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
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
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)
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
Happy new year all!
Hey band!
Just a little reminder, band practice will resume on friday 2nd of January on the first day of school. It will start at 2.30 pm. Don't be late! And no nonsense about remedial either. Unless, well, you really do have remedial. Everyone has to come down, including current sec ones/future sec 2s.
Remember, amidst the chaos of homework and other stuff, don't let your playing deprove. True, we're supposed to have cleared all technical problems for the two pieces and start to concentrate on musicality and interpretation, but technical problems WILL pop up if you slack off. Orientation, cca tour and new sec ones are coming right around the corner, so be prepared. Show the little kids what a great cca band is!
Oh right, here's a link to Mr Glosz's company's website. It has our schedule on it, as well as his other schools, if you're interested. http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?cat_current=59576&crd=dgmusicconsultants&
See you all.
Just a little reminder, band practice will resume on friday 2nd of January on the first day of school. It will start at 2.30 pm. Don't be late! And no nonsense about remedial either. Unless, well, you really do have remedial. Everyone has to come down, including current sec ones/future sec 2s.
Remember, amidst the chaos of homework and other stuff, don't let your playing deprove. True, we're supposed to have cleared all technical problems for the two pieces and start to concentrate on musicality and interpretation, but technical problems WILL pop up if you slack off. Orientation, cca tour and new sec ones are coming right around the corner, so be prepared. Show the little kids what a great cca band is!
Oh right, here's a link to Mr Glosz's company's website. It has our schedule on it, as well as his other schools, if you're interested. http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?cat_current=59576&crd=dgmusicconsultants&
See you all.
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
Creating It Perfect
Yo guys!
Well, I found this interesting anecdote on the internet. I think I shall dedicate this Mr Tan, because honestly, he is like a teacher to us, drilling us on the "Band & Music" subject, and also to all our beloved teachers-in-charge, as well as all the past to present teachers of Catholic High School. We are all indebted to them
Don't you all agree?
Creating It Perfect:
The Good Lord was creating teachers. It was His sixth day of 'overtime' and He knew that this was a tremendous responsibility for teachers would touch the lives of so many impressionable young children. An angel appeared to Him and said, "You are taking a long time to figure this one out."
"Yes," said the Lord, " but have you read the specs on this order?"
TEACHER:
…must stand above all students, yet be on their level
...must be able to do 180 things not connected with the subject being taught
... must run on coffee and leftovers
... must communicate vital knowledge to all students daily and be right most of the time
... must have more time for others than for herself/himself
... must have a smile that can endure through pay cuts, problematic children, and worried parents
... must go on teaching when parents question every move and others are not supportive
... must have 6 pair of hands.
"Six pair of hands, " said the angel, "that's impossible"
"Well, " said the Lord, " it is not the hands that are the problem. It is the three pairs of eyes that are presenting the most difficulty!"
The angel looked incredulous, " Three pairs of eyes...on a standard model?"
The Lord nodded His head, " One pair can see a student for what he is and not what others have labeled him as. Another pair of eyes is in the back of the teacher's head to see what should not be seen, but what must be known. The eyes in the front are only to look at the child as he/she 'acts out' in order to reflect, " I understand and I still believe in you", without so much as saying a word to the child."
"Lord, " said the angel, " this is a very large project and I think you should work on it tomorrow".
"I can't," said the Lord, " for I have come very close to creating something much like Myself. I have one that comes to work when he/she is sick.....teaches a class of children that do not want to learn....has a special place in his/her heart for children who are not his/her own.....understands the struggles of those who have difficulty....never takes the students for granted..."
The angel looked closely at the model the Lord was creating. "It is too soft-hearted, " said the angel.
"Yes," said the Lord, " but also tough, You can not imagine what this teacher can endure or do, if necessary".
"Can this teacher think?" asked the angel.
"Not only think," said the Lord,. "but reason and compromise."
The angel came closer to have a better look at the model and ran his finger over the teacher's cheek.
"Well, Lord, " said the angel, your job looks fine but there is a leak. I told you that you were putting too much into this model. You can not imagine the stress that will be placed upon the teacher."
The Lord moved in closer and lifted the drop of moisture from the teacher's cheek. It shone and glistened in the light.
"It is not a leak," He said, "It is a tear."
"A tear? What is that?" asked the angel, "What is a tear for?"
The Lord replied with great thought, " It is for the joy and pride of seeing a child accomplish even the smallest task. It is for the loneliness of children who have a hard time to fit in and it is for compassion for the feelings of their parents. It comes from the pain of not being able to reach some children and the disappointment those children feel in themselves. It comes often when a teacher has been with a class for a year and must say good-bye to those students and get ready to welcome a new class."
"
My, " said the angel, " The tear thing is a great idea...You are a genius!!"
The Lord looked somber, "I didn't put it there."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well, hope all of you understood what that meant, and although its not as long as Quintus' or Louis' posts, I hope it made a difference in how you saw your teachers.
Well, I found this interesting anecdote on the internet. I think I shall dedicate this Mr Tan, because honestly, he is like a teacher to us, drilling us on the "Band & Music" subject, and also to all our beloved teachers-in-charge, as well as all the past to present teachers of Catholic High School. We are all indebted to them
Don't you all agree?
Creating It Perfect:
The Good Lord was creating teachers. It was His sixth day of 'overtime' and He knew that this was a tremendous responsibility for teachers would touch the lives of so many impressionable young children. An angel appeared to Him and said, "You are taking a long time to figure this one out."
"Yes," said the Lord, " but have you read the specs on this order?"
TEACHER:
…must stand above all students, yet be on their level
...must be able to do 180 things not connected with the subject being taught
... must run on coffee and leftovers
... must communicate vital knowledge to all students daily and be right most of the time
... must have more time for others than for herself/himself
... must have a smile that can endure through pay cuts, problematic children, and worried parents
... must go on teaching when parents question every move and others are not supportive
... must have 6 pair of hands.
"Six pair of hands, " said the angel, "that's impossible"
"Well, " said the Lord, " it is not the hands that are the problem. It is the three pairs of eyes that are presenting the most difficulty!"
The angel looked incredulous, " Three pairs of eyes...on a standard model?"
The Lord nodded His head, " One pair can see a student for what he is and not what others have labeled him as. Another pair of eyes is in the back of the teacher's head to see what should not be seen, but what must be known. The eyes in the front are only to look at the child as he/she 'acts out' in order to reflect, " I understand and I still believe in you", without so much as saying a word to the child."
"Lord, " said the angel, " this is a very large project and I think you should work on it tomorrow".
"I can't," said the Lord, " for I have come very close to creating something much like Myself. I have one that comes to work when he/she is sick.....teaches a class of children that do not want to learn....has a special place in his/her heart for children who are not his/her own.....understands the struggles of those who have difficulty....never takes the students for granted..."
The angel looked closely at the model the Lord was creating. "It is too soft-hearted, " said the angel.
"Yes," said the Lord, " but also tough, You can not imagine what this teacher can endure or do, if necessary".
"Can this teacher think?" asked the angel.
"Not only think," said the Lord,. "but reason and compromise."
The angel came closer to have a better look at the model and ran his finger over the teacher's cheek.
"Well, Lord, " said the angel, your job looks fine but there is a leak. I told you that you were putting too much into this model. You can not imagine the stress that will be placed upon the teacher."
The Lord moved in closer and lifted the drop of moisture from the teacher's cheek. It shone and glistened in the light.
"It is not a leak," He said, "It is a tear."
"A tear? What is that?" asked the angel, "What is a tear for?"
The Lord replied with great thought, " It is for the joy and pride of seeing a child accomplish even the smallest task. It is for the loneliness of children who have a hard time to fit in and it is for compassion for the feelings of their parents. It comes from the pain of not being able to reach some children and the disappointment those children feel in themselves. It comes often when a teacher has been with a class for a year and must say good-bye to those students and get ready to welcome a new class."
"
My, " said the angel, " The tear thing is a great idea...You are a genius!!"
The Lord looked somber, "I didn't put it there."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well, hope all of you understood what that meant, and although its not as long as Quintus' or Louis' posts, I hope it made a difference in how you saw your teachers.
Sunday, 21 December 2008
Mr Leonard Tan!
Hey everybody!
It was a memorable 19th December 2008 for CHSSB, because it was the (officially) last practice with our BELOVED conductor, Mr Leonard Tan.
We gave all sorts of presents to him; bears, book, love letters, a model of a saxophone and gramophone and so on and so forth.
It was a memorable 19th December 2008 for CHSSB, because it was the (officially) last practice with our BELOVED conductor, Mr Leonard Tan.
We gave all sorts of presents to him; bears, book, love letters, a model of a saxophone and gramophone and so on and so forth.
Well, all good things must come to an end. And really, I think what we will miss Mr Tan of, are his:
- Lame jokes. He practically bombarded us with his cold jokes on that day. ok wait, maybe not bombarded. Example: (Courteosy of Garald Gan to remind me) You guys rock my socks until it has a hole! (Er...ok..)
- His conducting. Even though Hr tan keeps saying he is not talented, I just think he is. I mean, his way of conducting is very different from Miss Tan or Mr Glosz. Of course, everyone has their own style.
- His motivational story. Mr tan never fails to motivate us. Ok, maybe at least me. He told us his story of his childhood, about how he work so hard to achieve perfect pitch and learn the violin. (though its very funny in the way he relates it). For example: to get perfect pitch, he sleeps with his tuner every night. How cool is that?
Like all the conductors who have come and gone through the history of CHSSB, I, on the behalf of those who still care about our Band, want to sincerely give our thanks and gratitude to Mr Leonard Tan.
Mr Tan, you are like one of Catholic High School's teacher, except that you are just exclusive to us. Yes indeed, we regard you with respect, as our teacher and our conductor.
Well, all I can do now is to wish Mr Leonard Tan luck in his future endeavours and everything. And all we can do to repay Mr Tan now, is to do well for the SYF, and make him feel proud of us!
PS: OH, you can also stay in touch with him on Facebook!
Sunday, 14 December 2008
VJC Concert-- My Reflections.
Hi people!
On Friday, a bunch of CHSSB members and I went to the VJC concert conducted mainly by Mr Leonard Tan, and Mr Zachariah Goh, the to-be-conductor of VJC.
It was fantastic and amazingly refreshing! The pieces were of high standards, and the Band was great. Yeah, "GREAT" is the word. The concert was called "A Not So Silent Night", and true to its name, it wasn't. It was full of laughter, cheers, good music and awe.
For one, the Band, including the Alumni Band, practically "owned the zone". (Pardon me for my lame-ness, as thou can only think of this phrase for the time being)
Second, the emcess were so hyperactive and interactive with the audience. Third, and most probably the highlight of the whole concert (which you may agree with me if you went), was the Skit. It was dumb, stupid and retarded, but at the same time, it practically led the audience to laugh until they have a stomache, and it was romantic as well. Also, there was a certain hidden meaning beneath the Skit.
(YES, there were intimate scenes. Now you will regret for not attending the concert!)
Overall, the concert is what we can say as, "kick-ass".
However, after I went home, the concert reminded me about something, something that seemed to be bothering me over the past few months whenever I attend concerts.
Concert Etiquette.
People whispering. Cell phones ringing. Talking. Turning around in seats. Leaving before the entire performance is finished. Have you ever noticed people around you do that? Or have you ever realised that it was actually YOU, yourself, doing it. And one more incorrigible act of bad concert etiquette: Bad attire.
On Friday night, I saw tons of the audience in Bermudas, sandals, slippers, and and amazingly casual shorts. Please note, I am not here to educate you on all the "rules" on attending concerts.
There ARE NO rules when you attend concerts. There are only what we call "Respect". True enough, I saw familiar faces with sandals, shorts, and Catholic High PE T-shirt and CHSSB polo T-shirt.
It's ok to wear school uniform and Band Polo T-shirt to concerts, its perfectly fine. (In fact, I think I m gonna wear the Band Polo Tee to concerts next time, thanks to the influence of several Secondary Twos.) And it's ok to wear the green pants, BUT have you ever wondered what people would think of our school when we wear the school PE T-shirt AND slippers and sandals at the same time? I saw several CHIJ Toa Payoh students, in fact I was sitting beside a few during the first half of the concert, and they were wearing school uniform with shoes, and come were in jeans.
And it is also a crime to comment on the Band during a piece. I mean, it is ok to say things like "They played it very well" and "we should play like that", but giving bad comments is the rudest thing to do during a concert, for example giving audible comments like "Oh my god, he mispitched!" and "The clarinet squeaked AGAIN!" If you want to comment, do it at home while watching TV.
So, what exactly is the proper attire and etiquette. Well, I did some research, and here is what is expected in the USA:
On Friday, a bunch of CHSSB members and I went to the VJC concert conducted mainly by Mr Leonard Tan, and Mr Zachariah Goh, the to-be-conductor of VJC.
It was fantastic and amazingly refreshing! The pieces were of high standards, and the Band was great. Yeah, "GREAT" is the word. The concert was called "A Not So Silent Night", and true to its name, it wasn't. It was full of laughter, cheers, good music and awe.
For one, the Band, including the Alumni Band, practically "owned the zone". (Pardon me for my lame-ness, as thou can only think of this phrase for the time being)
Second, the emcess were so hyperactive and interactive with the audience. Third, and most probably the highlight of the whole concert (which you may agree with me if you went), was the Skit. It was dumb, stupid and retarded, but at the same time, it practically led the audience to laugh until they have a stomache, and it was romantic as well. Also, there was a certain hidden meaning beneath the Skit.
(YES, there were intimate scenes. Now you will regret for not attending the concert!)
Overall, the concert is what we can say as, "kick-ass".
However, after I went home, the concert reminded me about something, something that seemed to be bothering me over the past few months whenever I attend concerts.
Concert Etiquette.
People whispering. Cell phones ringing. Talking. Turning around in seats. Leaving before the entire performance is finished. Have you ever noticed people around you do that? Or have you ever realised that it was actually YOU, yourself, doing it. And one more incorrigible act of bad concert etiquette: Bad attire.
On Friday night, I saw tons of the audience in Bermudas, sandals, slippers, and and amazingly casual shorts. Please note, I am not here to educate you on all the "rules" on attending concerts.
There ARE NO rules when you attend concerts. There are only what we call "Respect". True enough, I saw familiar faces with sandals, shorts, and Catholic High PE T-shirt and CHSSB polo T-shirt.
It's ok to wear school uniform and Band Polo T-shirt to concerts, its perfectly fine. (In fact, I think I m gonna wear the Band Polo Tee to concerts next time, thanks to the influence of several Secondary Twos.) And it's ok to wear the green pants, BUT have you ever wondered what people would think of our school when we wear the school PE T-shirt AND slippers and sandals at the same time? I saw several CHIJ Toa Payoh students, in fact I was sitting beside a few during the first half of the concert, and they were wearing school uniform with shoes, and come were in jeans.
And it is also a crime to comment on the Band during a piece. I mean, it is ok to say things like "They played it very well" and "we should play like that", but giving bad comments is the rudest thing to do during a concert, for example giving audible comments like "Oh my god, he mispitched!" and "The clarinet squeaked AGAIN!" If you want to comment, do it at home while watching TV.
So, what exactly is the proper attire and etiquette. Well, I did some research, and here is what is expected in the USA:
- It is considered proper concert etiquette to clap only after a piece is complete, and not after movements.
- For attire, you will see apparel ranging from business casual to after-five dinner wear. Though you won’t see many people in jeans, wear what is comfortable when dressing for the night.
- Coughing can be an unavoidable problem, but there are ways to avoid coughing during the music. If you feel a cold coming on, please bring lozenges with you. Please unwrap the cough drop ahead of time.
- It is customary not to talk while the music playing. Being sensitive to your neighbors allows everyone to have a more pleasant concert experience.
There were many shouting and screaming, but maybe that is okay because this is a JC concert, not a really formal one. And maybe because of that, its okay to wear VERY casually.
But is that really true? In my opinion, every concert, wherever and whenver is it, it is formal. That's why I would try my best to dress appropriately, unless other circumstances states otherwise, and I will keep my mouth shut unless I find it mandatory to praise the Band. (Which i did several times on Friday Night) What would the VJC performers think when they know some of the audiences dress up in very casual attire just because they think that because this is a JC concert, its not a really formal one. How would they respond in their playing?
How would you feel if your audience come to Aesthetique or other concerts with that same mindset? Few of you maybe be defiant and maybe thinking at this point in time," Who cares?" But trust me, you do. Everyone in CHSSB does when that happens.
I quote this from a website :
When we go to concerts, we may go for many reasons, but the most important reason is to watch and listen to the performers.
The performers are NOT on television. They are alive; they can see and hear the audience; they want to be able to do a great job for you. Good concert etiquette helps the audience have a good experience.
What some people fail to realize is that the audience can also help the performers perform better.With no visual or auditory distractions, performers can concentrate on giving a great performance. They are trying their best to present an enjoyable musical experience for everyone.
SO basically, this is all I have to say. I believe good concert etiquette is important, no matter what it is, behaviour or attire (I know some of us go to concert and start shouting other people's names).
And I believe, comfortable attire and courteous behaviour will give both the performers and the audience an enjoyable experience, wouldn't you agree?
Friday, 5 December 2008
Words from your dear Band Major L... X)
Alright everyone........ X)
You should really have known who I am.....
Louis..... X)
If you have not realised by now.....
we are like midway through our holidays.....
Band..........
Holidays..........
Studies...........
Juggle them well.
according to the nifty looking countdown.......
we have only 114 days to SYF.....
Thats like 3.8 months more.
Band.....
These 3.8 months Will determine what You will Get for SYF........
Its that simple.
My friends, the time is now..
Motiviation, Perseverance, Success.......
Everyone calls it the SYF period......
where we all will need the SkyHigh energy levels in Every practice.
Perfect attendance is already a Must.
I want you guys to have these energy levels, but it has to be from your heart.
Motivation.......
We look back at like 2 batches ago......
Daniel......
Yue Sheng........
We dont want to fail them.....
Neither do I...
Our Alumni really wish their band, (us), would get the result we want.
Just think........
Imagine the pride they will have, if their Band gets the award..
How we can hold our heads high.....
and be proud that we did ourselves justice by doing our very best..
however......
If We dont do our Best....
Not only do we let down our School.......
We let down Ourselves...
You yourselves have heard that our band, has the Potential........
but......
what use is this Potential.....
if We Dont Use it to its Fullest.
Show the Conductors, our Teachers...
that we take our Band practice seriously......
Have a Perfect Attendance,
Come Early for Band!
Be Proud of your own CCA...... X)
For Combine,
1) ALL Music Scores required ( Take Extremely good care of them )
2) Pencils ( Always have at least one per file, )
3) Metronome/Tuner ( Section Leaders )
Use every opportunity to make Combine Practice a Success.....
Dont get distracted.
Turn your phone off or something....
Dont get Bored!
Music is enjoyable...... XD
Take every Combine practice as a performance......
For Sectionals,
Remember, the Road to SYF is about having....
a Positive Attitude,
and a Hardworking Mentality.....
===============================================
Section Leaders,
Take the Initiative to Lead your Section....
Call for Sectionals!
Arrange Sectionals...... Tutors.....
( Well done flutes and trombones... )
Sectionals really PowerLevel ( gaming term X) ) a section....
Have an Efficient and Effective Sectional practice.
1) Set a Target
(Set a realistic Time Limit/Date Line for things you want your section to achieve)
2) Structure your Practice
( Big Picture ===> Detail Work ===> Big Picture, aka Hourglass )
3) Sequence your Learning
( Rhythm, Notes, Articulation, Dynamics, Phrasing, even Breath Marks )
4) Sing!
( It really helps your section to have this musical message in your brain )
5) Take it Slow
( Slow practice with metronome helps you to perfect something correct, not your messy mistakes, especially awkward or running notes )
Section Leaders, Take your position as a Section Leader very seriously.
You are the Leader of your section...
You have been handed the post as your seniors have found that You have the potential to lead your section to far greater heights...
Take this opportunity, and Use it to its fullest...
===============================================
Band members,
Have Faith, and Trust in your Section Leaders,
Respect them........... Listen to them...... Follow them.......
Remember, that They Are humans, and they may make errors....
Forgive them, as they will forgive you...... X) ( Quoted kind of from the Bible )
Surely, they too want their section to be the very best they can be.....
Work hard to Perfect all the SYF pieces......
These 2 pieces mean So much more than just mere music scores...
you know it in your hearts what it means to everyone....
Turn your weaknesses into Strengths.
Every Good Band out there, has put in countless hours of practice......
To be what they are now.......
There is no substitute for hard work, CHSSB.......
It may sound so simple.....
yet it is so Important its overlooked....
Now is the time......... to pick ourselves up....
and take flight to SYF....
as a Band....
I know ALL of you can do it...
Every Single one of you I see during Practice........
We've been through Competition, Concerts........
What more is SYF.....
but just Two pieces in like 15 minutes or so...
We'll get there..........
Get what we want.........
and Look back.......
Only then.....
We'll see how far we went..... X)
together... as a band....
Sec Ones........
Your next SYF is within reach too..........
Work on your foundations...... your techniques..... your musicality.....
With that........
Your Batch will have no problem in sounding great....
You guys have the Spirit..........
and the Band is proud to have such wonderful Sec 1's....
If this keeps up.....
Your standards will fly.... X)
Alright........
your eyes must be tired now huh... X)
haha.........
Remember what I said.....
Scroll Back up if you forgot.......
=.= seriously...
Remember.......
We are aiming for a "Transcendental" experience for SYF.....
the judges will have to go...
"Zomgawd they are pro.... " X)
Work hard towards SYF everyone....
I'll be posting more often to talk to you everyone......
My friends.....
" Embrace your dreams....... Protect your Honour......... "
Thanks, Mr (Leonard) Tan, for everything....
You were Always there to encourage us.... X)
Thanks for the wonderful memories.
L was online on 5/12/2008 at 11:00am
You should really have known who I am.....
Louis..... X)
If you have not realised by now.....
we are like midway through our holidays.....
Band..........
Holidays..........
Studies...........
Juggle them well.
according to the nifty looking countdown.......
we have only 114 days to SYF.....
Thats like 3.8 months more.
Band.....
These 3.8 months Will determine what You will Get for SYF........
Its that simple.
My friends, the time is now..
Motiviation, Perseverance, Success.......
Everyone calls it the SYF period......
where we all will need the SkyHigh energy levels in Every practice.
Perfect attendance is already a Must.
I want you guys to have these energy levels, but it has to be from your heart.
Motivation.......
We look back at like 2 batches ago......
Daniel......
Yue Sheng........
We dont want to fail them.....
Neither do I...
Our Alumni really wish their band, (us), would get the result we want.
Just think........
Imagine the pride they will have, if their Band gets the award..
How we can hold our heads high.....
and be proud that we did ourselves justice by doing our very best..
however......
If We dont do our Best....
Not only do we let down our School.......
We let down Ourselves...
You yourselves have heard that our band, has the Potential........
but......
what use is this Potential.....
if We Dont Use it to its Fullest.
Show the Conductors, our Teachers...
that we take our Band practice seriously......
Have a Perfect Attendance,
Come Early for Band!
Be Proud of your own CCA...... X)
For Combine,
1) ALL Music Scores required ( Take Extremely good care of them )
2) Pencils ( Always have at least one per file, )
3) Metronome/Tuner ( Section Leaders )
Use every opportunity to make Combine Practice a Success.....
Dont get distracted.
Turn your phone off or something....
Dont get Bored!
Music is enjoyable...... XD
Take every Combine practice as a performance......
For Sectionals,
Remember, the Road to SYF is about having....
a Positive Attitude,
and a Hardworking Mentality.....
===============================================
Section Leaders,
Take the Initiative to Lead your Section....
Call for Sectionals!
Arrange Sectionals...... Tutors.....
( Well done flutes and trombones... )
Sectionals really PowerLevel ( gaming term X) ) a section....
Have an Efficient and Effective Sectional practice.
1) Set a Target
(Set a realistic Time Limit/Date Line for things you want your section to achieve)
2) Structure your Practice
( Big Picture ===> Detail Work ===> Big Picture, aka Hourglass )
3) Sequence your Learning
( Rhythm, Notes, Articulation, Dynamics, Phrasing, even Breath Marks )
4) Sing!
( It really helps your section to have this musical message in your brain )
5) Take it Slow
( Slow practice with metronome helps you to perfect something correct, not your messy mistakes, especially awkward or running notes )
Section Leaders, Take your position as a Section Leader very seriously.
You are the Leader of your section...
You have been handed the post as your seniors have found that You have the potential to lead your section to far greater heights...
Take this opportunity, and Use it to its fullest...
===============================================
Band members,
Have Faith, and Trust in your Section Leaders,
Respect them........... Listen to them...... Follow them.......
Remember, that They Are humans, and they may make errors....
Forgive them, as they will forgive you...... X) ( Quoted kind of from the Bible )
Surely, they too want their section to be the very best they can be.....
Work hard to Perfect all the SYF pieces......
These 2 pieces mean So much more than just mere music scores...
you know it in your hearts what it means to everyone....
Turn your weaknesses into Strengths.
Every Good Band out there, has put in countless hours of practice......
To be what they are now.......
There is no substitute for hard work, CHSSB.......
It may sound so simple.....
yet it is so Important its overlooked....
Now is the time......... to pick ourselves up....
and take flight to SYF....
as a Band....
I know ALL of you can do it...
Every Single one of you I see during Practice........
We've been through Competition, Concerts........
What more is SYF.....
but just Two pieces in like 15 minutes or so...
We'll get there..........
Get what we want.........
and Look back.......
Only then.....
We'll see how far we went..... X)
together... as a band....
Sec Ones........
Your next SYF is within reach too..........
Work on your foundations...... your techniques..... your musicality.....
With that........
Your Batch will have no problem in sounding great....
You guys have the Spirit..........
and the Band is proud to have such wonderful Sec 1's....
If this keeps up.....
Your standards will fly.... X)
Alright........
your eyes must be tired now huh... X)
haha.........
Remember what I said.....
Scroll Back up if you forgot.......
=.= seriously...
Remember.......
We are aiming for a "Transcendental" experience for SYF.....
the judges will have to go...
"Zomgawd they are pro.... " X)
Work hard towards SYF everyone....
I'll be posting more often to talk to you everyone......
My friends.....
" Embrace your dreams....... Protect your Honour......... "
Thanks, Mr (Leonard) Tan, for everything....
You were Always there to encourage us.... X)
Thanks for the wonderful memories.
L was online on 5/12/2008 at 11:00am
Thursday, 4 December 2008
Funny Video
Hey Guys!
I found this funny video of a stick animation on Youtube.
Its quite violent, but I am sure all of you are mature enough to see this.
The title speaks for itself: The Cliff: Get the Girl.
I found this funny video of a stick animation on Youtube.
Its quite violent, but I am sure all of you are mature enough to see this.
The title speaks for itself: The Cliff: Get the Girl.
Sunday, 30 November 2008
Faith, Hope, and Love.
What an eventful night it was!
I am sure every single CHSSB member had a great concert with Mr Tan, and we will never forget what he had taught us during his period of one year +++ in CHSSB.
Well, I am here to share my reflections with you guys. You know, many may see "Faith, Hope, and Love" as just an ordinary concert. For some, it may be their first formal concert in their Band life. But for me, or rather for the CHSSB, its not only a farewell concert for Mr Tan, but it is a night to impress the audience and show them what CHSSB has got to offer.
For me, it was a spectacular night. Sure, there are many important lessons for us to learn, and many mistakes and issues for us to reflect on, but wouldn't you agree that the concert was such a successful one? The magnificence, the energy, the "high"-ness--it was all there, be it in CHSSB, CHIJ Concert Band or St Margaret Symphony Band.
Basking in all the "high"-ness was probably one of the highlights of "Faith, Hope, and Love".
Now it has come to an end, and I would really miss it. And I am sure not only the members of CHSSB, but also CHIJ and St Margaret would miss both the concert and Mr Tan.
Oh well, all good things must come to an end...
I am sure every single CHSSB member had a great concert with Mr Tan, and we will never forget what he had taught us during his period of one year +++ in CHSSB.
Well, I am here to share my reflections with you guys. You know, many may see "Faith, Hope, and Love" as just an ordinary concert. For some, it may be their first formal concert in their Band life. But for me, or rather for the CHSSB, its not only a farewell concert for Mr Tan, but it is a night to impress the audience and show them what CHSSB has got to offer.
For me, it was a spectacular night. Sure, there are many important lessons for us to learn, and many mistakes and issues for us to reflect on, but wouldn't you agree that the concert was such a successful one? The magnificence, the energy, the "high"-ness--it was all there, be it in CHSSB, CHIJ Concert Band or St Margaret Symphony Band.
Basking in all the "high"-ness was probably one of the highlights of "Faith, Hope, and Love".
Now it has come to an end, and I would really miss it. And I am sure not only the members of CHSSB, but also CHIJ and St Margaret would miss both the concert and Mr Tan.
Oh well, all good things must come to an end...
Friday, 28 November 2008
The Day
It's quite pointless to create a new post at this time...no one will read it...probably after the concert...anyway..
Tommorow is the day, most likely the last performance with Mr Leonard Tan...sad indeed...
But remember to be positive, have self-confidence, and don't give Mr Tan a bad impression on the performance. I'm sure that we all won't want to let Mr. Tan down.
Show Mr Tan how great is your playing, give him your best shot! Make the performance a memorable, magical, ...etc... one! Be passionate, be musical!
"Music is in between the notes!"
"Play like you are the best musician in the world!"
REMEMBER TO WATCH!
Let's own this concert!
Tommorow is the day, most likely the last performance with Mr Leonard Tan...sad indeed...
But remember to be positive, have self-confidence, and don't give Mr Tan a bad impression on the performance. I'm sure that we all won't want to let Mr. Tan down.
Show Mr Tan how great is your playing, give him your best shot! Make the performance a memorable, magical, ...etc... one! Be passionate, be musical!
"Music is in between the notes!"
"Play like you are the best musician in the world!"
REMEMBER TO WATCH!
Let's own this concert!
Advertisement.
Hey Band People...band camp was great wasn't it? :D
Here to advertise for a concert..usually seniors come to advertise concerts in which they're playing but this is an exception. 'Threnody' is part of the concert...do come and support those ppl playing my piece! :D
4 December THURSDAY
NOEL' 08
BY
Hwa Chong Symphonic Band
Hwa Chong Institution Military Band
Nanyang Concert Band
VENUE | TIME
Hwa Chong Institution (College) Auditorium 7PM
PRICE
S$6
CONDUCTOR/S
Ms Samantha Chong | Mr Darence Leng | Mr Daniel Kiang
REPERTOIRE
Theme from "Superman"
Machu Picchu
Gelato Con Caffe
Threnody
Warabe-Uta Fantasy
Blue Ridge Saga
Celebrate
Pachelbel's Canon in D
Crest of Nobility
CONTACT
hcband.hcisb@gmail.com
You can approach me for tix. =D
Here to advertise for a concert..usually seniors come to advertise concerts in which they're playing but this is an exception. 'Threnody' is part of the concert...do come and support those ppl playing my piece! :D
4 December THURSDAY
NOEL' 08
BY
Hwa Chong Symphonic Band
Hwa Chong Institution Military Band
Nanyang Concert Band
VENUE | TIME
Hwa Chong Institution (College) Auditorium 7PM
PRICE
S$6
CONDUCTOR/S
Ms Samantha Chong | Mr Darence Leng | Mr Daniel Kiang
REPERTOIRE
Theme from "Superman"
Machu Picchu
Gelato Con Caffe
Threnody
Warabe-Uta Fantasy
Blue Ridge Saga
Celebrate
Pachelbel's Canon in D
Crest of Nobility
CONTACT
hcband.hcisb@gmail.com
You can approach me for tix. =D
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
Band Camp Reflections 08
Guess its my turn to do the reflections, not that there's a schedule or anything, just that if Poh does it and then another guy does it, i guess its like an obligation or something. Ok, enough digressing.I'll probably recount what happened then proceed to give my thoughts, easier that way.
1st day: Report for practice, break for lunch, games, practice, dinner, sleep.Oh yes, day spent trying to fruitlessly convince Band that there is no Amazing Race, success within own room! yay!
Thoughts: A fairly reflectionless kind of day, thoughtworthy point would have to be the games. Personally felt that the memory race was abit saddening....biased towards fat people! The cavadi on the other hand was biased towards skinny people, so yea...evens out i guess.I don't really know if any team bonded within this period of time, having just been seperated into teams, people are probably more concerned about why their friends aren't with them at this point in time.
2nd Day: Morning PT, Breakfast, practice,lunch, free mingling time, dinner ,practice,sleep. Continued fruitless attempts at decieving Band, illusion in own room starting to break down.
Thought: Fairly disappointing reaction from Band at sight of breakfast, issue already covered by previous 2 reflections, but i'll do it anyway. Bread is considered a staple by most, at home while rushing to school, the most basic breakfast would be either biscuits or bread. I'd dare say that even the most privilledged(yes i know, probably spelled wrong) of us eats bread for breakfast. So whats wrong with bread for breakfast in camp. By right, food at camp should pale in comparisons to food at home, so by right, if we eat bread at home, we should be eating...i dunno... hardtack??
3rd Day: morning PT, breakfast, practice, amazing race( full day sectionals), seoul garden(osaka garden), sleep, nightwalk,sleep.Finally we can drop the facade, end the charade etc etc.(i think i used facade wrongly, but what to do, vocab expansion)
Thoughts: I guess personally, i allowed Guo Zhi to have too much freedom during the amazing race and we made a couple of wrong decisions, but i feel that over the course of the race, our team bonded alot. After all, the team that takes the-train-to-the-wrong-station-then-takes-a-1hr-bus-ride-followed-by-a-15-minute-walk bonds together.
At night, we had a real eye-opener by the teachers, so thank you for that.
Followed by a really refreshing and new way of an exco meeting. Really looking for more meetings of that type.
Refreshed and energized by the new direction, we proceeded to prepare for the night activities. Some Sec 3's really bonded while making the maze.
Unexpectedly, Band, wasn't really that angry at being woken up in the middle of the night. Went through night activities with my sole team mate Wei Nan. Completed a surprising lot. Completed personal time of 1 min 17 seconds for obstacle course while blindfolded. Supposed meeting turned into a snoozefest.
Day 4: breakfast,practice, home!
Thoughts: A really tired Sec 3 batch stayed awake throughout practice and promptly fell asleep during skit prep time, or at least, i did. Skit time was fun. Mike was funny, all the usual stuff, Band has resumed its normalcy.
I know, this is more of a breakdown than a reflection, but this is how i do it
1st day: Report for practice, break for lunch, games, practice, dinner, sleep.Oh yes, day spent trying to fruitlessly convince Band that there is no Amazing Race, success within own room! yay!
Thoughts: A fairly reflectionless kind of day, thoughtworthy point would have to be the games. Personally felt that the memory race was abit saddening....biased towards fat people! The cavadi on the other hand was biased towards skinny people, so yea...evens out i guess.I don't really know if any team bonded within this period of time, having just been seperated into teams, people are probably more concerned about why their friends aren't with them at this point in time.
2nd Day: Morning PT, Breakfast, practice,lunch, free mingling time, dinner ,practice,sleep. Continued fruitless attempts at decieving Band, illusion in own room starting to break down.
Thought: Fairly disappointing reaction from Band at sight of breakfast, issue already covered by previous 2 reflections, but i'll do it anyway. Bread is considered a staple by most, at home while rushing to school, the most basic breakfast would be either biscuits or bread. I'd dare say that even the most privilledged(yes i know, probably spelled wrong) of us eats bread for breakfast. So whats wrong with bread for breakfast in camp. By right, food at camp should pale in comparisons to food at home, so by right, if we eat bread at home, we should be eating...i dunno... hardtack??
3rd Day: morning PT, breakfast, practice, amazing race( full day sectionals), seoul garden(osaka garden), sleep, nightwalk,sleep.Finally we can drop the facade, end the charade etc etc.(i think i used facade wrongly, but what to do, vocab expansion)
Thoughts: I guess personally, i allowed Guo Zhi to have too much freedom during the amazing race and we made a couple of wrong decisions, but i feel that over the course of the race, our team bonded alot. After all, the team that takes the-train-to-the-wrong-station-then-takes-a-1hr-bus-ride-followed-by-a-15-minute-walk bonds together.
At night, we had a real eye-opener by the teachers, so thank you for that.
Followed by a really refreshing and new way of an exco meeting. Really looking for more meetings of that type.
Refreshed and energized by the new direction, we proceeded to prepare for the night activities. Some Sec 3's really bonded while making the maze.
Unexpectedly, Band, wasn't really that angry at being woken up in the middle of the night. Went through night activities with my sole team mate Wei Nan. Completed a surprising lot. Completed personal time of 1 min 17 seconds for obstacle course while blindfolded. Supposed meeting turned into a snoozefest.
Day 4: breakfast,practice, home!
Thoughts: A really tired Sec 3 batch stayed awake throughout practice and promptly fell asleep during skit prep time, or at least, i did. Skit time was fun. Mike was funny, all the usual stuff, Band has resumed its normalcy.
I know, this is more of a breakdown than a reflection, but this is how i do it
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)