Hello! If you did not attend the previous band practice, or happen to lose your packing list for the camp, here it is:
_____
Packing List:
x1 Band Polo Tee
x2 Home Clothes
x1 Band PT Shirt (Orange)
x2 PE Attire (Shirt and Pants)
x5 Undergarments (Socks and Underwear)
x1 Track Shoes/School Shoes
x1 Slippers/Sandals
x2 School Green Shorts
x1 School uniform (for CIP Participants)
x1 Toiletries (Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, towel, toilet paper)
x1 Rags
x1 Poncho/Small umbrella
x1 Raffia String (Laundry Line)
x1 Plastic Mug
x1 Fork and Spoon
x1 Torchlight with batteries
x1 1.5 litre water bottle
x1 Sleeping bag
x1 Writing materials
Cash (at least $20)
EZ Link card (topped up with at least $10)
Optional:
Medication (e.g. Inhalers)
Jacket
Track pants
Plastic Bag (For Clothes)
Vitamin C Pills
Sun Block
Hair Wax/ Comb/ Gel
Do NOT bring:
Snacks
Electronic Devices/Handheld Devices (PSP, Nintendo, iPod, MP3, etc)
Cards, Mahjong, Boardgames
______
Rest well and remember to prepare your solo pieces for band camp! You guys will definitely love the camp! :)
Saturday, 21 November 2009
Thursday, 19 November 2009
MY thoughts. (~PHS)
Hey Guys!
It has been so long since I posted on this blog…I have so much to tell you!
Well, since I didn’t turn up for the chair session (because of some personal reason), I will give my speech here. On the blog. =)
Now I really understand the meaning of “time flies when you are having fun”. For the past 4 years, I have really enjoyed the experience of being in CHSSB and being beside my good friends while making good Music. It will be an unforgettable experience for me…and it will be deeply etched in my mind forever.
The day when I joined band still seems so familiar and so fresh in my mind…as though it was yesterday. For many of you, I guess you don’t know the reason for me joining the band. Well, my CCA in primary school was seasonal drums (for those who went to Malacca you would probably know what seasonal drums are), and I wanted to join a CCA which has similar experiences. I should probably have joined the Chinese Orchestra, because their percussion section is similar to what I had in primary school. But I wanted new experiences. I wanted to join something new. So I went to the band.
At that time, I was a timid secondary one student who didn’t dare to speak up. It was a nerve-racking experience for me to go and try on all the instruments and pick one. It was also a bit scary to listen to the seniors while they persuade to try this or try that. They were a bit…pushy. But nevertheless, I ended up in the Horn section.
Then came secondary two. Then came banding. Then came SYF 2007 as well. It was a turbulent year for me. To manage my studies, my relationships with my friends and to cope with band is tough and tiring, especially all those “motivational talk” (which was exciting at first but grew to be annoying soon after) and practices late into the night. Then came the blow. We got Silver. It wasn’t as hard of a blow to me as it was probably to others, and I didn’t really cry. This was partly because I sort of already knew we weren’t going to get it.
As I progress into secondary 3, I started to learn to become more initiative. I learnt to manage relations better. I learnt how to influence people, both my classmates and my juniors. I learnt how to organize things efficiently, from both positive and negative examples. I learnt how to do things the way I want while convincing others to follow me. You may say that all these are leadership qualities, but I really don’t think so. All these, I feel, are just things every tom, dick and harry will pick up through his course of life. It all matters on how you use it. Responsibilities are sometimes tedious and difficult to manage, but I was able to cope with it.
Finally, I became a secondary 4. SYF 2009. =D
The stress of O levels caught up with me in early April. Yes, close to the post SYF period. So you can imagine how nervous and stressed out I was. But I still manage to cope with it all the way. And in the end we got a Gold With Honours. Yeah!
Then after that, its all studies, studies, studies. Time and time again, obstacles and hurdles were thrown at, not just me, but all your secondary Fours. The secondary Fours in Band worked as a team and overcame them together. But sadly, after that, we were so focused on our studies that we rarely meet up. This relationship with ALL the secondary Four Band members is something I will treasure until I die. The “taupok”-ing, the fake Rugby after Band hours, the wrestling, the Light saber fights, the screaming of “YEAH GOLD WITH HONOURS! IN YOUR FACE!” after SYF 2009….….they will be in my memories forever. =)
Oh well. All well that ends well.
Sometimes, I feel as though life is really like a race. A race not to the finishing line, but to experience the wonders and beauty of the race of life itself. We meet people of different personalities and different faces, and they all add vibrant colours to your life. But still, we all have to part one day and that is for sure. So, there is no need to feel so sad.
That is something I have learnt after 4 years in Band and in CHS.
My final note to every CHSSB member out there: enjoy your time here. Society is a cruel and harsh place where reality sinks in and if you aren’t fast enough to get what you want or to show other people what you are capable of, you are dead. So enjoy your time here in CHSSB. Enjoy your time here in CHS. Enjoy your youth. For when you become older and older, you will see more and more of the cruel realities of life.
In CHSSB, all the opportunities are presented to you. All you have to do is grab it. So grab it! Use every chance you can get to shine.
Seniors, do look after your juniors and please ensure their well-being. I guess that not many know that how a junior behaves is influenced by his senior’s actions and speech as well. So seniors, please make sure your conduct is good at all times. Take good care of your juniors, for if you do, they will remember you not just as a senior, but as a friend and a mentor. They will remember you for life. Trust me, I know. (first-hand experience ;p)
And also, not system is perfect in the world. And not one person is perfect as well. I have said this once, and I will say it again. Even if you hate someone in Band, or you hate the Band system, don’t hate music. It is pointless, for hating music is like hating salt. Even if you resent music and keep missing Band just because of some stupid reason like you hate the system, it will come back and haunt you one day. Because there is not one person in this world that hates music. I can guarantee that, because its in our nature.
Remember, it is you who chose Band, not Band who chose you. You have no reason to dislike it. Even if your parents are unhappy with Band, all that matters is that you don’t. Joining Band is not just about having a good time and attaining exceptional results; there is element of sacrifice and hard work as well. Time is precious, so you sue it wisely. Everyone would have to learn how to juggle enjoyment, school work and Band. It’s the same for all other people. But the more you put in, the more results you will reap. These results are as outstanding to you as they are to other people. Before that, sacrifice is necessary. I still remembered in 2007, we practiced until 9 pm! And no parents complained, because we made them understand that its our choice that we want to stay until that late to practice.
If you love Music, you will do whatever it takes to make yourself a better musician. You have the choice.
Always remember that there always more than one option. Consider all of them, start to solve problems the direct way. If you don’t like the system, give suggestions to change it. If you don’t like the leaders, talk to them and make clear to them your unhappiness. If you don’t like someone, thrash it out with them and clarify your doubts. People ask me what is the best way to solve problems, and my answer is “the direct method”.
Just decide on something and go do it. For example, you decide that you want to improve. So, don’t hesitate. Go and self-practice immediately.
Well, I hope you survived until this paragraph. It’s a long post and I hope you get what I mean and what I am trying to say.
CHSSB, on behalf of the secondary Fours and Alumni, I wish you all the best and we all have faith that you will soar to even greater heights.
Most importantly, enjoy your time there and treasure it. Make every minute fruitful. Because only if you enjoy making Music, will you be able to produce Music that is so heavenly that it is enjoyable for the people you love. Never forget that.
Go for it! B)
Poh Hang Siang (~PHS)
It has been so long since I posted on this blog…I have so much to tell you!
Well, since I didn’t turn up for the chair session (because of some personal reason), I will give my speech here. On the blog. =)
Now I really understand the meaning of “time flies when you are having fun”. For the past 4 years, I have really enjoyed the experience of being in CHSSB and being beside my good friends while making good Music. It will be an unforgettable experience for me…and it will be deeply etched in my mind forever.
The day when I joined band still seems so familiar and so fresh in my mind…as though it was yesterday. For many of you, I guess you don’t know the reason for me joining the band. Well, my CCA in primary school was seasonal drums (for those who went to Malacca you would probably know what seasonal drums are), and I wanted to join a CCA which has similar experiences. I should probably have joined the Chinese Orchestra, because their percussion section is similar to what I had in primary school. But I wanted new experiences. I wanted to join something new. So I went to the band.
At that time, I was a timid secondary one student who didn’t dare to speak up. It was a nerve-racking experience for me to go and try on all the instruments and pick one. It was also a bit scary to listen to the seniors while they persuade to try this or try that. They were a bit…pushy. But nevertheless, I ended up in the Horn section.
Then came secondary two. Then came banding. Then came SYF 2007 as well. It was a turbulent year for me. To manage my studies, my relationships with my friends and to cope with band is tough and tiring, especially all those “motivational talk” (which was exciting at first but grew to be annoying soon after) and practices late into the night. Then came the blow. We got Silver. It wasn’t as hard of a blow to me as it was probably to others, and I didn’t really cry. This was partly because I sort of already knew we weren’t going to get it.
As I progress into secondary 3, I started to learn to become more initiative. I learnt to manage relations better. I learnt how to influence people, both my classmates and my juniors. I learnt how to organize things efficiently, from both positive and negative examples. I learnt how to do things the way I want while convincing others to follow me. You may say that all these are leadership qualities, but I really don’t think so. All these, I feel, are just things every tom, dick and harry will pick up through his course of life. It all matters on how you use it. Responsibilities are sometimes tedious and difficult to manage, but I was able to cope with it.
Finally, I became a secondary 4. SYF 2009. =D
The stress of O levels caught up with me in early April. Yes, close to the post SYF period. So you can imagine how nervous and stressed out I was. But I still manage to cope with it all the way. And in the end we got a Gold With Honours. Yeah!
Then after that, its all studies, studies, studies. Time and time again, obstacles and hurdles were thrown at, not just me, but all your secondary Fours. The secondary Fours in Band worked as a team and overcame them together. But sadly, after that, we were so focused on our studies that we rarely meet up. This relationship with ALL the secondary Four Band members is something I will treasure until I die. The “taupok”-ing, the fake Rugby after Band hours, the wrestling, the Light saber fights, the screaming of “YEAH GOLD WITH HONOURS! IN YOUR FACE!” after SYF 2009….….they will be in my memories forever. =)
Oh well. All well that ends well.
Sometimes, I feel as though life is really like a race. A race not to the finishing line, but to experience the wonders and beauty of the race of life itself. We meet people of different personalities and different faces, and they all add vibrant colours to your life. But still, we all have to part one day and that is for sure. So, there is no need to feel so sad.
That is something I have learnt after 4 years in Band and in CHS.
My final note to every CHSSB member out there: enjoy your time here. Society is a cruel and harsh place where reality sinks in and if you aren’t fast enough to get what you want or to show other people what you are capable of, you are dead. So enjoy your time here in CHSSB. Enjoy your time here in CHS. Enjoy your youth. For when you become older and older, you will see more and more of the cruel realities of life.
In CHSSB, all the opportunities are presented to you. All you have to do is grab it. So grab it! Use every chance you can get to shine.
Seniors, do look after your juniors and please ensure their well-being. I guess that not many know that how a junior behaves is influenced by his senior’s actions and speech as well. So seniors, please make sure your conduct is good at all times. Take good care of your juniors, for if you do, they will remember you not just as a senior, but as a friend and a mentor. They will remember you for life. Trust me, I know. (first-hand experience ;p)
And also, not system is perfect in the world. And not one person is perfect as well. I have said this once, and I will say it again. Even if you hate someone in Band, or you hate the Band system, don’t hate music. It is pointless, for hating music is like hating salt. Even if you resent music and keep missing Band just because of some stupid reason like you hate the system, it will come back and haunt you one day. Because there is not one person in this world that hates music. I can guarantee that, because its in our nature.
Remember, it is you who chose Band, not Band who chose you. You have no reason to dislike it. Even if your parents are unhappy with Band, all that matters is that you don’t. Joining Band is not just about having a good time and attaining exceptional results; there is element of sacrifice and hard work as well. Time is precious, so you sue it wisely. Everyone would have to learn how to juggle enjoyment, school work and Band. It’s the same for all other people. But the more you put in, the more results you will reap. These results are as outstanding to you as they are to other people. Before that, sacrifice is necessary. I still remembered in 2007, we practiced until 9 pm! And no parents complained, because we made them understand that its our choice that we want to stay until that late to practice.
If you love Music, you will do whatever it takes to make yourself a better musician. You have the choice.
Always remember that there always more than one option. Consider all of them, start to solve problems the direct way. If you don’t like the system, give suggestions to change it. If you don’t like the leaders, talk to them and make clear to them your unhappiness. If you don’t like someone, thrash it out with them and clarify your doubts. People ask me what is the best way to solve problems, and my answer is “the direct method”.
Just decide on something and go do it. For example, you decide that you want to improve. So, don’t hesitate. Go and self-practice immediately.
Well, I hope you survived until this paragraph. It’s a long post and I hope you get what I mean and what I am trying to say.
CHSSB, on behalf of the secondary Fours and Alumni, I wish you all the best and we all have faith that you will soar to even greater heights.
Most importantly, enjoy your time there and treasure it. Make every minute fruitful. Because only if you enjoy making Music, will you be able to produce Music that is so heavenly that it is enjoyable for the people you love. Never forget that.
Go for it! B)
Poh Hang Siang (~PHS)
Monday, 16 November 2009
CJC TUNE IN 2009!
Hey graduating batch of CHSSB!
CJCSB will be having a tune in on 5th december 2009! (it's a saturday)
Here's the poster for it
For more details you can click on this link sgbandfusion
Yup! It'll be fun! Anyway, all of you Yellow Badge people are invited to join us for TUNE IN, even if you may not be considering going to CJ
BUT! come and have an experience of what our band is like and who knows? we'll see you for the rest of the year and you might wanna join us next year too!
I know that CJC doesn't sound like a good school as always, but in my 1st year, it is quite fun and once you're in, you don't wanna go anywhere else. That's how it's like
SO! Contact Xing Hao @ 92251762,
including your details like :
1. Full Name
2. Which sec school are you from (obviously cat high)
3. Which section are you from
Thanks very much! :)
I hope the sec 4 still visits the band blog to see this. hahaha.
CJCSB will be having a tune in on 5th december 2009! (it's a saturday)
Here's the poster for it
For more details you can click on this link sgbandfusion
Yup! It'll be fun! Anyway, all of you Yellow Badge people are invited to join us for TUNE IN, even if you may not be considering going to CJ
BUT! come and have an experience of what our band is like and who knows? we'll see you for the rest of the year and you might wanna join us next year too!
I know that CJC doesn't sound like a good school as always, but in my 1st year, it is quite fun and once you're in, you don't wanna go anywhere else. That's how it's like
SO! Contact Xing Hao @ 92251762,
including your details like :
1. Full Name
2. Which sec school are you from (obviously cat high)
3. Which section are you from
Thanks very much! :)
I hope the sec 4 still visits the band blog to see this. hahaha.
Monday, 26 October 2009
Updates
Hello band! :)
As the band website is currently under maintenance, I have uploaded the official leave form for download. Click here to download the leave form.
If you are going overseas this holiday, and you cannot find the hard-copy version of the leave form in the band room, you can now download the soft-copy version and fill in the leave form before you go for your holidays.
Yup, that's all :)
&, On behalf of everyone in the band, ALL THE BEST to Sec 4's for O'Levels! Jiayou :)
- Kit Chong
As the band website is currently under maintenance, I have uploaded the official leave form for download. Click here to download the leave form.
If you are going overseas this holiday, and you cannot find the hard-copy version of the leave form in the band room, you can now download the soft-copy version and fill in the leave form before you go for your holidays.
Yup, that's all :)
&, On behalf of everyone in the band, ALL THE BEST to Sec 4's for O'Levels! Jiayou :)
- Kit Chong
Saturday, 26 September 2009
hey band.
Yes, yes, yes. Would you believe it? It's me again.
I'm sure we all know that it's been a while since anyone posted anything.
In fact, the last time anyone posted anything was eons away.
Actually, I'm doing this not because I want to administer CPR to this blog.
Well, it's actually because I want to convey a message to you all.
otherwise, why would I want to post here? for fun?
One night, after having been knocked out from trying to study Geography, I had envisioned (to my sheer horror) that certain unimaginable things might become reality. A foreboding premonition, I would say.
As in, certain things may happen.
In fact, maybe they DO happen.
I took this into serious consideration, before I made the decision to post on our blog.
So I ended up taking time off my mugging regime to tell you guys this.
1. Do NOT consume any foods or sweet drinks in the band room.
This also applies for the band store.
This might be applicable from COMMON SENSE, but for fear that some of us don't have it, I shall say this once.
consuming any type of foods or sweet drinks is strictly prohibited and punishable by the laws of the band room.
we don't want any cockroaches running around in our sacred band room, do we.
Yes, yes. We all know that foodies are yummy and have this fragrant, tempting aroma about them, and we all know that the band room/store is one of our favourite places in the world.
But we also need to take note of this - that foodies not only tempt us, attract us; it also attracts cockroaches, mice and other such creatures. Just like bees to honey.
Say, what would happen to an ignored crumb, grain, or whatever nice and flavored ends up on the ground?
I don't want to imagine.
Infested with pests and vermin...can we still call our band room a "sacred place"?
So, just take note of that. In case you can't remember not to break this time-honoured code of the band room, remember what your brain is for. Put it to good use.
Use it in the RIGHT way.
2. do NOT play BALL games in the BAND ROOM.
all right, we all heard it.
I believe we all know that many things in the band room are purchased with exorbitant prices that broke the bank.
Therefore, take the balls outside to play if you want to.
After all, avoiding such a vice is better than cure/caution/whatever you call it.
3. do NOT mess around with the vacuum cleaner.
As we all may have noticed it, there is a nice, shiny, nice, brand-new, nice, expensive, nice, multi-purpose, nice, functional, nice, portable, nice, clean, nice vacuum cleaner in the band store, stowed under the QM table (despite its inability to accomodate the thing completely, Wee Kiat has agreed to let me keep it there due to lack of space. Thanks Wee Kiat^^) which is, to put it succinctly, nice.
Hence, I don't want anyone to meddle with the vaccuum cleaner. As one of our taggers has said, "those things are expensive". I would like it if it is only put to use when the band room is particularly filthy and it needs a machine to help clean it out.
As an afterthought, please don't use the broom leaning in the corner to sweep up all the tiny little eyesores from the floor. It will only make the band room dirtier by adding all its hair onto the floor, ie. 越帮越忙, despite your efforts to help clean the band room since you can't use the band vacuum cleaner without the estate managers', or any of the leaders (ie.majors)' presence and consent (I know I didn't mention this before, so here it is). Thanks^^
So, study hard for your exams, don't let your teachers down. Study hard, you hear? Then when we come back for band, play HARDER! (without completely putting your studies aside, of course.)
I suppose that's all I have to say then.
Well in that case,
have a good evening and happy mugging!
=> Thanks, your friendly neighbourhood estate manager.
I'm sure we all know that it's been a while since anyone posted anything.
In fact, the last time anyone posted anything was eons away.
Actually, I'm doing this not because I want to administer CPR to this blog.
Well, it's actually because I want to convey a message to you all.
otherwise, why would I want to post here? for fun?
One night, after having been knocked out from trying to study Geography, I had envisioned (to my sheer horror) that certain unimaginable things might become reality. A foreboding premonition, I would say.
As in, certain things may happen.
In fact, maybe they DO happen.
I took this into serious consideration, before I made the decision to post on our blog.
So I ended up taking time off my mugging regime to tell you guys this.
1. Do NOT consume any foods or sweet drinks in the band room.
This also applies for the band store.
This might be applicable from COMMON SENSE, but for fear that some of us don't have it, I shall say this once.
consuming any type of foods or sweet drinks is strictly prohibited and punishable by the laws of the band room.
we don't want any cockroaches running around in our sacred band room, do we.
Yes, yes. We all know that foodies are yummy and have this fragrant, tempting aroma about them, and we all know that the band room/store is one of our favourite places in the world.
But we also need to take note of this - that foodies not only tempt us, attract us; it also attracts cockroaches, mice and other such creatures. Just like bees to honey.
Say, what would happen to an ignored crumb, grain, or whatever nice and flavored ends up on the ground?
I don't want to imagine.
Infested with pests and vermin...can we still call our band room a "sacred place"?
So, just take note of that. In case you can't remember not to break this time-honoured code of the band room, remember what your brain is for. Put it to good use.
Use it in the RIGHT way.
2. do NOT play BALL games in the BAND ROOM.
all right, we all heard it.
I believe we all know that many things in the band room are purchased with exorbitant prices that broke the bank.
Therefore, take the balls outside to play if you want to.
After all, avoiding such a vice is better than cure/caution/whatever you call it.
3. do NOT mess around with the vacuum cleaner.
As we all may have noticed it, there is a nice, shiny, nice, brand-new, nice, expensive, nice, multi-purpose, nice, functional, nice, portable, nice, clean, nice vacuum cleaner in the band store, stowed under the QM table (despite its inability to accomodate the thing completely, Wee Kiat has agreed to let me keep it there due to lack of space. Thanks Wee Kiat^^) which is, to put it succinctly, nice.
Hence, I don't want anyone to meddle with the vaccuum cleaner. As one of our taggers has said, "those things are expensive". I would like it if it is only put to use when the band room is particularly filthy and it needs a machine to help clean it out.
As an afterthought, please don't use the broom leaning in the corner to sweep up all the tiny little eyesores from the floor. It will only make the band room dirtier by adding all its hair onto the floor, ie. 越帮越忙, despite your efforts to help clean the band room since you can't use the band vacuum cleaner without the estate managers', or any of the leaders (ie.majors)' presence and consent (I know I didn't mention this before, so here it is). Thanks^^
So, study hard for your exams, don't let your teachers down. Study hard, you hear? Then when we come back for band, play HARDER! (without completely putting your studies aside, of course.)
I suppose that's all I have to say then.
Well in that case,
have a good evening and happy mugging!
=> Thanks, your friendly neighbourhood estate manager.
Wednesday, 22 July 2009
Hey band.
This is your estate manager speaking.
Due to time constrain, I frankly doubt I would be able to get my point through in band practice.
Therefore, I will now tell you guys what I want you guys to know. (ie., say my piece.)
1. Do NOT put whatever you like all over the band room.
I believe most of you have noticed that there was a notice placed on the door of the band room not too long ago.
The BAND ROOM is a SACRED PLACE, it said.
I know that some of you see the band room as a second home.
But it's not an excuse to treat the room like your own house!
People who came down to practice last friday would have seen it.
Water bottle on the green shelf. (you people should know which green shelf I'm referring to.)
Hanger on the floor.
etc, etc.
PLEASE, if it's your stuff on the green shelf, take it back!
That should be all for part 1. Now on to part 2.
2. Instruments on the shelves.
Look, I don't think anybody would mind if you placed your beloved instrument there TEMPORARILY (ie. 5 minutes?) because you're afraid you'd damage it in any way. Remove it as soon as possible after that.
BUT.
When you people are told to keep your instruments, or when you're done with your personal practice, please do not place it in the band room. It should be kept in the band store, or to be more specific, your instrument's case. Do not put your instrument there, forget about it and go home.
As for instruments that can't fit in their cases, kindly put them in the band store, your section's shelf, where it wouldn't be too obvious to cause any hindrance. Thank you.
Now on to part 3.
3. The cleanliness of the band room.
This is the part where I'm most annoyed.
I think you guys know this already.
We all need a conducive environment for band practice.
The cleanliness of the band room, naturally, plays an orchestral role in this.
What I don't like is that you guys don't seem to take this seriously.
In fact, it might be to the point that people call it disrespect.
Now, listen up. I'm tired of saying this again and again, and I don't want to say it again.
When you guys are done keeping your instruments, you're supposed to sit quietly, in your distinct and neat rows, playing your part in keeping the band room clean (ie. picking up the white and red stuff on the carpet). Well, you guys are supposed to be bending over and picking up those tiny little eyesores until someone comes along to address you people. Then you straighten up and listen.
Instead, what do you guys do?
I see the majority of you ignoring little bits of stuff in the carpet, TALKING, SITTING AROUND DOING NOTHING, PLAYING.
I think I need to get this straight.
I am not here to clean up the band room for you.
Rather, what I do is to direct you guys in making the band room a cleaner, nicer, and a pleasant place to practice in.
As such, I would not tolerate that wrong idea. In fact, it might become what I see as utter disrespect if you even have the guts to tell me that.
I hope you guys will understand.
=>Your friendly neighborhood estate manager
This is your estate manager speaking.
Due to time constrain, I frankly doubt I would be able to get my point through in band practice.
Therefore, I will now tell you guys what I want you guys to know. (ie., say my piece.)
1. Do NOT put whatever you like all over the band room.
I believe most of you have noticed that there was a notice placed on the door of the band room not too long ago.
The BAND ROOM is a SACRED PLACE, it said.
I know that some of you see the band room as a second home.
But it's not an excuse to treat the room like your own house!
People who came down to practice last friday would have seen it.
Water bottle on the green shelf. (you people should know which green shelf I'm referring to.)
Hanger on the floor.
etc, etc.
PLEASE, if it's your stuff on the green shelf, take it back!
That should be all for part 1. Now on to part 2.
2. Instruments on the shelves.
Look, I don't think anybody would mind if you placed your beloved instrument there TEMPORARILY (ie. 5 minutes?) because you're afraid you'd damage it in any way. Remove it as soon as possible after that.
BUT.
When you people are told to keep your instruments, or when you're done with your personal practice, please do not place it in the band room. It should be kept in the band store, or to be more specific, your instrument's case. Do not put your instrument there, forget about it and go home.
As for instruments that can't fit in their cases, kindly put them in the band store, your section's shelf, where it wouldn't be too obvious to cause any hindrance. Thank you.
Now on to part 3.
3. The cleanliness of the band room.
This is the part where I'm most annoyed.
I think you guys know this already.
We all need a conducive environment for band practice.
The cleanliness of the band room, naturally, plays an orchestral role in this.
What I don't like is that you guys don't seem to take this seriously.
In fact, it might be to the point that people call it disrespect.
Now, listen up. I'm tired of saying this again and again, and I don't want to say it again.
When you guys are done keeping your instruments, you're supposed to sit quietly, in your distinct and neat rows, playing your part in keeping the band room clean (ie. picking up the white and red stuff on the carpet). Well, you guys are supposed to be bending over and picking up those tiny little eyesores until someone comes along to address you people. Then you straighten up and listen.
Instead, what do you guys do?
I see the majority of you ignoring little bits of stuff in the carpet, TALKING, SITTING AROUND DOING NOTHING, PLAYING.
I think I need to get this straight.
I am not here to clean up the band room for you.
Rather, what I do is to direct you guys in making the band room a cleaner, nicer, and a pleasant place to practice in.
As such, I would not tolerate that wrong idea. In fact, it might become what I see as utter disrespect if you even have the guts to tell me that.
I hope you guys will understand.
=>Your friendly neighborhood estate manager
Thursday, 16 July 2009
Tuesday, 14 July 2009
Some thoughts.
Hello people!
It has been a VERY long time since I have posted something.
So I am sure everyone will be looking forward to my posts.
So, here I am. =D
JUST JOKING!
Well, just here to share an interesting moral/ethical dilemma with you.
You are driving down the road in your car on a wild, stormy night,
when you pass by a bus stop and you see three people waiting for the
bus:
1. An old lady who looks as if she is about to die.
2. An old friend who once saved your life.
3. The perfect partner you have been dreaming about.
Which one would you choose to offer a ride to, knowing that there could only be
one passenger in your car?
Think before you read on, because your answer speaks a lot about your character and your attitude in your own responsibility to others.
It has been a VERY long time since I have posted something.
So I am sure everyone will be looking forward to my posts.
So, here I am. =D
JUST JOKING!
Well, just here to share an interesting moral/ethical dilemma with you.
You are driving down the road in your car on a wild, stormy night,
when you pass by a bus stop and you see three people waiting for the
bus:
1. An old lady who looks as if she is about to die.
2. An old friend who once saved your life.
3. The perfect partner you have been dreaming about.
Which one would you choose to offer a ride to, knowing that there could only be
one passenger in your car?
Think before you read on, because your answer speaks a lot about your character and your attitude in your own responsibility to others.
- You could pick up the old lady, because she is going to die, and thus, you should save her first.
- Or you could take the old friend because he has saved your life and this would be the perfect chance to pay him back.
- However, you may never be able to find your perfect mate again.
This was told to me by another friend of mine, and I chose the first option.
But its not even close to the perfect answer.
You should give the car keys to your old friend and let him take the lady to the hospital. Then, you would stay behind, and wait for the bus with the partner of your dreams.
Missed that out right? Ha! I knew it.
There are so many things in Life which we, as young people, are missing out now. All around us, poeple are needing help, but we often turn a blind eye towards them. Your excuse? "I have no time!"
Kindness begets kindness. Unkindness begets unkindness. And an act of helping others will definitely lift your soul to a whole new level. Nope, this is not a sharing about Music-making, but a sharing on Empathy: how you treat to others just because you want to.
I feel that there has been too much emphasis on Music-making in CHSSB. Although that is excellent, I felt that the "brotherhood" between members have disappeared. You only care about what will benefit you.
That may not true for everyone, but it certainly is for most. (Not just CHSSB)
So, please, I urge everyone of you to look around you and ACT. There is no need to hesitate, no need to deliberate and no need to consider when you see someone in need. If you see your seniors struggling, a word of concern is enough to keep them on track. If you see your juniors discouraged, a small word encouragement is enough to fuel their spirits. We ARE One Band, One Sound, and One Brotherhood.
How can there be One Band without One Sound, and how can there be One Sound without One Brotherhood? And being emphatatic, and thinking a bit out of box, is just what you need to achieve what CHSSB has been trying to achieve for the past few years.
Most importantly, it is important to dare to try. Who cares if you fail? Only you band-mates will care for the best for you; by encouraging and helping you to solve your mistakes.
Anyone can do it, its just a matter of how. Afterall, all of these are intrinsic, right?
Monday, 13 July 2009
Quotations.
Recently I borrowed a book from the Esplanade library titled “The Quotable Musician: from Bach to Tupac” by Sheila Anderson and found it pretty interesting, holding all manners of quotes from musicians and artists from all walks of life. I would like to grab some of the interesting quotes and share it with you guys…they’re all interesting, but whether I agree with them is another issue altogether.
***
‘Only become a musician if there is absolutely no other way you can make a living.’ – Kirke Mecham
‘I am not a blues singer. I am not a jazz singer. I am not a country singer. But I am a singer who can sing the blues, who can sing jazz, who can sing country.’ – Ray Charles
‘A good composer is slowly discovered. A bad composer is slowly found out.’ – Ernest Newman
‘Give me a laundry list and I’ll set it to music.’ – Puccini
‘The way to write American music is simple. All you have to do is to be an American and then write any kind of music you wish.’ –Virgil Thompson
***
‘I once sent him a song and asked him to mark a cross wherever he thought it was faulty. Brahms returned it untouched, saying, “I don’t want to make a cemetery of your compositions.” ‘ – Hugo Wolf
‘There are still so many beautiful things to be said in C major.’ – Sergei Prokofiev
‘You can’t possibly hear the last movement of Beethoven’s Seventh and go slow.’ – Oscar Levant, trying to explain his way out of a speeding ticket
‘I say, play it your own way. Don’t play what the public wants…you play what you want, and let the public pick up on what you are doing, even if it does take them fifteen, twenty years.’ – Thelonious monk
‘Applause is a receipt, not a note of demand.’ – Artur Schnabel
‘If I don’t practice for one day, I know it; if I don’t practice for two days, the critics know it; if I don’t practice for three days, the audience knows it.’ – Ignacy Jan Paderewski
***
‘I cannot tell you how much I love to play for people. Would you believe it – sometimes when I sit down to practice and there is no one else in the room, I have to stifle an impulse to ring for the elevator man and offer him money to come in and hear me.’ – Arthur Rubinstein
‘Never look at the trombones; it only encourages them.’ – Richard Strauss
‘I am amazed at radio DJs today. I am firmly convinced that AM on my radio stands of Absolute Moron. I will not begin to tell you what FM stands for.’ – Jasper Carrott
‘I never use a score when conducting my orchestra. Does a lion tamer enter a cage with a book on how to tame a lion?” – Dmitri Mitropoulos
‘God tells me how the music should sound but you stand in the way.’ – Arturo Toscanini, to a trumpet player
‘Conductors must give unmistakable and suggestive signals to the orchestra, not choreography to the audience.’ – George Szell
‘If anyone has conducted a Beethoven performance, and then doesn’t have to go to an osteopath, then there’s something wrong.’ – Simon Rattle
‘He uses music as an accompaniment to his conducting.’ – Oscar Levant, on Leonard Bernstein
‘Opera is when a guy gets stabbed in the back, and instead of bleeding, he sings.’ – Ed Gardner
***
‘Too many pieces of music finish too long after the end.’ – Igor Stravinsky
‘Music rearranges your molecular structure.’ – Carlos Santana
‘The rhythm of jazz is against the normal psychological needs of Man.’ – The Peoples Music Press, Peking, China
‘I like Wagner’s music better than any other music. It is so loud that one can talk the whole time without other people hearing what one says. That is a great advantage.’ – Oscar Wilde
‘I have often thought that if there had been a good rap group around in those days, I might have chosen a career in music, instead of politics.’ – Richard Nixon
‘An artist should be judged by his best, just as an athlete is. Pick out my best work and say, “That’s what he did, all the rest was rehearsal.” ‘– Artie Shaw
:D
***
‘Only become a musician if there is absolutely no other way you can make a living.’ – Kirke Mecham
‘I am not a blues singer. I am not a jazz singer. I am not a country singer. But I am a singer who can sing the blues, who can sing jazz, who can sing country.’ – Ray Charles
‘A good composer is slowly discovered. A bad composer is slowly found out.’ – Ernest Newman
‘Give me a laundry list and I’ll set it to music.’ – Puccini
‘The way to write American music is simple. All you have to do is to be an American and then write any kind of music you wish.’ –Virgil Thompson
***
‘I once sent him a song and asked him to mark a cross wherever he thought it was faulty. Brahms returned it untouched, saying, “I don’t want to make a cemetery of your compositions.” ‘ – Hugo Wolf
‘There are still so many beautiful things to be said in C major.’ – Sergei Prokofiev
‘You can’t possibly hear the last movement of Beethoven’s Seventh and go slow.’ – Oscar Levant, trying to explain his way out of a speeding ticket
‘I say, play it your own way. Don’t play what the public wants…you play what you want, and let the public pick up on what you are doing, even if it does take them fifteen, twenty years.’ – Thelonious monk
‘Applause is a receipt, not a note of demand.’ – Artur Schnabel
‘If I don’t practice for one day, I know it; if I don’t practice for two days, the critics know it; if I don’t practice for three days, the audience knows it.’ – Ignacy Jan Paderewski
***
‘I cannot tell you how much I love to play for people. Would you believe it – sometimes when I sit down to practice and there is no one else in the room, I have to stifle an impulse to ring for the elevator man and offer him money to come in and hear me.’ – Arthur Rubinstein
‘Never look at the trombones; it only encourages them.’ – Richard Strauss
‘I am amazed at radio DJs today. I am firmly convinced that AM on my radio stands of Absolute Moron. I will not begin to tell you what FM stands for.’ – Jasper Carrott
‘I never use a score when conducting my orchestra. Does a lion tamer enter a cage with a book on how to tame a lion?” – Dmitri Mitropoulos
‘God tells me how the music should sound but you stand in the way.’ – Arturo Toscanini, to a trumpet player
‘Conductors must give unmistakable and suggestive signals to the orchestra, not choreography to the audience.’ – George Szell
‘If anyone has conducted a Beethoven performance, and then doesn’t have to go to an osteopath, then there’s something wrong.’ – Simon Rattle
‘He uses music as an accompaniment to his conducting.’ – Oscar Levant, on Leonard Bernstein
‘Opera is when a guy gets stabbed in the back, and instead of bleeding, he sings.’ – Ed Gardner
***
‘Too many pieces of music finish too long after the end.’ – Igor Stravinsky
‘Music rearranges your molecular structure.’ – Carlos Santana
‘The rhythm of jazz is against the normal psychological needs of Man.’ – The Peoples Music Press, Peking, China
‘I like Wagner’s music better than any other music. It is so loud that one can talk the whole time without other people hearing what one says. That is a great advantage.’ – Oscar Wilde
‘I have often thought that if there had been a good rap group around in those days, I might have chosen a career in music, instead of politics.’ – Richard Nixon
‘An artist should be judged by his best, just as an athlete is. Pick out my best work and say, “That’s what he did, all the rest was rehearsal.” ‘– Artie Shaw
:D
Sunday, 12 July 2009
BAND.
Alright, this is the first time I'm blogging here.
I understand every single band member is now all asking this same question:
"WHY IS THERE NO BAND?" .
for some truly passionate musicians, those who pester me to open up the band room even during the band break last week, they are probably going like,
"I MISS BAND LIKE I"M DEPRIVED OF A LIVING SOURCE."
for some other opposites they'll probably not care about band at all .
My point of this whole post IS TO GET EVERY SINGLE BAND MEMBER DOWN FOR PRACTCIE TOMORROW . IT IS NOT COMPULSORY BUT HIGHLY ENCOURAGED FOR EVERYONE TO BE DOWN TOMORROW AT 3 .
This is the direction from the school . It is a FREE PRACTICE (if you get what i mean)
It is not compulsory but i'll be down there so i want to see the whole band there . I won't punish you if you are not there but YOU'LL REGRET NOT GOING DOWN FOR PRACTICE TOMORROW BECAUSE you will CHANGE THE IMPRESSION EVERY OTHER BAND MEMBER HAVE OF YOU.
So, get the message. Be there at 3 tomorrow PUNCTUALLY . ENCOURAGE ALL YOUR BAND BUDDIES TO GO DOWN IF THEY ARE INTENDING NOT TO . Ultimately , you can still choose not to go down tomorrow 13th July , you WON'T get punished .
It's your CHOICE . MAKE THE RIGHT ONE .
Alright, this is the first time I'm blogging here.
I understand every single band member is now all asking this same question:
"WHY IS THERE NO BAND?" .
for some truly passionate musicians, those who pester me to open up the band room even during the band break last week, they are probably going like,
"I MISS BAND LIKE I"M DEPRIVED OF A LIVING SOURCE."
for some other opposites they'll probably not care about band at all .
My point of this whole post IS TO GET EVERY SINGLE BAND MEMBER DOWN FOR PRACTCIE TOMORROW . IT IS NOT COMPULSORY BUT HIGHLY ENCOURAGED FOR EVERYONE TO BE DOWN TOMORROW AT 3 .
This is the direction from the school . It is a FREE PRACTICE (if you get what i mean)
It is not compulsory but i'll be down there so i want to see the whole band there . I won't punish you if you are not there but YOU'LL REGRET NOT GOING DOWN FOR PRACTICE TOMORROW BECAUSE you will CHANGE THE IMPRESSION EVERY OTHER BAND MEMBER HAVE OF YOU.
So, get the message. Be there at 3 tomorrow PUNCTUALLY . ENCOURAGE ALL YOUR BAND BUDDIES TO GO DOWN IF THEY ARE INTENDING NOT TO . Ultimately , you can still choose not to go down tomorrow 13th July , you WON'T get punished .
It's your CHOICE . MAKE THE RIGHT ONE .
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
Promoten.
Hello all!
Just here to promote a concert where my second work for wind band will be premiered!
OP.2009
"10th Anniversary Concert: The Next Lap"
Date | 19th June 2009, Friday
Time | 1900 hrs
Venue | Yong Siew Toh Conservatory Concert Hall (National University of Singapore)
Admission Charges | SDG$10.00
Clarence Tan | Music Director
Nathaniel Tan | Bassoon
Programme:
Orchid Park Wind Orchestra
Singaporean Folk Song Suite | Zechariah Goh Toh Chai
Dreamscapes (World Premiere) | Terrence Wong
Symphony No. 2: II. Dreams Under A New Moon/III. Apollo Unleashed | Frank Ticheli
OP'us Alumni Winds
March "Wind For Winds" | Shin'ya Takahashi
Old Churches | Michael Colgrass
Bassoon Concerto in Bb Major K191 | Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The Merry Widow Selections | Franz Lehar
Interval
Combined Wind Orchestra
First Suite In Eb | Gustav Holst
El Camino Real "A Latin Fantasy" | Alfred Reed
1812 Overture | Piotr Illyich Tchaikovsky
FOR TICKETS and directions ask me directly or approach Yue Feng! :D
P.S. good luck for Elegance al Esplanade!
Just here to promote a concert where my second work for wind band will be premiered!
OP.2009
"10th Anniversary Concert: The Next Lap"
Date | 19th June 2009, Friday
Time | 1900 hrs
Venue | Yong Siew Toh Conservatory Concert Hall (National University of Singapore)
Admission Charges | SDG$10.00
Clarence Tan | Music Director
Nathaniel Tan | Bassoon
Programme:
Orchid Park Wind Orchestra
Singaporean Folk Song Suite | Zechariah Goh Toh Chai
Dreamscapes (World Premiere) | Terrence Wong
Symphony No. 2: II. Dreams Under A New Moon/III. Apollo Unleashed | Frank Ticheli
OP'us Alumni Winds
March "Wind For Winds" | Shin'ya Takahashi
Old Churches | Michael Colgrass
Bassoon Concerto in Bb Major K191 | Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The Merry Widow Selections | Franz Lehar
Interval
Combined Wind Orchestra
First Suite In Eb | Gustav Holst
El Camino Real "A Latin Fantasy" | Alfred Reed
1812 Overture | Piotr Illyich Tchaikovsky
FOR TICKETS and directions ask me directly or approach Yue Feng! :D
P.S. good luck for Elegance al Esplanade!
Saturday, 6 June 2009
Instrument Fixing
Due to unforseen circumstances, the windworks people will only be coming down on the next friday, in the morning.
So during the next week, please try to write an account for your instrument, if your instrument is not working well.
e.g. Eb Key is not moving, dented at blah blah blah.
-Thanks
So during the next week, please try to write an account for your instrument, if your instrument is not working well.
e.g. Eb Key is not moving, dented at blah blah blah.
-Thanks
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
Attention all sec 4 band members
There would be band practice for the sec four band members on this Thursday and Friday. Practice next week would be on Monday, Thursday and Friday. There would be a break for your prelims following that week. Practice would then resume on 26th June, Friday.
Saturday, 30 May 2009
Holiday Practice schedule
This is basically the schedule for every week of the holidays.
- Mondays- 1pm to 6 pm (sectional for sec 2s and 3s)
(combine for sec 1s)
- Thursday- 8am to 12 pm (junior band)
1pm to 6pm (combine)
- Friday- 8am to 12 pm (junior band)
1pm to 6pm (combine)
On 25th June, Thursday, there would be a full day exchange with St Patricks from 8 am to 5 pm.
Sunday, 17 May 2009
Secondary 4 Band members........
I do hope that this blog is still surviving...
This is a notice to remind [ALL Secondary 4 Band Members] that they [Are to] perform for the [Esplanade Showcase].
Rehearsals will be [Limited] Only to the [First Week of June].
If there are any issues regarding the above, kindly look for the Leaders (any), or the various Teachers-In-Charge.
thanks. X)
Lawliet,
This is a notice to remind [ALL Secondary 4 Band Members] that they [Are to] perform for the [Esplanade Showcase].
Rehearsals will be [Limited] Only to the [First Week of June].
If there are any issues regarding the above, kindly look for the Leaders (any), or the various Teachers-In-Charge.
thanks. X)
Lawliet,
Sunday, 3 May 2009
Pandemonium and Chaos......
Hey band,
No more lame arguments alright?
At least have musical ones.
Dont need someone (especially your band leaders) to bring order okay, just be matured and take care of yourselves.
Such trivial matters are really not worth going on about.............
Sec 1's, 2's and 3's.......
It's your examination period..........
Study hard and persevere.
I wish you all the best in your respective exams. X)
Sec 4's...........
Study. Do Homework. Revise. Go for your remedials lol.
yupp, pretty much it.
your exams arent that far off.........
O levels arent exactly the most fun thing to prepare for... but yea...... you dont want to have those tears of regret at the final day.
I'm missing band and my Instrument already....
haha....... X)
Hope you guys are doing alright.
Mr glosz too. ^^
Cheers.......
buhbye! X)
Lawliet was online on 3/5/2009 at 12:05pm.
No more lame arguments alright?
At least have musical ones.
Dont need someone (especially your band leaders) to bring order okay, just be matured and take care of yourselves.
Such trivial matters are really not worth going on about.............
Sec 1's, 2's and 3's.......
It's your examination period..........
Study hard and persevere.
I wish you all the best in your respective exams. X)
Sec 4's...........
Study. Do Homework. Revise. Go for your remedials lol.
yupp, pretty much it.
your exams arent that far off.........
O levels arent exactly the most fun thing to prepare for... but yea...... you dont want to have those tears of regret at the final day.
I'm missing band and my Instrument already....
haha....... X)
Hope you guys are doing alright.
Mr glosz too. ^^
Cheers.......
buhbye! X)
Lawliet was online on 3/5/2009 at 12:05pm.
Thursday, 23 April 2009
A source of Insipration
I am sure many of you have seen this.
Susan Boyle, 47, "country bumpkin, dazzled the crowd and the judges during the auditions for "Britain's Got Talent 2009"
She sang "I dreamed a dream" (Don't ask me about the grammar) from Les Miserables (sounds familiar Secondary 4s?). At first, they laughed at her. "Cyanical" was the word, but after she sang, they weren't laughing anymore.
How could they, when all of their mouths were agape?
I hope that this video will never cease to be a source of inspiration to you, because it has been mine...(at least for the past few days)
Watch Susan Boyle, hd in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
Susan Boyle, 47, "country bumpkin, dazzled the crowd and the judges during the auditions for "Britain's Got Talent 2009"
She sang "I dreamed a dream" (Don't ask me about the grammar) from Les Miserables (sounds familiar Secondary 4s?). At first, they laughed at her. "Cyanical" was the word, but after she sang, they weren't laughing anymore.
How could they, when all of their mouths were agape?
I hope that this video will never cease to be a source of inspiration to you, because it has been mine...(at least for the past few days)
Watch Susan Boyle, hd in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
Our Deepest Gratitudes.
Hey people!
On the behalf of the whole CHSSB, I would like to extend our deepest gratitudes to all our teachers, alumnis and tutors for their hardwork and their unwavering support to us during the most arduous part of our journey towards our GOAL. (not gold w/hon)
I would also like to take this oppoturnity to thank all the people who gave us their congratulations after SYF for what we have achieved.
(Thanks Mr Leonard Tan!)
Last but not least, though I know this is kind of late, but I want to thank all CHSSB members for not giving up, and perservering on together as a band towards our GOAL during the SYF period. I want to thank every single one of YOU who toiled, struggled, played, and cheered side by side with me, and the rest of the band.
Those memories will really stay with me forever. (Especially how crazy we went after everything..)
And I am sure they will stay with you too.
On the behalf of the whole CHSSB, I would like to extend our deepest gratitudes to all our teachers, alumnis and tutors for their hardwork and their unwavering support to us during the most arduous part of our journey towards our GOAL. (not gold w/hon)
I would also like to take this oppoturnity to thank all the people who gave us their congratulations after SYF for what we have achieved.
(Thanks Mr Leonard Tan!)
Last but not least, though I know this is kind of late, but I want to thank all CHSSB members for not giving up, and perservering on together as a band towards our GOAL during the SYF period. I want to thank every single one of YOU who toiled, struggled, played, and cheered side by side with me, and the rest of the band.
Those memories will really stay with me forever. (Especially how crazy we went after everything..)
And I am sure they will stay with you too.
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Revisionist perspectives of the SYF. Or band for the matter
Continuing from my posts on the Band Blog Tagboard.
I've left the school for 2 years now. But while I don't remember what the school taught me for Physics (I'm an Arts student now) or how many times I was late for school, it's the experiences I've had in Band that I still remember to this very day.
Like, how we played sunrise at sunrise.
Or, how the band screamed their guts out for Jericho (2005 SYF/WMC)
Or perhaps, the evil playing and whacking of timbales, or other instruments for the matter, for Incantation and Dance. (I'm sure some of you guys remember the rhythm)
Or maybe whatever dance moves or choreography we showed at VCH or the Esplanade whenever it was aesthetique.
The ecstasy of hearing the results that we got GWH for 2005 and the heartbreak when we got Silver 2 years later.
And maybe, some of the more unpleasant experiences along the way.
But that's life.
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
I'm sure you've heard of that somewhere.
Because many years later, while you might have forgotten your subject content in school (that's why the USA produced Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader... when some of its applicants are Ivy League College Grads), or even how to play your instrument to the standard you are now, it's those memories that you'll remember for life. It's the experiences that brought you along to that final result that you'll keep in your memories.
And speaking of Jericho and Incantation and Dance, I can still play my parts for the pieces. I bet same goes for Yiyong and Junwei.
I've left the school for 2 years now. But while I don't remember what the school taught me for Physics (I'm an Arts student now) or how many times I was late for school, it's the experiences I've had in Band that I still remember to this very day.
Like, how we played sunrise at sunrise.
Or, how the band screamed their guts out for Jericho (2005 SYF/WMC)
Or perhaps, the evil playing and whacking of timbales, or other instruments for the matter, for Incantation and Dance. (I'm sure some of you guys remember the rhythm)
Or maybe whatever dance moves or choreography we showed at VCH or the Esplanade whenever it was aesthetique.
The ecstasy of hearing the results that we got GWH for 2005 and the heartbreak when we got Silver 2 years later.
And maybe, some of the more unpleasant experiences along the way.
But that's life.
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
I'm sure you've heard of that somewhere.
Because many years later, while you might have forgotten your subject content in school (that's why the USA produced Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader... when some of its applicants are Ivy League College Grads), or even how to play your instrument to the standard you are now, it's those memories that you'll remember for life. It's the experiences that brought you along to that final result that you'll keep in your memories.
And speaking of Jericho and Incantation and Dance, I can still play my parts for the pieces. I bet same goes for Yiyong and Junwei.
Saturday, 4 April 2009
CHSSB - Our SYF 2009
Hey guys!
Before I start to write anything, I would firstly like to APOLOGISE for the outdated-ness (if there is such a word) of the band web. TO all the "fans" of CHSSB and its web page out there, I AM SO SORRY! (My excuse: Was really busy with SYF and the numerous tests from my teachers) Please forgive me! T_T
You would probably have read all the inspiring posts from Quintus, Louis, Luke etc etc etc. (No Jun Yao?)
Blah Blah Blah. Ok, we have reached what we have desired for since god-knows-when. We have got our GWH. We have got back our pride, our honour, our past glory.But, So what? Like what some of the posts said:" We must keep up with our reputation."
Saw what some of you all wrote on the tagboard: So many bands got GWH, 8 gwh in 4 days,so maybe ours "worthless and useless".
Basically, after all the shouting and screaming and cheering (and hollering at CO and Choir), I had that same thought. If so many bands got GWH, what makes our GWH then?
Then almost immediately, the answer dawned on me.
Let me use an example (specifically Zhen Xi's one):
Let's imagine, in the whole cohort of Secondary 4s (or 3s or 2s or 1s), everyone got at least 85 marks and above for Physics. If I have that initial mentality, I would be thinking :" What the H**L? Everyone got almost the same mark as me? Sian diao la..then like that I might as well get Zero!"
But, for me (only), I would be thinking :" YES YES YES YES YES YES YES! Finally I score in Physics! After so much hard work and mugging...I improved by SO MUCH!"
Yes seriously. I am not being hypocritical. (FYI, my physics is very lousy)
It's the same for our band. From a silver to a GWH is a quantum leap.
Furthermore, to me...
GWH is just GWH.
It's just a certificate.
It's just an award.
It's just 7-8 CCA points (or whatever).
It's just a name.
It may give you (or us for that matter) a momentarily outburst of pride and spontaneous joy, but it is short-lived. Don't you agree? After 20 years, you will worrying about something else instead of remembering what was the date of the SYF year in which we got back GWH.
What comes after SYF and GWH is the cold, hard, cruel reality. Who in the world cares abotu your SYF? Get your A1s, sustain your standards, continue to improve etc etc etc.
But maybe I am mistaken. Maybe the award really is worthless after so many bands got it. Maybe I am wrong. Really, it all depends on what your definition of that award is.
MY definition (after much thoughts) is :GWH is the journey.
I admit that SYF 2009 left me great memories. SO great, I will never ever forget them. And you know what's great about them?
It's not the award.
It's not the my not-screwing-anything part.
It's not "getting back our glory" part.
It's the journey. The numerous practices. The tiring and arduous hours. The hard work we put in to impress and to not disppoint. The nerves that everyone gets right before our performance. The brilliance of our performance. The friendship and bonds between band mates that were strengthened. And the relief that finally, it's all over.
That was what MY GWH is all about. They always say that it is the journey that counts, not the result. I always remained skeptical of that statement, up until now.
So do I think that our award is useless after so many band got the same award?
No.
A blatant no.
Why? Simple.
Because I think our band is unique, not in a way that it is better than others.
But, in a way that, CHSSB has experienced and achieved so many things, before and after SYF, that NO bands anywhere could ever have possibly done so!
I know that this is a very bias statement, and I am sure that not everyone agrees with me. But I don't care. And I know I can't brainwash all of you with this as well.
Because this is my definition of SYF, and of GWH. This is my interpretation of what CHSSB has achieved in April 2009.
I don;t care what pther people got. Because I will never ever (ever x100) forget what I had been through with all my brothers, and what we had experienced and achieved together on-stage and off-stage.
"Unforgettable" is truly the word.
Before I start to write anything, I would firstly like to APOLOGISE for the outdated-ness (if there is such a word) of the band web. TO all the "fans" of CHSSB and its web page out there, I AM SO SORRY! (My excuse: Was really busy with SYF and the numerous tests from my teachers) Please forgive me! T_T
You would probably have read all the inspiring posts from Quintus, Louis, Luke etc etc etc. (No Jun Yao?)
Blah Blah Blah. Ok, we have reached what we have desired for since god-knows-when. We have got our GWH. We have got back our pride, our honour, our past glory.But, So what? Like what some of the posts said:" We must keep up with our reputation."
Saw what some of you all wrote on the tagboard: So many bands got GWH, 8 gwh in 4 days,so maybe ours "worthless and useless".
Basically, after all the shouting and screaming and cheering (and hollering at CO and Choir), I had that same thought. If so many bands got GWH, what makes our GWH then?
Then almost immediately, the answer dawned on me.
Let me use an example (specifically Zhen Xi's one):
Let's imagine, in the whole cohort of Secondary 4s (or 3s or 2s or 1s), everyone got at least 85 marks and above for Physics. If I have that initial mentality, I would be thinking :" What the H**L? Everyone got almost the same mark as me? Sian diao la..then like that I might as well get Zero!"
But, for me (only), I would be thinking :" YES YES YES YES YES YES YES! Finally I score in Physics! After so much hard work and mugging...I improved by SO MUCH!"
Yes seriously. I am not being hypocritical. (FYI, my physics is very lousy)
It's the same for our band. From a silver to a GWH is a quantum leap.
Furthermore, to me...
GWH is just GWH.
It's just a certificate.
It's just an award.
It's just 7-8 CCA points (or whatever).
It's just a name.
It may give you (or us for that matter) a momentarily outburst of pride and spontaneous joy, but it is short-lived. Don't you agree? After 20 years, you will worrying about something else instead of remembering what was the date of the SYF year in which we got back GWH.
What comes after SYF and GWH is the cold, hard, cruel reality. Who in the world cares abotu your SYF? Get your A1s, sustain your standards, continue to improve etc etc etc.
But maybe I am mistaken. Maybe the award really is worthless after so many bands got it. Maybe I am wrong. Really, it all depends on what your definition of that award is.
MY definition (after much thoughts) is :GWH is the journey.
I admit that SYF 2009 left me great memories. SO great, I will never ever forget them. And you know what's great about them?
It's not the award.
It's not the my not-screwing-anything part.
It's not "getting back our glory" part.
It's the journey. The numerous practices. The tiring and arduous hours. The hard work we put in to impress and to not disppoint. The nerves that everyone gets right before our performance. The brilliance of our performance. The friendship and bonds between band mates that were strengthened. And the relief that finally, it's all over.
That was what MY GWH is all about. They always say that it is the journey that counts, not the result. I always remained skeptical of that statement, up until now.
So do I think that our award is useless after so many band got the same award?
No.
A blatant no.
Why? Simple.
Because I think our band is unique, not in a way that it is better than others.
But, in a way that, CHSSB has experienced and achieved so many things, before and after SYF, that NO bands anywhere could ever have possibly done so!
I know that this is a very bias statement, and I am sure that not everyone agrees with me. But I don't care. And I know I can't brainwash all of you with this as well.
Because this is my definition of SYF, and of GWH. This is my interpretation of what CHSSB has achieved in April 2009.
I don;t care what pther people got. Because I will never ever (ever x100) forget what I had been through with all my brothers, and what we had experienced and achieved together on-stage and off-stage.
"Unforgettable" is truly the word.
Thursday, 2 April 2009
Leonard Tan's congratulations!
On Facebook...
"Leonard Tan congratulates Catholic High School Symphony Band! One band, one sound, one brotherhood! Bravo gentlemen! "
and so do i. great job, men and boys of Chssb.
Just to let you all know...after i sent him the news that CHSSB had won GWH, he sent me back...
"YAAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great to hear abt this absolutely FANTASTIC NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I actually stayed up to listen to the band LIVE via the telephone......I was so proud of your juniors!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have SO MANY LOVELY memories of the band!!!! CONGRATULATIONS TO CHSSB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
I actually teared when i saw this and am still tearing as i type this. Where in the world can you find such a man who will stay up till 3am just to hear his former band play? Go figure.
"Leonard Tan congratulates Catholic High School Symphony Band! One band, one sound, one brotherhood! Bravo gentlemen! "
and so do i. great job, men and boys of Chssb.
Just to let you all know...after i sent him the news that CHSSB had won GWH, he sent me back...
"YAAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great to hear abt this absolutely FANTASTIC NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I actually stayed up to listen to the band LIVE via the telephone......I was so proud of your juniors!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have SO MANY LOVELY memories of the band!!!! CONGRATULATIONS TO CHSSB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
I actually teared when i saw this and am still tearing as i type this. Where in the world can you find such a man who will stay up till 3am just to hear his former band play? Go figure.
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
The Value of GWH
Hey all. Can't really sleep after all the excitement and chong pang nonsense so I'll just post a little on my thoughts.
SYF hasn't been a very eventful journey, but if you think deep it is. Here's how it goes for me: initially, I was a medal-obssessed beast. I don't deny it. I was HUNGRY for Gold with Honours! Then came new thoughts about lots of things; like our musicality fading and other stuff. I started thinking, were we just looking at the medal that we wanted (sorry, certificate) and not really focusing on what really mattered? Thankfully, Fei Yang's talk seemed to have a positive effect on everyone and we all (while still HUNGRY for gold with honours) started to strive to get our musicality into the pieces.
Alright, enough repeated stuff that you all have heard for a million times. After today, after going crazy and screaming our voices till there's no voice left and band-cheering about 7 times or more, I realised one thing: that Gold with Honours might be redemption, but it is a very little bit of it. It's hardly worth mentioning if you have redemption in mind. Gold with Honours is recognition for putting on a good performance, of course. But best of all, I really love the happiness coursing through everyone when we attained it. It was bloody addictive! Damn! I really wish I could go back in time and listen to the results get announced and jump up screaming again.
And even better is how some people whose hearts were never really in the band seemed to change after the screamfest. That's really fantastic. Join the train ride man.
This is a day I'll never forget!
SYF hasn't been a very eventful journey, but if you think deep it is. Here's how it goes for me: initially, I was a medal-obssessed beast. I don't deny it. I was HUNGRY for Gold with Honours! Then came new thoughts about lots of things; like our musicality fading and other stuff. I started thinking, were we just looking at the medal that we wanted (sorry, certificate) and not really focusing on what really mattered? Thankfully, Fei Yang's talk seemed to have a positive effect on everyone and we all (while still HUNGRY for gold with honours) started to strive to get our musicality into the pieces.
Alright, enough repeated stuff that you all have heard for a million times. After today, after going crazy and screaming our voices till there's no voice left and band-cheering about 7 times or more, I realised one thing: that Gold with Honours might be redemption, but it is a very little bit of it. It's hardly worth mentioning if you have redemption in mind. Gold with Honours is recognition for putting on a good performance, of course. But best of all, I really love the happiness coursing through everyone when we attained it. It was bloody addictive! Damn! I really wish I could go back in time and listen to the results get announced and jump up screaming again.
And even better is how some people whose hearts were never really in the band seemed to change after the screamfest. That's really fantastic. Join the train ride man.
This is a day I'll never forget!
Tuesday, 31 March 2009
The First of April, Twenty Zero-Nine
"....Cat high band has so much potential!......."
alright....... We have reeallyyyyyyy heard that alot of times.......
Tomorrow, the first of april.........
Yupp SYF........ Band number 53........
We show everyone just how much potential we have alright? X)
Sec 4's...... you know how much this means to us........
What I call " One Last Shot. ".........
I ask you not to be complacent, but to believe.
Personally, I dont want All our senior's efforts in supporting to go to waste. I'm sure many of you will feel the same way.
We have so many supporting us.
Remember our conductors?
Ms Tan? Mr Tan? Mr Glosz?...... I've been around for 4 years in band, and these are the conductors that have come and gone... always bringing our standard up...
They have been always putting their hearts and efforts into the entire process of me growing as a band member.
I know my batch mates have been through this journey too!
It all comes to tomorrow, the First of April......
Remember our teachers?
Mr Heng, Mr Tey, Ms Wong, Ms Khoo....... X)
Band Practice....... Band Camp...... dinners?
They have always been there to support us.... To really bring the best out in us...... To keep things as they should be.
They'll be there for our SYF alright!
Remember our seniors and alumni? X)
Yes..... all those wonderful moments with them, the laughter, the joy, the tears......
How they would teach and correct us, in the hope that we would succeed them.....
They would be the ones who would be next to us, to play that note, to tell us to soften down where necessary.
They will support us in their hearts even if they cant be there for our Syf.
We look so far, but do we look next to us?
The friends, we have journeyed with.....
well, for me, it has been 4 years......
I have no regrets in joining Band. X)
Our friends, the camaraderie........ They have always been there with you for the ups and downs.
The happy smiles that will touch your heart when you look back.....
We will finish this, together, a Band of Brothers, bonded with a common goal.
Its a combined effort, and the only way.... is to encourage each other on, never giving up.
We can draw this strength in the close bonds of our brothers.
Its just a short while away.
One performance. The performance.
where we share our music, Catholic High School Symphony Band's music, with everyone there!
yea.... think about it...................
Remember........... the result may be important, but it is Never Everything.
In each of your hearts, spirits within, know that we have come a long way. Let us really focus for that 15 minutes. Play our hearts and souls out, not by blasting, but by feeling.
This understanding we have for each other in our band, described as " mo qi ".....
Show that we have what it takes to make the music that is truely trencendental.
Every note........
Play it with emotions, supported by your mastery of your instrument.
Every phrase..........
Bring out the true character of it.......
Technicality, Musicality.
The 2 pieces........ Enjoy it with all your emotions. X)
Alright...... Think about what I've said okay? X)
haha..... I dont want to continue tiring your eyes out haha......
I'll end it...... by leaving you with......
Mr L Tan: All the best, CHSSB! I have faith in all of you!'
Everyone will be proud of you guys tomorrow, alright! X)
Rest well ChsSB........!
Bring Full Attire ( Black leather Shoe, Black Socks and Black Tie! ) and $16 too!
and.....
We put our trust in God.............
Amen.
Good Night...... X)
Louis, X)
alright....... We have reeallyyyyyyy heard that alot of times.......
Tomorrow, the first of april.........
Yupp SYF........ Band number 53........
We show everyone just how much potential we have alright? X)
Sec 4's...... you know how much this means to us........
What I call " One Last Shot. ".........
I ask you not to be complacent, but to believe.
Personally, I dont want All our senior's efforts in supporting to go to waste. I'm sure many of you will feel the same way.
We have so many supporting us.
Remember our conductors?
Ms Tan? Mr Tan? Mr Glosz?...... I've been around for 4 years in band, and these are the conductors that have come and gone... always bringing our standard up...
They have been always putting their hearts and efforts into the entire process of me growing as a band member.
I know my batch mates have been through this journey too!
It all comes to tomorrow, the First of April......
Remember our teachers?
Mr Heng, Mr Tey, Ms Wong, Ms Khoo....... X)
Band Practice....... Band Camp...... dinners?
They have always been there to support us.... To really bring the best out in us...... To keep things as they should be.
They'll be there for our SYF alright!
Remember our seniors and alumni? X)
Yes..... all those wonderful moments with them, the laughter, the joy, the tears......
How they would teach and correct us, in the hope that we would succeed them.....
They would be the ones who would be next to us, to play that note, to tell us to soften down where necessary.
They will support us in their hearts even if they cant be there for our Syf.
We look so far, but do we look next to us?
The friends, we have journeyed with.....
well, for me, it has been 4 years......
I have no regrets in joining Band. X)
Our friends, the camaraderie........ They have always been there with you for the ups and downs.
The happy smiles that will touch your heart when you look back.....
We will finish this, together, a Band of Brothers, bonded with a common goal.
Its a combined effort, and the only way.... is to encourage each other on, never giving up.
We can draw this strength in the close bonds of our brothers.
Its just a short while away.
One performance. The performance.
where we share our music, Catholic High School Symphony Band's music, with everyone there!
yea.... think about it...................
Remember........... the result may be important, but it is Never Everything.
In each of your hearts, spirits within, know that we have come a long way. Let us really focus for that 15 minutes. Play our hearts and souls out, not by blasting, but by feeling.
This understanding we have for each other in our band, described as " mo qi ".....
Show that we have what it takes to make the music that is truely trencendental.
Every note........
Play it with emotions, supported by your mastery of your instrument.
Every phrase..........
Bring out the true character of it.......
Technicality, Musicality.
The 2 pieces........ Enjoy it with all your emotions. X)
Alright...... Think about what I've said okay? X)
haha..... I dont want to continue tiring your eyes out haha......
I'll end it...... by leaving you with......
Mr L Tan: All the best, CHSSB! I have faith in all of you!'
Everyone will be proud of you guys tomorrow, alright! X)
Rest well ChsSB........!
Bring Full Attire ( Black leather Shoe, Black Socks and Black Tie! ) and $16 too!
and.....
We put our trust in God.............
Amen.
Good Night...... X)
Louis, X)
Saturday, 14 March 2009
Upcoming Band practices ( Junior + Intermediate Band)
Hey people!
The following are the dates to note for for Secondary 1s & 2s :
The following are the dates to note for for Secondary 1s & 2s :
- Monday -> 11am to 3pm
- Thursday -> 11am to 3pm
- Friday -> 11am to 3pm
Section leaders and senior members, do inform ur juniors about this if they don't know.
Sec 2s or 1s, please spread this information to your peers as soon as possible.
If there are any wrong information, please do correct me via sms, handphone or email.
~ Thanks!
Sunday, 8 March 2009
Leaders-Competant?
taken from TIME Feb. 11, 2009 (http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1878358,00.html)
Competence: Is Your Boss Faking It?
Bosses may be an overbearing breed, but more often than not, you've got to admire their business chops. Wouldn't you love to have that same sense of competence and confidence, that ability to assess tough problems and reach smart solutions on the fly? Guess what? So would they. If you have ever suspected that your boss isn't actually good enough at what he or she does to deserve the job in the first place, a new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that you might be right.
Social psychologists know that one way to be viewed as a leader in any group is simply to act like one. Speak up, speak well and offer lots of ideas, and before long, people will begin doing what you say. This works well when leaders know what they're talking about, but what if they don't? If someone acts like a boss but thinks like a boob, is that still enough to stay on top? To determine just how easily an all-hat-no-cattle leader can take control of employees, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, devised a pair of tests. Cameron Anderson, an associate professor of organizational behavior and industrial relations, along with doctoral candidate Gavin Kilduff, recruited a group of 68 graduate students and divided them into four-person teams. To eliminate the wild card of gender, the teams were either all-male or all-female. Each group was given the task of organizing an imaginary nonprofit environmental organization; the group that did best — as determined by the researchers — would win a $400 prize. While the prize was real, the purported goal wasn't. What Anderson and Kilduff really wanted to see was how the alpha group members would emerge.
After the teams performed their work for a fixed amount of time, the members of each group rated one another on both their level of influence on the group and, more important, their level of competence. The work sessions were videotaped, and a group of independent observers performed the same evaluations, as did Anderson and Kilduff. All three sets of judges reached the same conclusions. Consistently, the group members who spoke up the most were rated the highest for such qualities as "general intelligence" and "dependable and self-disciplined." The ones who didn't speak as much tended to score higher for less desirable traits, including "conventional and uncreative."
"More-dominant individuals achieved influence in their groups in part because they were seen as more competent by fellow group members," Anderson and Kilduff write.
But so what? Maybe they were more competent. Isn't it possible that people who talk more do so because they simply have more to contribute? To test that, Anderson and Kilduff ran a second study with a new team of volunteers in which the skill being tested was a lot more quantifiable than forming a nonprofit green group. This time it was math.
Once again, the volunteers were divided into fours in competition for a $400 prize, but now their assigned task was to work as teams to solve computational problems from previous versions of the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT). Before the work began, the participants informed the researchers — but not their team members — of their real-world scores on the math portion of the SAT. When the work was finished, the people who spoke up more were again likelier to be described by peers as leaders and likelier to be rated as math whizzes. What's more, any speaking up at all seemed to do. Participants earned recognition for being the first to call out an answer, but also for being the second or third — even if all they did was agree with what someone else had said. Merely providing some scrap of information relevant to solving the problem counted too, as long as they did so often enough and confidently enough.
When Anderson and Kilduff checked the participants' work, however, a lot of pretenders were exposed. Repeatedly, the ones who emerged as leaders and were rated the highest in competence were not the ones who offered the greatest number of correct answers. Nor were they the ones whose SAT scores suggested they'd even be able to. What they did do was offer the most answers — period.
"Dominant individuals behaved in ways that made them appear competent," the researchers write, "above and beyond their actual competence." Troublingly, group members seemed only too willing to follow these underqualified bosses. An overwhelming 94% of the time, the teams used the first answer anyone shouted out — often giving only perfunctory consideration to others that were offered.
None of this comes as much of a shock — at least if you've been watching the news. You don't have to be a former homeowner burned by the housing fiasco or a blue-state voter screaming "I told you so" to agree that the way we pick our leaders is often based on something other than merit. That's not entirely bad, since no matter how competent bosses are, they still have to have the charisma and confidence to persuade people to follow them. Whether they're leading from the Oval Office or the corner office, it's up to the rest of us to watch them closely and make sure they know what they're doing and where they're going.
Competence: Is Your Boss Faking It?
Bosses may be an overbearing breed, but more often than not, you've got to admire their business chops. Wouldn't you love to have that same sense of competence and confidence, that ability to assess tough problems and reach smart solutions on the fly? Guess what? So would they. If you have ever suspected that your boss isn't actually good enough at what he or she does to deserve the job in the first place, a new study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that you might be right.
Social psychologists know that one way to be viewed as a leader in any group is simply to act like one. Speak up, speak well and offer lots of ideas, and before long, people will begin doing what you say. This works well when leaders know what they're talking about, but what if they don't? If someone acts like a boss but thinks like a boob, is that still enough to stay on top? To determine just how easily an all-hat-no-cattle leader can take control of employees, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, devised a pair of tests. Cameron Anderson, an associate professor of organizational behavior and industrial relations, along with doctoral candidate Gavin Kilduff, recruited a group of 68 graduate students and divided them into four-person teams. To eliminate the wild card of gender, the teams were either all-male or all-female. Each group was given the task of organizing an imaginary nonprofit environmental organization; the group that did best — as determined by the researchers — would win a $400 prize. While the prize was real, the purported goal wasn't. What Anderson and Kilduff really wanted to see was how the alpha group members would emerge.
After the teams performed their work for a fixed amount of time, the members of each group rated one another on both their level of influence on the group and, more important, their level of competence. The work sessions were videotaped, and a group of independent observers performed the same evaluations, as did Anderson and Kilduff. All three sets of judges reached the same conclusions. Consistently, the group members who spoke up the most were rated the highest for such qualities as "general intelligence" and "dependable and self-disciplined." The ones who didn't speak as much tended to score higher for less desirable traits, including "conventional and uncreative."
"More-dominant individuals achieved influence in their groups in part because they were seen as more competent by fellow group members," Anderson and Kilduff write.
But so what? Maybe they were more competent. Isn't it possible that people who talk more do so because they simply have more to contribute? To test that, Anderson and Kilduff ran a second study with a new team of volunteers in which the skill being tested was a lot more quantifiable than forming a nonprofit green group. This time it was math.
Once again, the volunteers were divided into fours in competition for a $400 prize, but now their assigned task was to work as teams to solve computational problems from previous versions of the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT). Before the work began, the participants informed the researchers — but not their team members — of their real-world scores on the math portion of the SAT. When the work was finished, the people who spoke up more were again likelier to be described by peers as leaders and likelier to be rated as math whizzes. What's more, any speaking up at all seemed to do. Participants earned recognition for being the first to call out an answer, but also for being the second or third — even if all they did was agree with what someone else had said. Merely providing some scrap of information relevant to solving the problem counted too, as long as they did so often enough and confidently enough.
When Anderson and Kilduff checked the participants' work, however, a lot of pretenders were exposed. Repeatedly, the ones who emerged as leaders and were rated the highest in competence were not the ones who offered the greatest number of correct answers. Nor were they the ones whose SAT scores suggested they'd even be able to. What they did do was offer the most answers — period.
"Dominant individuals behaved in ways that made them appear competent," the researchers write, "above and beyond their actual competence." Troublingly, group members seemed only too willing to follow these underqualified bosses. An overwhelming 94% of the time, the teams used the first answer anyone shouted out — often giving only perfunctory consideration to others that were offered.
None of this comes as much of a shock — at least if you've been watching the news. You don't have to be a former homeowner burned by the housing fiasco or a blue-state voter screaming "I told you so" to agree that the way we pick our leaders is often based on something other than merit. That's not entirely bad, since no matter how competent bosses are, they still have to have the charisma and confidence to persuade people to follow them. Whether they're leading from the Oval Office or the corner office, it's up to the rest of us to watch them closely and make sure they know what they're doing and where they're going.
Friday, 6 March 2009
Anyone?
Hello.Er sec2 and 1,anyone wanna go for self practice(sec2 sectionals+combined?,if any sec1's go,your sec2 seniors will teach yall some stuff).Anyone?Sec2s strongly encouraged,KL trip is nearing and everyone of us would want to present ourselves nicely?
Like what Mr Glosz said,challenge ourselves!Coming for 'self practice',which I would not call self practice cause we are supposed to have band on Monday,is already a challenge to some of you guys!Anyone??Its good:P
Like what Mr Glosz said,challenge ourselves!Coming for 'self practice',which I would not call self practice cause we are supposed to have band on Monday,is already a challenge to some of you guys!Anyone??Its good:P
Thursday, 26 February 2009
Okay people, Its game time.........
Yupp....
your exams are over as of tomorrow...
which is 27/2/09.
and.... YES!
There is [ Band Practice ] Tomorrow !
Come.
Band Room.
Friday.
2.30pm.
Punctual.
Period.
Exams may be over for now, but SYF isnt.
In fact......
SYF is in 30days..........
We are down to the the last month, everyone.........
I've been telling you about how this remaining time is either.... we Make it, or Break it.
Show me that we, CHSSB, can do it!
we know we are capable of it......
Lets set our minds and hearts to it then!
SYF 2009.......
today....
31 days and counting.....
ah haha....
I've got to study too lol......
Sec 4's... Prelim 1 may be over tomorrow........
but the 2nd and 3rd, and O levels arent........
Dont neglect your studies alright....
All the best to everyone in their exams tomorrow.......
bye.......
"The Only Place where [Success] comes Before [Work]...... is in the Dictionary."
now if you dont believe me... go flip open a dictionary and check.
you might want to consider dropping EL too lol.
rawr....! X)
L was online erm..... just now.
your exams are over as of tomorrow...
which is 27/2/09.
and.... YES!
There is [ Band Practice ] Tomorrow !
Come.
Band Room.
Friday.
2.30pm.
Punctual.
Period.
Exams may be over for now, but SYF isnt.
In fact......
SYF is in 30days..........
We are down to the the last month, everyone.........
I've been telling you about how this remaining time is either.... we Make it, or Break it.
Show me that we, CHSSB, can do it!
we know we are capable of it......
Lets set our minds and hearts to it then!
SYF 2009.......
today....
31 days and counting.....
ah haha....
I've got to study too lol......
Sec 4's... Prelim 1 may be over tomorrow........
but the 2nd and 3rd, and O levels arent........
Dont neglect your studies alright....
All the best to everyone in their exams tomorrow.......
bye.......
"The Only Place where [Success] comes Before [Work]...... is in the Dictionary."
now if you dont believe me... go flip open a dictionary and check.
you might want to consider dropping EL too lol.
rawr....! X)
L was online erm..... just now.
Saturday, 21 February 2009
ACJC Concert Ad
Hey band! Check out this concert:
ACJC Band Concert
31st March 2009
Esplanade Concert Hall
7.30pm
20 and 25 bucks, Student Rate 15 bucks. If there are 20 or more orders then you can pay by edusave, but er I think cash is better.
Repertoire: First Suite in Eb, El Camino Real, Turandot, Harrison's Dream, Pinocchio, West Side Story and much more!
If you like Springsfield, please go support him. If not, go and watch for the exposure. ACJC's a good band.
Please contact me at 92356756 for any details or orders. Book now ASAP.
ACJC Band Concert
31st March 2009
Esplanade Concert Hall
7.30pm
20 and 25 bucks, Student Rate 15 bucks. If there are 20 or more orders then you can pay by edusave, but er I think cash is better.
Repertoire: First Suite in Eb, El Camino Real, Turandot, Harrison's Dream, Pinocchio, West Side Story and much more!
If you like Springsfield, please go support him. If not, go and watch for the exposure. ACJC's a good band.
Please contact me at 92356756 for any details or orders. Book now ASAP.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Apologies and Misconceptions.
First and foremost, I offer my deepest apologies regarding my insensitive and ‘flaming’ remark that was made on the tagboard as ‘…’recently; I meant it in a matter-of-fact tone but I do know I have no talent in speaking nicely to people at many times. Once again, sorry to whoever I have offended and I hope it will not be taken to heart.
Still, I would personally like to correct some of the gross errors made by ‘Toreador’ who has a post right below this. Some of these misconceptions can be fatal. Please do note that it is perfectly fine if you, the reader, does not agree with my views, but the views below are also partly factual and partly generally accepted opinion.
1. ‘CONDUCTORS DON’T MAKE ANY SOUNDS’
Contrary to that belief, many conductors DO make a hell lot of noises on the podium, even during performances. Perhaps the conductors whom you readers have experienced do not make sounds, and you definitely do not hear it on most professional videos. For example, SCO conductor Tsung Yeh makes a little grunt in his throat every time he conducts a strong beat (which is really rather often actually) and is usually audible to the performers and the unfortunate row of people that sits right up front. My orchestral conductor makes a soft hissing sound throughout the entire performance, often blending into the tone of the string players and actually helping to give them more drive in their performance.
There have been countless cases where conductors who are so used to making noises on the podium end up wasting much precious time in the recording studio. (Mind you, renting a recording studio for an orchestra/band and hiring all the audio crew is really EXPENSIVE.) The conductors often do not realise it and are often embarrassed when audio engineers claim that there is some sort of foreign noise affecting the recording. Foot-tapping, batons hitting the music stand, and even jumping conductors help to contribute to the available force of the percussion section.
2. The disclaimer that ‘Toreador’ talks about ‘conducting an orchestra/ensemble of COMPETANT musicians who do not need to practice articulation/intonation/tone/rhythm or other mundane aspects.’
Competent musicians are not competent without a tedious daily practice routine. Orchestra rehearsals take up a few hours of a day’s time at most. Such little ‘mundane’ aspects are what makes up the professional player’s ‘appetisers’, if one is to compare the daily life of a musician to a good meal. Usually, performers spend up to six hours a day practising (albeit with tact), and a quarter to half of this time is spent on ‘mundane’ aspects, and in the process of trying to improve themselves, the performer never stops practising these basics even for a single day. As aspiring musicians yourselves, you should also take these as great examples and practice as much as your schedule permits.
3. The difference between an Instructor and Conductor
A Conductor has many titles; they may be, ‘Music Director’, ‘Resident Conductor’, and even ‘Instructor’. Of these titles, we often look down upon the one of ‘Instructor’, because he is usually one that goes around teaching school bands rather than honing his skills on a professional orchestra. But when one ponders about it, is it not obvious that the job of a good Instructor is a lot more difficult than a Conductor, and deserves a lot more respect? A conductor of lets say, the SSO, faces a competent orchestra that will play well regardless of whether the conductor conducts well. (Of course, a good conductor will be able to help the orchestra play better than their individual standards.) However, an instructor has to educate the students in theoretical, practical and musical aspects, has to sensitise the students to his conducting gestures, AND still be able to help the students perform as best as they can!
Some spelling errors found are:
‘Conducters’ – Conductors
‘Maent’ – Meant
‘Competant’ – Competent
For further posts by me on conducting and performance, follow the links below:
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/09/skills-of-modern-conductor.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/09/tips-for-aspiring-and-even-professional.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/10/recorded-and-live-performances.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/07/little-on-conducting.html
Still, I DO agree that conductors are supposed to make the players’ eyes shine—albeit inspire them to play better than they think they can! That is a wonderful point there, ‘Toreador’, and I wish all of you a Happy Lunar Niu Year!
P.S. Hope the Istana performance went well :D
Still, I would personally like to correct some of the gross errors made by ‘Toreador’ who has a post right below this. Some of these misconceptions can be fatal. Please do note that it is perfectly fine if you, the reader, does not agree with my views, but the views below are also partly factual and partly generally accepted opinion.
1. ‘CONDUCTORS DON’T MAKE ANY SOUNDS’
Contrary to that belief, many conductors DO make a hell lot of noises on the podium, even during performances. Perhaps the conductors whom you readers have experienced do not make sounds, and you definitely do not hear it on most professional videos. For example, SCO conductor Tsung Yeh makes a little grunt in his throat every time he conducts a strong beat (which is really rather often actually) and is usually audible to the performers and the unfortunate row of people that sits right up front. My orchestral conductor makes a soft hissing sound throughout the entire performance, often blending into the tone of the string players and actually helping to give them more drive in their performance.
There have been countless cases where conductors who are so used to making noises on the podium end up wasting much precious time in the recording studio. (Mind you, renting a recording studio for an orchestra/band and hiring all the audio crew is really EXPENSIVE.) The conductors often do not realise it and are often embarrassed when audio engineers claim that there is some sort of foreign noise affecting the recording. Foot-tapping, batons hitting the music stand, and even jumping conductors help to contribute to the available force of the percussion section.
2. The disclaimer that ‘Toreador’ talks about ‘conducting an orchestra/ensemble of COMPETANT musicians who do not need to practice articulation/intonation/tone/rhythm or other mundane aspects.’
Competent musicians are not competent without a tedious daily practice routine. Orchestra rehearsals take up a few hours of a day’s time at most. Such little ‘mundane’ aspects are what makes up the professional player’s ‘appetisers’, if one is to compare the daily life of a musician to a good meal. Usually, performers spend up to six hours a day practising (albeit with tact), and a quarter to half of this time is spent on ‘mundane’ aspects, and in the process of trying to improve themselves, the performer never stops practising these basics even for a single day. As aspiring musicians yourselves, you should also take these as great examples and practice as much as your schedule permits.
3. The difference between an Instructor and Conductor
A Conductor has many titles; they may be, ‘Music Director’, ‘Resident Conductor’, and even ‘Instructor’. Of these titles, we often look down upon the one of ‘Instructor’, because he is usually one that goes around teaching school bands rather than honing his skills on a professional orchestra. But when one ponders about it, is it not obvious that the job of a good Instructor is a lot more difficult than a Conductor, and deserves a lot more respect? A conductor of lets say, the SSO, faces a competent orchestra that will play well regardless of whether the conductor conducts well. (Of course, a good conductor will be able to help the orchestra play better than their individual standards.) However, an instructor has to educate the students in theoretical, practical and musical aspects, has to sensitise the students to his conducting gestures, AND still be able to help the students perform as best as they can!
Some spelling errors found are:
‘Conducters’ – Conductors
‘Maent’ – Meant
‘Competant’ – Competent
For further posts by me on conducting and performance, follow the links below:
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/09/skills-of-modern-conductor.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/09/tips-for-aspiring-and-even-professional.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/10/recorded-and-live-performances.html
http://chssband.blogspot.com/2008/07/little-on-conducting.html
Still, I DO agree that conductors are supposed to make the players’ eyes shine—albeit inspire them to play better than they think they can! That is a wonderful point there, ‘Toreador’, and I wish all of you a Happy Lunar Niu Year!
P.S. Hope the Istana performance went well :D
Monday, 26 January 2009
Shining Eyes
I was musing over the conducting techniques of various conducters i have seen when i was hit by a revelation.
CONDUCTERS DON'T MAKE ANY SOUNDS
this may seem an obvious point, but it is something most people overlook. conducters make no sounds, play no instruments, nor add to the overall sonority. then i realised something:
CONDUCTERS ARE SUPPOSED TO MAKE THE PLAYERS' EYES SHINE
what does that mean? conducters are maent to, through waving and various motions, bring a sparkle to the players. the players must feel the emotional turmoil that the conducter goes through in directing a piece of music. if the players only make sound (even great sounds) and not be "online" with the conducter, then the conducter has failed. if the conducter is unable to inspire his musicians to bring out all the slight and delicate little movements of the music, then he has also failed.
I will leave you to your thoughts.
(Disclaimer: I am talking about conducting an orchestra/ensemble of COMPETANT musicians who do not need to practice articulation/intonation/tone/rhythm or other mundane aspects. what we have in the band is an Instructor, not strictly a Conducter. instructors preprogram the players, conducters are a bit (**much**) more sophisticated, spontaneous, and flexible.)
That's enough.
CONDUCTERS DON'T MAKE ANY SOUNDS
this may seem an obvious point, but it is something most people overlook. conducters make no sounds, play no instruments, nor add to the overall sonority. then i realised something:
CONDUCTERS ARE SUPPOSED TO MAKE THE PLAYERS' EYES SHINE
what does that mean? conducters are maent to, through waving and various motions, bring a sparkle to the players. the players must feel the emotional turmoil that the conducter goes through in directing a piece of music. if the players only make sound (even great sounds) and not be "online" with the conducter, then the conducter has failed. if the conducter is unable to inspire his musicians to bring out all the slight and delicate little movements of the music, then he has also failed.
I will leave you to your thoughts.
(Disclaimer: I am talking about conducting an orchestra/ensemble of COMPETANT musicians who do not need to practice articulation/intonation/tone/rhythm or other mundane aspects. what we have in the band is an Instructor, not strictly a Conducter. instructors preprogram the players, conducters are a bit (**much**) more sophisticated, spontaneous, and flexible.)
That's enough.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
This is my 1st post here....but that's not the main point.
My main point of this post is about the sec2s.(Okay i'm a sec2,but you don't know who am i :D)
Hey guys,I don't know if you are still in your dreams or whatever,but I hope you have realised that we are sorely lagging behind,in fact,we shouldn't be languishing in this state at this point of time(i'm not good in english so yeah don't blame me)
I hope all of us,or at least some,have come to realise what standard are we at now.I can only use 1 word to describe it,lousy.Seriously,don't you guys think we need some much-needed improvement?
How to improve,you would ask.Our new conductor, as all of you should know, was very disappointed and angry with our performance last friday.
He has already pointed out that basics is the thing that we should be doing right now.I know its boring,but music itself is made up of basics isn't it?
Many of us would think that basics are boring, and therefore detest to do it.However,if we want to improve,what we can do now is to heed his advice,and do basics frequently.
Coming for self practice is one of the effective ways to improve isn't it?Doing the basic stuff for like,30mins?Just drop by the band room,assemble your instrument,play the chromatic scales,long notes,scales,etc.30mins to 1 hour shouldn't be taking too much time off our studies right?
It may not seem appropriate for me to say all these,but we seriously need to improve,we ARE seniors already,we are already sec2,no longer sec1.
It won't take long before we reach sec3,sec4,and become the people that would lead the band.
You would probably say 'its still far away',but think again,1 year just flashed past us,how long would it take for another year to pass by again?We have streaming this year,sec3 is gonna be even busier,sec4...you know yourself.Why not take this chance,while we are still sec2,while we still have the time,to lay our foundation well,to seriously bring our level of playing to a new level?
Time is against us,we are constantly racing against time,why not we use this year to improve ourselves and not let our seniors down?Our seniors are not always there for us,we should depend on ourselves.Sight reading,scales,BASICS,we can do it ourselves isn't it?
Let's work hard together,starting from this new lunar new year.Let's not let ourselves down.Shall we?
My main point of this post is about the sec2s.(Okay i'm a sec2,but you don't know who am i :D)
Hey guys,I don't know if you are still in your dreams or whatever,but I hope you have realised that we are sorely lagging behind,in fact,we shouldn't be languishing in this state at this point of time(i'm not good in english so yeah don't blame me)
I hope all of us,or at least some,have come to realise what standard are we at now.I can only use 1 word to describe it,lousy.Seriously,don't you guys think we need some much-needed improvement?
How to improve,you would ask.Our new conductor, as all of you should know, was very disappointed and angry with our performance last friday.
He has already pointed out that basics is the thing that we should be doing right now.I know its boring,but music itself is made up of basics isn't it?
Many of us would think that basics are boring, and therefore detest to do it.However,if we want to improve,what we can do now is to heed his advice,and do basics frequently.
Coming for self practice is one of the effective ways to improve isn't it?Doing the basic stuff for like,30mins?Just drop by the band room,assemble your instrument,play the chromatic scales,long notes,scales,etc.30mins to 1 hour shouldn't be taking too much time off our studies right?
It may not seem appropriate for me to say all these,but we seriously need to improve,we ARE seniors already,we are already sec2,no longer sec1.
It won't take long before we reach sec3,sec4,and become the people that would lead the band.
You would probably say 'its still far away',but think again,1 year just flashed past us,how long would it take for another year to pass by again?We have streaming this year,sec3 is gonna be even busier,sec4...you know yourself.Why not take this chance,while we are still sec2,while we still have the time,to lay our foundation well,to seriously bring our level of playing to a new level?
Time is against us,we are constantly racing against time,why not we use this year to improve ourselves and not let our seniors down?Our seniors are not always there for us,we should depend on ourselves.Sight reading,scales,BASICS,we can do it ourselves isn't it?
Let's work hard together,starting from this new lunar new year.Let's not let ourselves down.Shall we?
Saturday, 24 January 2009
This is my first post, but that is irrelevant.
I would like to encourage all the band members to work hard for their studies as well as their music.
Sec 4s, try to work hard for prelim 1, its getting closer! i know that many of us are feeling a little dissatisfied (a little?) and impatient during band hours and wants to pull off someone's moustache real bad. a suggestion would be to release all that energy at someone else (such as?) and take the long band hours as a test of endurance and willpower.
Sec 3s, you have come a long way. the sec 4s have seen you grow so much and many of us will testify to that (except for those for didn't grow). we really need your help to teach the lower sec and cooperate with us. demonstrate that you are capable leaders or principle players. (gonna have to discuss about 'leaders' sometime)
Sec 2s, you have no idea of how far behind you are. some of you have been allowed to play in the syf (allowed not chosen). DO NOT be an idiot and be complacent about it. there's really nothing much to be proud of. some sec 2s are really pushing us around, so stop doing that and realise how pathetically incompetant you are. compare yourself with other sec 2s from other bands or even the CO. stop making life difficult for everybody and just shut up and practise. don't complain about long band hours, make noises during band, or demand for games. you do not have any right to do that.
all of you should put in much effort in practicing your instrument. when you can say that you are proficient in your instrument without anyone slapping your stupid face, then you can start moaning and groaning about band.
one more thing. DO NOT EVER COMPLAIN ABOUT HOMEWORK BEING TOO MUCH. sec 4s, especially triple science + hcl students, have teachers going after our neck for homework (eg: Ms. S gave 35 Bio essays in the holidays) , so go and cry in the corner if any of us smacks you for pretending to mug. certain people keep saying they have to study and have no time to play the flute (oops) and its a struggle not to break his tiny neck (just snapped a pencil in anger).
Ta.
I would like to encourage all the band members to work hard for their studies as well as their music.
Sec 4s, try to work hard for prelim 1, its getting closer! i know that many of us are feeling a little dissatisfied (a little?) and impatient during band hours and wants to pull off someone's moustache real bad. a suggestion would be to release all that energy at someone else (such as?) and take the long band hours as a test of endurance and willpower.
Sec 3s, you have come a long way. the sec 4s have seen you grow so much and many of us will testify to that (except for those for didn't grow). we really need your help to teach the lower sec and cooperate with us. demonstrate that you are capable leaders or principle players. (gonna have to discuss about 'leaders' sometime)
Sec 2s, you have no idea of how far behind you are. some of you have been allowed to play in the syf (allowed not chosen). DO NOT be an idiot and be complacent about it. there's really nothing much to be proud of. some sec 2s are really pushing us around, so stop doing that and realise how pathetically incompetant you are. compare yourself with other sec 2s from other bands or even the CO. stop making life difficult for everybody and just shut up and practise. don't complain about long band hours, make noises during band, or demand for games. you do not have any right to do that.
all of you should put in much effort in practicing your instrument. when you can say that you are proficient in your instrument without anyone slapping your stupid face, then you can start moaning and groaning about band.
one more thing. DO NOT EVER COMPLAIN ABOUT HOMEWORK BEING TOO MUCH. sec 4s, especially triple science + hcl students, have teachers going after our neck for homework (eg: Ms. S gave 35 Bio essays in the holidays) , so go and cry in the corner if any of us smacks you for pretending to mug. certain people keep saying they have to study and have no time to play the flute (oops) and its a struggle not to break his tiny neck (just snapped a pencil in anger).
Ta.
Important Notice
To all CHSSB members:
Please note: if you have any personal particulars that have been changed for the last few months, or would be changed in the near future, PLEASE inform your section leaders, or you can inform me via sms or email.
Section leaders, if your juniors entrust you with such information, please inform me or the Leaders as soon as possible. (Preferably the Leaders)
Please remember to do so, as this is very important since the Band has not checked and updated all of our members' contacts for a very long period of time.
Please note: if you have any personal particulars that have been changed for the last few months, or would be changed in the near future, PLEASE inform your section leaders, or you can inform me via sms or email.
Section leaders, if your juniors entrust you with such information, please inform me or the Leaders as soon as possible. (Preferably the Leaders)
Please remember to do so, as this is very important since the Band has not checked and updated all of our members' contacts for a very long period of time.
Saturday, 17 January 2009
Blogging.
Hi guys!
I was flipping through the pages of the Internet when I came across a few of my friends' blog. Some are black, white, blue, orange, "Emo"; but they are all very interesting. Do you know that blog-hopping is considered to be an official hobby?
Then, I came across this article: "How to write a good Blog". I think everyone should know this, as our lives as CHSSB members aren't all about "O" levels and music-making. They include learning life skills as well. And believe or not, blogging is a life skill--it is an inaugural method of communication.
Due to space constraint, I am just gonna quote a few sentences from the article. As everyone knows, "blog" refers to the term "Web Log", which actually means an online journal. But have you thought about what a blog exactly is in terms of modern times?
Dave Taylor, an expert on business and technical topics and the author of 18 different books and thousands of magazine articles, says that a blog isn't what everyone thinks it is.
"What is your definition of a Blog? A blog isn't what everyone thinks it is. In fact, on this very page, you have a pile of definitions of blogs that I disagree with. Because everyone likes to focus on the *presentation* of information and blogs are really all about the *management* of information. Here's what I mean: if you think that a blog is a web site characterized by frequent articles displayed in chronological order, typically with timestamps, a journal or diary, you're missing the forest for the trees. Web logs, instead, are just the facade that we see of considerably more powerful content management systems that really revolutionize the maintenance of Websites".
Basically, what he means is this: Blogs are simple. They are both crap and rubbish.
Up till now, many of you may protest, thinking that I am putting down all of your blogs.
HOLD YOUR HORSES.
Before you come to any conclusion, I just want everyone to know that, I am not putting down any person or persons' blog.
I believe that, a blog is a "own self" thing. It is especially unique and special, but only in the eyes of the beholder and owner. Blogging, in other words, is a phenomenon. It is not a bad thing, but its not a very good thing either.
You have heard news about racists or insulting comments on blogs, and even cyber-bullying. Just two days, our conductor said that he read a CHSSB member's blog on comparing him and our guest conductors.
So here's the cons of blogging:
I was flipping through the pages of the Internet when I came across a few of my friends' blog. Some are black, white, blue, orange, "Emo"; but they are all very interesting. Do you know that blog-hopping is considered to be an official hobby?
Then, I came across this article: "How to write a good Blog". I think everyone should know this, as our lives as CHSSB members aren't all about "O" levels and music-making. They include learning life skills as well. And believe or not, blogging is a life skill--it is an inaugural method of communication.
Due to space constraint, I am just gonna quote a few sentences from the article. As everyone knows, "blog" refers to the term "Web Log", which actually means an online journal. But have you thought about what a blog exactly is in terms of modern times?
Dave Taylor, an expert on business and technical topics and the author of 18 different books and thousands of magazine articles, says that a blog isn't what everyone thinks it is.
"What is your definition of a Blog? A blog isn't what everyone thinks it is. In fact, on this very page, you have a pile of definitions of blogs that I disagree with. Because everyone likes to focus on the *presentation* of information and blogs are really all about the *management* of information. Here's what I mean: if you think that a blog is a web site characterized by frequent articles displayed in chronological order, typically with timestamps, a journal or diary, you're missing the forest for the trees. Web logs, instead, are just the facade that we see of considerably more powerful content management systems that really revolutionize the maintenance of Websites".
Basically, what he means is this: Blogs are simple. They are both crap and rubbish.
Up till now, many of you may protest, thinking that I am putting down all of your blogs.
HOLD YOUR HORSES.
Before you come to any conclusion, I just want everyone to know that, I am not putting down any person or persons' blog.
I believe that, a blog is a "own self" thing. It is especially unique and special, but only in the eyes of the beholder and owner. Blogging, in other words, is a phenomenon. It is not a bad thing, but its not a very good thing either.
You have heard news about racists or insulting comments on blogs, and even cyber-bullying. Just two days, our conductor said that he read a CHSSB member's blog on comparing him and our guest conductors.
So here's the cons of blogging:
- IT IS NOT PRIVATE. Whatever you say can be viewed by other people
- IT CAN BE USED AS A TOOL TO HARM OTHERS.
- IT REQUIRES TIME AND EFFORT.
A blog is just like a pet, if you don't take care of it, it will die. If you "input" negative influence into it, it will harm others. So why do we blog?
Most importantly, why are you even browsing this address right now?
The answer to this question is VERY simple: We need blogs. Blogs are no longer a "want" to us anymore. It has become a "need" to us as technology modernise, hasn't it? You don't see Stalin write a Blog on his hatred towards the Democratic countries during the period of the Cold War, and you don't see Winston Churchill typing out a soft copy of the "Iron Curtain speech" on a Blog. But you do see MPs creating blogs and everything.
What I am saying is that, nowadays, people need blogs to sustain the freshness of their everyday lives. They reflect, ponder, complain, show their remorse, communicate, propose, announce, provide information, share, and even to keep memories on their blogs.
So, there is nothing wrong with having blogs. There is nothing wrong with comparing two people that you know on your blog. There is also nothing wrong with revealing your deepest darkest secrets on your blog. There is absolutely nothing wrong, because it is YOURS, and yours alone.
There is no specific instructions in writing a good blog. Like what some experts say,"Just follow your heart, and write whatever you want. Think before pressing the "Publish Post" button: think if what you are trying to say will SERIOUSLY hurt some one's feeling. If it doesn't, then go ahead and post it." This is the solution to all the sub-conscious cyber-bullying in the Internet.
"The key, as in all things in life-is to keep it simple. Simplicity means that readers won't get confused about what your journal entry is actually about."
And then write whatever you want.
Don't fear about what others would say, don't be scared and suppress your thoughts.
And DON'T, after reading my post, delete your blog.
Believe me, if you can write things from the bottom your heart, you can write anything--from how you did in a test to 1001 reasons as to why you support Barack Obama. And you will still make a difference.
A positive one, of course.
Just remember one thing crucial when you are blogging: Just to be safe, don't put your name there. =)
Tuesday, 6 January 2009
Updates on Contacts
Hi again!
I am here to inform all the SLs and deparmental heads that the new Band contact list is ready, and if you want it, please give me ur email address via sms and I will send a copy to you as soon as possible.
And by the way, to the all the band members, please notify me if any of your contacts have been changed. (Eg HP number, address, email address etc.) You can also notify anyone of the leaders, or your section leaders.
That's all!
I am here to inform all the SLs and deparmental heads that the new Band contact list is ready, and if you want it, please give me ur email address via sms and I will send a copy to you as soon as possible.
And by the way, to the all the band members, please notify me if any of your contacts have been changed. (Eg HP number, address, email address etc.) You can also notify anyone of the leaders, or your section leaders.
That's all!
Morning Prac...Starting on Thurs
Yea..guess you know it all by reading the title. Mr Tey told us that morning band prac will start from Thursday onwards...Yes, this Thursday morning, 7am to around 7.40am.
For Sec 4s who have morning remedials (yes, it is starting), confirm with Mr Tey whether you need to go...
C ya
For Sec 4s who have morning remedials (yes, it is starting), confirm with Mr Tey whether you need to go...
C ya
Sunday, 4 January 2009
Jan 5th, Monday
Alright people,
Louis here... X)
Hope you guys are doing fine...
yea.... 2nd day of school right at cha...
To clear doubts for you ppl......
Main Band
Report = [12PM]
Venue = Band Room
Attire = Black Polo Tee and Green Shorts
Do not be late. X)
enjoy your last few hours of your weekend everyone.
Cheers....
This performance is going to be important.
Get serious........
Your job is to Inspire and Welcome any potential Sec 1 Band Members alright.
This WILL affect the future of the band.
It lies in our hands.
We need to get this done together alright.
Oh yea........
lets show the Secondary Ones what it means to be in the
Symphony Band. X)
Louis here... X)
Hope you guys are doing fine...
yea.... 2nd day of school right at cha...
To clear doubts for you ppl......
Main Band
Report = [12PM]
Venue = Band Room
Attire = Black Polo Tee and Green Shorts
Do not be late. X)
enjoy your last few hours of your weekend everyone.
Cheers....
This performance is going to be important.
Get serious........
Your job is to Inspire and Welcome any potential Sec 1 Band Members alright.
This WILL affect the future of the band.
It lies in our hands.
We need to get this done together alright.
Oh yea........
lets show the Secondary Ones what it means to be in the
Symphony Band. X)
Thursday, 1 January 2009
rawr........Happy New Year band! X)
read title.
go ahead..... read it.......
alright.....
yea.....
Lol!
Alright everyone..........
New Year.............
Alright dont look at the clock at the corner of your screen lol......
this post isnt going to be as long as my last one last year..... ^^
2009.......
It's Back to school again ppl.......
For the Sec 4's...... its that year........
yupp........
O levels.........
Take it seriously Sec 4's........
This may literally change your life depending on how well you do...
Study hard.........
Dont give the excuse that Syf's taking too much time......
Prioritize and balance your time properly.......
Sec 4 isnt as easygoing as the other 3 years of secondary life that you have had......
Get serious alright.
As for the rest of you.....
haha............
2009 Sec 2's.... you guys arent Sec 1's anymore...... ( omg duh )
lol.....
you guys need to brush up on your musical standard alright.......
Imagine if the Sec 1's play better than you or something........
Show that you have worked hard during 2008 alright....
Regardless of how much work you have put in.....
You guys will be/Are already more senior than any sec 1 ppl who enter the band next year....
Dont just carry the title....
Live it....
As for the 2009 Sec 3's.....
Sec 3'..... I was in your shoes last year..... ( omg duh again.... lol!.... )
not literally...zZ
you guys are like in the middle of everything..........
you guys have to follow the sec 4's and lead the sec 1's and 2's........
As Sec 3's........
Set an exemplary model of a band member.....
As the Syf is like in...erm.....( scrolls down ) 87 days lol....
Why dont start by helping your section.............
Get the important stuff done efficiently.......
Dont waste time in sectionals sitting around......
Remember.............
Rhythm, Notes, Articulation, Dynamics, Phrasing.......
Get all these basic stuff right.........
As a band member...
As a section.....
As a band..........
You guys have to help your section leaders in bringing the standard of your section up.........
The standard is Not the best player......
The standard is actually only how far you want to go......
As for 2009 Sec 1's......
zomgawd you're not supposed to be here....... lol....
haha.... X)
see the red X button at the top righthand corner.... haha....
click it lol...
This new year also brings us a new conductor.......
yea.... Mr Glosz.....
He has really helped our band alot.....
Especially the new instruments.......
Band.... many of you are recieving new instruments......
Take EXTREMELY good care of them....
many of them are expensive models........
Be responsible for your instrument......
After all the help we have recieved.....
The least we can do is to show the passion and interest we have for Band alright?...
A new year.......
Maintain a perfect attendance record.......
Come for every practice with a smile on your face......
Take the initative to practice....
you may even progress much faster on your own.....
In fact.... why not initiate sectionals.....
Progressing as a section allows you to grow in sound together too.....
tutorials are even there to help you together....
Alright......
Set a target.....
Dont falter..............
All the best for 2009, ChsSB and everyone else......
Cheers...... X)
L was online on 1/1/2009 at 1:34pm, On the First Day of the Year. X)
go ahead..... read it.......
alright.....
yea.....
Lol!
Alright everyone..........
New Year.............
Alright dont look at the clock at the corner of your screen lol......
this post isnt going to be as long as my last one last year..... ^^
2009.......
It's Back to school again ppl.......
For the Sec 4's...... its that year........
yupp........
O levels.........
Take it seriously Sec 4's........
This may literally change your life depending on how well you do...
Study hard.........
Dont give the excuse that Syf's taking too much time......
Prioritize and balance your time properly.......
Sec 4 isnt as easygoing as the other 3 years of secondary life that you have had......
Get serious alright.
As for the rest of you.....
haha............
2009 Sec 2's.... you guys arent Sec 1's anymore...... ( omg duh )
lol.....
you guys need to brush up on your musical standard alright.......
Imagine if the Sec 1's play better than you or something........
Show that you have worked hard during 2008 alright....
Regardless of how much work you have put in.....
You guys will be/Are already more senior than any sec 1 ppl who enter the band next year....
Dont just carry the title....
Live it....
As for the 2009 Sec 3's.....
Sec 3'..... I was in your shoes last year..... ( omg duh again.... lol!.... )
not literally...zZ
you guys are like in the middle of everything..........
you guys have to follow the sec 4's and lead the sec 1's and 2's........
As Sec 3's........
Set an exemplary model of a band member.....
As the Syf is like in...erm.....( scrolls down ) 87 days lol....
Why dont start by helping your section.............
Get the important stuff done efficiently.......
Dont waste time in sectionals sitting around......
Remember.............
Rhythm, Notes, Articulation, Dynamics, Phrasing.......
Get all these basic stuff right.........
As a band member...
As a section.....
As a band..........
You guys have to help your section leaders in bringing the standard of your section up.........
The standard is Not the best player......
The standard is actually only how far you want to go......
As for 2009 Sec 1's......
zomgawd you're not supposed to be here....... lol....
haha.... X)
see the red X button at the top righthand corner.... haha....
click it lol...
This new year also brings us a new conductor.......
yea.... Mr Glosz.....
He has really helped our band alot.....
Especially the new instruments.......
Band.... many of you are recieving new instruments......
Take EXTREMELY good care of them....
many of them are expensive models........
Be responsible for your instrument......
After all the help we have recieved.....
The least we can do is to show the passion and interest we have for Band alright?...
A new year.......
Maintain a perfect attendance record.......
Come for every practice with a smile on your face......
Take the initative to practice....
you may even progress much faster on your own.....
In fact.... why not initiate sectionals.....
Progressing as a section allows you to grow in sound together too.....
tutorials are even there to help you together....
Alright......
Set a target.....
Dont falter..............
All the best for 2009, ChsSB and everyone else......
Cheers...... X)
L was online on 1/1/2009 at 1:34pm, On the First Day of the Year. X)
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