Singapore’s musical expression and identity were on full display at the Temasek Foundation SSO National Day Concert, held on 13 August 2023 at the Esplanade Concert Hall.
The sixth edition of the annual celebration showcased new orchestral works by both emerging and pioneering Singaporean composers, all focused on different aspects of our nation and people. The concert also included special fundraising seats in support of Shared Services for Charities and the SSO, with proceeds allocated equally to both organisations.
Under the baton of Singaporean conductor Ng Tianhui the SSO, joined by our Singapore Symphony Choruses, members of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra and guest musicians from The Straits Ensemble, embarked on a journey that brought to life six symphonic works by homegrown composers including Sulwyn Lok, Kelly Tang, Felix Phang and Chua Jon Lin.
In Singaporean Folk Medley, the Singapore Symphony Choruses lent their vocals to awaken the kampong spirit in the audience, as intended by its composer Zechariah Goh. The lyrical medley was sung in Malay and Kristang. Later, our musicians and choristers stirred hearts with the orchestral-choral rendition of The Road Ahead, reimagined by young composer Elliot Teo and Choirmaster Wong Lai Foon, which also saw an enthusiastic sing-along by the audience members. The popular NDP 2021 song was recently covered by the SSO in the form of a music video.
With the support of Temasek Foundation, we welcomed friends from from Moral Welfare Home, Rainbow Centre, Foundation of Rotary Clubs Singapore Eldercare & Caregivers Centre, and The Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf) to this musical occasion.
To enhance the concert experience of the SADeaf attendees, Deaf Artist-performer Lily Goh played an important role in conveying the meanings of the songs and interpretation of the lyrics on stage.
It was fantastic...I was touched by the music and how well (SSO) played...They put love into doing this.
Our heartfelt thanks to all who have supported and attended this year’s National Day concert. If you missed the celebration, catch the recorded livestream on our YouTube channel here.
See you at the next edition!