theatre to the modern stage of the Esplanade, the members of NTSB have witnessed Singapore’s musical landscape evolve and have helped shape it along the way.
As they come together once more, their story reminds us that music does not fade with time. It waits patiently, ready to be rediscovered, bringing people back to where they first found joy, purpose and belonging.
The return of the National Theatre Symphonic Band is not just a nostalgic reunion. It is proof that true friendship, built through music, can last a lifetime.
Saturday, 14 February 2026
Esplanade Concourse, 7.30pm & 8.30pm
FREE