As the Singapore Police Force (SPF) Band marked its 100th anniversary, its Centennial Gala concert on 30 December 2025 at the Esplanade stood not merely as a commemorative event, but as a living reflection of a century of service, music and evolution. Through the voices of its leaders, musicians and composers, the story of the SPF Band unfolded, rooted in heritage, animated by people, and propelled toward the future.
The Band Post spoke to members of the SPF Band on the vision, values and voices behind this milestone concert.
At the heart of the Centennial Gala lies a deliberate artistic choice. Rather than reinventing the Band’s identity, the programme looked back to the music that has shaped generations of musicians and audiences alike.
“This centennial concert was designed around familiar tunes that the SPF Band has performed and grown with over the years. These works are part of the Band’s musical memory and represent pieces that musicians across different generations have played and audiences have come to recognise,” shares Director of Music, Superintendent of Police (Supt) Sulaiman Abdul Wahab.
By revisiting these familiar works, the programme commemorated the Band’s history and honoured the legacy built by past musicians and Directors of Music. At the same time, the music was presented with renewed energy, refreshed pacing and thoughtful programming so that it resonated with today’s audiences.
“Rather than reinventing the Band’s sound, the concert celebrated what has defined it for a century, allowing audiences to experience a sense of continuity, nostalgia and pride while remaining engaging and relevant in the present,” Supt Sulaiman explained.
This philosophy extends beyond repertoire into how the concert was presented. The SPF Band has never been confined to a traditional sit-down format.
“Over the years, our concerts have consistently included elements of movement, singing and collaboration, reflecting the Band’s versatility and strong connection with audiences,” says Supt Sulaiman.
For the Centennial Gala, that approach continued with the inclusion of dancers, vocalists, showband elements and the choir, woven naturally into the programme. These components allowed the music to be experienced visually and emotionally, not just heard, and helped bring each segment of the concert to life.
“By drawing on these familiar performance elements, the concert became a dynamic show that reflected how the SPF Band has always presented itself. It celebrated a century of adaptability and creativity while offering audiences an engaging and immersive experience that goes beyond a conventional concert format,” he continued.
For the musicians on stage, the concert carried deep personal meaning. French horn player Senior Staff Sergeant (SSSgt) Munawarah Alim reflected on what the occasion represents.
“Being part of the SPF Band’s 100th anniversary concert is deeply meaningful to me, both personally and professionally. As a female French horn player who returned to music after many years, performing in this centennial concert represents resilience, commitment and the evolving role of women within the SPF Band. To contribute to a century-old legacy while continuing my own musical journey is a powerful affirmation that dedication and growth have no fixed timeline. Standing on stage alongside musicians of different generations, I am proud to represent the increasing visibility and contribution of women in shaping the Band’s present and future,” says SSSgt Munawarah.
For National Servicemen in the Band, the concert carried an added layer of meaning. Trumpeter Special Constable (SC) Tan Yhan Hong Tobias reflected on contributing to the Police Force through music.
“Performing in the SPF Band’s 100th anniversary concert was meaningful to me as it gave me the opportunity to contribute to the Police Force through music. With a background in music, from Band CCA in primary school to studying music at the School of the Arts, I am grateful for the chance to share what I love at this performance alongside the SPF Band,” says SC Tobias.
“This performance also coincided with the 50th year of Police National Service, which made the experience even more significant. Being part of such an important moment in the Band’s history filled me with pride, and it is a performance I will hold close to me,” adds SC Tobias.
Percussionist SC Javier Toh Seng Hong echoes this sentiment.
“Having the opportunity to play a part in this significant milestone while serving my National Service is a privilege for me. Performing music to an audience, to inspire, to move them, and to form a kind of connection with them is something that I find very meaningful and is one of the reasons I decided to pursue a career in music. Being able to perform in this gala concert was truly fulfilling and significant to my growth as a musician,” he says.
The programme itself reflected the Band’s enduring connection with audiences across generations.
Tubist SSSgt Muhammad Farraqhan highlighted how the repertoire spans eras.
“The concert repertoire showcased the Band’s versatility as a state band and highlighted its ability to adapt to different eras and settings. The programme featured orchestral transcriptions such as Festival Overture and O Fortuna, which were staples of entertainment during the British era. These pieces, with their dense arrangements, exemplify both technical skill and musicality. Additionally, the concert included modern classics like Go the Distance and Can’t Help Falling in Love, which were sure to inspire and resonate with audiences today,” SSSgt Farraqhan says.
“Beyond entertainment, the concert also included a piece that guides listeners through the Band’s history, illustrating its growth from the first Bandmaster to our current Director of Music. This segment provided valuable insights for those interested in learning more about the Band,” he added.
From a performer’s perspective, the programme’s breadth was equally significant.
“As a performer and percussionist, I felt that this programme provided a wonderful platform to showcase the Band’s wide range of musical styles, from military music to pop repertoire, as well as traditional ethnic instruments representing four different cultures. This diversity allowed the Band to connect meaningfully with audiences of different generations and backgrounds,” says Sergeant (Sgt) Jamal Bin Jasni.
For SC Javier, the music also carried shared values.
“The music pieces were chosen because they reflected the values that the Police Force embodies as a whole and tell stories of the people who have brought the Band to its current standing in the international music scene. Through these values and stories, anyone in the audience can relate to them regardless of their stage in life.”
One of the most distinctive moments in the concert emerged through Peanut Vendor, where the spotlight fell on Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mohd Zulkiffli Bin Selamat, featured as a soloist on seven different instruments. While the effect on stage appeared playful and effortless, the preparation behind it was anything but simple.
“Honestly, the toughest part was juggling the logistics. Seven instruments mean seven chances for something to go wrong – wrong fingering, wrong grip, even just picking it up awkwardly. I had to drill the transitions until they felt second nature, so I would not look like I was wrestling with the instruments on stage. Each instrument demands a different embouchure, air support and physical approach, so preparation was not just about learning the notes; it was about ensuring that none of the instruments felt neglected. I had to be very deliberate with my practice routine, often breaking it into short but focused sessions to keep every instrument performance ready.”
Switching seamlessly between instruments required mental agility as much as technical control. For ASP Mohd Zulkiffli, the key is instinct and familiarity.
“I try not to overthink it. Each instrument has its own personality, so I just step into that role. One moment I’m driving the rhythm, the next I’m singing a melody. It’s like changing hats – you don’t dwell on the last one; you just wear the next with confidence.”
Before each transition, he resets mentally and physically, adjusting breathing, embouchure and mindset. Years of experience switching instruments have made the process feel natural, turning what could be a challenge into a continuous musical story.
What he hopes audiences take away goes beyond the novelty.
“I hope they catch the fun of it. Sure, it’s a bit of a stunt to play seven instruments, but behind it is the joy of showing how versatile music can be. If they laugh, smile, or just think that looked like a blast, then I’ve done my job,” says ASP Mohd Zulkiffli. “Beyond the novelty, I hope they sense the amount of teamwork, preparation and musical curiosity that goes into making something like this possible.”
His journey into music began early, sparked by a moment that stayed with him back in Secondary One.
“During orientation, the school band played the Jurassic Park theme, and I was just blown away by how different instruments could weave melodies and harmonies into something so beautiful. That stuck with me,” he recalls.
Years later, after joining the SPF and serving with the Police Coast Guard, another moment proved decisive.
“About three years in, I saw the SPF Band perform and that moment completely changed me. I realised I didn’t just want to serve; I wanted to serve through music. That’s when I knew music wasn’t just a hobby; it was going to be my career and my way of connecting with people.”
As a long-serving member of the SPF Band, the Centennial Gala carries deep personal meaning for him.
“The Centennial Gala is deeply meaningful to me. This concert represents not just 100 years of music, but also the dedication, adaptability and passion of generations of musicians who came before us. It’s a privilege to contribute to this milestone and to be part of a legacy that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots,” says ASP Mohd Zulkiffli.
Behind the scenes, composers and arrangers worked to balance tradition with modern musical expression. Supt Sulaiman emphasises that this balance begins with respect.
“Balancing the Band’s traditions with a modern musical style begins with respecting the musical foundations established by generations of SPF Band musicians and Directors of Music. The core band sound, discipline and performance practices remain central and continue to guide every arrangement and composition.”
Arranger Station Inspector (SI) Muhammad Rasul Bin Md Razali describes how this philosophy translates into specific works.
“Balancing the Band’s traditions with a modern musical style is about understanding the strengths of both worlds and allowing them to complement each other naturally.”
Composer SSSgt Nurhasyim Bin Rostom situates his work within the Band’s long-standing ethnic showcase tradition.
“The SPF Band has long been strong in its ethnic showcase, a tradition that has been firmly established since the time of Mr Amri Amin.”
Works such as Tapestry of Temasek and Bringing the Beat to You embody this approach, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural roots and the Band’s forward-looking identity.
As the Band looks ahead, the centennial concert serves as both reflection and preview. Supt Sulaiman describes it as a programme that honours the past while shaping the future.
“This concert reflects the Band’s journey across a century, shaped by different musical leaders and evolving responsibilities. It acknowledges our beginnings as a ceremonial band and highlights how, through successive Directors and eras, the Band has grown into a versatile ensemble capable of connecting with diverse audiences locally and internationally.”
Deputy Director of Music, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Lau Lifeng Belle describes the gala as a living timeline that traces 100 years of service while signalling what lies ahead, from immersive production to expanded outreach.
Ultimately, what the Band hopes audiences remember goes beyond the music itself.
“I hope audiences remember the spirit of service behind the music, the discipline, versatility and dedication of musicians who serve both as Police officers and performers,” says Supt Sulaiman.
DSP Lau adds her hopes for what audiences carry home.
“The sound of SPF service. Pride in our journey. Momentum into the future.”
A century on, the SPF Band continues to bring the beat to the nation, not only through sound, but through service, story and shared identity.