classical music

The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge

 

The collegiate choir of King’s College, Cambridge, is regarded as one of its finest in the world. With the flawless, harmonic voices of the Boys of King’s College, this is a celestial experience not to be missed. Listen out for favourites from Bach, Handel and Hadyn, among others. Jul 26, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $28-88 from Sistic.

A pianist acclaimed for his impeccable panache, Sheppard will perform Classical’s hit-list from the likes of Haydn to Chopin, as well as personal compositions from his recently-released album. Jul 18, 8pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $20-28 from Tickets.com.

Tap your feet to the gutsy sounds of Spain this summer as the Singapore Symphonic Orchestra present acclaimed Japanese classical pianist Noriko Ogawa, playing under the baton of esteemed conductor Lan Shui. Listen out for works by Debussy and Ravel. Jul 31, 7.30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $11-75 from Sistic.

Private Passions—A Recital by Rebecca Chellappah and Lim Yan

Pledge your support for local talent in this music spectacle where Royal Northern College of Music alumni, Rebecca Chellappah and Lim Yan, combine their respective talents, in mezzo-soprano and piano, in a recital that journeys though Western and Chinese literary works. Jul 11, 7:30pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $20 from Sistic.

Into its 16th year, Asia’s premier piano festival returns for a four-day affair. Performers include Vladimir Feltsman, who once graced the US White House with his music, and Gramaphone Award-winning Nikolai Demidenko. Jun 25-28, 8pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $20-45 from Sistic.

Stravinsky—The Soldier’s Tale (Histoire du Soldat)

The Philharmonic Orchestra presents the 1918 parable about an absconding soldier who trades his violin to the devil for a book that promises great wealth. Be amazed by the grandeur of music from just seven instruments, which also includes hints of tango, marches and waltz. Jul 12, 7:30pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $24 from Sistic.

Relive the phenomenal tunes of the late Tchaikovsky in this series featuring Stephen Hough, critiqued “the most perfect piano playing conceivable” by The Guardian, and Li Yundi, the youngest winner of the distinguished International Frederick Chopin Piano Competition. Hough performs Jul 3 & Jul 10, 7:30pm. Li performs Jul 24, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $11-162.50 from Sistic.

Founded in 1978, this 20-strong choir has performed around the world and garnered countless plaudits in spite of its relatively short history. Listen out for tunes from the Renaissance to the 21st Century and tunes from folk classics to West Side Story. Aug 8, 5pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $28-35 from Tickets.com.

East meets West in this collaboration between guitar maestro Manuel Barrueco and Chinese zhong ruan performer Liu Xing. Witness the ethereal beauty as music combines with the visceral in presenting Yunnan’s awe-inspiring landscape and charms. A definite highlight is when the two masters synchronises their instruments to perform a Vivaldi number. Jul 18, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $25-95 from Sistic.

The sensational Grammy-Award winner Aimee Mann takes the stage in Singapore for a one-night-only performance that should not be missed. With a songcraft often compared with the Beatles and Badfinger, Mann’s brand of rock and folk has been music to the ears for the past two decades. Relive her musical milestones and reminisce the good ol’ days. Aug 29, 7.30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $68-118 from Sistic.

The Answer Is... Stefanie Sun World Tour 2009

Missing Stefanie Sun as she takes an indefinite break from music? Then catch the local chanteuse as she performs her array of hits in the local stop of an acclaimed world tour that has already wowed Taiwanese fans. Jul 11, 8pm. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 6344-2660. $78-168 from Sistic.

Reminisce the good old days of Hokkien pop with Cai Xiao Hu as he performs his wide repertoire of karaoke-friendly hits. Jun 27, 8pm. Rock Auditorium, #03-063/065 Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6333-8280. $48-98 from Sistic.

Coffee Morning & Afternoon Tea: Chinese Folk Favourites

Get transported on a melodic journey in this daytime session of popular Chinese folk classics, brought alive by the vibrant vocals of Chinese singer Zhang Yan. Jul 6, 10:30am & 3pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $12 from Sistic.

Eurasiana—A Musical Tribute (Soundwaves 2009)

Not to be confused with its Aussie namesake, this extravaganza features the who’s who of local Eurasian entertainers, such as jazz virtuoso Jeremy Monteiro and vocalist Vanessa Fernandez performing with the Singapore Pop Orchestra under the baton of Cultural Medallion recipient Iskandar Ismail. Hosts include NMP Eunice Olsen and radio deejay Brian Richmond. Jun 26-27, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $20-50 from Sistic.

“Just Dance” to Lady Gaga’s catchy pop music, or simply go, well, gaga over her other chart-topping hits such as “Poker Face” and “LoveGame” from her breakthrough debut album. DJ Inquisitve will also wow all you party people with his pumping turntable skills in a pre-show performance. Better yet, limited pre-sale tickets include priority entry into the concert and free entry to Zouk that night. Grab those tickets fast! Aug 12, 8pm. Fort Canning Park, Fort Canning Rd., 6332-1200. $75-95 from Sistic.

Late Nite @ Esplanade: Being Ngak & Clement by Ngak & Clement

Lapped up their songs on the soundtracks of 881 and 12 Lotus? Now this is the golden chance to get up close and personal with seasoned live performers Ngak & Clement as they bring their brand of rock, R&B and jazz into a closed comfy setting. Jun 26, 9:30pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $25 from Sistic.

Join the phenomenal Taiwanese five-man outfit as they perform their repertoire of rock tunes and ballads. In this audio-visual extravaganza, audiences can expect a dynamic performance that integrates stunning music artistry, commanding stage presence with radio-friendly hit songs. Grab your tickets fast. Aug 28-29, 8pm. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 6344-2660. $88-178 from Sistic.

Get hot and sweaty under the night skies of Fort Canning Park in the Singapore stop of Nine Inch Nails’ world tour to commemorate their 20 years of rocking hard with their signature metal sounds. With the group set to go on an indefinite hiatus, this may be the last chance to catch them live, for awhile. Aug 10, 8pm. Fort Canning Park, Fort Canning Rd., 6332-1200. $79-119 from Tickets.com

Super Band comprises four of the biggest names in the Mandarin pop scene—Jonathan Lee, Emil Chau, Zhang Zhen Yue and Luo Da You. And when these four music icons get together for a one-night only concert in Singapore, you know it’s an event not to be missed. Jul 18, 8pm. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 6344-2660. $88-178 from Sistic.

Milestones: Music Festival and Flea Market (Double Bill Concert)

This concert features talented Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera whose classical pieces are heavily inspired by Cuban beats that will not fail to excite you. The concert will also feature opening act Lorraine Ayensu from the UK who possesses a soothing sound accustomed to delivering a seamless medley of genres ranging from ballads to Latin-influenced tunes to urban jazz. Jun 27, 8pm. River Promenade in front of Timbre@The Arts House. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6332-6900. $40 (includes one drink) from www.timbre.com.sg.

Come revel in the cool performances and stunning acts as the Read Bridge turns into a stage. Expect to see a myriad of performances like percussion acts, spectacular aerial acts, puppetry by the Finger Players, a swinging burlesque-type act and River Fantasy Parade complete with stilt-walkers and drummers. Through Jun 27, 8:30pm, 10pm. Read Bridge, Clarke Quay.

Get a blast from the past and catch vibrant scenes of river life from days of yore with this nostalgic bumboat parade. Recreated on Singapore’s last remaining traditional bumboats, the scene will set to entertain revellers and diners as it makes its way down from Boat Quay, Clarke Quay to Robertson Quay. Through Jun 27, from 7:30pm. On the river from Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay.

Check out this romantic love story set in the 1900s when Singapore River was a flourishing major free trading port and the center of commerce. This three-act dance musical brings you a heart-warming love story between a coolie, Gan Seng, played by Andrew Lua and a Nonya maiden, starring Celine Rosa Tan. This spectacular show piece is staged jointly by acclaimed homegrown award-winning talents and performing groups from Jitterbugs Swingapore, Oriental Arts Troupe and Kuen Wushu Academy. Jun 26-27, from 8:30pm. UOB Promenade, between UOB Plaza 1 and 2, 80 Raffles Place.

Bring on the clowns! Come see Robertson Quay transform into a circus. Indulge in a smorgasbord of culinary delights from some of the best restaurants and eateries on Robertson Quay. An after-party will see one of Sydney’s hottest spinners, DJ Audio Misdemeanour, providing the beats. Jun 27, 7pm-1am, Robertson Quay. Log on to www.singaporeriverfestival.com for more details on the party.

Bring a mat and a picnic basket and frolic in a magical evening under the stars with the crowd-pleasing signature event of the Singapore Dance Theatre. With both classical and contemporary works showcased, there’s bound to be something for everyone! Gates open from 5pm for picnics, while pre-show performances featuring dance troupes from local institutions will commence from 6:30pm. Performance starts 7:30pm. Jul 17-19. Fort Canning Green, Fort Canning Rd., 6332-1200. $25 from Sistic.

The giant revelry for hip hop dance lovers alike culminates in an explosive concert. Be wowed by the slick dance moves and polished techniques by the performances of 18 crews from around the region. Jun 28, 7:30pm. Singapore Expo Hall 1, 1 Expo Dr., 6403-2160. $25 from Sistic.

Vibrant and beguiling contemporary dance moves will take centerstage in Odyssey Dance Theatre’s initiative to promote the works of budding young local choreographers. Jun 26-27, 5pm, 8pm. Telok Ayer Performing Arts Centre, #04-03, 182 Cecil St., 6221-5516. $48 from Tickets.com.

Proudly presented by Dance Ensemble Singapore, this sequel to the wildly-successful Love on Stage last year features the challenges a theater troupe face as they struggle to overcome their near disbandment. A thought-provoking venture that reflects upon the hardships faced by real life practitioners in society today. Jul 25, 3pm & 8pm. Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Place, 6338-8283. $20-40 from The Arts House Box Office.

Held in commemoration of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society’s (SIFAS) 60th anniversary, this dance-drama will no doubt be a visual feast with its alliance of dancers of Chinese, Malay and Indian heritage. Performed in Hindi with English subtitles. Jun 26, 8pm. Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Rd., 6337-1886. $15-50 from SIFAS or dial 6299-5929.

The Studios 2009: Several Questions and Q&A

Q&A shows two people in despair making a cautious attempt to communicate. Several Questions is a poignant reflection of people cast wide aside by society, and their attempt to integrate back. From both an interpersonal and a societal overview, these two plays showcase society in its plainest, sublimating daily life on stage. By the Jang Eun Jung Dance Company. Aug 7-8, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $28 from Sistic.

Based on the economic crunch, this uproariously musical comedy promises a hysterical evening guaranteed to lighten the minds of audiences. The cast—a who’s who of Singapore theatre including Pam Oei and Selena Tan—negotiates some sticky cat-and-mouse situations destined to be filled with sabotage and surprises about every turn. Jul 23-Aug 5, Tue-Fri 8pm, Sat-Sun 3pm, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $20-98 from Sistic.

Ponder the cognitive effects of time on mind and body as this multi-media collaboration of sound, video and dance pushes the limits of the pre-conceived dogmas of time. Jul 9-10, 8pm. Drama Centre Black Box, National Library, 100 Victoria St., 6332-3255. $20 from Sistic.

Venture deep into the dark recesses of your mind in this psychological drama adapted from the most controversial play by renowned British playwright Sarah Kane. The explosive intercourse of language, sound and body in this Theatre Practice production is both sensual and evocative. Jul 16-26, Tue-Fri 8pm, Sat 3pm, 8pm, Sun 3pm. Drama Centre Black Box, National Library, 100 Victoria St., 6332-3255. $35 from Sistic.

An exploration of self-identity and a psycho-analysis of the different realms of gender, this performance is a culmination of research, various scripts and the personal experiences of the actors. Be prepared to be engaged both intellectually and emotionally as you journey into a world of private secrets. Jul 25, 8pm. The Substation Theatre, 45 Armenian St., 6337 7535. $20 from The Substation Theatre, or call Su Yee (9105 3535) or Edlyn (9697 3084) to reserve.

Watch the Chinese literary tour de force come to life on stage in an acrobatic rendition that relates the legend of Monk Xuan Zang and his disciples, Monkey King, Pigsy and Sandy. Performed by a troupe of over 80 artistes from Guangzhou, China, the performance has won awards for its magnificent spectacle of dance and martial arts against a backdrop of modern stage technology. Jul 16-19, Thu-Sat 8pm; Sun 2:30pm & 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $38-108 from Sistic.

Ever found your Shakespearean text difficult to sit through during literature class? Well, literature buffs or not, you’ll enjoy this irreverent, wild romp-com that features all 37 of the Bard’s plays within 97 minutes. Maybe not quite “complete,” but a great time out at the theatre all the same. Jul 28-Aug 2, Tue-Fri 8pm, Sat-Sun 3pm & 8pm. Drama Centre Theatre, National Library, 100 Victoria St., 6332-3255. $34-59 from Sistic.

Packed with stand-up comedy, live sketches and local music performances, you’d love this performance which offers a mirror reflection about how Singaporeans behave and life in Singapore, with ‘Singapore’s Hilarious Crimes’. Who knows, you might just end up laughing at something you’re guilty as charged of. Jul 17, 7.30pm. The Substation Theatre, 45 Armenian St., 6337 7535. $12 from The Substation Box Office (Open Mon-Fri 12pm-8.30pm or call 6337 7800).

Action Theatre’s latest production is a hysterical farce about a Filipino stuck in Singapore. The production spins a lovely web of anecdotes and topics which, rather unavoidably, include Filipino maids. Jul 9-12, Thu-Fri 8pm, Sat-Sun 3pm & 8pm. The Room Upstairs, 42 Waterloo St., 6837-0842. $30-40 from Sistic.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Think those economic blues aren’t a laughing matter? Coax the sunny-side out with the laugh-a-minute Melbourne Comedy Festival that’s guaranteed to make you laugh till you cry with in its fifth year in Singapore. Line-up includes comedians like Dave Thornton and Smart Casual. Jul 22-25, 8pm. DBS Arts Centre—Home of SRT, 20 Merbau Rd., 6221-5585. $45 from Gatecrash.

Some strangers meet in an old inn the last night before their lives end. With exactly 37,800 heartbeats left, watch how they live out their remaining hours by with an explosive mix of intimacy, passion, sorrow, sadness, confusion, pain, pleasure and madness. A multi-disciplinary work that tells a love story about life, this performance will certainly make you re-think your values of life. Jul 18, 4pm. The Substation Theatre, 45 Armenian St., 6337-7535.

When boys become men, all hell breaks lose. Fans of Army Daze will relish this hilarious comedy about the strangeness and familiarity of National Service. On its second run since its 2008 success, the farce is a laugh-a-minute satirical comedy that audiences, both males and females alike, will thoroughly enjoy. Jul 8-25, Tue-Fri 8pm, Sat-Sun 3pm, 8pm. The Drama Centre, National Library, 100 Victoria St., 6332-3255. $34-59 from Sistic.

The protagonists of this British absurdist play by Tom Stoppard and presented by Project Yum! are friends of the Bard’s famous character Hamlet. They set forth on a valiant struggle to seek the purpose of their sheer existence, culminating in an apogee of drama and death. “That it should come to this!”—indeed, Hamlet, indeed. Jul 17-19, Fri, Sun 7pm; Sat 3pm, 7pm. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6332-6900. $20-25 from Gatecrash.

K, a youthful and haughty film director, contracts a degenerative disease and makes a pact with the Devil to grant him 33 years of brilliance and success as a filmmaker. Aspiring filmmakers and film buffs will relish this story, commissioned by the Esplanade and which marks acclaimed local entertainer K Rajagopal’s first foray to stage after a decade-long hiatus. Jul 24-25, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8222. $28 from Sistic.

Take in the city night in an outdoor extravaganza of theatrical performances in this campaign spearheaded by the National Museum of Singapore. Featuring both local and international acts, get caught up by the live music and dance fiesta set against spectacular light installations, culminating in a pyrotechnics show by German outfit Pan.Optikum. Come party down the streets in this one-night-only event. Jul 10, 7.30pm. In and around Bras Basah Area. Call 6332-3659 for enquiries.

 

Be mesmerized by “Familiar Ground” this Singapore International Piano Festival.

Four enthralling evenings beckon as great piano virtuosos take Victoria Concert Hall by storm at the upcoming 16th Singapore International Piano Festival.

Over the years, this piano festival has captured audience’s heart and critics’ approval with its themed approach and engaging program lineup. This year’s festival, themed “Familiar Ground,” will see each pianist present recitals of works by classical world’s unparalleled maestros, like Chopin, Bach and Prokofiev.

Festival Director Goh Yew Lin, in explaining the festival theme, says, “For those who look for cutting edge in festivals, the program may seem slightly conservative. In my opinion, great music demands repetition and re-interpretation: we should never tire of encountering masterpieces refracted through the minds and hands of true artists.”

Looks like an opportune time for piano newbies to get in touch with the magic of classical music, while aficionado classical music lovers will definitely appreciate a reconnection with the melodies of the masters. I-S gladly tunes in to the rest of the festival:

The esteemed Russian-trained pianist has a special affinity with the works of Chopin and recently took part in the Chopin & His Europe Festival in Warsaw, Poland. A career highlight is winning the Gramophone Award—one of the most prestigious honors in the classical music industry—in 1992. With his vast experience spanning three decades, this is an evening not to be missed. Jun 26, 8pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $20-$45 from Sistic.

The husband-wife pair has performed at prestigious festivals and concert venues around the world. Exemplifying the finest in French pianism that is characterized by elegance, beauty and delicacy, Pascal Rogé has been revered as the best French repertory performer in the world. Jun 27, 8pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $20-45 from Sistic.

Rounding off the four-day program, the suave 29 year-old Russian pianist looks set to be the next big thing in the classical music genre, gaining popularity for his critically acclaimed and award-winning recordings. His Scriabin recording also charted in The Daily Telegraph’s album of the year, and won the Midem award at Cannes for Best Instrumental CD of the Year. Jun 28, 8pm. Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, 6338-4401. $20-45 from Sistic.—Walter Sim

The 16th Singapore International Piano Festival is on Jun through 28.
For more information, log on to www.pianofestival.com.sg.