Manjusri Concert Band

ATTENTION !

2009-08-05T20:05:00.005+08:00

With the effect of 1st august , we've changed link .

http://www.manjusriband.blogspot.com

and this blog is officially closed,
thank you for your understanding !

2009-06-24T00:42:00.002+08:00

Dear band members,
There will be a outing on the 26june (friday) @ east coast park

Meet at parkway Mac 10am. Bring along your kites, extra clothes etc.

See you there!

PS: ex members/graduating members feel free to join us :)

Thanks
Yanda

2009-06-05T22:07:00.007+08:00

Announcements

Band :
Please pay $ 20 to Yongyi if you ordered the band tee
Please pay $24/yr , $2/month to Jiahui/Chiamin for band fund

FRIDAY ( 12/06/09 ) : 1 PM - 5 PM

Reminder

Remember to bring your thermometer next Friday , ( 12/06/09 )

Lilian ,
Clarinet (:

2009-05-30T11:49:00.010+08:00

Not purposely over-posting sha , (:
please look at her post by scrolling down to the next post .

Going to post the band schedule for the june holidays ,

Wednesday ( 03/06/09 ) : 9 am - 5 pm
Friday ( 05/06/09 ) : 9 am - 5 pm

Wednesday ( 10/06/09 ) : no band
Friday ( 12/06/09 ) : 1 pm - 5 pm

Wednesday ( 17/06/09 ) : 9 am - 5 pm
Friday ( 19/06/09 ) : 9 am - 5 pm

Announcements

Main band : Please send joey( horn) your instrument details for example, serial number, brand of instrument . please send her as soon as possible as it's urgent and she need to give the information to Mr Yeo on Wednesday

Band : Please pass $20 and your tee shirt size to yongyi if you don't have a band tee

& Belated birthday to Mr foo if he ever sees this (:

Lilian ,
Clarinet (:

2009-05-30T09:25:00.002+08:00

Dear Band,

This is going to be my last ever post on this band blog. I’ll be writing this just for you guys to hear out my thoughts, feelings and reflections as a once upon a time Band Major of Manjusri Secondary School.

In these 4 years, I have had my fair share of good days and bad. The times we had intensive practices, tedious trainings and many criticisms that affected our morale. It was indeed a roller coaster ride. Did we give up? NO! Did we resign our fate? NO! We worked extremely hard and yes, we proved others that we are not just a bronze band. We still showed up for School Anniversary and performed our best to bring happiness to the school. Everyone loved our performance with all those crazy gimmicks. This shows how much we as a band had worked together to make the performance a good one.

As the saying goes "All for one, one for all" or our band believe “ ONE BAND,ONE SOUND!”
In band, we were given opportunities to participate in school events, public performances and competitions. Through all these, it gained me much exposure, allowed to develop leadership qualities and also enchanted my music abilities. I can remember vividly the collective joy and triumphant feeling, aide our bond grow stronger. The good times makes me want to remain a band member so I wouldn’t have to be left out from all the fun. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. It’s hard to say goodbye, and what's left are only the beautiful memories.

Last but not least, band made me realize the importance of friendship and teamwork. A piece of music would be incomplete without a particular person/instrument/section. Each of us plays an important role in music production. Music is just the same as friendship. If we choose to take it for granted, we will never gain anything from it.

Now i would like to take this opportunity to thank several people who accompanied me through this exhilarating journey. Our conductor, Mr Foo, for his endless guidance and patience. If not for him, our achievements would be unattainable. The teachers in charge, for their continual support and motivation. Band wouldn’t be what it is today without their efficiency. The leaders and committee members for the unselfish contributions and commitment to the band. And most importantly, the rest of the band members for their participation and commitment to the band.

"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it."

Here's to you my fellow band mates, You guys are truly amazing. Thank you. Learn and pick up the good things and teachings from the graduating seniors. We are not what we are now without them and their hardwork. Yeah! Now that everything's changing in the band i hope the new committee members and exco-members will work hard and do their best in their post. Listen to one another, work together as one and you guys will never go wrong. I believe and I have faith in you guiys Manjusri band. I've done my part, so now its your turn, each and everyone of you. Doesn't matter if you are weak or strong, if you do things as one, it'll be definitely strong. Take care.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! STUDY HARD&SMART TOO!

Sha'abaniah. (Ex-Band Major)

2009-05-22T21:21:00.004+08:00

Hey Manjusri Concert Band,
Today, as i step up as the Assistant BandMajor, I will be assist Yanda closely as much as i can, trying to make our further band practices more fun and exciting for you all!
For today onwards, it will be totally different, compared to the days we used to have.
Every wednesday practice, although i couldn't make it, but i will attend all the practices except wednesday!
Ok, less craps now.
Last time, to me Band is a waste of time. But when the time passes, when my mind became mature, my thinking changed totally. Uhhuh. Because i always think i know everything already.*
I could play, but it is the matter how well you can play. I can play whole chunk of rubbish, it's still considered as playing.
But if I lay down my time, and start practicing hard for each of my sectionals, I can perfect my tone and get the right pitch everytime!
If we have the right pitch, now we strive for a nice tone.
A nice and sweet tone.
This takes time, and practices.
So every practice, before we come to band practice, we must have our mind SET.
Eg. Ok, today i want perfect my Bb major scale.
So this practice, i will keep practicing my Bb major scale throughout, getting the right sound and nice tone.
Until it's perfect, you have reached your target of the practice.
So every practice, keep having a target to aim for.
At the end of the day, you will bring home the things you had spent time practice with.
I can assure you, you will be smiling all the way till home :)
The next practice, eg.
Mryeo: Now you play your Bb major scale to me now.
Me: *play*
Mryeo: WOW *clap*
Me: Happy!
You see now, you have the satisfaction of having practices!
So now, under my lead,
I hope that you members, will think of a target to head towards for each practice.
Practice hard hard, and you will get somewhere over the rainbow. I can assure you man.
We the 4 new elected leaders, will try our best to lead you all well, but pls trust our qualities.
Stay happy with us for the future band practices! :D
Regards,
Yinkai

2009-05-22T20:50:00.004+08:00

Hey band, yanda here.

Today's POP is quite a success, hope everyone is happy with their ranks. From now on there will be a change in ranking system, we will judge you guys by attendance, conduct etc and not by level. This is more fair to the rest.

Although Mr Foo have left us, but he will still be in our heart for a very long time.Well, as what Mr yeo said, there will be a change in the system so everyone be prepared for changes and there will be lots of work. We got to kick the old habit away which is coming band just on time, we got to come earlier so that we can start on time and end on time. Band practices can be fun but when come to serious playing, stay focus. We got to change to adapt to the 21st century. We as leaders will make sure everyone enjoys band and at the same time improve in our character developement and playing. How to enjoy? we must work with each other and AT LEAST respect each other. So that you happy i happy everyone happy. Then everyone will love band. We got to learn from our seniors mistake and make sure it doesn't happen again.

There must be a line drawn between seniors and juniors , friends and position.

Juniors (sec 1 and 2)
Respect your seniors, call them sir or mdm. Do not agrue with them, what they ask you to do , you do. If you got any doubts or feel that it's unfair, do tell the majors and we will judge for you.

Friends and Position
Outside band we can be friends, but in band no such thing as friends thingy. example, guy A have a higher rank than guy B. Both the same level. Outside they can play all they want. But in band guy B MUST listen to guy A. Simple as that.

To the new committee , it's time to get busy and get things done. If you are unsure what are you suppose to do, ASK us or seniors. We will be more than willing to help.

To the sec 4 and 5, do not worry about the band, the new majors will do a good job and will make sure mjr band stay strong. The band room will always be open for you so if you want to come back and see us, go ahead.

To the band, I know it's a hard time now as we do not have a conductor and currently Mr Yeo and Mr Ed is helping out. No matter who our future conductor is, respect him/her just like you respect Mr Yeo/Mr Ed or Mr Foo. All the best band! we can do it :)

That's all
Yanda

2009-05-20T20:57:00.003+08:00

I know it is hard to accept the fact that MR Foo will no be with us anymore, but we still got to move on with life. I will be posting about the timetable for Friday.

1235 (school dismiss)

1235-1320 (lunch)

1320-1330 (fall in / briefing ) for the band except Muslim guys

1330-1450 (prepare, set up tables etc)

1450-1500 (change into full uniform)

1500-1630**(parade commence)

1630**-1700 (Muslim student keep tables etc)

1700-1800 ( Sharil's speech etc and play songs)

1800 - home sweet home

**( not confirm, depend on actual day)

Do not be late. 1320 SHARP fall in.
Junior band wear school uniform.

THANKS
YANDA

2009-04-08T20:00:00.004+08:00

Hey Band!
SYF is already over! Though we couldn't get what we have yearned for, let us not be disheartened and be more optimistic. We had already given our best shot yesterday and thus there is no need for us to hold any regret. So let us now direct our 100 percent focus to the upcoming School Anniversary. As said, it is up to us whether we are willing to put the effort to lead the band as a whole to greater heights and impress people eventhough we are "named" as a bronze band. Let us work together as a band from now on to prove to others that we are actually more than just a bronze band!

Wei Xing.

2009-01-12T18:04:00.000+08:00

Hi all, Sheng Jun Here.
ALL BAND MEMBERS pls take note,
That there is AN URGENT BAND MEETING TMRR, After school.
The Time for the meeting is not reallyy confirmed,
But pls just make yourself free tomorrow...it would really be appreciated.
Thanks.

m|brosia MMIX

2009-01-11T00:26:00.007+08:00

A big thank you to all the members who willingly stayed back to help move the percussion instruments. As you know, we finished early, but due to transport problems beyond our control, we could only leave at 12.00 midnight!

Special thanks goes to Sharil, Yan Da, Sin Hua, Tze Kung, Joel, Yan Bin, Sharul, Sha'abaniah, Gu Juan, Haikal, Victor, Sidney, Kai Xun, Shawn, Fahmi, Benjamin, Levon and even the ex-members like Jialin, Ervina, Yuliana for keeping us company and helping us. Please forgive me if I left your name out, I just got home and I'm exhausted.

Please remember to explain to your parents for the late hour.

Our concert was a success and morale is high. Let's keep the spirit up and our eyes on the next lap, SYF 2009. Do not lose confidence, or become over-confident. Continue to work just as hard if not harder, for SYF 2009.

You will hear greater in depth feedback from Mr Foo when band practice resumes. For now, take a well-deserved rest.

Upload and share your photos on MIDAS so that we can use them in future publicity for band and for Sec One Orientation.

In the meantime, please consolidate your ticket sales. It is extremely important for accounting and financial purposes. Do not throw unsold tickets and return them to Mdm Elna immediately on Monday, or you may have to end up paying for these tickets as well.

This is Mr. Muhd Fahmy, signing out. Good night!

2009-01-09T21:27:00.002+08:00

Hellos Sheng Jun Here. =)
As i said just now, i am gonna post the schedules of tomorrow here.
So, the plans is below...
Schedule For mbrosia MMIX.
0730-0800
Report to Band Room. (Check all scores and items, Sewing kit etc...)
0815-0855
Load Up Instruments to trucks
0900-1000
Arrive at S.C.H.
Percussion Members and helpers bring instruments up to concert area.
Teachers-In-Charge to fix up the banners.
Instructors oversees overall setup process.
Warm up when everybody settled down.
1000-1215
Start of Rehearsal
Sound Check, Rehearse with the lights, and Emcees.
1215-1300
Lunch for Not Involved, AND Flute Ensemble Rehearsal.
1300-1430
Luch for ALL Personnels.
1430-1500
Settle down in Conference Hall.
Seated and Ready for briefing on Full Cue Run Rehearsal.
1500-1520
Briefing Commences.
1530-1645
Full Cue Run Rehearsal.
1645-1800
Dinner and Dress-up Time.
1800-1815
Settle down in Exhibition Hall.
1815-1915
Warm Up and Tuning. (MJR Band And Guest Players)
1915-1925
Get Ready at Back Stage.
1925
Be Seated.
1930
Concert Commence.
*Once Victoria Band on Stage
MJR Band Go up and get Ready.
*Once Victoria Band Ends.
Move IN While Victoria Moves OUT.

While the planning might not really be that accurate,
but thats the rough plans for tomorrow.
All de best for tomorrow to all Band Mates!! =)

MJR Band Orientation

2009-01-06T14:52:00.003+08:00

I stopped by the Band Room today and I must say I was impressed. It was very Disco Lives! Good job guys, do continue to think out of the box.

Banner

2008-12-01T20:10:00.003+08:00

In the midst of practising hard for the concert, selling tickets, and completing your homework, check out our banner, to be displayed on the actual night.

Posters and Tickets

2008-11-14T00:16:00.004+08:00

Click on the images to download the high-resolution versions.

Tickets and posters will be distributed next week so that we can launch sales immediately. Please keep track of the tickets you're supposed to sell and assist the teachers. Avoid creating unnecessary stress and problems for people involved in monitoring and managing ticket sales.

Leaders, please roster duties to visit other bands for ticket sales during their band practice. Meet me next week to practise what to say. Sms me, please, to arrange for appointment.

Official Concert Website

2008-11-13T20:40:00.004+08:00

manjusrisec.net/mbrosia

We'll use this address from now onwards for our band concerts.

latest concert program update

2008-11-11T00:35:00.004+08:00

MJR

Music-Carmina Burana

Orff drew the inspiration for his grand vocal and orchestral work from 24 poems of the 200 found in the 13th century monastery of Benediktbeuern, near Munich in Bavaria and published in 1847 under the title of Carmina Burana. Carmina is the plural of the Latin word carmen and in early time, carried the implication of student songs. Burana was the Latin name for the area we know today as Bavaria. Both sacred and secular, the texts are frank avowals of earthly pleasure: eating, dancing, drinking, gambling, and lovemaking. They proclaim the beauty of life and the glory of springtime. The music is simple in harmony and range, consistent with 13th century music, with a driving rhythm to which the listener instinctively responds. John Krance has incorporated the vocal melodies into an arrangement entirely instrumental in structure.
Composer-Carl Orff

Born in Munich, Germany, into an old Bavarian military family, Carl Orff (1895 - 1982) began piano studies at the age of five, under the tutelage of his mother. His interests in language and poetry were fostered in school. He received his formal musical training at the Munich Academy. In 1925, he helped to found the Gunter Schule, which aimed to educate the lay public in creative musicianship. Orff's techniques have been adopted by elementary school educators throughout the world. He began his career as a composer in 1925 with realizations of Monteverdi's early 17th century works. His first stage work, Carmina Burana, was composed in 1935-6 and premiered at the Frankfurt Opera in 1937; it became an outstanding success. After the War, Orff was asked by the Bavarian Broadcasting Company to develop a series of broadcasts for and with children; the pedagogical concepts of that work were captured in the five volume Music for Children.

MJR

Music-Chant and Jubilo

This piece was commissioned by the Four States Bandmasters Convention in Texarkana, Texas, and was first performed by the Four States Bandmasters Band in January of 1962. It is a work in two connected contrasting movements. The Chant is a modal movement reminiscent of the early church organum and should be done in a very sensitive manner, with the Jubilo contrasting with its explosive lower brass and percussion.
Composer-W. Francis McBeth

William Francis McBeth was born March 9, 1933 in Ropesville, Texas (near Lubbock). He attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. McBeth is a prolific composer, whose musical repertoire has become a universal standard in wind band literature. He is also one of the most respected conductors of the present day.
McBeth has received the ASCAP Special Award every year since 1965. In 1988, he was awarded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia's Charles E. Lutton Man of Music Award for his achievement and continued contribution to American music.
From 1957 until his retirement in 1996, McBeth taught at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. In 1975, he was named Composer Laureate of Arkansas, the first Composer Laureate named in the United States.

MJR

Music-Ireland: of legend and lore

It is an original composition for wind band, which draw upon the vast riches of traditional Irish melodies. The composer has chosen three castles and /or colorful characters from Irish history and folklore and put their legendary deeds to music. The piece was commissioned by the East Tennessee state university wind ensemble under the direction of Mr. Paul hinman for performance during their tour of Ireland in March of 1996. The composer was fortunate to travel with the band during their tour and conduct this fine ensemble during their St Patrick’s Day festivity performances.
The work is divided into three sections. Following a majestic introduction, the familiar 6/8 bounce of an Irish march surfaces from the ensemble. The composer has chosen Brian Boru’s march as the source material for this section of the work. As the work begins, we hear the army of brain Boru marching to battle, prepared to give their very lives for their beliefs. Following the light-hearted mach, with no battle scars to show for their journey, we hear them march off into distance secure in the preservation of their moral convictions.
The second section of the piece is based upon aromatic legend, which ended with quite a “ Twist”. The setting is Carrickhowley castle, a waterside fortification standing on a broad flat rock in wildly rocky sea inlet.
The final section of the work is based upon the multiple attacks on Cahir castle, which stands on rocky islet in the midst of the Suir, cahir castle was built probably by Conor O’ brien.
Composer-Robert W. Smith

one of the most popular and prolific composers of concert band and orchestral literature in America today. He has over 600 publications in print with the majority composed and arranged through his long association with Warner Bros. He is the principal conductor of the American Symphonic Winds and the American Festival Philharmonic Orchestra, professional recording ensembles based in Washington D.C. Mr. Smith is currently teaching in the Music Industry program at Troy University in Troy, AL

Flutes and Irish drums ensemble- Penny-flute whistle

MJR

Music-Chanteys

An original work that recalls the music of the sea and its sailors. A jaunty opening sparkles with character and style before yielding to a pensive "Andante." The piece closes with a spirited juxtaposition of thematic material. This piece was selected by the Yamaha Music Media Corporation of Japan as one of the "100 Best Pieces for Band" for 2001.
Composer-Robert Sheldon

One of the most performed composers of wind band music today. A recipient of numerous awards from the American School Band Director's Association, Phi Beta Mu and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, his compositions embody a level of expression that resonates with ensembles and audiences alike. His music is performed around the world and appears on many international concert and contest lists.

Chai chee

St. Petersburg March by Johnnie Vinson

St.Petersburg, Russia was founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703. Despite its relatively short life, St. Petersburg has a rich and exciting history. From the early days of Peter the Great’s “Venice of the North” to the modern events of the 1991 coup d’etat, the city has always bustled with life and intrigue, revolution and mystery. More evocative of Russia’s past than any place except perhaps the Moscow Kremlin, St. Petersburg is today considered the cultural heart of modern day Russia.

St. Petersburg March attempts to capture the spirit of this great city and its storied history. The minor keys and melodies harmonized in sixths combine to paint a musical picture of frigid winters, magnificent castles and great cathedrals. Although most of the melodic material in the march is original, parts of two Russian folk songs, Tzar Nicoli and Gori are quoted in the trio section.

Written and scored during February 2005, St. Petersburg March is dedicated to the Auburn(AL) Junior High School Honors Band and its band director, Larry Cornelius.

Chai chee

Dedication, March and Celebration by James Swearingen

Aspects of fanfare, expressivo and celebration moods are express in this wonderful piece of music written for developing band. It has full of Swearingen's delightful melodies, tasteful harmonies and spirited rhythmic percussion parts.

Commissioned by Hawken Upper School (Gates Mills, Ohio, USA) to commemorate the opening of the newly built Holtry Pool Complex.

GESS

Overture Jubiloso

A work that is thrilling for listeners and players. Bold flourishes of color are reinforced with brilliantly flowing melodic lines.
Composer-Frank Erickson

Frank received his Mus.B. in 1950 and his Mus.M. in 1951, both from the University of Southern California. He was a composer, conductor, arranger, and author. He also lectured at the University of California at Los Angeles (1958) and was professor of music at San Jose State University. In 1995 he established Frank Erickson Publications. Over the last 50+ years his compositions have become standards of the school band repertoire, and his book Arranging for the Concert Band had served as a guide for many college music majors.

GESS

Music- Eiger ( A Journey to the Summit )

Heroic themes abound as noted composer James Swearingen weaves a tapestry of musical styles to depict the emotional story of John Harlin. At the age of nine, John lost his father when he tragically fell 4000 ft. to his death while attempting to climb the mountain known as Eiger (pronounced “eye-ger”). The Eiger North Face is considered to be the most treacherous climb in all of Europe. Yet, forty years later John, with a burning desire to reconnect with his father, began the perilous journey of climbing the mountain with the nearly impossible goal of reaching the summit. Brilliantly scored, this exciting work is best described as being both stunning and beautifully breathtaking.

Composer-James Swearingen
As a performer, composer/arranger and educator include a background of extensive training and experience. He has earned degrees from Bowling Green State University and The Ohio State University. Mr. Swearingen is currently Professor of Music, Department Chair of Music Education and one of several resident composers at Capital University located in Columbus, Ohio. He also serves as a staff arranger for the famed Ohio State University Marching Band. Prior to his appointment at Capital in 1987, he spent eighteen years teaching instrumental music in the public schools of central Ohio. His first teaching assignment took him to the community of Sunbury, Ohio. He then spent fourteen years as Director of Instrumental Music at Grove City High School where his marching, concert and jazz bands all received acclaim for their high standards of performing excellence.

VS

Music-Postcard from Singapore – Suite of Singaporean Folk Songs

“Postcard from Singapore” was commissioned for a concert featuring Philip Sparke’s Music when he conducted the Singapore Armed Forces Central Band.
The first movement is based on Gelang Sipaku Gelang, a well-loved folksong which has become associated with the Geylang area and which is a song about community spirit, about living together in harmony.
The slower second movement uses Di-Tanjung Katong, a song which is popular with children’s choirs. Tanjung Katong is a district on the south eastern coast of Singapore.
The third movement uses two traditional melodies: Lenggang Kangkung tells of the graceful swaying of watercress in the rice paddy fields and this is eventually combined with Munnaery Vaalibaa.
Composer-Philip Sparke

He was born in London and studied composition, trumpet and piano at the Royal College of Music, where he gained an ARCM.
It was at the College that his interest in bands arose. He played in the College wind orchestra and also formed a brass band among the students, writing several works for both ensembles.
At that time, his first published works appeared - Concert Prelude (brass band) and Gaudium (wind band). A growing interest in his music led to several commissions, his first major one being for the Centennial Brass Band Championships in New Zealand – The Land of the Long White Cloud.
He has written for brass band championships in New Zealand, Switzerland, Holland, Australia and the UK, including three times for the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall, and his test pieces are constantly in use wherever brass bands can be found.

VS

Music-Symphonic Movement

Symphonic Movement is musically constructed in the form of an arch, with C as the tonal center for most of the piece. It is often said that this work, while comparatively brief, is one of the most musically intense compositions for this medium.
Composer-Václav Nelhýbel

He was a Czech-American composer, mainly of works for student performers. He is considered one of the most prolific composers of the 20th century.

He was born the youngest of five children in Polanka, Czechoslovakia. He received his early musical training in Prague, going to both Charles University in Prague and Prague Conservatory. In 1942 he went to Switzerland, where he studied at University of Fribourg; after 1947 he taught there. In 1957 he came to the United States, where he taught at several schools, including the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He served as Composer-in-Residence at University of Scranton for several years, until his death.

Most of his music is for wind instruments or concert band, and most is designed for student performers. He used non-functional modal writing, pandiatonicism, and motor rhythms extensively.

MJR

Music-Sinfonia Nobilissima

This overture is a work in the neo-romantic style and is in three sections. After a short introduction, a dramatic and syncopated fast section begins. After several false climaxes, as well as a brief fugue, the slow, more emo–tional middle section begins. In the final section of the work, a fast, synco–pated style abruptly returns and the overture ends with several deceptive, then complete chords.
Composer-Robert Jager

He was born in Binghamton, New York in 1939 and received his education at The University of Michigan. For four years, he served as the Staff Arranger at the Armed Forces School of Music while a member of the United States Navy. Currently, he is Professor of Music and Director of Theory and Composition at Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, Tennessee. Jager has over 65 published compositions for band, orchestra and various chamber groupings, with more than thirty-five commissions including the United States Marine Band and the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra. He has won a number of awards for his music, being the only three-time winner of the American Bandmasters Association's “Ostwald Award.”

MJR

Music-First Suite in E-flat for Military Band

Written in 1909, the Suite in E-Flat is generally regarded as a cornerstone work for concert band and is one of the few band originals that have been transcribed for symphony orchestra. Various instruments repeat the opening theme of the Chaconne as others weave varied filigrees about the ground theme. In the middle of the first movement, the principal theme is inverted for several repetitions.
The Intermezzo is based on a variation of the Chaconne theme, presented first in an agitated style, then in a cantabile mood, the two styles alternating throughout the movement with remarkable and deceivingly simple-sounding counterpoint that is as charming as it is masterful.
The March is introduced by a British band quick-march pulse from the brass and followed by Holst's Land of Hope and Glory version of the Chaconne theme in the great sostenuto tradition of the singing chorus. Eventually, the two themes are combined in a thrilling counterpoint leading to the coda with a dynamic marking of ffff !
Composer-Gustav Holst

Gustav Holst (1874 - 1934), one of England's most prominent composers, was also a professional trombonist and a teacher of composition and organ. His music includes operas, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, and songs. During the First World War, he was placed in command of all English Army Bands, organizing music among the troops under the Y.M.C.A. Army and Education program. He continued his teaching as musical director at the St. Paul's Girls' School in the Hammersmith borough of London. His First Suite in E-Flat, Second Suite in F, and Hammersmith are hallmarks in the repertoire for wind ensemble; his orchestral suite, The Planets, is highly popular.

Sneak Preview of m|brosia MMIX Poster

2008-11-10T01:35:00.006+08:00

Click to enlarge

Please check for spelling and information errors if any, and sms me immediately. Urgent! Need to send for printing ASAP!

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee

2008-10-26T11:15:00.001+08:00

If you are having extra lesson in the old school, please come for band practice at 1430pm after your lunch.
Thanks

2008-10-20T05:58:00.001+08:00

Dear Majors, Sin Hua ,George, Sheng Jun, Apprentice Majors, and Section leaders
As discussed in today's meeting, we have discovered that we have a lot of issues in the band currently. So, roughly to summarise the entire meeting, below is a the list of the things discussed, and for those highlighted in red, it needs your urgent attention and action immediately.

1 (i)ATTENDANCE
- Members are either late or absent for band practices. Please try to be punctual for every practice, and take care of yourselves to prevent getting sick (ESPECIALLY during the Concert and SYF period!). ALL Majors will be in charge here, to ensure the punctuality of members. Section leaders please report to the Majors who is absent and the reasons. Punishments will be given to absentees or latecomers who do not have any vaild reasons.

1 (ii)Sectional Leaders
It would really be good if you all will take charge of your Sections's members' attendance, welfare, morale, and playing wise. They are to report the strength of their respective sections to the Attendance Taker (AT), and then that AT will report it to Mr Foo before band starts.

2)Toilet breaks
-members tend to visit the toilet very often and thus disruptive to the band practice. Sha, Sharil, Yan Da, Rahman will take charge to ensure that not more than 5 members can go at any one time and, its would be really good if members could go toilet 15mins BEFORE band starts.

3) Ground rules ( all majors,SLs please take charge)
- no playing of PSP during band practice
-Please listen to the conductor
-Always respect your seniors, etc
-I do not want to hear members talking loudly during full band.

4) SYF marching video (Sharil and Rahman take charge of this.)

5) Please report to the majors if you find there is any problems in your respective sections. If anyone is quitting or have some serious problems, please inform the Teacher-In-Charge. Or, if you think you can solve it by yourself personally, by all means.

6) I will be needing a few name-lists so that majors will know who is absent, and the reasons, and give the punishments if necessary. The Name list SHOULD have the members's handphone numbers and email (For Contacting purposes.) Section leaders please update your member hp numbers and pass it to me latest by next week's band practice, Wednesdae The 22nd of October.

7)Attendance takers (On Whichever practice days), please inform Mr Foo about the number of people who is present, absent, or late, after getting the Strength information of each sections from the SLs. (Refer to 1(ii) )
Write inside a book if necessary. (It's Present in the library.)

8) Extra sectional practice if necessary.
( SLs, you can used the band room for additional practice, if there's a need to, for your section members, if you feel necessary to do so.)
Please inform 1 of the committee members 1 day beforehand, if the band room will be open for self-practice, like Sheng Jun, and the The Majors.

9)Section leaders, I want you all to help your juniors if they need help, and i do not want to see anybody slacking.

10)The Songs for the concert, All of them, can be obtained from Sheng Jun. Sheng Jun, Please ensure that everyone, can somehow have a recording of all the songs.

11) We need a Hi-fi set or a CD player for the practice. It would be really appreciated if someone would loan it to us. =)

12) Please make sure that markers are available by the whiteboard, so that Mr Foo or the other committee members or majors can write the latest news on the board.
(Sha and Gu Juan, please take charge.)

13) Seniors please guide your junior during band practices, motivate them, and encourage them if they have problems, and make sure they are actively participating in band.

14)As for the punishment wise matters, it will be discussed on the next meeting.(Date not confirmed, but most likely next wednesday.)

15)As for the informarion on the duties of the committee members, I will confirm with you all ASAP. Latest by next week's Friday, 24/10/08.

All these rules will take effect from 17 October Onwards.

Majors please stay back after the end of Each and EVERY band practice. We will together review the performance of that day's practice, and see what else can be done to improve things and etc...

*PS
Please forward this e mail to the committee. I will be e-mailing you all again after the next meeting.

If there is any enquires, please e-mail me, or contact me .

Best Regards
Yan Da

Privacy Policy

2008-10-18T21:53:00.001+08:00

Hiies All.. =)
Sheng Jun here. I am just done uploading the repertoire of Mbrosia MMIX into the band blog.
(Look Above the Tagbox, it might take sometime to load finish, so please be patient.)
Most Of The Songs Are in that playlist i have created, but some are not loaded in yet, cause i still haven't find those songs, but i will upload them ASAP once i have them.
The Songs in the playlist, IF you do not hav it with you, in your phone or mp3 player or any other devices, PLEASE DO COME ASK FROM ME.
I have most of the recordings and i will be more than happy to send to you if you need them.
So...That Covered the Playlist Thing.
The 2nd thing i want to say is regarding the packing of instruments for the moving to the new school campus.
The Band Room will be open on Mondae, (Most Probably), to help clean/pack up, and throw those old scores away from the band room before we move to there. (Victor Please take note, and his appointed helpers, please do the same toos. :) tys...)
That covers everything i want to sayye regarding the packing of stuffs.
Band members, I really hope that you all can see the importance, urgency, and how many more days are left till the concert itself.
Time to stop all the slacking (IF you all are still anyways.) , and start treating every single practice that is left till the concert seriously.
The Concert is At the 10th Of January next year, meaning that we actually have exactly 84 DAYS MORE left till the concert from NOW. (2 and 3/4 months).
I maybe will put some tools into this blog, maybe a countdown timer to show the seriousness of the situation.
I will update this blog if there are news of other things. Thanks. =)

2008-10-17T17:05:00.004+08:00

Dear members,

Please be reminded that there will be Saturday band practices before the holidays. The band practices will start from 9am to 12pm. Also, all members must have a copy of the recording, Chant and Jubilo and chanteys. Last but not least, please make yourself available as far as possible for all the practices as all the practices are very crucial for our next year concert. It is up to our decision on whether to make the concert a success or a failure.

2008-10-08T05:59:00.010+08:00

No practice on 17th Oct friday...next practice will be on 18th Oct sat
Please try your best to turn up.
Meeting for all leaders will be this sat at 8am, meet at kallang mrt.
29th Oct we will be shifting to the new school.
Looking at the attendance on the 1st practice and also plus no practice on 29thoct and 31st oct, we might need a few sat practices during school holidays.Do understand the urgency.I appreciate your commitment to the band.
Thanks.

Jan Concert Repertoire

Manjusri Concert Band

Opening music- Carmina Burana - 4mins

1. Chant and Jubilo - 6mins
2. Ireland -Of Legend and Lore - Robert W. Smith - 7mins

Flutes and Irish drums ensemble( Penny whistle Jig by Henry mancini)-5mins

3. Sinfonia Nobilissima - Robert Jager - 7mins
4. A vision of majesty - James swearingin or chanteys ( sea song) by Robert sheldon-6mins
5.The sailor's hornpipe- Philip Sparke -( tentative) sight-reading soon- 3mins

total - 1 hour (approx)

---Interval------------------(add chairs +Gess band do tuning on stage)

Gan Eng Seng Military Band

1. Overture Jubiloso - Frank Erickson - 7mins
2. Eiger - James Swearingen - 7mins

Victoria School Concert Band - (Do tuning in the holding room)

1. Symphonic Movement - Vaclav Nelhybel - 7mins
2. Chester Overture - William Schumann - 7mins

Chai Chee military Band- 10mins ( To be confirmed)

Manjusri Concert Band

1. First Suite in Eb by Gustav Holst - 12mins

Presentation for tokens of appreciation-3mins
Band playing- Thank you for the music by ABBA (as background music)

Encore- Go west! ( pop song w/ gimmicks)-5mins ( will also be the sec 1 orientation piece)

Total- 1 hour (approx)

**Tentative arrangements
**Must be confirmed by 1st of Nov 2008 ( Mdm elna pls take note tks.)

2008-10-08T05:06:00.004+08:00

Dear members

Band practice will resume on the 15th oct wed 3pm . Hope to see u soon.
We should be moving to the new school by 3rd week of oct.
Leaders do start to tidy up the library..latest by 18th oct sat. Thanks.

Rehearsal for the school song will be on 28nov,5th dec and 12 dec (fri)- 2pm to 5pm.
Do start to publish up the school song before the rehearsal(senior band members).
Shas please try to choose the good players only for this recording session.
5 clarinets,4 flutes,2 alto sax, 1 tenor 1 bari,1 bass clar,3 trumpets,2 horns,1 eup,3 tromb,2 tuba,2 percussions. sharil plays tenor sax.

Majors please help to work on the band camp schedule ...please take note that i will not be available from 6th - 9th Dec...and 19th- 20th Nov (gess band camp).Most other days i'm very busy with my teaching ( SYF period).I suggest band camp to be either on 21th- 23rd nov, 28th - 30th nov, or 12th- 15th Dec. Thanks.

librarian please get the carmina,chant and jubilo scores and school song ready by tis wed.Also make sure all members have all the HK pieces ready at anytime.Thanks.

Hopefully there will not be any sat practices or long practices during school holiday if we put in enough effort in oct-mid nov. lets try our best...Thanks.
sec 1 recruits..keep up the good work.:>
Check up for the latest changed in our concert repertoire.
:>
simon foo

Student Leaders' Workshop by Dr Tim Lautzenheiser

2008-09-05T07:46:00.003+08:00

Dr Tim Lautzenheiser has emailed a message for all participants of the workshop, but the rest of you should read it too, especially if you are interested in leadership positions within MJR Band.

I've posted his message under Co-Curricular Activities/Concert Band at MIDAS. You will need to login with your MIDAS account in order to read his message. Once you are done, engage in the discussion forum to address the points he raised.

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee

Teacher Advisor

Manjusri Concert Band

Area of focus for the last 3 crucial weeks

2008-08-21T05:23:00.007+08:00

Dear majors,kindly encourage the leaders to view the blog and also print this out for all members....tks.
Eup players - Mind me saying this loud...ur effort is not enough!!!tks!! sori to be rude.Pls seek more help from SHA.

August
22th fri- 2pm- 4pm no ( sectional only) Shorter pract hrs due to teacher's day dinner.
Sinfonia A-K(60mins) suite Eb 1st n 2nd movt(60mins)

23rd Sat- 9am-1050pm sectional- Sinfonia A-K (50mins) Suite Eb 1st n 2nd movt( 60 mins).
11pm-12pm combined

27th wed- Very extremely important!!!!
3-5pm sectional - Sinfonia A-K(60mins) suite Eb 3rd movt ( 60mins)

29th fri- no pract teacher's day

30th sat- Very extremely important!!!!
9am-1050pm sectional- Sinfonia A-K (50mins) Suite Eb 3rd movt( 60 mins).
11pm-12pm combined

Sept school holiday

3rd- Sectional practice- 9-1230pm - Sinfonia A-K ( 60mins) Suite Eb complete ( 2hrs n 30mins)
2-5pm combined- Sinfonia ( 80mins) Suite Eb ( 80mins) break ( 15mins)

5th- Sectional practice- 9-1230pm - Sinfonia A-K ( 60mins) folk song 1st movt( 60mins)2nd movt ( 60mins)
2-5pm combined - Sinfonia ( 60mins) Folk song( 60mins) Suite Eb (60mins)

Sat 6th- Self practice at home-ireland ( 60mins)

Sun 7th- Self practice at home- Sinfonia( 60mins)

10th sept (wed)- Test/ concert audition
(Ireland)

woodwinds- Bar 68to 76 and 160 - 184
Brasses- Bar 160- 184
Percusssion- complete piece

( Sinfonia)

All same- Bar A-I

***Euphonium junior-Bar A-F

Practices

2008-08-14T19:49:00.002+08:00

Dear all members,

Please be reminded that there will be band practices on this friday and saturday. The practices are compulsory, please attend. It will be from 2.30pm to 6pm for the friday's practice and 9am to 12pm for the saturday's practice. All this practices are very important and crucial so as to prepare us for our concert next year.

Thank You!

Of legend and lore

2008-08-11T11:28:00.001+08:00

Ireland: of legend and lore is an original composition for wind band, which draw upon the vast riches of traditional Irish melodies. The composer has chosen three castles and /or colorful characters from Irish history and folklore and put their legendary deeds to music. The piece was commissioned by the East Tennessee state university wind ensemble under the direction of Mr. Paul hinman for performance during their tour of Ireland in March of 1996. The composer was fortunate to travel with the band during their tour and conduct this fine ensemble during their St Patrick’s Day festivity performances.
The work is divided into three sections. Following a majestic introduction, the familiar 6/8 bounce of an Irish march surfaces from the ensemble. The composer has chosen Brian Boru’s march as the source material for this section of the work. Brian Boru, in the year 1001 or 1002, is responsible for the most notable instance of battle chivalry in Irish history. According to historians, Brian Boru, engaged, in a classic crusade, demanded form the then Ard Righ, Malachi, submission and hostages. Malachi responded by saying that if brain would grant him a respite of one month in order that he might have time to summon around him the army of leth Cuin, he would at tend of the period, either give battle or send hostages to the king of leth mogha. Brian granted the request. But when Aod O Neill, king of Ailech, refused to support him, Malachi journeyed back to Brian and told him frankly that he was not able to get the backing he wished, and consequently, regretted he would have give hostages and submit. Brain, however, instead of at once accepting, entreat Malachi to take a respite of one year to see if in that time he might not do better. Malachi refused, declaring that he would not fight against him after any such display of chivalry.

As the work begins, we hear the army of brain Boru marching to battle, prepared to give their very lives for their beliefs. Following the light-hearted mach, with no battle scars to show for their journey, we hear them march off into distance secure in the preservation of their moral convictions.

The second section of the piece is based upon aromatic legend, which ended with quite a “ Twist”. The setting is Carrickhowley castle, a waterside fortification standing on a broad flat rock in wildly rocky sea inlet. Grace O Malley, a woman of legendary strength and dominant qualities, had selected the castle as a strategic location for her rather successful trade and piracy operation. Richard Burke, also called Mac William oughter, had inherited the castle form his family who built and owned Carrickhowley Tower. Grace, it seems went on a romantic crusade with Mr. burke and his castle as the ultimate goal. The unfortunate fellow, it is believed, actually married her for love, and grace accepted him on condition that either party could terminate the marriage after one year.

During that year, she garrisoned this and all Mac William Oughter’s other fortresses with her own loyal soldiers, refused to let the man near her, and at the end of the year installed herself at carrickhowley and declared the marriage over by shouting “ I dismiss you” at him from it’s upper window. Of course. She had no intention of giving back his fortification and it was impossible to take them from her.

The final section of the work is based upon the multiple attacks on Cahir castle, which stands on rocky islet in the midst of the Suir, cahir castle was built probably by Conor O’ brien, In about 1142 and was enlarged in 1500. The ground plan follows the shape of the island on which it stands. And the defenses are cleverly designed, being divided into separately fortified section. The castle withstood frequent attacks until the advent of connon, for which it was not quite so well equipped. In the 16th-17th century as English rivals competed for control over theregion. Cahir castle ground itself more vulnerable. Robert devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex, confronted and conquered it within three days in 15599. In 1641, the notorious Lord inchiquin (who destroyed many towns and fortifications in Ireland) achieved the same task within just a matter of hours. In 1650, Cromwell arrived at cahir castle in person.

He, being unwilling t o engage in what he thought might prove a long struggle to subdue the stronghold, and it’s occupants, believing that he would ultimately be successful in such battle proposed and agreed upon terms which allowed the castle garrison to leave unharmed with all their flags and weapons.

The composer has chosen the percussion section to form the center of this musical battle. Two percussive armies battle for the castle with support from the surrounding winds. As the battle reaches its peak, the composer has woven together two traditional Irish melodies. The young Woman’s lament provides the melodic material with Sgt. Earl’s jig providing a driving counter melodic line in the woodwinds. As the work draws to close. We hear the two opposing armies call to each other through the percussion. As with Cromwell at cahrin castle, they choose to draw down their weapons and walk away with their heads held high, resolving to meet again under better circumstances.

Jan Concert Repertoire

2008-08-08T05:45:00.011+08:00

Manjusri Concert Band

Opening music- Carmina Burana - 5mins

1. Chant and jubilo - 6mins
2. Of Legend and Lore - Robert W. Smith - 7mins

Percussion ensemble-5mins

3. Sinfonia Nobilissima - Robert Jager - 7mins
4. A vision of majesty - James swearingin- 8mins

---Interval---

Gan Eng Seng Military Band

1. Overture Jubiloso - Frank Erickson - 7mins
2. Eiger - James Swearingen - 7mins

Victoria School Concert Band

1. Symphonic Movement - Vaclav Nelhybel - 7mins
2. Chester Overture - William Schuman - 7mins

Manjusri Concert Band

1. English Folk song suite (1st movt)- 5mins **tentative or might be out
2. First Suite in Eb by Gustav Holst - 12mins

Presentation for tokens of appreciation-5mins
Encore-5mins

**Tentative arrangements
**Must be confirmed by 1st of Nov 2008 ( Mdm elna pls take note tks.)

National Anthem

2008-08-03T22:06:00.003+08:00

Dear all members,

This is gentle reminder for all of you with regards to our performance for the morning national anthem on next week. Please be reminded that all members from both band A and B are involve in this event.

All of you are required to report to the band room at 6.45am for the whole of next week. The attire would be our band t-shirt and for those who do not have the band t-shirt are allowed to wear any black colour shirt. As for next friday, the attire would be the full band uniform.

Thank You!

Practice

2008-08-01T21:51:00.004+08:00

There will be a band practice tomorrow from 9am to 12.30pm. It is compulsory for all band members to attend. Thank You!

English Folk Song Suite

2008-07-28T22:11:00.001+08:00

Written in 1923, the English Folk Song Suite is one of English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams's most famous works for military band. The piece has also been arranged for full orchestra and brass band by Vaughan Williams' student Gordon Jacob. The suite consists of three movements: March, Intermezzo and another March, all of which are subtitled with English folk song names. The first march is based upon Seventeen Come Sunday, the Intermezzo upon My Bonny Boy and the final movement on Folk Songs from Somerset.

1: March - "Seventeen Come Sunday"

Seventeen Come Sunday opens after a four bar introduction with the principal melody - the folk song Seventeen Come Sunday[1] - played by the woodwind section (flutes in orchestrated version). This melody is repeated, and the woodwind is joined by the brass (violins in orchestrated version). The phrasing is irregular - the melody lasts for thirteen bars. This melody is followed by Pretty Caroline[2] as a quiet melody for solo clarinet and solo cornet (clarinet only in orchestrated version), which is also repeated. A third tune, Dives and Lazarus then enters in the lower instruments. This third tune is notorious for having a grueling 6/8 rhythm played by the upper woodwinds, against the straight 2/4 rhythm of the saxophones and brasses. This third theme is repeated, then leads straight back to the second theme. Finally, the first theme is repeated in a Da capo al Fine. The form of this movement can be represented by A-B-C-B-A (Arch form).

2: Intermezzo - "My Bonny Boy"

My Bonny Boy opens with a solo for the oboe (sometimes doubled or played by solo cornet) on the tune of the folk song My Bonny Boy[3], which is repeated by the low-register instruments. Halfway through the movement, a Poco Allegro begins on Green Bushes[4], a typically English waltz, first sounded by a piccolo, E-flat clarinet, and oboe first in the minor context, then repeated in the major with the lower-brass. The first melody is played again in fragmented form before the close of the movement. The appeal of this piece derives from its sheer simplicity.

3: March - "Folk Songs from Somerset"

Folk Songs from Somerset

Folk Songs from Somerset opens with a light introduction of four measures before the first melody, the folk song Blow Away the Morning Dew or The Baffled Knight[5], played by the solo cornet (clarinet in orchestration). This melody is then dovetailed around the band/orchestra before finishing with a fortissimo reprise. A second melody (High Germany[6]) then takes over, being played by the tenor and lower register instruments, while the remainder takes over the on beat chordal structure. As this second melody dies away the original melody is heard once again with the tutti reprise. This then leads into the key change, time change (6/8) and the trio. The trio introduces a more delicate melody played by the woodwind with a light accompaniment. This continues until the time signature changes again, back to the original 2/4. Along with this time change a final heavy melody (John Barleycorn) enters in the lower instruments (trombones and double basses in orchestrated version) while the cornets play decorative features above. This trio is then repeated in full before a D.C. is reached. The form of this movement can be represented by A-B-A. (ternary form)

First Suite in E-flat major for Military Band

2008-07-28T02:50:00.000+08:00

The "First Suite in E-flat major for Military Band" (Op. 28, No. 1) is a cornerstone in the concert band repertoire. This piece, along with its sister piece, "Second Suite in F for Military Band", was written by the prominent British composer Gustav Holst. Aside from these two suites, Hammersmith and A Moorside Suite were his only band works. The First Suite, as it is informally called, was written for a full military band in 1909. During this time of band music, the repertoire was almost exclusively transcriptions from orchestral works. Holst's First and Second Suites are two of the very few works for concert bands that have been transcribed for orchestra.

The First Suite has three movements, each with its own character and form. The complete composition is based upon a 8-measure melody reminiscent of English folk song; however, the tune is original to Holst.

Most notably, the theme statement that initiates the first movement is developed throughout each movement. Its variations range in style from lyrical to playfully rhythmic to ornamentally embellished.

[edit] Movement 1: "Chaconne"

This movement, in 3/4 time, is based upon an 8-measure melody initiated by the low brass which repeats sixteen times throughout the piece. This form is synonymous with a passacaglia, however both terms are often used interchangeably. The rhythm of the theme with its half note-quarter note and quarter note-half note rhythm is believed to be based upon medieval English carols; the "Agincourt Song" from 1415 in particular bears a strong resemblance.

Holst uses many colorful effects to vary the chaconne theme. These include "band hits" (synonymous with the popular term "orchestra hits") in the brass and percussion outlining the notes of the theme while the woodwinds play virtuosic sixteenth-note runs. The whole passage is marked brilliante or "brilliantly." Exactly following this is a famous low brass excerpt where they play an eighth-note line based again on the notes of the theme. This section is marked pesante or "heavily" which sharply contrasts with the material directly before.

Following this are more interesting variations using mostly combinations of solo instruments including a solo horn, duet between flute and oboe, and solo alto saxophone. This section eventually develops into a minor key.

Two of the repetitions, the tenth and eleventh, are an inversion of the theme. Here the mood changes drastically with a funeral march like feel with the dynamics exceptionally soft. The bass drum and tuba emphasize a hemiola rhythm while a solo euphonium plays the inversion in a minor key. The twelfth, the theme played a third higher, is a famous trombone soli that hints at Holst's earlier years as a trombone player. Then a crescendo poco a poco extends over two more repetitions of the theme. At the height of the crescendo, more hemiola in the brass and saxophones is used to heighten the harmonic interest.

The climax is at the top of the crescendo with the theme being stated in almost all of the low instruments. The higher instruments play soaring counterpoint lines, all of which is marked ff. The final repetition, stated in the trombones and low trumpets/cornets (an unusual combination for its day) is transposed up a fifth, chromatically altered, and extended. The movement ends with the trombones and trumpets/cornets playing against the rest of the band playing on beats one and two while the rest of the band is striking sustained chords on the third of each measure. Holst, in the final chord, interestingly drops out all of the bass voices from the band leaving a very brilliant sounding chord with high concert B-flats in the flutes, piccolos, and trumpets/cornets. This powerful coda is difficult to play well, but has very high emotional impact when it is.

[edit] Movement 2: "Intermezzo"

Nearly all of this movement is devoted to a rhythmic and well-articulated oboe, clarinet and cornet soli. The exploitation of wind band tone colour combinations flavor this movement. While the movement is predominanly light in character, the lyrical euphonium solo—another variation on the main theme from Mvmt. 1—provides contrast with sustained and rich tone.

[edit] Movement 3: "March"

The march is usually played at a march tempo, although many recordings play it quite fast. It opens with the famous bass drum solo, one of the few in the band literature. It features two primary melodies both very contrasting in style. The first is featured in brass section in the opening strain in a very marcato manner. The trio features the mid-low woodwinds with the second theme in a lyrical and legato manner with the euphonium providing a counterpoint melody. The finale of the march uses both melodies layered on top of one another and with variation in the woodwinds. The last few bars are very powerful (marked ffff) and have one of the most famous trombone solis in the band repertoire.

[edit]

Review on Sentosa Outreach

2008-07-27T21:57:00.002+08:00

Today's performance was a disappointment. From the comments made, we actually sounded worse than the disneyland's performance. We should in fact sound better than the disneyland's performance since we had played the pieces for so many times already. Our complacency have landed us to this state as we always think that we are up to the standard already, but the truth is, we are not.

Today's performance was a lesson learnt for us. It is time to wake up and to face the truth that we are a COP band. Thus from now onwards, we must devote our hearts and minds into band and work towards our next year concert and SYF. Sinfonia is possible to be done by september only if we work hard. No pain no gain. There is definitely no free lunch in this world, we need to suffer first before getting the results that we aim for. If we do not put in the effort, we would not reach out to anything. None of us would hope that we would remain as a COP band forever, hence we need to prove to others that we can make it for a silver or gold. So from now onwards, we must work together as a band and put in the effort to strive for greater heights.

Sentosa Outreach Performance

2008-07-26T22:14:00.002+08:00

To all members:

Please be reminded that you all are to report to school tomorrow at 1300. The attire for the performance will be our full band uniform. And please remember to bring whistles tomorrow.

Thank You!

Failure is opportunity turned upside-down

2008-07-24T01:50:00.005+08:00

Failure is success if we learn something from it. Indeed, The joy of making mistakes is in learning from them, growing as a result of information gain from the mistakes.
It's ok that we did badly in the SIBF.
Now we have 4 months before our concert and next year April is the SYF2009.Start to practice hard and push your playing skill to another level. My goal is to complete the sinfonia and first suite by 2nd week of sept or we will be behind the schedule.Time don't wait.Every practice from now to April is extremely important.Be discipline..
First i want to see a clean band room and neat school attire.

This failure will not pull me or you down...
Admit that we are all not up to the standard..Don't give your self excuses why you didn't do well...we have to work much harder and that includes me and Mr Ng and you all, the musicians, the leaders and the teachers...Workharder!!You will enjoy the joy of success next round. Practice makes perfect.I will set a very high standard next week onwards.Don't expect a very tactful criticism...good i will say good..bad i will say bad.No trying to be nice guy thingy, i don't have time for such game......Be realistic!

" What Great thing would you attempt if you knew you could not fail?"

Your next challenge is to work hard toward the next concert and also to help to push the sec one members to another level. Do put some effort in guiding and helping them during sectional.

There will be some changes in your instrumentation and schedule. Some senior will be put to play the 3rd part to support the lower voices.Good players will be put to more major roles.Weaker one try harder and work on your basic fundamental in the junior band.
Sectional leaders,Majors and apprentices i want meeting( briefing)with me before every practices.All 5 apprentices and majors must go dinner with me once a month on any friday.

Future schedule ( New plan)

Wed- Band A full band
Band B Sectional

Friday- Band B Full band
Band A Sectional

Band A-Junior band ( Sec 1 and weaker players)

Band B- Senior band

For now,relax,reflect,take a view from the mountaintop and allow yourself to see the next even higher place.

god bless

Rds
Simon foo

TimeTable for Wednesday 23/7.

2008-07-22T16:10:00.002+08:00

Dear all band members,

Please read the timetable below on what will be happening on wednesday 23/7. Also, please take note of the timings on when to report etc and follow the timetable closely.

1225> Release of members that involve in SIBF
1225-1315> Lunch+change into band uniform
1315> Report to band room with everything prepared
1400-1700> Tuning with Mr Foo
1700> Arrival of bus( leave at 5 plus)
1815>Arrival at competition venue
1830>Tuning at tuning room and run through piece A
1900> Band's performance
1920> End of performance
1920-2130> Stay and watch other band perform
2130> Announcement of results
2230> Back at school

Snacks and Dinner<- (most probably) might be provided on wednesday 23/7.

Thank You!

2008-07-22T01:17:00.002+08:00

WALTER BEELER, one of the great band trainers of the last century said:

Restraint is especially important in fast music; the spirit begins to suffer if played too loud. The audience tires, the players tire and it becomes a very determined piece. It's hard for a band to play with restraint because speed and excitement always tend to increase the volume. But if we rely on articulations, accents and rhythm (rather than volume) to bring about a condition of brightness, it will definitely be more musical.

Music to prepare for sentosa performance ( Sunday)

2008-07-22T00:30:00.005+08:00

1. Disco lives

2. ocean selection

3. High school musical

4. Beauty and the beast

5. Instant swing

6. colors of the wind

7. Stand up for Singapore

There will be band practice this Sat if possible..i think we need..you decide...let me know on wed..or unless you all come for band at 1pm on friday.Please check with Mr Famy.
Thanks.

--------------------------------------------------wed---------------------------------------------------------
All clarinet players please come earlier this wed. bought some good ligatures, you will take an hour or so to get use before the evening competition...
A bit rush, suppose to do it on Monday be most of you went off early that day.
Monday is so crucial, i not sure wed i can conduct well like that.I'm felt very disappointed. I could have done some last min miracle with you...now we just have to pray hard.god bless..

Thanks

Wed please warm up your self 15mins before band and then quickly tune yourself to 442...only tuba to 440...flute 443. I will do the general tuning and matching around 3pm....

Intonation and balance/blend are extremely important for a competition...

Thanks

Important Info on SIBF

2008-07-19T20:33:00.001+08:00

I've transferred almost all our band stuff from the old MIDAS to the new one. Visit http://manjusri.learnfusion.com/midas and click on guest access. There's a section on SIBF that explain almost all the details for next week.

On tuning and practice by simon foo

2008-07-16T00:54:00.003+08:00

The below step- by- step approach is developed for students so that they know how to practice correctly both at home or during sectionals.
This step- by- step method consist of five stages:
Stage 1 getting the notes right!
This is the most basic but time consuming. This stage is usual done individually before coming for rehearsal. Some time it is helpful to have the senior to guide them along during the sectional practices. They should follow the steps below, making sure each step is mastered before moving on to the next.
1.1 Read the notes right
1.2 Knowing the correct fingering
1.3 Pitching the notes right
1.4 Playing the correct note’s values.
1.5 Playing the correct rest value

Stage 2: Breathing at the correct place and marking down where to breathe after consulting the director or sectional leader.
After getting all the notes, phrasing is the next stage similar to the first stage, this is usually done individually but like wise a section should come together to an agreement as to where to breath together.
Hint on how the student can figure out the breath marks:
2.1 Look for the long slur lines
2.2 Comma
2.3 Usually 2, 4 or 8 bars depending on the music
2.4 Sing out the melody or note and make sure it sounds natural

Stagger breathing
Sometime the music is written in such a way that there should be no breaks at all. This is where stagger breathing comes about. Each player must breath at the different points of the phrase so as to ensure that the music does not break at all. The section leader must plan where each player breathes and it must be practice as a section.
Stage 3: Make a difference in the music by adding articulation
Articulation marks are symbols like slur, staccato, tenuto and accent etc. They indicate how the notes should be played. They add the style to the music.
Getting this correct can help in a lot of blending or precision problems during he rehearsal.
Stage 5: Adding the correct dynamic
This also helps in the balance during the full band.
Stage 6: Tempo
6.1 Never compromise notes for the tempo. Always practice at a slower tempo especially the running notes) only increase the speed when they are familiar with the notes.
6.2 Put marking on the measure that requires a change of tempo, example RIT, RALL etc.

-Tuning individual instrument for better intonation

“The tuning process is different for each instrument family, and there are important tuning differences for certain instrument within families.”

Many band I come across tuned to concert Bb note for the whole band. Although tuning one note doesn’t mean the intonation of the instrument will be good but at it makes it easier for us to adjust our tuning. One method that makes sense to everyone is to tune to an open note or a stable tone on the instrument. A common practice by many professional ensembles is to tune the woodwinds to concert “A” and Brass their open note the concert “ Bb”. The Horns to Concert “F”, which is the key that they are built in.
Clarinet is very different from the other woodwinds instrument by being the only one that overblown a 12th (instead of an octave). All professional clarinetists I come across will tune the clarinet to two notes the concert A to adjust the bell and Open “G” which is the concert F to adjust the barrel compensate.

-Teaching tuning and listening procedure for better intonation

In the recent years, the tradition of tuning from the soprano instruments- the clarinet or oboe has change. Through a better understanding of overtones, many band directors I came across have switch to tuning from the bass instrument either the tuba, bass clarinet or baritone saxophone. The lowest fundamental note affect all the other higher tones above, the lower instrument of the band affect the tuning of the higher instrument. Most of the band will tune their bass instruments with the tuner then match the sound from the lowest to the higher instruments.

There is no special short cut on tuning after I try all the three methods; it all depends on personal preference and the student able to listen. “ The teaching techniques used from students earliest musical experiences frequently create confusion and problem. When students are instructed to listen for sharpness and flatness in pitch, the attention focused to discerning the highness or lowness, instead of the actual beats or misaligned frequencies of two or more sounds.”

Therefore we need to teach the students step by step, an effective way to do it is to use two experience players to demonstrate. One player will tune at standard A=442 and the others at A= 445,the varying frequency will collide creating a buzz. At this moment we will not ask the student to recognize flat or sharp, they just need to listen to the speed of the buzz (Beats) .We must then explained to them that the faster the beat the more out of tuned and the slower the more in tuned. To get rid of the buzz, the student has to experiment by put adjusting the slide in or out by try and error until it is beat less (buzz disappeared) and they are perfectly in tuned. Procedure “A” or “B” is good to train student to listen for the beat to match their sound, but this process tends to take up more time. Procedure “C” takes a shorter time but needs a more experience band, for less school band it is good to let the student sing the oboe tuning pitch correctly before they play. We must not spend too much time on this process once the students are clear how to identify and correct pitch errors. Do a group tuning when time is limited.

New tuning procedure (A)

Lower woodwinds-→ Tuba-→ Euphonium→ Trombone-→ Trumpet-→A/T saxophone-→ Horns --→ clarinet--→ Flute-→ oboe

New tuning procedure (B)

Tuba→Euphonium→ Trombone→Trumpet
Euphonium→Baritone saxophone → Bass clarinet
Trumpet → Alto sax
Alto saxophone→ Clarinet
Clarinet→ Flute
Flute → Oboe

Traditional tuning procedure (C)

Oboe sounds “Bb” all brass tune to this note.
Oboe Sounds “ A” all woodwinds to this note.
*Band without oboe tune with clarinet or even Alto Saxophone

2008-07-15T05:18:00.004+08:00

Adjudicator for the SIBF

Mr. Toshio Akiyama.......oh my god.!!..the author of the total training book that we are using..

Honorary President

Asia Pacific Band Director Association

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Mr. Douglas Bostock

Principal Conductor

Aargau Symphony Orchestra, Switzerland

Principal Guest Conductor

Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra

Principal Guest Conductor

Czech Chamber Philharmonic

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Mr. Dennis Johnson

Past President/ Parliamentarian

World Association for Symphonic Bands & Ensembles

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Mr. Surapol Thanyawibool

Music Director

Kasetsart University, Thailand

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Mr. Simon Yau

Composer

Hong Kong

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MAJ Philip Tng Liat Peng

Senior Director of Music

Singapore Armed Forces Band

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Mr. Richard Adams

Head of Music

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore

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h band will receive a written appraisal from our panel of international adjudicators and Diploma in Band Performance (Open Division/I/II) based on the following merit:

Gold	90.00% and above
Silver	80.00% - 89.99%
Bronze	70.00% - 79.99%
Certificate	Below 70.00%

There will also be a "Best Soloist" prize (applicable for Open Division only) which will be announced at the end of the contest.

Prizes

Open Division

1st Prize:	S$10,000
	Singapore International Band Festival Trophy

2nd Prize:	S$4,000

Division I

1st Prize:	S$3,000
	Singapore International Band Festival Trophy

Division II

1st Prize:	S$2,000
	Singapore International Band Festival Trophy

Best Soloist

Best Soloist Trophy

(Applicable for Open Division only)

Marking Scheme
The adjudicators will judge the performance based on the following criteria:

1. Sound
	a. Intonation
	b. Tone Quality
	c. Balance

2. Technique
	a. Technique
	b. Articulations
	c. Ensemble Musicianship
	d. Rhythm

3. Musical Performance
	a. Phrasing
	b. Dynamics
	c. Interpretation

Analysis in simple and understandable point forms

2008-07-15T04:09:00.004+08:00

Piece A
(INTRO) Instead of using the usual timpani roll to lead to a majestic introduction opening, the composer choose a suspended cymbal to appropriately bring in a more lyrical brass chorale tune with a block chord accompaniment by the lower brasses. The 3rd trumpet here plays an important role to support the other trumpets that are having the main melody. The phrase structure here is in simple periodic form- 2 bars of antecedent (Ascending feel) and follow by 2 bars of consequent (descending feel). At measure 5 this tune moves on to be a more tutti texture using the higher sounding flutes and clarinets on the melody and some elision melody from the trumpets. He then intelligently brings in the timpani to lead to this forte passage. Still legato style although the dynamic increase by increasing the texture only.

(A) Measure 9: Suspended chord leading to the presto section helps to emphasize the arrival of a more exciting tempo and contrasting articulated tune. Melody here starts with the trumpet using scale like variation to create the tune, all in stepwise ascending and descending motion. The antecedent and consequent here is link by the block chord movement of the lower brasses in contrary motions. Trumpet tune is in staccato with a little slur somewhere to spice up the descending phrase. The lower brass link is again written in a creative way, using first link in a straight/ stable crotchets and second link using syncopations to create a contrasting mood. Measure 19 is the same thing but now the trombones and euphonium play the melody, accompanied by woodwinds. The use of higher sounding instrument, as an accompaniment is quite creative here (hahahaha ok lah I mean in term of educational point of view). The only sustained note here in the section is the chime semibreve note hidden inside this orchestration.

(B) Measure 27: Driving decorative ostinato (repetition and succession of equal sounds) like tune of the flutes in staccato mark the arrival of theme B.Triangle add on the texture and follow by claves rhythmic texture - Expressive clarinet tune in contrast, a full clarinet sounding tone is needed here in order to sounds good. The saxophone ensemble accompanies melody with a driving syncopated phrase

Trombone adds on to the texture before Measure 42 as a slight hint to the trombone melody coming ahead. Measure 42 with a brass questioning and the woodwind answering with slight elision.

Measure 50: A full tutti, similar technique use again in the brass melody (contrast in straight and syncopated phrases) so in order to make this repetition style sounds interesting, a new slur 1 and tongued 2 kind of elision counter melody is added here. Snare drum part has similar rhythms with the woodwind to enhance the clarity in articulation. Basses, cymbal and chimes have sustained notes to support the tune. (Please try to show your sustain notes)- How? Don’t ask me liao. I have shown you many time how to do it...:P

(A2) Measure 52: A recap of the presto section -diminutions in length with some simple alterations.
Repetitive figures in the trumpet creates suspend on what coming next. The motif of this section then breaks into fragment of chime-liked effect (Sfz notes) leading to the next chapter.

(C) Measure 72 – Adagio expressivo!!!!!! 0_0Slower tempo but don’t melt very single notes and slow down the tempo. Be sure of the Phrase structure here and knowing where to take put breath marks. Express the phrase not the notes and have direction in your playing. Inner voices ascending notes make slight crescendo where necessary. I will be conducting the phrasing and the internal dynamic and its important to look at me during each entry.
Players have the dynamic bare bone, but you all don’t know where the music is going to or coming from, and you might not understand your particular roles or job at the time. Either playing the main melody, the counter melody, the harmonic backing, giving a rhythmic or harmonic twist. (Trade secret…hahahha) please look at me.

This section is very tricky in term of breath marks and phrase structure.But the harmonic progression if you listen carefully its the exact chromatic movement/progression as the chorale section at the introduction. One must understand that it’s different from the simple periodic form as before. Here the flute melody is introduced in a double periodic phrase structure-consists of 2 simple periods. (Ok difficult; please ask me to explain this during practice) or easy, don’t breathe in between the slur….hehe that will make it simple. In the inner voice we have the euphonium. Measure 75- Clarinet enters as an elision consequent melody follows by a horn counter melody. Horn player please make an effort to show the different in tone colors between the A and A flat note here. Ok difficult again. Please ask me to explain.
I might invite trombone or tuba here example to crescendo an inner part, not because intellectually it is such and such a harmonic progression, but because emotionally the chromatic movement demands that.
Measure 80- has the most beautifully written melodies (trumpet and clarinet with a added on texture from the flute entry.) Horn and saxophone as the inner voice (counter melody) Listen and make colors with the Flat and natural notes here. Takes a lot of sensitive playing and imagination to do that well.
Go listen to the recording.

(B2) measure 90 same as before. Full tone in the melody and connect the slur notes well to make good legato playing.

(A3) same…. with some changes in tempo at the last chime effect part…a molto rit.breathe after the crescendo femata. Very dangerous place. Die die must look at the conductor.I scare too this part.damn..conducted wrongly in montage.

Measure 130
Coda- largo (very slow) to a sudden fast tempo. All melodies and motif of the piece are pull together consecutively here. Thick texture, but I would like to bring out the horn and saxophone.
A little harmonic twist- 142 in the lower brasses.

Please show a well play and organize Subito (Sudden) forte piano in the last chord. Band majors do work on this with the band during your warm up session.

Simon foo
Thanks. All the best and God bless.

Remember:

Subito piano is more effective if preceded by a crescendo
subito forte is more effective if preceded by diminuendo
the first fortissimo is the smallest, the last is the biggest

The purpose of dynamic change is to sustain interest on the part of the listener, as well as to create a mood. Obviously, the wider the dynamic range of the band, the better prepared they are to do both.

“One of the biggest problems with the wind band is one of its greatest strengths, its brilliance, produced by all of these dominant colours. There are some pastel shades, low flutes, bassoons, some saxophone, horn and euphonium scoring, but on the whole we are lucky to have a glittering range of bright colours, which can and often does get very tiring to the ear. We have two jobs in my view, whether with the orchestra, band or choir. Believe that our biggest job is CONTROL of this brilliance.”
By Tim reyish.

WALTER BEELER, one of the great band trainers of the last century said:

Restraint is especially important in fast music; the spirit begins to suffer if played too loud. The audience tires, the players tire and it becomes a very determined piece. It's hard for a band to play with restraint because speed and excitement always tend to increase the volume. But if we rely on articulations, accents and rhythm (rather than volume) to bring about a condition of brightness, it will definitely be more musical.

Important Message to EXCO 2008/2009

2008-07-14T01:25:00.005+08:00

Congratulations to all newly appointed student leaders. Let's work hard together to bring the band to greater heights.

Your official letter of appointment will soon be ready. You can also refer to the job scope on the band noticeboard in the band room.

Demonstrate initiative and take action where necessary. There is no need to wait for Mr Foo, myself, Sha' or Sharil to give instructions. Of course, keep us informed.

If you are unsure, check with your predecessor, or simply check with us. We will be glad to give assistance whenever necessary.

Observe and look at the current situation, especially when senior leaders or the band alumni is around. They are a great source of inspiration and advice. You can also ask our honorary band member, Sin Hua for help, too. :-)

There is much preparation to be done now that we are near the competition. Think of the preparation needed for mbrosia or MONTAGE. There is a checklist of activities available from the previous Apprentices. You can use that document as a guide.

To start off:

Secretary, please note down any important remarks or reminders from Mr Foo. Carry a notebook if necessary. Better yet, save your notes in your handphone and set automatic reminders. Work with the Majors closely. Take down the minutes of any meetings the committee conducts. Find out how to take and disseminate minutes.
Quartermasters: As usual, check whether there's enough reeds, mouthpieces, lubricants, etc. Check if any instruments need repair. Bring along extra accessories on the competition day. Work closely with the SLs to find out what the section needs.
Treasurer: Check accounts and log book. Standardise procedures for band fund collection and claims (e.g. signatures and receipts). Start collecting band fund.
Librarians: Check to see if members or sections have appropriate scores. We'll need the Disney pieces too since we'll be performing the Disney pieces in Sentosa. Memorise the number of sheet music needed for each section. Maintain close communication with each other. Keep extra copies of scores.
Uniform Managers: Please check that the Sec Ones have their vests, etc. You may need to see them on a separate day to coordinate uniform fitting. Bring extra buttons, needle and thread on the competition day.
Welfare/Public Relations: Get ready to host our exchange band, e.g. preparation of gifts, refreshments, etc. Also, look after the welfare of the band members. If you see any members particularly stressed out, do talk to them and check if they need help. Bring extra handiplast, hair spray, hair clip, etc. on the competition day.
Web Admin: We need to start your training on managing the band blog on the e-learning portal. Please arrange for appointment with me. Work closely with the Majors and the Secretary.
Apprentice Majors: Work closely with one another and with the Band/Drum Major. Your actions should be for the good of the band, not for your own glory (sorry if this sounds harsh or patronising). However I believe that all five of you have a good heart and only want the best for the band.
Section Leaders: There's too many things to do for me to write here. Haha! Basically, in addition to teaching the members under your charge, you will need to work closely with the EXCO for scores, accessories, uniforms, etc. etc.

One last reminder to ALL: If any of the teachers or instructors ask you a question, please do not reply with "I dunnooooooo...." or "I forgoooooooot......". If you really do not know, just say, "I'm not sure, let me check with [Xyz], ok? I'll get back to you once I'm certain." If you really forgot, then answer with, "Oops, I'll get right on it!" :-)

Congratulations, once again. Like Mr Foo, I'm really proud of our accomplishments so far. When I think back, I really, really think the turning point was our first mbrosia concert. There were so many good things that came out after the concert. Let's maintain our good work.

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee
Overall Teacher-in-Charge
Manjusri Concert Band

Participant List

2008-07-13T11:46:00.005+08:00

Click to enlarge.

Please check that your name has been spelt correctly. Inform me if there are any errors.

Change of Practice Schedule for Next Week

2008-07-12T18:23:00.008+08:00

To all band members:

There will be a change of band practice next week. Mr Foo is unavailable on Wednesday, and since we can't afford to miss any practice sessions so close to the competition, instead of Wednesday and Friday, it has been changed to TUESDAY 15/7 and Friday 18/7. The timings will remain the same, i.e. 3.00 pm on Tuesday and 2.30 pm on Friday. To all newly appointed SLs, please inform all your members.

Sec. 1s, if you have to attend CIP on Tuesday, go for CIP unless you're actually taking part in the SIBF, in which case, Mr Muhd Fahmy will issue an official letter of excuse.

THANK YOU!

Manjusri Concert Band EXCO 2008/2009

2008-07-11T22:56:00.011+08:00

Band Major: Sha'abaniah Anis
Drum Major: Sharil Annuar
Secretary: Chan Weng Yee
Quarter Master (Brass): Ng Sheng Jun
Quarter Mistress (Woodwinds): Chew Wen Qi
Treasurer: Chia Xin Ying
Head Librarian: Victor Kuan
Assistant Librarian: Christopher Koh
Uniform Manager (Males): Muhd Fahmi Md Don
Uniform Manager (Females): Joey Yu
Welfare/Public Relations Officer: Natally Ng
Assistant Welfare/Public Relations: Melvin Keh
Web Administrator: Chang Wei Xing

Apprentice Majors (in alphabetical order)
Abdul Rahman Nasir Baessa
Elaine Soh
Law Yin Kai
Soh Yan Da
Zeng Gu Juan

Section Leaders
Clarinet: Adeline Liow , Assistant : Clarin
Flute: Soh Yan Da
Saxophone/Oboe: Sharil Annuar
Saxophone Assistant: Fang Fang
French Horn: Chang Wei Xing
Euphonium: Sha'abaniah Anis
Trombone: Darren Ho
Trumpet: Levon Lim , Assistant :Abdul Rahman Nasir Baessa
Elaine Soh
Tuba: Shahrul Ammar
Percussion: Zeng Gu Juan
Percussion Assistant: Seng Yan Bin

Congratulations to all various new appointment holders!

Dear MJR Band

2008-07-11T00:50:00.005+08:00

The first half of 2008 has certainly seemed to have zipped by at lightning speed and I am confident to say that this is the best year I have ever had in Manjusri. :> It is indeed a very fruitful year for me and you were very much a part of that.

I would like to use this opportunity to thank you for your diligence and hard work in preparing for the upcoming competition and performances. I hope that even if we were to do badly for the competition - touch wood hahahaha - we must take this as a learning journey as life itself is a journey too or even an adventure! Results must never be measured just by competition alone. As far as I am concerned, what counts most is your own personal growth, satisfaction, enjoyment and even fullfilment in life or music. In my heart you are always my gold band!

If we want to succeed, there is no short cut. Every step still possesses its own rewards. I am sure you have already learned this TRUTH in this very special CCA -- Band.

Thanks.

SIMON FOO

Important Message from Mr Foo

2008-07-10T00:27:00.008+08:00

I am quite embarassed because we are playing such a cheesy repertoire for such a big event. But, well, no choice. Hong Kong pieces took up too much of our time. We would just have to do our best to make this easy pieces sound good. Let's work harder. I strongly advise members to pen down all the mistakes I spotted during rehearsals. This will help a bit. (edited by Mr Fahmy: Would the SLs like to meet Mr Foo 15 minutes before band practice to note down all his advice and remarks for EACH bar? Arrange to meet him separately, please, then disseminate to your members. This may help to make band practice more productive and also save a bit of time.)

Remember guys, don't play like the performance during Montage!!! We will get a C.O.P!!! The Montage playing style is for entertainment only, not for a serious band competition. Playing too loud and without a good balance and blend or good perception of the piece structure will only result in a lot of marks being deducted.

Every member must do his or her part well. Even the 3rd clarinet and the 3rd trumpet are important parts. In fact, the 2nd and 3rd players are all the inner voices of the piece. These parts are usually neglected as non-important roles, when in fact, they have equal levels of importance.

Percussion players usually treat their instruments as hitting tools. They should in fact be the group of people that know the music every well and are very sensitive to the phrasing made by the other blowing instruments of the band. Their banging and hitting must fit the music and the style or structure of the music. I'm sure composers don't use percussion to make more noise. It should be more than that. For example, composers use the percussion to achieve the harmonic texture or colours of each phrase. Or cadences.

But now, well, let's not say too much. Hahahaha. You guys must do your best to get the correct rhythms or entries.

2nd and 3rd clarinets and trumpets. Jia you!!!
Triangle and cymbals players. Jia you!!!
Our fate depends on you. God bless.

One last reminder - the 1st trumpet and clarient players, etc. etc. are all the outer voices. Or I can say the perimeters of the picture. I need more inner voices and depth in our music.

Listen for them during the next practice.

Don't judge a book by its cover. Don't play like the Montage performance.
Memorise the percussion notes. You have no pitch notation to read. Go listen to the recordings. Get familiar with the music, my dear percussion players.

Don't always think big. Do the small little things well. Notice the small joys of success everyday during band practice. Put in the small steps of hard work everyday. Little accomplishments are also progresses that lead you to future successes. (=

There is no last minute miracles without these small daily accomplishments.

Getting a bar perfect each practice is an accomplishment in itself!

Thank You!

Order of Appearance for SIBF

2008-06-18T20:15:00.004+08:00

Click to enlarge

As you can see, we will come in at 1900 right after the intermission. Continue to practice hard!

2008-06-17T15:55:00.002+08:00

Band,
please be reminded that tommorrow's band practice will be from 9am to 5pm.
Please be take note of the changes. Thanks.

Public Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah Anis.

SIBF Poster

2008-06-17T01:08:00.005+08:00

As we're watching the drama unfold, check out what just came in via my e-mail today.

Click to enlarge.

I didn't realise that when I submitted our band photos to SIBF that they were going to use Natally's pic as part of their publicity poster! Haha. Congrats Natally. Love the look you're in!

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee

Overall Teacher-in-Charge

Manjusri Concert Band

Journal by Ms Jacqueline Leong & Animation Magic Quiz

2008-06-09T00:16:00.004+08:00

Our school counsellor, Ms Jacqueline Leong has written a 5-day journal recounting her observations and experience while accompanying us to Hong Kong. Please give your thanks to her for the amazing effort the next time you see her.

A quiz on the Animation Magic Workshop is now available. The top 3 scorers will win a box of Ferrero Roche!

Visit MIDAS under Co-Curricular Activities/Concert Band to read the full journal and attempt the quiz.

HK Tour Handbook, Reflections & Other Activities

2008-05-26T00:56:00.015+08:00

Please complete the reflections on your tour handbook and submit to me, Mr Muhd Fahmy, during the next band practice.

It is important to show to Mrs Tay that we have benefitted from this trip, so that she will support future band projects and overseas trips. It is therefore to your benefit to complete it fully before submission.

If your handbook is crumpled, seriously damaged or simply lost (!!) please download and print the relevant pages here.

We also encourage you to upload your photos on MIDAS to share your photos with others and discuss the trip fully on the forum discussion in MIDAS. Click here to go to MIDAS. If you have problems logging in to MIDAS, send me an email at muhammad_fahmy_babjee@moe.edu.sg and I will reset your password.

Lastly, here is a message from Mr Foo:
Thanks to everybody for the hard work and wonderful experience during this HK trip. Have a good rest. Hope to see the same team-work and spirit when band practice resumes.

Band practice will resume on 04 Jun 2008 at 1 pm. The details of all practice sessions in the month of June & July all the way to the Singapore International Band Festival on 23 Jul 2008 are indicated below. Leaders, please disseminate this information to all members. Ignorance is not an excuse. It is the members' responsibility to check whether there is band practice, but it doesn't hurt to remind them too. Don't give lame reasons like "I forgoooooot" or "I dunnoooooooo".

Hong Kong Immersion & Exchange Programme

2008-05-22T11:43:00.013+08:00

More images can be found at MIDAS under Co-Curricular Activities/Concert Band. Login using your MIDAS account or click on Login as guest.

FAQs on HK Trip

2008-05-17T18:33:00.024+08:00

Please read through this FAQ and your handbook carefully before asking questions that have already been asked or already indicated in the handbook. Download a pdf version of the handbook here.

What is the departure time from Singapore on 21 May and arrival time back in Singapore on 25 May?
Please check the handbook for all flight details. The flight number is also indicated in the handbook. But, for completeness they are indicated again here.

Departure from Singapore (21 May 2008 Wed)
UA 896 Terminal 3
ETD: 6.40 am
ETA: 10.00 am

Departure from Hong Kong (25 May 2008 Sun)
UA 895 Terminal 3
ETD: 8.00 pm
ETA: 11.35 pm

What should I wear when I report to school on 21 May?
Report to school for morning assembly in school uniform. When you report again at 9 pm, you can wear your own clothes. Wear jeans and t-shirt.

Can I wear 3/4-pants?
No, the material can be flimsy or thin. 3/4 jeans are acceptable.

Can I wear sneakers instead of sports shoes?
Yes.

Can I wear slippers?
No. But you can wear slippers in the privacy of your hotel room. Do not wear slippers all over the hotel grounds or anywhere else.

How many bags of luggage can I bring?
One and only one for checking in. But you can have another hand-carried bag slung over your shoulder. Coloured tags and ribbons will be distributed before we leave for easy identification.

Can I bring more clothes than the number that is indicated in the handbook?
Yes. But remember you are limited to one bag for check-in and one bag for hand-carry. You also need space for your band uniform, and that includes the vest and your formal black shoes.

Can I wear a dress?
No. Dresses attract unwanted attention, especially if the cut is high and is revealing. Stick to jeans and t-shirt throughout.

I feel very weird bringing my luggage to school in the morning. How?
Get a luggage bag that looks more glamourous than your current one, usually one with wheels. You can then pull it along and walk through the school gates and act cool (wear a jacket or sweater for maximum effect). You can place your bag in the band room while we pack the instruments.

Can I change roommate?
No. As explained, senior members have been paired with juniors so that we can take care of one another.

I feel very sad that I can't go to Hong Kong. Will you guys buy me souvenirs?
Yes. Also, check this blogsite for updates as Ms Jacqueline Leong will post pictures and descriptions every day. You can then follow our activities from Singapore even though you're not with us. HK Participants, tell your parents they can visit this blogsite too. The photo journal will be up on the school's e-learning portal, MIDAS under Co-Curricular Activities/Concert Band. Use your MIDAS account, or click on Login as guest. Click here to go to MIDAS.

Do I need to prepare gifts for the band exchange session?
Yes. Just a simple, small and not too expensive one will do, and preferably one uniquely Singapore, for them to remember you by.

Hong Kong Immersion Banner

2008-05-11T22:31:00.004+08:00

Nice or not? Click to enlarge.

Latest Schedule 10 May 2008

2008-05-10T20:50:00.000+08:00

Latest Schedule

2008-05-06T06:07:00.010+08:00

The latest schedule is indicated below. As you can see, the schedule is very tight. To encourage members to practice, we will be opening the band room even on non-CCA days to allow you the time and space to practice.

Some students have indicated that the last paper on Fri 09 May ends at 0930. However, both Mr Foo and Mr Ng has commitments elsewhere and are unable to come earlier than 2.00 pm. If you wish to practice after your paper, please inform the leaders and we will open the band room in the morning. For now, official band practice on Fri 09 May begins as usual at 2.00 pm.

Click to enlarge

On a side note, many members have yet to submit supporting documents for the application for subsidy. Please note that if these documents are not submitted, then you will only be eligible for $300 subsidy, and you will not be eligible for further subsidy. Check with me if you're unsure whether your application is acceptable.

Please also inform me of your blood group if you have yet to do so.

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee

Overall Teacher-in-Charge

Manjusri Concert Band

East Zone Band Camp

2008-05-06T05:45:00.004+08:00

The East Zone Centre for Excellence for Music is organising a 2-day band camp at Pasir Ris Crest Secondary from 04 to 05 Jun 2008. The details are indicated below. Click to enlarge.

Please inform me ASAP if you're interested and I will submit the application form for you.

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee
Overall Teacher-in-Charge
Manjusri Concert Band

2008-05-04T15:39:00.002+08:00

HELLO PEOPLE!!

I am so sorry if this blog have not been updated for so long. I am not sure about the next band practice. If it is confirm, I post it again by Wednesday. I hope all of you have started revising for your mid-year exams. The band room will be open on this coming Friday for all who are free and need to polish up your songs. More updates will be up this week. I need to confirm the pieces we will be playing for Hong Kong trip. The schedules for the practices will be updated too. I know all of you are so excited to know about the next practice. You all have been asking me like everytime you see me. I will let you all know by Wednesday. (=

Sha'abaniah Anis,
Public Relations Officer.

2008-04-21T21:19:00.003+08:00

BAND!!

Days of hard work, pratices and rehearsals had finally come to an end!! I hope all of you had enjoyed both nights for the School Anniversary and Montage! To the seniors who had performed, all our hard work had paid off! We did it! GOOD JOB!! Even though our band was the smallest that day, our sound was super loud and good! A lot of comments for the band that day. Not only we were good in playing, we were the enthu ones overall! Disco lives had made the choir members all sang and dance at the back stage while we were playing that song. Good job to those who actually tried your best to dance and move along with the music! Everyone's proud of the band!
I hope both nights of performances had brought the band to another level od standard and stronger bonds.Was a beautiful experience and all of you should appreciate it. I am sure all of you had great timesn nights and memories.

Thanks to the sec 4s and 5s seniors for helping and play with us in the concert. It was our last time performing together with them. Hope there will be another chance when we could get them to play with us again! Don' forget about the band seniors! Good luck for your O'levels! The band will always support you all!!

Oh! Remember to come on Wednesday, for the last practice before the CCa steps down. There will not be any Tuesday practice! We will be celebrating for the Sec4s and 5s last day. This is to end the last day with the seniors with a proper closure. We will have free time from 3 to 4 with the seniors. And we will continue practices for the next 2 hours for our Hong Kong trip. PLease dont forget about the HK trip. Wednesday is our last day! DO TURN UP!! Its our last day to be together with the seniors! Take pictures and spent your time well!

See you guys! Study hard for your Mid-Year-Exams! Stop slacking and day dreaming! Time to wake up and study smart! Start your revisions! Jia You!! Don't just be good in music, do everything to the fullest and get god grades too! We can do it! (=

Public Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah Anis

SCH ANNI&MONTAGE

2008-04-17T21:32:00.003+08:00

HEY Band!!

NOTES:
- ALL your files have to put paper clips by tommorrow.
Mr Foo will check each any everyone's file. Arrange your scores in order too.
- Have a heavy breakfast tommorrow morning.
- Attire to school will be Band uniform.
- Be informed that after released from school at 9.30am, all of you are to be in the PAC by 10.30am. BE PUNCTUAL!!
- 10.30 to 11.30 will be time for POLISHING,GREASING,OILING,TUNING,DRESSING.
- Make sure all of you have your vests.
- After the School Anniversary ends, all of you will be dismiss from the Conference Hall.
- Bring home your vest.

SATURDAY!
- All the girls are expected to style their hair.
(NO letting down of hair. All tied up!)
-Report at SCH at 12pm to 12.30pm.
- Attire full uniform. (With vest.)

Alrights. Hope things are clear. If any uncertainty, please ask the majors or your section leaders. Have a good night sleep tonight. Rest well. Good luck to soloist. Remember to apply everything we learn and practiced today. Look at Mr Foo and be outstanding instead of just good. Show others that we are not just good but outstanding! Enjoy TOMMORROW AND MONTAGE! Take care.

Updated Schedule

2008-04-12T06:05:00.002+08:00

We've made some changes to the practice schedules. Instead of flying off on 20 May (Tue) as originally planned, we will leave on 21 May (Wed) instead. This is to give us more time for preparation and practice. We will then return to Singapore on 25 May (Sun).

Note the changes to the MYE schedule. The last day of exams is 12 May (Mon) for Add Maths and POA students. Therefore, the practice on 09 and 10 May will exclude these students.

Click to enlarge.

FAQ on HK Payment

2008-04-06T23:53:00.002+08:00

I've decided to post this example so that students and parents can refer to it and understand the procedure completely.

Category A: 80% subsidy
Category B: 65% subsidy
Category C: 50% subsidy

The total cost is $1100 and students need to submit cheque payment of $300 as deposit. So...

Your parents may earn about $10,000 per month, but if you have 7 or 8 siblings who are still studying, you probably fall under Category B.

Suppose your family comes under Catergory B and students under Category B are eligible for 65% subsidy, that means that the amount payable is still about $385.

The deposit of $300 can be payed by cheque. The remaining $85 can be deducted from your EduSave account (assuming there's enough balance).

If you are eligible for 80% subsidy, you still need to pay $300 deposit by cheque. Don't worry about paying too much now because we can always reimburse you later.

The school will not allow pupils to use the entire EduSave amount since they may need it for future use (like other programmes conducted by the school).

Hope this explanation helps.

GESS Band Concert tickets

2008-03-27T21:50:00.002+08:00

BAND!
Mr Foo wants everyone of you to bring $10 cash tomorrow to buy tickets to support GESS Band concert at Singapore Poly. More informations will be given to you tomorrow. Please pass this message to your friends. I am sure theres SMSes being sent around already. Be cooperative and bring the money tomorrow. Thank you.

Publis Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah

MJR Band HK Immersion Programme Name List

2008-03-24T20:07:00.012+08:00

S/N NAME PASSPORT EXPIRY
1 FANG JIAHUI 25 May 2011
2 CHEW WEN QI 09 Jan 2011
3 CLARIN POON PEI LING (PAN PEILING) 27 Nov 2011
4 HOON YEE FANG, YVONNE 10 Oct 2011
5 YU SI YI, JOEY 22 May 2010
6 TEO WEI FENG, BENJAMIN 21 Nov 2010
7 NATALLY NG WAN YING 14 Mar 2013
8 LIOW HUI MING, ADELINE 02 Feb 2015
9 SHA'ABANIAH ANIS BINTE SHADEK 12 Oct 2009
10 TANG NGAI CHENG 26 Mar 2012
11 ELAINE SOH HUI LING 24 May 2011
12 SOH YAN DA 18 Jun 2013
13 CHANG WEI XING (ZHANG WEIXING) 03 Apr 2010
14 SENG YAN BIN 11 Aug 2014
15 MIMI AISYAH BINTE AZIAS 13 Jun 2010
16 ZENG GUJUAN 13 Dec 2011
17 ADRIAN JORGE Pending Submission
18 CHAN WENG YEE 24 Dec 2008
19 FENG BO Pending Submission
20 TAY XIU XIA 05 Apr 2011
21 SHARIL ANNUAR BIN MAHMUD 31 May 2011
22 FANG FANG 14 Jun 2010
23 KUAN WAI TUCK, VICTOR 19 Oct 2012
24 MUHAMMAD HAIKAL B ZAINALABIDIN Pending Submission
25 ONG ZIZHONG 18 Oct 2014
26 LAW YIN KAI, HUIHAI 06 Jun 2011
27 DARREN HO WEN HAO (HE WENHAO) 30 Jul 2013
28 ABDUL RAHMAN BIN NASIR BAEESA 07 Jan 2015
29 MUHAMMAD FAHMI BIN MOHAMED DON 06 Sep 2010
30 MELVIN KEH GUAN HUI 11 Jan 2010
31 LEVON LIM FANG YI 12 Apr 2012
32 KOH HENG TECK CHRISTOPHER Pending Submission
33 SHAHRUL AMMAR BIN SHADEK 12 Oct 2009
34 NG SHENG JUN 28 Aug 2011
35 KOH LI HWAN 28 Aug 2011
36 LIN LINA 06 Jan 2012
37 WONG MEI HUA 26 Jan 2015
38 POH LING YEE 04 Jan 1995
39 SHIW DING HAN, SIDNEY 03 Jun 2009
40 YEO CHENG FU Pending Submission
41 TEO SIN HUA 10 May 2010
42 MUHAMMAD FAHMY BIN BABJEE 09 Sep 2012
43 JADE LEONG TZE WEI 23 Aug 2009
44 SIA CHWEE YIAH 02 Jun 2012
45 FOO SIAK HENG SIMON 21 Feb 2011

Total Confirmed 39

The tentative date of departure is 20 May. We will return on 24 May.

Dvd Money

2008-03-18T22:47:00.002+08:00

Band!
Please be reminded, tomorrow band as usual 3pm to 6pm. Friday will not have any band practice due to good Friday.
For those people who have not given the money for the dvd, please bring it by tomorrow! Can all section leaders inform your members to bring it??!! We have waited for the money for more than a month. Be considerate to otehrs who had paid and been waiting for you all to give the money so that they could get the dvd fast. I want the money by tomorrow and latest Thursday. If you all still forget to bring. Sorry to say, we would not take in the orders from you all. We just submit the ones who had paid for it.
For the collections of passports, make sure you have submitted the photocopied passports to Mr Fahmy. Thank you.

Public Relations,
Shaabaniah

Gan Eng Seng Band Hong Kong Exchange Programme

2008-03-12T09:04:00.005+08:00

I'm jotting down notes and recounting the events of the day as it progresses. You can view the images and the description of the events at MIDAS: http://manjusri.learnfusion.com/elearn. Log in as guest if necessary and look under Co-Curricular Activities/Concert Band.

I'll update as often as I can whenever we have access to the Internet.

Muhd Fahmy Babjee
Overall Teacher-In-Charge
Manjusri Concert Band

March Holidays

2008-03-07T20:39:00.003+08:00

Many thanks to the members who made the extra effort to submit the photocopies of their passports. To date, I have 28 confirmed submissions. I will be forwarding your details to the travel agency tomorrow. Our plans for a band overseas exchange programme is finally taking shape!

Members who are still having their passports made or extended, please submit the photocopies ASAP. If possible, scan the relevant pages and email it to me at muhammad_fahmy_babjee@moe.edu.sg so that I can process it immediately even while I'm with GESS Band in Hong Kong, and hence save you the trouble of paying additional surcharge.

Sec. 2 and 3 members going to OBS during the March holidays, please watch out for one another while you're there. Remember safety first while having fun!

Muhammad Fahmy Babjee
Overall Teacher-in-Charge
Manjusri Concert Band

2008-03-03T21:43:00.002+08:00

BAND!

Can you all give me the money, $10, for the DVD by tommorrow if you see me or Wednesday!
Please be more considerate and remember to bring the money.

Regarding the photocopy of passport, can you all please hand in the photocopied passports to any of the majors or the teacher-on-charge. It is very important for Hong Kong Trip. For the boys we need your exit permit part. Mr Famy needs to collect at least 40 photocopies of passport from the senior band to pass it to the agent to confirm the date we are going. He wanted to arrange the dates on 21 May to 25 May. Which is the day after Vesak Day, 20 May. Therefore he needs the passport earlier even before he go off to Hong Kong with GESS band. People having no money is not a reason for not going. The school have this Opportuniy fund and Inter... to help the financial problems. You all should feel lucky to have the opportunity to go there. Please tell your parents and get your passports photocopied. Thanks.

Public Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah

Regarding Passports

2008-02-27T21:58:00.002+08:00

Members.
Please pass this very important notice to your friends and sections.
Mr Foo needs you all to photocopy your passports and pass it to him by this Friday.
Do remind each other. He had forgotten to announce it just now. So please. There's SMSs being spread around too about this. Do not give excuse that you did not receive the news. Its your responsibility. Thanks.

Public Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah

2008-02-26T16:57:00.003+08:00

BAND!
Please bring your $10 for the Ambrosia CD by TOMMORROW!!!
Latest this Friday. No more forgetting! SLs please inform each other. Pass the money to Natally or me, Sha. Please co-operate. Thank you.

By the way, band will still continue for practices this Wednesday and Friday. Take note. There will not be any band practices this Saturday. Make sure all of you have the scores,stated below, photocopied or taken from Victor. Encourage each other to come for practices as we know that we only have few more combine practices left for Montage and School Anniversary. Those who really need to buck up and have more practices, bring back your instrument to practice at home.

Montage III Pieces
Fanfare:
(Also Sprach Zarasthustra)
1. Aventura
2. Animation Medley
3. Disco Lives

Seniors, as what Mr Foo said, you can start to photocopy and pass Folklore For Band and Simple Gift pieces to the juniors. This is for the early preparations for the upcoming competition that Mr Foo had been talking about.
Thank You.

Public Relations Officer,
Shaabaniah

2008-01-19T22:33:00.000+08:00

Manjusri Concert Band

Tentative Plans for 2008/2009

Please Take Note!

2008-01-19T21:23:00.001+08:00

Dear all,

Henderson Band will be having a concert on next friday, 25th January at 7.30pm. The venue is Henderson Secondary and each ticket cost $4. Please do support them as they had bought 13 tickets from us during our last year concert. Therefore in return, we must also try and support them. For any enquiries, please contact Wei Xing at 96302981.

Our Ambrosia dvd is out already. It cost $10 per cd, those interested in buying it please contact Natally asap.

Those members who still did not pay up your band fund, please BRING it on NEXT WEDNESDAY. Graduating members are only required to pay $8 for this year. Thanks

Band Fund

2008-01-05T19:51:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

As we had came to a brand new year, the band fund for this year will thus need to be collected. You all can choose to pay the band fund one shot ($24) or pay by installments which will be $2 per month.

The band fund will be use for photocopying of scores, buying of reeds, oils, greases, mouthpieces etc. Sometimes, light refreshments will also be provided during long practices using the band fund. Therefore, please kindly explain to your parents why we need to collect the funds and how are we going to use it.

It is a MUST to bring the band fund next Wednesday. For those paying by installments, the $2 will be collected every first band practice of the month starting from next month onwards. Please pay the band fund to the treasurer, Wei Xing. NO MONEY IS NOT AN EXCUSE.
Thanks.

Extremely Important!

2007-12-17T19:02:00.001+08:00

Dear members,

According to our records, the following band members still have yet to pay for the tickets they have taken:

Wen Qi 3 tickets $30
Shawn 2 tickets $20
Lilian 5 tickets $50
Xiu Xia 5 tickets $50
Yan Da 3 tickets $30
Adrian 3 tickets $30
Natally 1 tickets $10
Gu Juan 2 tickets $20

The amount owed must be in paid by Tuesday 18 Dec. Please come to school and give it to one of the teachers. We have already given chance by not asking you all to come back on Friday as we know that all of you are very tired. It also had given you much more enough time to collect the money from your friends during weekends. Etc. No money is not an excuse! It is your responsibility!

Note that any unsold tickets will have to be returned without any tear or it will be considered as sold. Those people who are still holding on to unsold tickets but your name is not mention earlier, please kindly come tomorrow. And those who had taken tickets from Jia Lin and yet to pay, please turn up too.

Please note that it is very urgent as we need to consolidate the tickets sales. We seek for your cooperation.

Manjusri Concert Band proudly presents "m|brosia"

2007-12-12T23:59:00.000+08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Date: 13 December 2007 (Thursday)
Time: 7pm
Venue: Singapore Conference Hall
Tickets: $10 (Free Seating)

Resident Conductor: Mr Simon Foo
Guest Conductor: Mr Ng Kay Lim

Guest Band: Gan Eng Seng School Military Band

Concert Programme:

Manjusri Concert Band

Aventura
James Swearingen

Tales of the Bay
James L. Hosay

Dimension of Seven
James Curnow

American Riversongs
Pierre La Plante

Gan Eng Seng Military Band

The Merry Widow
Franz Lehar, arr. Eiji Suzuki

Song of the Prairie
Rex Mitchell

---INTERVAL---

Honour Band

Folklore for Band
Jim Andy Caudill

Simple Gifts (Four Shaker Songs)
Frank Ticheli

Percussion Ensemble

Selections from Superman Returns
John Williams and John Ottman, arr. Victor Lopez

Selections from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Patrick Doyle and John Williams, arr. Michael Story

Animation Songs Medley
Jo Hisaishi, arr. Kazuhiro Morita

A Christmas Festival
arr. Leroy Anderson, set. Robert W. Smith

Important!

2007-12-09T22:43:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

Please be reminded that there will be a extra practice for you tomorrow at 9am to 1pm. Though it is optional, we strongly encouraged you to come as our concert is only on next Thursday.

There will also be a commitee meeting tomorrow at 8.30 am. Attendance is compulsory. We do not expect anyone to be late.

Please also be reminded to get your christmas hat by next Tuesday. There are hats sell at 1 dollar each at concourse, beach road. So do make your own way there.

Thanks.

Message from Mr Simon Foo

2007-11-19T23:10:00.000+08:00

Selections from Superman Returns, Selections from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire & A Christmas Festival can be heard at Alfred Music (http://www.alfred-music.com/). You are encourage to go and listen.

Selections from Superman Returns @ http://www.alfred-music.com/product_info.php?products_id=5546
Selections from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire @ http://www.alfred-music.com/product_info.php?products_id=643
A Christmas Festival @ http://www.alfred-music.com/product_info.php?products_id=5552

Please try your best to push the tickets as much as you can. Unless you guys want to play in a empty hall. I will be glad if each student can purchase at least 5 tickets before 26 Novemeber 2007 (Monday). Leaders are encourage to sell at least 10 tickets each. We only manage to cleared 200 tickets so far out of 800 tickets.

Next Monday (26 Novemeber 2007) is Orchid Park and Admiralty combined band concert, those who needs the ticket please let me know on Wednesday (21 November 2007) practice.

Attendance for this few weeks is very important, if you guys want do well for the concert. Leaders cannot be absent, I will be extremely displeased if you do so. No reason or excuses will be entertained.

Lastly, please start to get individual music file ready before the combined rehearsals at GESS.

Band Practices

2007-10-28T21:11:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

Please be reminded that this coming Wednesday practice will start at 2pm. Be punctual if you want the practice to end earlier. For those who cant catch up with the band, please kindly borrow back your instruments and practice at home. If all of you were to cooperate well, the practices will not be that tiring and Mr Foo would not need to stop and check on you people one by one.

The Saturday practice will resume this Saturday 3rd November. It starts at 9 am. This is compulsary for all the members involve in the second half of the performance. Please make sure that all the scores needed are in your file. Thank you.

Shaabaniah.

Uniform Fitting

2007-10-28T21:06:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

There will be a uniform fitting session tomorrow at 2pm in the band room. (29th October 2007) It is mainly for the sec 1 who do not have the band uniform. Any part of the uniform of the seniors that are not suitable for them, please also come tomorrow. Members only need to pay for the white long sleeved shirt. It cost 12 dollars. It is important to turn up tomorrow for the uniform fitting as it ensure everyone to have the band uniform for our concert. For any other information, please contact Sharil at 96329246.

Wei Xing.

Details for the Next Band Practice

2007-10-24T20:17:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

The next band practice will be on this Friday which is the 26th October 2007. The duration will be from 1.30 pm to 5 pm. Please try your very best to turn up as our year end concert is in about 1 month time. It is pointless to have a concert with poor attendance like today and the practices after the exams. We must as well cancel our concert since it is impossible to make it a success with the poor attendance. Please try and turn up for all the practices and encourage your good friends to turn up as well. We really need the cooperation from you all.

Lastly, please kindly bring the money to buy the tickets on Friday so that you will have a much longer time to sell it. The cost of each ticket is 10 dollars. We hope each of you can sell at least 10 tickets.

SYF 2007 Photo

2007-10-21T11:02:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

The SYF 2007 Photos are now ready!

Below is the sample of the SYF 2007 Photo (Low Resolution)

(Click to enlarge)

Natally will be handling all the photos and payments. Please make your order and payment ASAP! As there's only 38 copies left! WHILE STOCK LAST!

***Priority will be given to Graduating Members***

Thank you.

Payments for the Concert Tickets and CDs

2007-10-18T22:49:00.000+08:00

Dear band members,

Please be reminded to bring $50 tomorrow (Friday) for the concert tickets and $0.50 for the CD (3 for $1).

For those people who did not turn up for practices will have to serve the CCA LRC.

Band Schedule From October to December

2007-10-12T21:02:00.000+08:00

Dear band members,

Band practice will RESUME on 17 October 2007 which is next week, after the marking day. The band practices between 17 October 2007 to 13 December 2007 will be mainly for our preparation of the End of Year Concert. In order to make the concert a success, we hope that you all will try your very best to turn up for all the practices. Each of the practices are all very important, if you fail to turn up for just one practice, you may not be able to catch up on the following practices. We can do a lot of things in just one practice. As a result, you may hold the entire band back and it will be unlikely for us to make the concert a success anymore. It will be definitely unfair to the others who had put in a lot of hard work and effort for the band.

We will be having band practices every week regularly starting from 17 October 2007. The intensive trainings will end after our concert. It will be on every Wednesday and Friday. The October band practices are from 3pm to 6.30pm on Wednesday and 2.30pm to 6pm on Friday. There will be also an AUDITION TEST on 31 October 2007. Further details will be given when it is approaching.

As for the November practices, it will also be held every week too. However, the duration of the practices are extended on every friday. The wednesday practices will be from 2pm to 5pm while the friday practices will be from 9am to 5pm. There will also be 2 combined band practices with the GESS band on 26 and 27 November 2007, from 9am to 1pm respectively.

1st December will be the first full dress rehearsal for our concert, from 9am to 1pm. There will be band practices on wednesday and friday on the second week of December. The timings are similar to those practices in November. The 8th and 11th of December will be the last 2 full dress rehearsal for the concert. 12th December will be the last band practice before our concert, which is on 13th December. It will be from 2pm to 5pm. There will also be an orientation preparation on 28th December. Further information will be given later.

As tomorrow is Hari Raya Puasa, we wished all our muslim members and teachers Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri !

Changes in the Concert Repertoire

2007-09-30T18:13:00.000+08:00

Dear band members,

There are few important notice here. Mr Foo had decided to replace Abaco Overture with another new piece when band resume. This is to make the concert more interesting. Next is regarding to the Audition II for the second half honour band. It is on the last practice of October. Finally, there will be a percussion ensemble piece to workout in October.

The concert repertoire will be as followed:

MJR Band
"Aventura" by James Swearingen
"Tales of the Bay" by James L. Hosay
"Dimension Seven" by James Curnow
"American Riversongs" by Pierre La Plante

GESS Band
"The Merry Widow" arr. by Eiji Suzuki
"Song of the Prairie" by Rex Mitchell

Honour Band
"Folklore for Band" by Jim Andy Caudill
"Simple Gifts" by Frank Ticheli
"Selections from Superman Returns" arr. by Victor Lopez
"Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" arr. by Michael Story
"Animation Songs Medley" arr. by Kazuhiro Morita
"A Christmas Festival" arr. by Leroy Anderson

Please inform other members to read this update. And please come for band practice when band resumes. We want to see a better attendance when band resumes. Thanks.

Study hard members. Good luck for your End-of-Year Exams. All the best.

REMINDER to all MJR Band Members

2007-09-22T16:12:00.000+08:00

All members, please remember to go for the concert tomorrow, that will be held in the esplanade. We will be meeting up in school at 6 pm sharp!! *Do not be late! Wear your band t-shirt and jeans ( school shorts and skirts are acceptable). A gently reminder, no food are allowed in the esplanade. Therefore, do not bring any food. We also hope that all of you will cooperate with us by keeping your noise level down upon reaching there. We do not want to have any complains about your behaviour there, or else actions will be taken. For those who have not yet submit the edusave form or cash ($13) , please do so by tomorrow. We would strongly encourage you to attend the concert as it can benefit you in certain areas. For instance, it can somehow improve on your playing and let you have a better understanding in music. The concert will start at 7.30 pm. For the muslims, food will be provided for you to break fast.

The next band practice will resume after your End-of-Year examinations, which falls on the 17th october 2007, 3 pm in the band room. As the concert is drawing nearer in 3 months time, we will have practices regularly and please try to make it for the practices. If you fail to turn up for the practices without any valid reason, actions will therefore be taken. By the way, this is our concert, if you want to make it a success, please turn up. If you have valid reasons, please approach the leaders or teachers. You can also SMS to one of us. Before approaching or smsing, please think whether your reason is a valid one or not.

Sharil Annuar
=)

Philharmonic Winds Meets Boston Brass

2007-09-21T23:59:00.000+08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Date: 23 September 2007 (Sunday)
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Esplanande Concert Hall

Conductor: Mr Leonard Tan

Synopsis:
The redoubtable Boston Brass partners The Philharmonic Winds, one of Singapore's top wind orchestras, in an electrifying concert that is set to blow you away.

Complementing the 20-year-old world-class brass quintet's goal to "entertain at all costs with blistering precision", The Philharmonic Winds presents another eye-opening concert with a mix of important band literature like Persichetti's Symphony No. 6 and cult hits like Mackey's Redline Tango.

Repertoire:
Toccata and Fugue in D Minor
J.S. Bach/ trans. Donald Hunsberger

Rienzi Overture
Richard Wagner/ trans. Mark Hindsley

Heroes and Legends (for Brass Quintet and Wind Band)
Barry E Kopetz

2 pieces by Boston Brass

---Intermission---

Symphony No. 6 for Band op. 69
Vincent Persichetti

Tam O’Shanter Overture Op.51
Malcolm Arnold/ Arr. john P . Paynter

Redline Tango
John Mackey

Tickets
Standard: $15, $20, $25, $30
Box Seat: $35

Please add to above price $2 Booking Fee for tickets above $20 and $1 Booking Fee for tickets $20 and below.
Charges include GST where applicable.

Through SISTIC Internet, Hotline & Authorised Agents
20% Discount for Early Bird (3rd - 26th August 2007)

Through SISTIC Hotline & Authorised Agents
S$27(Category 1) & S$19 (Category 2) for Package

Discount applicable upon purchasing Boston Brass In Concert show on 20th September 07.
Discount applicable for price Category 1 or Category 2 only and tickets must be from the same price Category for both shows.
Discount valid from 3rd August onwards.

20% Discount for Group Purchase (min 20 tickets)
10% Discount for Group Purchase (min 10 tickets)

For more information about the Boston Brass, visit http://www.bostonbrass.com/live/

Band Camp

2007-08-28T23:09:00.000+08:00

Dear members,
there will not be band practice this Friday (1st September) after the Teacher's Day celebrations. The practice is canceled. Bring your consent form and money latest by this Friday to any of the majors or seniors. If there is any questions and doubts about this coming band camp on Saturday to Monday, do approach any of the majors or teachers-in-charge to ask for more informations.

Practice On Wednesday Canceled due to Common Test Week

2007-08-12T15:58:00.000+08:00

Dear Members,

Important announcement to be made here.
There will be no band practice this Wednesday (15 August) due to the Common Test Week. The next band practice will be resume on Friday(17 August) and Saturday (18 August).
Please pass the message to other band members and your friends.
Please be punctual and be in the band room by 2.30pm sharp on Friday. Come for this few coming practices as your Audition I is coming too which is on the 24th August.
You are strongly encourage to come for the Saturday practices if you find that you are not up to the standard for the audition.

MJR BAND MAJOR EVENTS 2007

2007-07-30T21:49:00.001+08:00

Dear members,
This is the schedule of Major Events from July 2007 to April 2008.

August 2007
- National Day Rehearsal
- Natinal Day Performance
- Audition I

September 2007
- Band Camp
- Kayaking

October 2007
- End Of Year Exams

November 2007
- Audition II
- Intensive Rehearsals

December 2007
- Majestia II

January 2007
- Preparation for Hong Kong Trip

February 2007
- Preparation for Hong Kong Trip

March 2007
-Hong Kong Overseas Exchange Programme

April 2007
- MONTAGE 2008 + School Anniversary
- POP
- Appoinment of EXCO 2008/2009

MJR BAND AUDITION I

2007-07-30T21:32:00.000+08:00

This is an important information to all band members.
If you want to perform for the Majestia Perfomance in December, you are required to pass the upcoming test which is on 24th August 2007. If you all have not much practices, please come for all the band practices. This is the only way to get yourself in the performance. You are strongly encouraged to come for Saturday practices and bring back your instrument to practice at home. If you all are unable to pass the test, you would not have the chance to perform. So please practice real hard for the test if you all want the performance to be our school band's performance and not others.

This are the things you are required to pass the test.
Songs:-
#1 :Abaco Overture
#2:Salut D'Amour
Scales
#3: Bflat Major
#4: Eflat Major

Do practice hard.

MJR BAND FUND

2007-07-28T18:41:00.000+08:00

Those members who did not pay their band fund for this year are required to pay $24. Please bring the money on the next practice which is on next Wednesday. You can also choose to pay $2 for every month. The funds are currently very low, please pay as we need to print scores, buy snacks and refeshments during band events for you. If you have paid the full price already, you can also donate some money to the band if you are able to do so. Please pay the funds to the treasurer, Wei Xing.

Ngee Ann Polytechnic Concert Band presents Pops N Classics 2007: A Night With Friends

2007-06-29T22:41:00.000+08:00

Date: 30 June 2007 (Saturday)
Time: 6.30pm
Venue: Ngee Ann Polytechnic Convention Centre
Tickets: $6

Conductor: Mr Tan Aik Kee

An Outreach Programme Concert with students from:
Bukit View Secondary School
Chua Chu Kang Secondary School
Gan Eng Seng Secondary School
Pei Cai Secondary School
Tanglin Secondary School

Concert Programme

Main Band
Where Never Lark or Eagle Flew
First Suite for Band
Andante Cantabile, Variation XVIII from Paganini's Variations
Animation Songs Medley Tobe Gundam

Outreach Band
Jubilee Prelude
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Space Battleship Yamato

Combined Band
Into The Joy of Spring
Whistle While You Work

If interested, please contact Christine @ christinehanszewei@hotmail.com

Moulmein Wind Symphony presents Scherzo 2007

2007-06-22T23:59:00.000+08:00

Date: 23 June 2007 (Saturday)
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Salvation Army Auditorium, Bishan
Tickets: $10

Conductor: Mr Lin Ah Leck, Mr Lim Siseng

Repertoire:

Vesuvius
Highlights to Pocahontas
Carmen Fantasy
Shall We Dance?

Interval

Dakota
Concerto D'Amore
Cream of Clapton
Deep Purple Medley
Galaxy Express 999

If interested, please contact Jie Yuan @ jieyuan17@gmail.com

Latest Updates / Information

2007-06-20T22:45:00.000+08:00

Good news for all band members! Band practice on this friday (22 June 2007) is cancelled. Members need not come for the practice. Band practice will resume when school reopen on Wednesday, 27 June 2007. We expect to see 100% attendance on that day as important announcements will be given on that day. Kindly please report to the band room by 3pm sharp. Please co-operate with us.

Message to Secondary 4 / 5 Band Members

2007-06-20T22:41:00.000+08:00

Secondary 4 / 5 band members, please check your CCA record and inform Mr Muhd Fahmy if there are any errors or missing entries. Need clarification? Check with Cheng Fu's / Clifford's CCA record for reference.

Updates!

2007-06-01T20:51:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

Please be reminded that there will be band practice on:

8 June 2007 (Friday)
13 June 2007 (Wednesday)
20 June 2007 (Wednesday)
22 June 2007 (Friday)

Venue: Band Room
Time: 9am to 4pm (1 hour of lunch break included)

Note:
- Please inform your seniors or your own section if you are unable to turn up for band practice on these dates.
- Please also ensure that you all have 'Folklore for Band' scores as we would be focusing on it more.

Important!

2007-05-27T15:48:00.000+08:00

Dear members,

These are the pieces that you all need to have during the holiday practices. There are altogether seven pieces as following:

- Folklore for Band
- Harry Potter
- Disco Lives
- The Magnificent Seven
- When You Wish Upon the Star
- Cant Take My Eyes Off You

Note:
- All of your are required to come for all holiday practices, unless your have a good and reasonable reason.
- All of your are also encouraged to bring back your instrument to practice. It is COMPULSARY for all sec 1 members to bring back their instruments.