SNYS in Concert: Folklore
Venue: Victoria Concert Hall
Date: Sat 31 May 2025, 11:00 AM
Performing Dances of Galánta by Kodály, Brahms’ Academic Festival Overture, Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite, Brahms’ Hungarian Dances (encore), and Morgen with a soloist as part of the Singapore National Youth Sinfonia was one of the most exciting concerts I’ve ever done.
Rehearsals began weeks before the concert, and from the start, our conductor Mr Seow pushed us to think like storytellers. Each piece had its own character; Kodály’s folk-inspired rhythms, the bright energy of Brahms’ overture, the sweeping drama of Peer Gynt.
I also had the opportunity to write the program notes for Brahms’ Academic Festival Overture, which made performing it even more meaningful. Understanding the structure, the history behind the piece, and Brahms’ playful use of student songs helped me connect more deeply with the music—and hopefully helped the audience enjoy it more too.
Working on Morgen with the soloist Miss Joyce lee Tung was another highlight. It demanded careful listening and control, following the her phrasing closely and adjusting our playing to match her expression.
The Hungarian Dances encore was just pure fun. It was fast, fiery, and full of life, and the energy on stage was electric. You could feel the audience reacting with us.
This concert reminded me how much teamwork, listening, and trust go into making music. I’m really grateful to have been part of it.
With my brother, after the concert
Huge thanks to our conductor, Mr Seow Yibin and everyone at the SNYS. From rehearsals to the final bow, this concert was an amazing experience!
