The enduring legacy of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra stems from the vision of founding patron Dr Goh Keng Swee, who laid the foundation for its expanding presence in the global orchestral landscape.
While serving as Deputy Prime Minister, the late Dr Goh believed a flourishing nation required not only a strong industrial foundation, but also a thriving artistic identity. His unwavering conviction led to the formation of the SSO — the nation’s first professional orchestra in 1979.
Today, the SSO continues to captivate audiences both at home and abroad over 44 weeks a year. Recent highlights include the orchestra’s first post-pandemic overseas performance in Kyoto in October 2024 as part of Asia Orchestra Week, and a multi-city tour in Australia back in February.
As a tribute to Dr. Goh, the SSO presented Fanfare: Brass, Percussion, and Carmen on 28 February and 1 March at the Victoria Concert Hall, marking the fifth edition of this annual series in his honour since its inception in 2021.
Led by Quantedge Music Director Hans Graf, the SSO delighted concertgoers with Fanfare pour précéder La Péri by Paul Dukas, spotlighting the brilliance and versatility of brass instruments, along with Barber’s Mutations from Bach that weaved Bach’s timeless chorale into a rich, modern soundscape. The evening also featured pianist Albert Tiu, Head of Piano Studies at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, who flexed his musical chops in Hindemith’s Konzertmusik for Piano, Brass and Two Harps, earning a resounding applause for his performance. As a special treat for all, the final chorus from Ravel’s L’enfant Et Les Sortilèges, arranged for brass ensemble by Maestro Hans Graf, was presented as the encore.
For an unforgettable finale, the SSO brought the passion, drama, and Spanish-inspired rhythms of Bizet’s Carmen Suite into concert hall. The audiences revelled in Rodion Shchedrin’s 1967 rendition of this famed piece, featuring a vibrant display of strings and percussion.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the SSO Council for spearheading the initiative to dedicate an annual concert in honour of Dr Goh’s legacy.