Music Education
In the vast realm of classical music, there exist countless masterpieces that have withstood the test of time, enchanting audiences for centuries. From the majestic symphonies of Beethoven to the delicate piano compositions of Chopin, these well-known works continue to captivate listeners around the globe. However, amidst the popularity of
Music Education
In its 11th year, the SOI Music Academy has given wing to many budding musicians, some of whom are now pursuing higher studies, to carve out a career in Western classical music. As the next batch graduates, we speak to the students about the role music has played in each
Music Education
When it comes to classical music, one of the most beloved and enduring ensembles is the string quartet. With its rich, sonorous sound and elegant arrangements, the string quartet has captured the imaginations of music lovers for centuries. But what exactly is a string quartet, and why is it so
Music Education
This is the story of a musical instrument that was birthed, died, and was reborn in the 230 or so years of its existence. The harmonium was conceived in the West, but today largely resides in the East, particularly in the Indian subcontinent; so much so that many mistakenly think
Music Education
Yuja Wang is a renowned Chinese classical pianist known for her virtuosity, musical sensitivity, and charismatic stage presence. Born in Beijing in 1987, she began playing the piano at the age of six and made her professional debut with the Beijing Central Philharmonic at the age of 11. By the
Music Education
In Europe and the USA, while aspiring school-aged athletes spend their Saturdays on sports, their music-loving peers come together to train as musicians. For many of these young aspirants, this training is provided by their county or state. However, for those who excel, there is the opportunity to receive the
Music Education
Some of the composers and moderators who worked on our new Woodwind syllabus give their tips on how they care for their instruments: Bassoon Flute Recorder Storage * The box is the safest place to keep your instrument, however it doesn’t have to go back in its box every time;
Music Education
At the age of three, I remember jumping on my parent’s sofa, waving my arms in the air conducting a record of Gilbert and Sullivans Pirates of Penzance. Last week, my four-year-old son was doing the same thing, only to the soundtrack of Disney’s Frozen. “What are you
Music Education
A brief history of a tradition that marks the beginning of every new year for European lovers of Western classical music. Every year, on 1st January at 11.15 in the morning CET, the Vienna Philharmonic ushers in the New Year with a concert of music by the Johann Strauss
Music Education
What do we classical musicians spend most of our time doing? That’s right: practicing. Nowadays this is mostly a completely closed and private process, where we are completely alone and prefer other people not to listen. As teachers, we don’t really know how our students practice, let alone
Music Education
In the month of Leo Tolstoy’s death anniversary, an exploration of why the immortal novel stands out as a ballet. Immersed in the realm of words, one of the greatest writers of all time, Lev Nikolaevich Tolstoy went on to create a 90-volume legacy for generations to come. He
Music Education
Literature declaring the piccolo’s grand entrance into the symphony is widespread. Sharing debutante status with the trombones and contrabassoon in the triumphal final movement of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, the piccolo’s arrival at the doorstep of music’s Great Western Canon in such an iconic masterpiece is celebrated
