When Juvenescence first took the stage last year, they were the new kids on the block – bright, energetic and eager to prove themselves. This year, as they return for their sophomore production, something has changed.
“This show marks our growth,” shares Imran Westerhout Hasan, Vice Chairperson of the Singapore Wind Symphony Youth (SWSY). “We’re beginning to explore specific themes in youth – love, exploration, the emotions we go through, instead of presenting just a general repertoire. It reflects how the organisation is maturing. We’re no longer just introducing ourselves. We have something important to say.”
That message takes shape in Somewhere Over the Rainbow, presented on Valentine’s Day. While love is often associated with romance, for these young musicians it means something deeper.
“As youths, we’re all navigating major life changes,” Imran explains. “To be loved is to be supported, encouraged and cheered on in our goals. That’s the kind of love we wanted to celebrate – the love that strengthens you.”
The programme mirrors that spirit. It is a vibrant “rojak” of musical colours, from the demanding, emotionally layered Fluttering Maple Leaves by Jun Nagao to beloved popular selections such as music from Wicked. The result is both a celebration of music and an affirmation of youthful passion.
One of the greatest challenges in preparing the concert was tackling Nagao’s 20-minute epic work. For many musicians, it was among the most difficult works they had encountered.
“At first, we didn’t fully understand the vision of the piece,” Imran admits. “It felt like being taken on a journey without knowing the destination. It took weeks of coordination, rehearsal and discussion to truly align ourselves to understand where we were headed and how to bring the audience there with us.”
But it was precisely through that shared struggle that bonds were strengthened.
Following a major recruitment drive, most of the members performing this year were not part of Juvenescence’s debut concert. In youth bands, change is constant. Yet, something magical happens in that process.
“We start by simply hearing each other play,” says Imran. “Gradually, we understand each other’s tendencies, our strengths, our personalities. Then we grow together and the music begins to form.”
As the musicians step on stage this Valentine’s Day, their hope is simple yet powerful.
“Love,” Imran says without hesitation. “Allow us to immerse you in what we have to say. Read the composer notes, listen deeply, and enjoy the songs you know. We hope that somewhere over the rainbow, you’ll discover what we’ve discovered that no goal is too far out of reach, and no ceiling too high.”
And as blue birds take flight in melody and harmony, Juvenescence II invites its audience not just to listen, but to believe.
Saturday, 14 February 2026
NAFA Lee Foundation Theatre, 3.30pm