the Banner 2019 fall

THE BANNER

LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

FALL 2019 -

The Music Issue

Seoul Foreign School

Contents 4 LETTER FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL Colm Flanagan 5 LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR Penelope Kim 6 ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL - EXTERNAL RELATIONS Dawn M. Stark 7 THE SOUND OF MUSIC - WHAT DOES MUSIC MEAN TO YOU? 8 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Jane Forster 9 PRAISE BAND COVER STORY: 2019 HS Musical Les Miserables PHOTOGRAPHY: Juhie Suh

10 STUDENT MUSICIANS ACROSS THE SCHOOLS 14 OUR PARENTS SHARE THEIR MUSICAL TALENTS 17 MUSIC IN THE CURRICULUM - AND OUTSIDE 18 THE DIRECTOR OF PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS John Striffler 19 THE CHOREOGRAPHER Jason Lee 20 THE CHOIRMASTER Tom Ford 21 CHOIRS AT SFS 22 THE CONDUCTOR Ryan Walker 23 ORCHESTRA AT SFS 24 THE BAND LEADERS Sophie Holbrook and Josh Yaniw 26 BEGINNER BAND DAY

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CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

FALL 2019 The digital version of The Banner is available by scanning the qr code on the right or on https://sfscom.page.link/thebanner_2019fall.

The Home of Music

ES Grade 5 Beginner Band Day in August, 2019.

Photo by Mathilde Doherty (G11) HS String Quartet at 2019 Seoul Alumni Reunion

27 ELEMENTARY MUSIC Esther Jun and Jonbaek Yoon 29 MUSIC IN THE BRITISH SCHOOL Grace Hahn 30 THE HISTORY OF THE SFS MUSICAL Edie Moon 32 BUILDING A SHOW Les Miserables 36 THE SOUND ENGINEER John Black 38 COMPETITION AND COLLABORATION 40 A LETTER FROM ADVANCEMENT Yoojin Um 41 THANK YOU TO OUR DONOR COMMUNITY 42 OUR GOLF DAY 44 FAMILY STORIES The Rathbun Family

TEAM Editor: Jane Forster Copy editor: Anna Mehta Designer: Juhie Suh Collaborators: Yoojin Um, Jack Moon Photographers : Juhie Suh, Mathilde Doherty (G11), Siwon Lee (G10), Thomas Kang (G11) Address Seoul Foreign School 39 Yeonhui-ro 22-gil Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu Seoul, South Korea, 03723 www.seoulforeign.org

46 WHY ENGAGE? Jack Moon

The Marketing & Communications Office publishes print versions of The Banner two times a year: December and May. Unless otherwise noted, articles may be reprinted without permission - as long as they are not edited or revised - with appropriate credit given to “The Banner, the magazine for Seoul Foreign School.”

47 LA REUNION

*All efforts have been made to check details and consistency. Please contact us with any questions.

45 OUR VENUES

48 MUSICAL ALUMNI 50 OUTSIDE PERFORMANCES 51 THE MUSICAL YEAR AT SFS 52 WHAT WE’RE LISTENING TO NOW SF S B A N N ER

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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear

SFS Community Dear Seoul Foreign School Community,

Colm Flanagan Head of School

2019-2020 SFS Senior Leadership Team Front row, left to right : Dawn M. Stark, Colm Flanagan, Justin Smith, Jeff Holcomb Middle row : Jan-Mark Seewald Back row, Left to Right : Clif Wilcox, Damian Prest, Andrew Freeman

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I was thrilled to hear that our first Banner of the year was to have a musical theme running through its pages. Music is and has always been a hugely important part of the SFS experience.

Indeed, schools all around the world recognize that learning, listening to and loving music are a crucial part of a well rounded education. Music not only enhances our lives but it also brings friends and communities together. So this Banner is a great opportunity for us all to be reminded of how much wonderful musical expression takes place around our community.

Reading through the words of our Mission Statement one can see clearly how music impacts on every aspect of our mission:

2019 ES Musical Madagascar

and individuals is nothing short of remarkable.

This is possible when you have talented pupils and committed educators with high aspirations and expectations. So thank you to everyone who makes that commitment to work diligently and repeatedly to be ready to perform.

Let me say a big thank you to Jane Forster, our departing Director of Communications & Marketing. Jane has been with us for two years now and has worked feverishly to help us spread the good news of SFS. One central legacy she will leave is the quality and creativity of our longstanding magazine - The Banner. Anybody who has been reading these pages over the years will have seen the impact of her contribution. We will do our utmost to maintain the standards she has set and we wish her all the best as she moves on to new challenges.

Seoul Foreign School, Centered in Christ, inspires a passion for learning, pursues academic and creative excellence and is dedicated to the service of others.

Finally, I would like to welcome Dawn M. Stark, our new Assistant Head of School - External Relations. Dawn brings a wealth and breath of experience in advancement and communications and will be supporting SFS in promoting its mission and long-term develpment.

It is therefore right that we treasure and celebrate all that is musical at Seoul Foreign School.

God Bless,

Moreover, the standards that are repeatedly set and met in relation to our bands, orchestras, groups

Colm Flanagan Head of School

LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Message from

Our Board

2019 Dongdaewon Concert

Greetings to you!

I hope you and your family are enjoying fall and a good beginning to this new school year at Seoul Foreign School. As always in fall, the school campus is humming with activity. So many parents helped the PTA to make our annual International Fair a wonderful day of food and cultural fun – thank you. The school sports season has begun again with excellent performances from our cross country, tennis, and volleyball teams.

The fine arts programs at SFS this year culminated in the greatly anticipated fall musical performance of Les Miserables. This is only the start of all the ways teachers and students are continuing every day to carry out our over 100-year legacy of inspiring excellence and building character here at SFS. I hope that, like me, you will follow SFS on social media to get a glimpse of all that is going on all around the school.

The SFS Board of Governors has also started its work for the school year. If you see the lights on at the top floor of the SFS Administration Building on a weeknight, there’s a good chance a Board committee is meeting to discuss issues of strategic importance to the school. We held our first full Board meeting on September 21, and each of the Board’s four standing committees – Academic, Finance, Enterprise Risk Management and Training, Evaluation and Selection – have gone on to begin their work for the year ahead, together with SFS leadership. As we do every year, in November the Board will host an Informational Evening about SFS Academics and the Strategic Plan. We hope you’ll be able to make time to come out that night, to hear important updates on the school and its programs.

and your family have taken part in some great music at SFS, too. We are thankful for the many talented musicians enriching our community, and I hope you’ll enjoy seeing in this issue of the Banner some of the ways SFS shares the gift of music.

Blessings to you!

Penelope Kim Board Chair

“It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.

For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done.”

(Psalm 92:1-4, NIV)

Penelope Kim Board Chair

2019-2020 SFS Board of Governors Front row, left to right : Peter Kim, Penelope Kim, Silvia Kim, Steven Kim Second row, left to right : Mike Welch, Sally Shim, Jennifer Woo, Daniel Kim Third row, left to right : Dean Park, KyungEn Kim, Andrew Chung, Alain Nass, Colm Flanagan Not pictured : Kurtis Jang

Back to our “humming” campus, a meaningful way SFS encourages our community’s creativity is via our Arts department’s vibrant music programs.

Each of my three sons has discovered some new musical interest at SFS through the many and varied opportunities to try out instruments, choirs and musical theater as well as theory. I trust you

SF S B A N N ER

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LETTER FROM THE NEW ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL

Introducing Our New

Assistant Head of School Dear SFS Community, It is with great pride that I introduce myself to you all. My name is Dawn Stark, and it is my distinct pleasure to be named the Assistant Head of School - External Relations.

Dawn M. Stark Assistant Head of School External Relations

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ES Primary Fun Day 2019

responsibility to shape and mold a generation of critical thinkers for the 21st century.

In my role as Assistant Head, I will be working in collaboration with the Senior Leadership team to establish funding priorities and be sure we are positioned, with our long-standing tradition and brand, in the community of Seoul and around I recently moved to Seoul from Atlanta, Georgia, the world. This will include imparting a customer United States of America. The opportunity to service attitude to anyone who encounters Seoul join the Senior Leadership team at SFS, under Foreign School, whether they be a student, the direction of Colm Flanagan is an honor. I parent, alumnae, prospective parent, community would like to share a little of my background and member or friend. In addition, I will bring how I look to impart my expertise to advance the fundraising best practices to SFS, enhance the mission of Seoul Foreign School.

Annual Fund, and work on creating a case for the need to support long range capital improvement I come to SFS with more than 14 years of projects. nonprofit executive level leadership, including fundraising and marketing. My recent success From the moment I stepped on the SFS campus, includes the leadership of a $30 million dollar my impression was one of a true sense of capital campaign for the Cathedral of Christ the “community� and it was the main reason for King and School, to build a new 50,000 square deciding to join the team. I look forward to foot multi-purpose building and renovate four meeting you soon. I am grateful for the honor to existing buildings on an urban campus. All be a part of a world class team and community, my fundraising career has been spent with an and I assure that I will bring to it an impeccable emphasis on children and various missions to work ethic for the advancement of the SFS make their world a better place. It is with great mission. excitement that I now bring my passion to Seoul Foreign School.

Thanks to so many generous donors, who not only gave of their gifts of treasure, but also their We are at an incredible time and place, as a precious time and many talents to make the SFS community, to continue shaping the future community what it is today. Your philanthropy for generations to come, in our Christ to our community is moving our mission centered environment. Offering two rigorous forward. Thank You! curriculums, achieving academic excellence, an incredible performing arts program, service to Sincerely, others, world class facilities and athletics, SFS aims to continue to enhance all we offer the Dawn M. Stark 1,425 students entrusted to our care each day.

Assistant Head of School - External Relations In our technologically savvy world, it is our

THE MUSIC ISSUE

The Sound of

Music

Christmas Psalms, 2018

M

usic holds a very special place in the heart of Seoul Foreign School. We invest so much time, effort, energy and passion into making sure our students love music - so how do

they feel about it? Read on to find out!

Nahee Hong (MS G6): Music is like almost life to me. In the future I want to work as a Broadway actress and hopefully be as successful as Kristen Chenoweth.

Holger Molin (MS G8): To me music is a way to relax. If I'm stressed I turn on some music and it helps me calm down.

Gerassimos Moshonas (BS Y9): Music is more than just notes on a paper. It brings students together whilst learning to express notes in a wonderful manner. Music helps students in concentration and other lessons by providing a time to calm down and learn. Lastly, music is used all over the school to make parents, students and peers happy by learning, playing and listening together.

Guy Dekel (BS Y5): Tasteful art! Beautiful sound to the ears because anyone can make music as long as they know rhythm.

Samuel Kim (BS Y6): When I play music I sometimes feel calm like nothing is around me. I also think of instruments and musical notes.

Yeseong Anna Park (BS Y7): Music is a world somewhere deep inside your head.

A selection of thoughts from Sophie Hammerberg’s class in Grade 3 SF S B A N N ER

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LETTER FROM MARKETING LETTER FROM THE HEAD

OF SCHOOL

Welcome to our

Music Issue!

Jane Forster Director of Communications and Marketing

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Shakespeare Rocks, BS KS2 Musical, 2019

Hello!

In work and in life we are often asked what motivates us. Is it money? Is it praise? Is it gifts? For me, I love the genuine feedback that someone has enjoyed the work that I help produce. We poured our energies and hearts and souls into the last issue of The Banner - and then all we could do was hope that you all enjoyed it! As we came back from our long vacation I spoke to John and Stephanie Black. They described how they took copies of The Banner “It takes a Village” edition home to the US with them. They described their 90-year-old grandmother at a family party reading and exclaiming over the issue. She kept saying, “Did you know what these students have done?” “Did you read this story?”

To know that our magazine is read and enjoyed by our extended community like that is what motivates me.

to their area (I believe I cried out to Sophie Holbrook, “I wish I could be in Beginner Band Day!”)

Our music teachers are at the heart of our incredible program. Each one aims to make all their students into the best performers, learners and listeners that they can be. Each teacher spoke honestly and passionately about what brought them to the world of music and what keeps them there. I loved how many of them knew very early on that they wanted to be teachers rather than performers. We are so blessed to have them within our school. Each one of them left me wanting to learn their instrument or listen

If you’re an alumni or a parent or a member of our wider community then we would love to hear from you if you have stories and ideas or anything to share. Your feedback makes us better!

Our students speak out about why they love music and how they channel this. We hear from students who play solos, who study for exams and who audition for every musical. And so many of our parents have musical talent, too. I’ve chosen only four for this issue (we have limited pages) but I could have found many many more.

A real highlight of the issue is the in-depth look at the SFS musical. The first one I saw was Bye Bye Birdie and I was blown away by the talent and the professionalism of the Middle School cast.

It was almost impossible to believe that this was a school production - the sets and the lights and the costumes were so good. Find out from Edie Moon - surely the finest theatre director in any school, anywhere - how she stages each musical.

As this issue goes to print we have just seen Les Miserables on stage at the Lyso Center. It was truly the best musical I have ever seen outside of the professional stage. How lucky we all are to And this issue has been incredibly motivating. have such talent and to have such a team. Every We’ve long wanted to shine a spotlight on our single member of our music department pitched amazing musical performances here at SFS and in as did so many parents and students and other here we bring you a small selection of what is members of the community. I walked out of the on offer here in the way of teaching, learning, theatre on the first night with Diana Underwood opportunity and talent within our community.

- a great friend to Seoul Foreign School - and her first comment was “Edie raises the bar - AGAIN!” I can absolutely say that each person I spoke with What will she do next? Aren't we lucky to be able inspired me to listen, to learn and to absorb more. to find out?

Let us know what you think of this issue at communications@seoulforeign.org.

Jane Forster Director of Communications and Marketing

SFS COMMUNITY

Songs of

Praise

The SFS HS & MS/KS3 Praise Team led by Paul Kim at United in Prayer

M

usic is found throughout the school and one passionate group of singers in particular uses its talents to worship. Led by Paul Kim, the SFS HS & MS/KS3 Praise Teams meet

every week to enjoy different styles of praise and also lead praise during some of the major school assemblies, such as Hearts to Serve, Christmas and Easter. The Praise Team vision is to provide “a relational environment for all members to actively engage in praise throughout their lives in response to their growing understanding of Jesus.”

T

hese groups prove very popular with all grades and many students are delighted to find a way to combine their beliefs with their love of music, with some sharing their thoughts below:

Ethan Lee, 11th grade SFHS One thing I appreciate about the SFS Praise Team is that the team is made up of people who have a musical talent and want to use it for God’s glory.

Siddhant Arora, 8th grade SFMS Through my experience in the SFS Praise Team, I have come to realize that no matter which cultural or religious background one comes from, all our hearts beat as one and we can all praise in unison. Additionally, the praise team also offered a great platform to build bonds with others.

Melody Lee, 12th grade SFHS I really appreciate the SFS Praise Team because I could meet different people that actually serve for Jesus and his grace. I also appreciate everyone in this praise team because I can have more time to connect with God.

Emma Kim, 9th grade SFHS One thing I realized I cherish the most about the Praise Teams in SFS is the love and support the band members give to each other, and how the praise towards God is so much stronger as a team than as an individual.

Jannie Lee, 12th grade SFHS Through SFS Praise Team not only did I get a chance to praise God and connect to Him, but I was also able to meet people that share the same beliefs or interest as I do.

HS Praise Team leading the HS Christmas Assembly, 2018

SF S B A N N ER

9

SFS STUDENTS LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Thank you for

the Music

Grade 5 Beginner Band Day. Photo by Mathilde Doherty (G11)

A

t the heart of our music program are our students. Some of them started their musical careers before they joined us and some began here. Some sing, some play - and, yes,

some do both! But they have all honed their passion on our stages and in the concert and practice rooms and beyond. Here they explain how and why SFS is an amazing place for any aspiring musician.

Sean Kim ES Grade 5.

I

was watching TV at home, and my mom saw the cast list for Madagascar (last year’s G4 Musical) on Seesaw and said, “Sean, you’re King Julian!” I was over the moon and I started shouting and dancing around my home.

Playing King Julian was hard and a lot of work, but I really liked my role. I liked the songs in Madagascar a lot, especially “Welcome to Me” and “I Like to Move It.” I had to memorize a lot of lines, so I worked really hard at home and at school and practiced singing and dancing a lot.

like it. I was pretty nervous about the solos, but it was fun, too. The best part was doing the song, “Together Forever” because I like friendship things. When everyone was up on stage doing that song, I felt so overjoyed because it was so much fun. I got to make new friends.

When I finished Madagascar, I thought maybe I’d like to be a musical star, but I gave that idea up. I got a new dream. My new dream is to own a pet shop!

My parents said “Good job.” I think they were Mrs. Moon and other teachers helped me to say proud of me and a little bit surprised that I could things correctly. Still, I was really nervous on do acting and singing like this! performance day because I’d never done anything like this before. I was surprised at how much I

John Ahn ES Grade 4.

I

n the last year I have become an even bigger fan of music. I practice the harp every other day during the week and more on the weekends.

I am also taking piano lessons to learn and get used to reading and writing of the music notes.

I am planning to enter the Haneum musical instrument competition, which is one of the big ones next year with my harp. Sometimes I go with other players to a hospital to offer the harp's calming sound to the patients there, as a volunteer.

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When I like a song, I get the music sheet and practice my harp. For example, I’ve been into Queen and have been playing Queen's hit songs such as Love of My Life, my favorite. Over the summer I discovered Phantom of the Opera. My plan is to play the famous musical's songs such as All I Ask Of You or Angel of Music.

I do feel pressure when my friends call me 'Harpist.' However it also helps me keep going.

Freddie Welch BS Year 8.

W

ith a mum who was a professional pianist with the Uzbek Philharmonic and Symphony orchestras, I guess it was always inevitable that music would play a large part in my life! I have been playing the violin now for more than seven years.

These days I try to practice for at least two hours every day, although I must admit some days I am more successful at that than others! It can be really hard work, but I love the challenge of a new piece of music and when I get it right, it feels fantastic.

I came to SFBS two years ago and the musical opportunities certainly played a part in helping me to settle. I have really enjoyed representing the school whether accompanying the Christmas choir, playing for the homeless at the Nanumi shelter, taking part in competitions or playing with the Philharmonic and Symphonic orchestras, including at last year’s Dongdaewon concert. It was great to be able to raise money to help others doing something that I love.

Whatever happens in my future, I am sure music will always be an important part of my life.

Yunjeong Choi BS Year 9.

W

hen Mrs. Hahm asked me to talk about Senior Choir I was overwhelmed. I was overwhelmed with a single question: How do I tell the audience how HARD the Senior Choir trained to perform in front of a live audience?

How do I tell people how much practice and effort came into even a little concert? Well, let me tell you. Every Wednesday from 3:15 - 4:15, for a whole hour, the Senior Choir practiced to perform at 5 different venues for 5 different events: The Four Seasons hotel at the BCCK Christmas Lunch, the Hyatt hotel, the Schoolwide Christmas Coffee Morning, the British Ambassador’s Residence for the BASS Christmas Mince Pies Celebration and a special service trip to the Senior Welfare Centre.

The Seniors at the Welfare Centre do not have other family members. Or they have family members, but they are isolated and disgraced from their family with shame. They do not usually see children during Christmas time and they have absolutely NO Christmas spirit. And

that is when the Senior Choir comes in. We come to sing for them and get them excited for the upcoming Christmas. We are children who received goodies and treats from different events.

It is the total opposite for the Seniors. WE are the people who give them presents and gifts and our love. We are the source for their happiness during their lonely Christmas time.

Overall, as a proud member of the Senior Choir, I would like to express how grateful and happy I am for this choir. Every Wednesday, we’d get together to sing and mingle with other people from different Key Stages. I would also like to thank Mrs. Hahm and Ms. Lee for looking after us and teaching us our beautiful songs for us to perform. We will be forever grateful.

And finally, I would like to thank every single choir member. Thank you for being happy every single day and thank you for being so brave to perform in front of live audiences. I’m so proud of all of us.

Shakespeare Rocks, BS KS2 Musical, 2019

SF S B A N N ER

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SFS STUDENTS LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Min Wang MS Grade 8.

I

currently play flute in the middle year symphonic band. I started to play the flute when I was in 2nd grade. Before, I played the recorder pretending that it was a flute. I really wanted to learn more about this beautiful instrument. The flute let me escape from reality and I just felt different.

But playing the flute for such a long time, there were many ups as well as downs. I sometimes didn’t want to go to the flute lessons and wanted to quit. In fact, when I was in 6th grade, I switched to a french horn because I was sick of the instrument. However, I realized that the flute was my passion and was what made me excited every day.

One of the few reasons why I still play this instrument was my parents. They supported me in every way and I am really thankful to this day.

Because of their support, I was able to play solo in the symphonic orchestra last Christmas.

As an 8th grader, I have a lot of pressure since many people expect more and a lot from me.

Now I want to be in the first chair in my section, want to get most of the solos, and basically be the best in my music classes. Sometimes these goals stress me out a little bit. But these obstacles led me to the place I am in today.

Jia (Isabella) Dunsby MS Grade 8.

T

hroughout my musical life, I have grown exceptionally, not only in proficiency, but in determination and dedication. Each piece I play, I encounter new challenges, ranging from minor techniques to exhausting passages. The primary thing that keeps me persisting through the difficulty is the feeling of accomplishment after performing the pieces.

I love to perform because, although it can be quite nerve-wracking, I feel as though I am playing for others, and presenting to them the music I create. My favorite piece is the SaintSaëns 3rd Violin Concerto, and I often play through it, accompanied by my father, a pianist,

in my free time. I joined SFS’s symphonic orchestra last year, after deciding to prioritize the violin over the two other instruments I was playing. Immediately after joining, Orchestra became my favorite class, as I was able to learn a meaningful amount of things every day.

Currently, I play the role of the concert mistress, in which I feel I have a responsibility to be focused on playing in rhythm, as I have no one in front of me for guidance. I love the orchestra because it differs from any other class I participate in. The short amount of time we have still makes a significant influence on students because of the enjoyable experience.

Max Nam HS Grade 10.

I

have had the privilege to spend much of my time at SFS within the Performing Arts sector of the school. Although it is very inspiring to be surrounded by so much talent and passion, partaking in a music ensemble or theatre production is a great commitment.

Max's cast photo as Enjolras in Les Miserables. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10) from Crusader Live

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I am often asked by my peers whether the couple of hours of performance I get on stage are worth the countless others I spend in preparation. I do find the moment when I share with an audience the result of so much work extremely satisfying, although this moment may admittedly be too brief to fully justify such effort. For me, what truly justifies such a commitment is the growth that I experience during the process of each production.

To merely act or play music is an incomplete representation of a character or composition; rather, I attempt to find aspects of said character or composition within myself. This is what it means to truly make a role or piece my own. By looking internally, I gain insight into a world that is often too broad to understand through an external paradigm. As a result, I come to know my world by better knowing myself. The Performing Arts can thus become a greater lesson for me, the performer, than mere entertainment for the audience.

Christine Lee HS Grade 12.

L

es Miserables will be my sixth SFHS production, and I am playing the role of Eponine. I had actually auditioned for a different role, but when I got this role, I was beyond honored. There is one line about Eponine that stood out to me: “[Eponine’s] life was cold and dark, yet she was unafraid.” During the process of studying and stepping into this character, I feel like I have personally connected and learned so much from her. Eponine is a strong, young woman who is driven by her love and passion, and I am so excited to tell her story.

has been so special to me - not because of the applause or the performance, but the entire process itself. I’ve grown so much from being a part of theatre. Not only have I learned about the different aspects of theatre, but I’ve learned what it means to be a part of an ensemble. Theatre gives you a family and a community, and I am so glad to have been able to be a part of this.

Looking back on my musical ‘career� at SFS, I am so thankful for every single part of it. Theatre

Christine's cast photo as Eponine in Les Miserables. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10) from Crusader Live

Arnold Han HS Grade 11.

I

was privileged enough to pursue my passion through the SFS Music program. This is my 3rd year at SFS, and I am currently taking IB Music, Orchestra class, Moonlight Choir, and was honored to take the role of Jean Valjean in the fall musical, Les Miserables even though I have no background in any production.

Through internships I have had with the music teachers, I was able to feel the amount of effort and care that our music teachers are putting in.

They give great opportunities to students like me.

I would like to honor Mr. Walker and Mr. Ford who have been devoting their time to teaching me a new instrument and improving my vocal

skills and giving me a true life lesson. Also, Mrs. Moon who works incredibly hard for every production in SFS to be successful.

One of the greatest composers once said, “Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.” The SFS music program has given me a lifetime opportunity to love and pursue music for the rest of my life.

Arnold's cast photo as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10) from Crusader Live

Jiah Choe HS Grade 11.

B

eing able to play in a string quartet is so special to me. Out of the variety of possible ensembles, I believe that a string quartet is an ensemble that really engages each player and connects them directly through music.

In the beginning of my freshman year, my friends and I decided to create a string quartet ourselves.

At first it seemed barely possible. We weren’t sure if we would have performance opportunities, and we weren’t sure if we would be able to practice enough. However, after our first practice, we all became very excited about the music that we could create, just the four of us. Near performance dates, we would practice as much as possible - during break times, lunch time, and after school. Although it was challenging, it was so worth it when we sat in front of the audience

during our performance.

Before we knew it, we were given so many wonderful opportunities, ranging from performing during Christmas buskings to an event at the British Embassy.

This experience of being part of a quartet, being able to collaborate so closely with each other, and being able to create music will truly be an unforgettable experience for all four of us.

Jiah Choe performing in a string quartet.

SF S B A N N ER

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SFS PARENTS LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Parenting Notes I

t often seems that when we look around our community for parents to illustrate the theme of an issue we have so many that we are spoiled for choice. This time we seemed to be

surrounded by amazing musicians, music teachers and amazing amateurs! We talked to parents who have been performing all their lives or some for whom music helps to break up the stresses and strains of their busy lives. Below, four members of our community share their lives in music…

Yana Welch is a British School parent and SWEP teacher. Yana and her two sons, Freddie and David, have made a huge musical contribution to our school - playing, accompanying, teaching and inspiring!

Y

ana has an incredible story. Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Yana’s piano playing was spotted at an early age and she was invited to attend The Arts and Music School for Gifted and Talented Children. At the age of 8 she became a boarder to add even more discipline to her early musical education. There, she had over four hours a day of intensive practice and teaching.

She learned the basic tenets of musicianship, which she honors and teaches today - Enjoy yourself; Feel the rhythm; Learn the notes; and Read the music.

Despite also having a real talent for writing Yana always knew that music would be her life.

She moved seamlessly to the College of Music and then the Conservatoire where she became a popular solo performer and gained her Masters.

Yana immediately loved teaching - especially very young children. “As they learn a piece I feel like I am learning it again with them. It’s such a joy

when you see that moment when they master the piece. It is what makes it all worthwhile.”

Yana and her husband Mike met in Tashkent and moved to London where Yana had a break from music to become a full time mum. But music kept calling and when they moved to the UAE Yana became a music teacher extraordinaire when she set up her own music school. She started with 10 students and by year three she had 250.

Yana now works as a specialist music teacher within our SWEP program here at Seoul Foreign School. She loves teaching our little ones individually and in groups. She describes her pride when the children overcome their reservations and start to love the music. Yana has passed on a love of music to her two sons, Freddie and David. She hopes that they will see music as an integral part of their education and that they will always love it.

Yana's Favorites - MUSIC FOR ALL • • • • 14

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Barber’s Adagio For Strings Bach - Cello Suites no 1 Tchaikovsky - Piano Trio Shostakovich - Quintet

We are very lucky to have our own glamorous opera singer in our midst! Mia

Yaniw - wife of HS Band

Director, Josh, and mother of Oscar, 2 - has sung in opera houses and concert halls around the world. She describes opera as “The Olympics of the Arts” and gives us a taste of what the world of a performer entails.

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ia was brought up in Australia and learned the discipline of a professional singer at a very early age, joining the Australian Youth Choir at 7 and embarking on her first world tour at 10!

It was when she performed both for the Pope and at Carnegie Hall that she was made especially aware the importance of protecting her voice and treating it as a precious instrument.

“Singing opera makes you feel like you have a super power. It is so much fun - it’s like flying.

A pure, beautiful feeling like falling in love” she enthused.

After taking part in everything she could to learn and develop as a singer in high school, she moved to the Conservatorium in Brisbane to do a degree and then a Masters in Opera Performance and Studies. Knowing that her best chance as a performer would come in Europe, Mia and Josh moved to Milan. It was hard work: auditioning, masterclasses, knocking on doors - essentially trying everything. Yet it was also an incredibly rewarding seven years. The life of an opera singer is not for everyone - you need to be to be able to move around, to be alone, to be flexible. There are no long term ‘jobs� but flexible contracts.

As an opera singer you need to be aware of voice changes. Different voices may be suited to

different types of music. Both male and female voices change over the years and womens’ voices are subject to fluctuating hormones. The voice is a tool which needs to be protected and exercised.

(Mia's top tip: “move away from smokers!”)

Mia is currently resting from her career as she is making the most of her favorite role to date that of being a mother. In the future she would love to return to performing here in Korea and around the world. She adores teaching and wants to share her love of opera so she is about to do her Masters in Education. How amazing to have our own opera star here on campus!

HOW TO MAKE IT IN OPERA - Mia’s Guide For Aspiring Singers • Don’t be a diva - divas don’t get work. Be hardworking and kind. You’ll go further • Look after your voice - it’s a finely tuned instrument • Watch live performances! Mia's favorite is La Traviata by Verdi.

• Be autonomous and love your own company • Be your own publicist and your own biggest fan (in a good way!)

Simon Hurst is a British School parent who works by day as GM of Goldman Sachs here in Korea - but his true passion lies with music and performing. He is an advocate of using music as the perfect balance to a stressful and busy career.

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imon has a fascinating history - he grew up in Oxford then was transported to Kenya as an expat child - giving him a perfect understanding of the TCKs in our community. Music helped him manage the transition, and playing the cornet and trumpet were key parts of his childhood until he became a teenager and gave them up in favor of sports. He is a testament to the fact that a childhood passion can lie dormant until it's time to reignite it!

“Music is about inspiration, then drive, then opportunity. Everyone can find their own way” Simon says. Simon not only played in jazz bars around the world, he now also plays guitar and sings. He has written and produced his own music and he also plays third trumpet in the Camarata orchestra - getting involved in their performances and shows.

Simon sees this side of his character as providing relaxation and creativity. He loves to create new He is forever grateful to his parents and teachers setlists - from Love on the Rocks to Purple Rain; for something which he returned to later on! from Careless Whisper to Don’t Look Back in Anger. He’s even learning more Korean so he Simon has moved from London to Seoul via can sing in Korean. His aim is to use music to Paris, Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Beijing! “give back to the community via workshops with Along the way his passion for music underprivileged communities.” especially jazz - was renewed after seeing a band play The Sidewinder, made famous by jazz legend Listen to Simon at truhsonism.bandcamp.com Lee Morgan. It made him realise he wanted to perform again.

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15

SFS PARENTS LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Jeff Holbrook was the first name suggested by almost everyone when we looked around our community for musicians. As Associate Principal Trumpet in the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, he is a true success in the field of classical performance. Jeff is now in his 14th season there but when he has a moment he is also the parent of two girls in the Elementary School and an enthusiastic volunteer in all things musical at SFS.

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eff has spent his entire performing life in Korea and describes the opportunities and the love for classical music as far greater here than almost anywhere in the world. “In Seoul and throughout Korea audiences are younger, enthusiastic and appreciative. Children are taught music from an early age and there is a real respect for the arts that is not true of many other countries. There are more classical albums sold per capita in Korea than any other country in the world!” he says.

Jeff describes how Korean performers have come to dominate the world of classical orchestras.

In most major orchestras there are up to 25% Korean strings players. This is down to discipline and love and an excellent teaching system.

In other words, a career in classical music is therefore one to aspire to at SFS. Jeff himself grew up in Illinois, USA. He began to play trumpet in Grade 5 - so he can really identify with our Beginner Band Day students!

He met his wife - our own Sophie Holbrook - at an Arts Camp in Interlochen, Michigan when they were in high school.

Jeff attended Juilliard in NYC - possibly one of the most prestigious music schools in the world.

He describes how he got there. “ I committed to practicing 5-6 hours a day. I took part in as many extra activities and opportunities as I could fit in my schedule. I was in a very supportive community and I attribute my career success to this.”

Jeff gives a fascinating insight into the world of the classical musician. He spends each day with a group of talented and like-minded musicians.

He plays music he loves and is able to perform an enormous variety of pieces - some that he knows well - others may be new. The orchestra may perform perennial favorites like Dvorak's New World Symphony, Beethoven’s Fifth or Puccini’s La Boheme. Rehearsals normally begin a week beforehand. The orchestra performs in up to 40 major concerts a year at the Seoul Arts Center or the Lotte Hall. Then they perform at community and outreach events and as part of a Chamber Music educational program. They will also embark on at least one major tour per year typically to Europe or the US. To Jeff, it’s an incredible life full of variety and one that brings joy to all.

Jeff's Advice - FIND YOUR INSPIRATION! • Appreciate what you have at SFS and in Korea. This is not the norm!

• Try everything • Keep pushing till something pushes back. It will • Don’t pursue music with the end goal of it being a job. Pursue it for the experience itself and the love of it • Think outside the box. Go and see a Marvel film. Imagine it without the soundtrack - it’s nothing. You will then realise you LOVE orchestral music!

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SFS CURRICULUM

A Different Class Middle Year String Concert, 2018

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usic is an integral part of our curriculum. More than many other schools we make a huge investment in the subject and we know it balances the intense academic work of our

students. Assistant Head of School - Academics, Jan-Mark Seewald and Director of Arts - John Striffler give an overview of music as an academic subject.

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number of studies conducted around the world support the learning of music and the playing of an instrument as leading to higher academic achievement, improving memory skills, helping relieve stress, improving cognitive functions, building teamwork and enhancing creativity. One study at Northwestern University found better neural processing in students who played a musical instrument compared with students who only listened to music.

We therefore feel that our music program is absolutely vital to the life and development of our students at Seoul Foreign School. We have an exceptional faculty of music educators and offer students the opportunity to pursue a musical education both at the academic level and also through performance-based courses. Every student in our school benefits from our music program. Each one engages with music from pre-K through to the conclusion of their middle years, by which time everyone will have had a number of years of formal music classes and most will have learned to play an instrument.

Students in the high school can then choose to continue their musical education in an academic IB Music class, or through one of our performance-based music courses, or both. This is one of the things that elevates the SFS music program above many others.

We are able to maintain a very high standard of excellence in both our performance program and our IB music program. The music program at Seoul Foreign School truly offers something for everyone. Students from SFS are routinely chosen to perform at both national and international festivals such as the KIMEA (Korea

International Music Educators Association) National Honor Festival, APAC (Asia Pacific Activities Conference) and AMIS (Association for Music in International Schools) festivals.

Beyond our curricular music program, SFS also offers a host of private music lessons through our SWEP program for various age groups and ability levels.

With many options to choose from and facilities that are unrivaled, our music program offers Seoul Foreign School students a wonderful experience. It truly builds character and inspires excellence.

Music Outside The Curriculum We are proud to offer an extensive music program as part of our SWEP Program. After school every day children can learn all instruments at all levels with specialised teachers.

The program is designed to support the curriculum and add more.

SWEP makes use of the amazing facilities that we have. The practice rooms are soundproofed and can accommodate individual and group lessons. All our instruments are well maintained along with all supporting equipment. The acoustics in rooms and theatres are incredible - this is what sets our program apart! Our students have the chance to play in recitals and showcases and to grow in confidence and range.

Our teachers will do their best to accommodate all needs.

For more information, please contact swep@seoulforeign.org SF S B A N N ER

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SFS FACULTY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Director's

Cut

John Striffler and Peter Hutchin(HS Faculty) in Captain Hook's Revenge, the 2018 SFS Panto.

John Striffler joined us in August 2018 as Director of Performing and Visual Arts. John is responsible for all of our musical offerings from shows to orchestras, and from lessons to SWEP. This role is crucial to maintaining our reputation as a leader of all things musical within the global educational world!

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ohn has a fascinating background. He grew up in New York City and at 23 decided that his future lay in studying the Performing Arts.

With a minor in Vocal Performance John threw himself into college life and took part in many productions including Godspell - where he took the part of Jesus. John toured the UK in the Elite Ensemble Choir and also spent a year in Germany.

Two things which make John ideal for his role in Seoul Foreign School are his Masters in “Performances for the Young” and his in-depth studies of Asian theatre technique including Chinese Opera and Indonesian Randai Theatre.

John devised classes to teach conventional subjects using the arts within a public school system. He believes very strongly in accessibility in the arts and has been known to use hip hop to teach Shakespeare!

music. Each one benefits each other and we all work together.”

The importance of music in the curriculum is a personal passion. “Music is a key contributor to our reputation as a great school” he adds. “This is down to our amazing teachers. Our music department is small but powerful! It’s a truly schoolwide department and most teachers are involved in several parts of the school and the wider community. This makes the transition between schools and grades seamless.”

John explains how our music offering starts at an early age. “In Elementary School and British School KS1 and 2 it’s about making music fun and developing a love of music. Esther, Grace and JB inspire and help create a passion for music to last a lifetime. They want lessons to be fun! As students grow up they are offered a greater choice and whatever their passion we can offer a way to indulge that.”

John, his wife, Tara, and daughter, Piper, embarked on their great SFS adventure in August 2018. John says this job combines all his loves Finally, John sums up his department. “The and all his ambitions in one place. parents see an amazing end product - a solo, a soaring choral performance, a haunting quartet, a “The arts are really important to SFS and that show-stopping musical like Anything Goes. These makes teaching here a pleasure. There is a great are possible because we have the best teachers.” triumverate of academics, sports and arts and

John’s Wishlist 1. I’d love us to host more international events like AMIS that showcase our amazing music and theatre facilities.

2. How about a Music Education Conference - let’s host the best in the world and share ideas and inspiration?

3. Our students deserve even MORE recognition for all that they do. They ARE our music department.

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Les Miserable Dance Rehearsal with Jason Lee

A Chorus

Line

Jason Lee joined SFS in August this year and was immediately thrown in at the deep end with rehearsals for Les Miserables! Here Jason talks about what brought him to Korea and Seoul Foreign School and how he hopes to develop our Dance program through performances, workshops, classes and competition.

“G

ive everything to your art and it will give back!” So says Jason Lee, our new choreographer at Seoul Foreign School. As such he is responsible for creating the professional dance routines we see in all our productions. He then rehearses the students to perform them like they were born to dance!

Jason came to dance, to Seoul and to SFS in a less than traditional way - and we are incredibly lucky to have him. He uses the word ‘serendipity� a lot to describe the various stages of his life and it would seem to sum up his story perfectly!

Jason is a New Yorker to the core. He was born and bred there and considers New York itself a huge influence on him when choosing to perform.

He was never a performer in school - he didn’t know at an early age that his career would be in dance. Indeed, he laughs at the description, “Least likely to be a dancer” in his old high school yearbook. Several things convinced him - seeing a choreographer on Oprah, not wanting to step on his partner’s toes at the prom and most importantly seeing breakdancers in the Bronx one day and just deciding to join in.

in persistence. He kept going when a lesser man would have given up and eventually he started to get jobs in music videos and commercials and then tours. From the sublime to the ridiculous he describes his first stage performance. “I was on stage in Caracas, Venezuela, in front of 70,000 fans supporting a huge Latin American singer. Off stage the audience wanted to grab you just because you’d been on stage! As I started to dance I had a moment of huge panic - and I said to myself you can either own the stage or if you don’t do it you will be a failure. So I did it and I truly felt that I could now die happy!”

Jason’s career high point was touring with Alicia Keys. The best dancers and choreographers in the world were on that tour and he was so immensely grateful and proud to be on the tour. He also cites an instance where he saw himself on a mega billboard in an ad for Intel that he had done. His family came into the city to see it and he felt like he was in the movies!

And then Korea and the world of K-pop came calling. Despite his heritage he was a foreigner in Korea, feeling like a New Yorker transplanted into an alien world. But he soon realised that Jason became one of the dancers you see in the there was a world of opportunity here. He found ‘crews� in Times Square. Performing with the street a way to make Korea and Seoul life work for him dancers there was his training ground and his first and is a sought-after dancer, teacher, actor and job! It was difficult explaining this to his Korean choreographer here. family who couldn’t see what dance would bring him. Where would this competitive and almost Jason came to SFS to teach an Urban Funk class dangerous lifestyle bring him? This was not the as part of our SWEP program. From there he met typical career path of a potential lawyer or doctor! Edie and a partnership was born.

While performing on the streets Jason started to audition for music videos and shows. The auditions were open - and he admits that at first, “I didn’t know how to audition to get the job! I must have gone to hundreds of auditions and never got a callback. So I started watching those who did.

What did they do that I didn’t do? What could I learn? And soon I was the ‘Callback King� - but I still didn’t get the jobs.” Jason is a true lesson

“Working at Seoul Foreign School is a blessing.

The talent is amazing! The teachers are all amazing and I am excited every day to come into work. My goal is to simply touch a few students every day with what I say and do. I say to every student who says that they can’t dance, ‘Just do it! If you give it a go and just try then you will start to feel it.

Remember no one in the audience will know how you are feeling - don’t worry about that.”

BE INSPIRED BY • PRINCE • FRED ASTAIRE • MICHAEL JACKSON

HOW TO GET AHEAD IN DANCE • Be drama free • Be kind • Shut your mouth and work hard • The dance industry is small and your reputation is everything

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SFS FACULTY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Sound of the Crowd Tom Ford is the multi talented Choir Director at Seoul Foreign School. He has worked with all kinds of choirs over the past three decades - from the youngest student choir to full church choirs. He speaks with great passion about why every one of us can benefit from raising our voices!

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om’s background is pretty unusual - he was raised in Taiwan, where his parents ran an orphanage for children with disabilities. Tom really can empathise with international school students as he was one himself. He’s lived in the US, Taiwan and China as well as Korea. He became an international school teacher at 23 and has spent most of his life overseas. His children are following in his footsteps with all three now living abroad! Tom speaks Mandarin fluently and almost feels more ‘at home� in China than in the US. He joined the school choir in junior high around the same time a wonderful new teacher, Melody Faris, joined the staff. She encouraged him and he went on to take voice lessons, join other choirs, perform in musicals and really take chances. He emerged from school with The National School Choral Award. After this he knew that music would be part of his future and took a Music Education degree then a Masters with his thesis on The Male Voice Change - How to Encourage Boys to Continue to Sing.

boys sometimes singing, and thinks that changes in voice are something we can work through.

Tom loves to work with our Middle Schoolers - he understands the changes happening in students at this time and tries to work with it by offering guidance rather than criticism.

Tom has been at SFS for six years and teaches choir to both the Middle and High School.

His day is as varied as possible and his choirs can sing classical one minute and gospel or pop the next. Tom stresses that within a choir a student will learn the structure of support, gain self-confidence and collaborate in ways that are unique to a choir class.

Tom takes strength from the camaraderie and support in the music department. All the music teachers support each other - play or sing in other areas - and generally work as a team. His joy comes from hearing voices come together in a meaningful way. The goal is to draw in the audience and make them part of the song!

This subject is incredibly important to Tom in his work and he believes we need to understand why

Why Should You Join The Choir?

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Research shows that singing makes you happier!

Escapism - forget the cares of your day Peace and quiet in a stressful life Music works your brain so you learn better and your test scores improve!

A chance to make beautiful music with your friends!

It’s a no judgement zone.

SFS COMMUNITY

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cross Seoul Foreign School there are numerous opportunities to sing out loud with friends, family and the community. Not only do we sing together in assembly and at

events such as United in Prayer but our students also have the chance to sing as part of the school day and the SWEP program as well as in other ways. In the Middle Years Music program for example you can sing every day! Take a look at some of the other ways you can be part of a choir.

GRADE LEVEL/SCHOOL CHOIRS These may be formed as part of the daily curriculum or for special performances. They may include one age group or be even wider. Choirs may be formed for specific productions or performances.

For example last year a Grade 4 Choir from the Elementary School performed at the Australia Day celebrations at the Grand Hyatt after rehearsing with their teacher as part of lessons.

BRITISH SCHOOL SENIOR CHOIR This choir is made up of British School students in Years 5-9. They are accompanied by musicians in the same years. The choir is formed to perform at a set of Christmas events such as the BASS Mince Pies Celebration at the British Embassy and Songs at the Senior Welfare Centre in Seodaemun-gu.

Their repertoire consists of traditional and modern Christmas songs and hymns. The children look very festive in their blue uniforms and Santa hats and there is always a press call at the Grand Hyatt where they get a taste of stardom!

HS CONCERT CHOIR The High School Concert Choir operates during the school day and is a performance based class which concentrates on all types of standard choral literature. Students have an opportunity to experience something different from other classes as they work on ensemble skills and singing techniques in preparation for various concerts throughout the year. This is often where students begin to realize that indeed they can sing!

MOONLIGHT CHOIR An audition-only choir, Moonlight this year comprises 24 students, who were selected to form SFS's 'top choir' for the 2019-2020 school year. Out of the 24, 16 students are then selected to represent SFS at APAC Choir which will be held in Manila this year. The choir meets one evening a week and performs an extremely diverse repertoire such as gospel, jazz, acapella, modern pop, show tunes, rock and soul from decades past!

PSALMS CHOIR The Psalms Choir is a high school student and adult choir that anyone in the SFS community is welcome to join. The choir lives up to its name as weekly rehearsals include lifting voices up in praise and also community building. The choir performs several times throughout the year and is truly inclusive with students, faculty, parents and alumni turning up faithfully for the love of music.

For these and other opportunities contact tom.ford@seoulforeign.org APAC HS Choir

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21

SFS FACULTY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Orchestral Maneuvers Ryan Walker is responsible for all things orchestral! As Director of Orchestras and International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) Music Instructor he is at the heart of the Music program here at Seoul Foreign School.

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yan began playing music at the age of 4 under the guidance of his mother, a Suzuki music teacher. One of the tenets of this teaching system is ‘start young!� Ryan believes this made a difference to him and he advocates it now. His parents told him he could quit at 18 but not before. By 18, of course, he was hooked and despite dalliances through his childhood with sports and other passions he knew that music was for him. Part of the reason he knew this was that in high school he discovered the joys of teaching.

He helped with the Elementary School strings classes and realized he loved seeing students learn and find their feet.

Ryan won a scholarship to Luther College in Iowa, a prestigious liberal arts school specialising in music. Like the majority of our teaching department he made an active choice to be a teacher, not a performer. “Teaching isn’t a second choice for me" he says. “Teaching is a joy and a privilege.”

Working at international schools in Singapore and Norway, Ryan was also a soccer coach and is very clear that you can do both. “Musicians can be athletes, too. Music and sport compliment each other perfectly. Music makes you better at sport and vice versa!” he enthuses.

Ryan has now been here five years with his wife, Lauren, and children Meredith and Joel, who are both very keen on the music program here in the Elementary School.

A key part of the role is teaching music as part of the DP curriculum in the High School. The curriculum includes music history, aural analysis, scores study, composition and performance. “It’s a taxing, stimulating, challenging and important class” says Ryan. “It builds on the way music is treasured in Korea. Taking music as part of the DP makes you stand out from the crowd and shows a well rounded student.”

The Ideal Concert Repertoire • Interesting for the audience • Loads of fun to play

• Teaches technical ensemble skills required by the curriculum

Ryan’s Tips for Parents • • • • •

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Start your children young!

Be committed! Are YOU ready to support at home and make the extra effort?

If a child owns their own instrument they are more likely to love it and respect it Practice Practice Practice You’re giving your child a gift - help them appreciate it - teach them that this is a gift that takes a long time to unwrap!

SFS COMMUNITY

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here are numerous opportunities throughout our school to be part of an orchestra and to learn each of the instruments.

Many of our students start young and move through the different levels. At all points Ryan is there to support students and advise and guide them with their next steps. He guides them in practice requirements, pieces to look at, and help them develop an appreciation for music. It’s our aim for each and every orchestra to be the best that it can be and for each to be showcased both within our school and to a wider audience.

Ryan stresses that the goal for all the orchestras is to work as an ensemble. It’s about learning and playing together understanding others and becoming a pair. There is no ranking; just a careful deliberation over what sounds best and who will learn from each other. Everyone needs to learn team building skills as well as performance skills. Everyone is fully engaged with the whole rehearsal, practice, performance, and learning process. To hear the progress students make is amazing!

When absolutely necessary, some auditions are blind so there can be nothing but objective, professional choices about sound.

Every student is given an equal chance to perform and to succeed.

All the orchestras play a varied repertoire. Pieces are chosen by Ryan in May for the following year. The choice is difficult as there is so much variety and possibility! In one program there may be Puccini and Andrew Lloyd Webber - or Baroque to Beat It! MIDDLE SCHOOL PHILHARMONIC One of two Middle School orchestras, this is for intermediate/advanced players. Everyone in the Middle School in Grades 6-8 is welcome to try out for this orchestra which is made up of 25-35 students MIDDLE SCHOOL SYMPHONIC This is the more advanced Middle School orchestra and usually students progress from Philharmonic to Symphonic. Students audition for this orchestra at the beginning of the year and they then perform with the top wind players for a fuller concert sound.

HIGH SCHOOL SYMPHONIC There is no audition to join this orchestra. The 50+ players join because they have a passion for music and a love for playing. They rehearse during the school day and play with the Wind Ensemble.

HIGH SCHOOL CHAMBER This is a far smaller orchestra with only 25 members. They meet and rehearse in the evenings so all the High School grades can take part - no matter how busy their daily schedules are.

QUARTETS We currently have two string quartets within the High School. They are both all female and both were formed out of pure love of playing strings and making music. These quartets have played at outside events including the BCCK dinner at the British Embassy, at the Donor Appreciation event and the High School Opening.

Elleen Kim HS Grade 11

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eing able to perform in a string quartet is in no doubt a phenomenal experience and most definitely a highlight of my academic years. Having been recruited by our orchestra conductor, three of my close friends and I created the Camminatore String Quartet in our first year of high school; something that would ultimately aid us in developing our musicianship and flourish as ensemble members.

We continue to grasp every opportunity we have to perform together, and had the honor of

performing in extraordinary events along the way, such as our most recent performance at the British Embassy. As time passes and workloads increase, it is often difficult for us to reserve time for rehearsal, but being a member of the ensemble also means being able to work through challenges and finding solutions.

I am looking forward to making music with my friends and representing our school through music, and hope that the future of our quartet is bright.

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SFS FACULTY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Band of Gold Even though she only joined us in 2018, Sophie

Sophie Holbrook conductiing the ES G4-5 Christmas concert

Holbrook is such a natural fit at SFS that

it seems as though she's always been with us! Since then parents, colleagues and students have come to love her patient and inspiring teaching. Her skills in coaxing students to new heights on Beginner Band Day have to be seen to be believed!

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orn and raised in Palo Alto, California, Sophie always knew she would have a career in music. Her mother was a music teacher and choir director and Sophie spent evenings after school doing her homework in music rooms, concert halls and rehearsal studios as her mother worked.

Sophie started playing the trumpet very young and she also sang. Her first taste of opera was being in the chorus as a child and she performed the child solo in La Boheme. She was so entranced she would sit through the remaining acts every night - and make sure she was in the center so her mother couldn’t retrieve her until the last note! It’s commitment when your pet fish are named ‘Macello� and ‘Musetta� after opera characters!

Music Education when she realised that was her vocation.

Sophie has been in Korea most of her working life, even teaching at another school in the country before joining SFS. During her years there she met and liked the SFS music teachers and always hoped to work here some day. She and her husband, Jeff, were attracted to the amazing campus and facilities of our school for their own children.

Her role here is to teach and inspire band students from the very basics to a more advanced level. The basics of band life include ensemble playing, teamwork, blending and balancing, tuning, scales and more. The varied repertoire is a key feature of the band. It can play jazz, movie highlights, classical and marches. A real bonus A middle school teacher - Tim Robblee - inspired is that many of the composers of the the music Sophie. She attributes her love of band to him. that this band plays are still alive and composing He made learning fun and made everyone proud. in the 21st century. The band even has Skype All his students loved his classes no matter sessions with composers! Along with her teaching what their level or ability. “A great teacher is duties at SFS, Sophie is very active with KIMEA, the difference between loving music and the which she co-founded in 2011 with former complete opposite” says Sophie. She is lucky SFS band director, Ken Caldwell, and another to have had great teachers throughout school colleague. With KIMEA, Sophie works to bring and at San Francisco Conservatory where she band education, events, and festivals to students began a degree in Performance but switched to all over Korea.

Why Join the Band?

• It’s a varied and fun experience • Members play music from a range of different genres • Both team and individual skills are utilized and nurtured • All participants come away feeling a huge sense of achievement 24

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SFS FACULTY

Leading

the Band Josh in Les Miserables Orchestral rehearsal

Josh Yaniw is new to Seoul Foreign School - starting this year as High School Band Director. He brings a wealth of experience to the school - experience which has taken him from his childhood church in Australia to the jazz clubs of Paris and the opera theatres of Milan. Now he and his family are here in Seoul to inspire our students to greater heights.

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osh’s path to teaching and loving music has been focused on jazz. His is the story of following your dreams! After a childhood spent playing in the church band and then within his school band program Josh packed his trombone, his savings and his suitcase and moved to Paris.

“I went to every jazz club in town” he says. “I wanted to experience the atmosphere, to find music in its raw form. I had almost a year of intense practice and performance. It’s truly one of the best times of my life. I made friends and connections and I returned a richer man for it.

I felt I now knew how to take my music to the next level.”

He also assists Sophie Holbrook with her band program and describes how he has learned so much already from her.

“A band repertoire is like a healthy diet - it must be varied and balanced” he enthuses. “I choose pieces to stretch and develop the students - from Bach to Holst to more recent composers. I look for variety for the students.

“The band is a microcosm of what society should be like” he adds. “People of diverse backgrounds and skills come together and work together towards shared values. In a band, our shared values are around what constitutes excellent Back in Australia, Josh had a teaching job by music. This ability to work together transfers into day and by night he played in clubs. He believed other areas of life. In this way music can make performing kept his love of music alive and made people better citizens.” him a better teacher. Josh met his wife, Mia, in his school - he was teaching Music while she Josh encourages students to look at El Systema in taught Voice - and they embarked on a major Venezuela - a band for social change. “You may adventure together - traveling to Milan where she be poor but if I put an instrument in your hand pursued her career as an opera singer. you are a rich man” he says.

Milan was a wonderful place for a jazz musician - with many bands and clubs and opportunities.

It was where Josh learned Italian, became part of a Dixieland jazz ensemble and indulged in his passion for swing.

After the happy couple became a family of three, they came to Seoul Foreign School, attracted by the incredible music program on offer here.

On a daily basis Josh teaches the High School Concert Band and the Wind Ensemble. He also teaches Beginner Band in the Middle School.

Josh’s Mantra • Music can make you a better person • Music gives you balance • Music is more than notes on a page - they are just a poor representation - knowing the notes does not mean you know the music • Listen more than you play. Listen more than you study.

Just listen, listen, listen...

SF S B AN N ER

25

SFS EVENTFROM LETTER

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Beginner Band Day

Grade 5 Beginner Band Day. Photo by Mathilde Doherty (G11)

Beginner Band Day is a highlight for Grade 5 students in the Elementary School. As Sophie Holbrook sums it up, “If you could harness the sheer energy and exuberance and bottle it then it could keep you going all year!"

B

eginner Band Day started at Seoul Foreign School over 10 years ago and is still going strong. In simple terms our Grade 5 students nominate a band instrument to play beforehand and on the big day they are allocated their instrument, taught to play it and then they give their first concert.

Imagine 90+ new players all on the Lyso stage!

The students are super excited and energy is high. It’s amazing what you need to know to make musical magic: • • • •

How to open one's instrument case and assemble the instrument itself How to sit and how to hold the instruments How to blow correctly How to use one's fingers to make the simplest notes

After lunch all students get together and begin to plan their concert. At this point they know how to set up, they know 5 notes and they know some songs. Now it’s time for the ensemble to play! Each student should feel like they are making a difference to the overall sound.

“It’s so satisfying because although the students are exhausted and their lips are numb with effort, they are happy and they have achieved something!” Sophie says. “It’s a real team effort and everybody realises that. The ultimate aim is that they feel like they are all in it together.”

The highest accolade comes from the parents who attend the 2.30 concert. The performance is not at all what they had been expecting. The band sounds like it has been playing together for a long time!

What an amazing achievement by not only the students, but also Ms. Holbrook and her team!

Ian Kim ES Grade 5.

W

e went to Lyso for Beginner Band Day and practiced for our first concert for our parents.

It was very fun because we played and chose our instruments and we even knew what instrument we got. We got separated into groups of our instruments. It’s really easy when you try and practice for the parent concert. I

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got the instrument that I wanted, and mostly everyone else did as well. The concert was unique compared to other concerts that we do. We get in rows and all the people with the same instruments go next to each other. It was noisy but overall very fun!

SFS FACULTY

Musical

Esther and students exploring drums in the Kindergarten

Confidence

Esther Jun teaches some of our youngest students and believes passionately in the confidence that students can find through using their voices. She has countless examples within the student community past and present and especially in her own family! With a Masters in Choral Conducting and a passion for music across the spectrum, Esther inspires her classes every day.

E

sther was born in Seoul but moved to California aged 12 and studied there through middle and high school and into college where she met her husband. Staying in the States, Esther worked as an accompanist and music teacher, eventually, deciding with her husband to relocate to Seoul since they were both from Korea. Their children were young and they began looking for schools for them. After a false start they found SFS and both of Esther’s children - Jamie and Jonathan (or JJ) studied here.

Esther speaks passionately about how the music program at SFS changed both her childrens’ lives.

“Jamie became a different person. Before, she was shy and a little withdrawn. At Seoul Foreign School she came out of her shell and took part in the band, choir and all the productions! It was like seeing a different child come home.

Being part of the music program at SFS prepared my children for college and instilled a lifelong passion in them both. My son took part in Fiddler on the Roof and many other things. He may be an accountant in NYC now, but the music is still in him!”

There can be no finer testament to music at SFS - and to Esther - than the fact that her daughter, Jamie, is now a music teacher herself in the States!

Esther says “I have never found a student who hates music. They may say they hate music class - but that is different just means we have to find a way to help them enjoy it. I encourage them to look around them and focus on the music in their daily life. What do they love to listen to? “

Esther sees music class as a team building opportunity. Students learn to cooperate whether they have the solo or the chorus. They are part of a team. They learn presentation skills, how to stand in front of an audience and feel confident.

They can use these skills in later life.

The sociable aspect of music is key. It’s not just you when you sing with a choir or perform with a class. “You may not be a great singer but you can be part of a great performance.”

Esther certainly practices what she preaches! She teaches SWEP classes in Broadway and Disney songs where students can sing what they truly love. She is also part of our Psalms Choir and directs an adult choir in church on a Sunday.

Jonathan and Jamie

“To be a performer from an early age is to learn to be a leader and a creator and to learn to follow a leader. Learn to co-operate and to be part of a team. All are vital skills.”

What makes a performer “To be a performer from an early age is to learn to be a leader and a creator and to learn to follow a leader. Learn to co-operate and to be part of a team. All are vital skills.”

- Esther Jun SF S B A N N ER

27

SFS FACULTY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Time Out for Talent

Grade 5 Beginner Band Day. Photo by Mathilde Doherty (G11)

Jonbaek Yoon - also affectionately known as "JB", returned to his teaching position in the Elementary School this year after a year in Salzberg on a sabbatical. Like many of our teachers he is passionate about being the best that he can be and years of extra study on Elemental Music led him to this intense course where he earned no fewer than 56 credits!

J

B has been with us at SFS for eight years now. He always knew he loved music as a child - learning early on that it brought him real joy to sing, to dance and to play instruments. But his route to music as a career was an unusual one. While doing his compulsory National Service he was stationed with the US Military and there he was spotted singing and taken into the US Army Soldier Show.

This meant that he joined a troupe of entertainers who went around the US and Europe entertaining soldiers and the community. While touring he felt he strongly came to realize the power of music to physically and mentally heal people. It brought him such confidence to know that he could use his gift and it felt like God was sending him a message.

JB began teaching music to younger children.

This brought him into contact with the idea of 'elemental music' - a pattern-based musical form that can be learned, created and performed without advanced musical training. German composer and pedagogue Carl Orff along with his colleague Gunild Keetman defined the qualities of elemental music and created a music education approach called Orff-Schulwerk.

It gives a chance for the students to learn through singing, dancing, playing and creating organically. JB has been training for several weeks every year - becoming a master before reaching the pinnacle of his training with his sabbatical.

JB is now sharing his knowledge with our Grade 2-5 students. He tries to teach them that music is not so much a subject as a means to make them happy in life. He advocates the basics as a way of learning how to love all types of music…

JB cites some of his favourite pieces and artists as Brahms Symphony no 3 (3rd Movement) along with John Legend and Stevie Wonder. An eclectic choice!

Music for Children • Percussion instruments work well to develop a sense of rhythm and timing • The recorder may be simple but you can develop a real melodic sense • Games like Musical Statues are fun and help you associate music with joy • Use your whole body - feel the music and express yourself!

• Make what you do in the early years a foundation for a lifelong love

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SFS FACULTY

BS Senior Choir peforming at the Seodaemun-gu Seniors Welfare Center

Practice makes Perfect

Grace Hahn has been inspiring students in the British School for a decade now. She works with children of all ages and stages and her real passion for music - singing and playing - is always there. All the students love Miss Grace and for a small school they have a lot of musical success!

G

race is a testament to the power of a good teacher and a great inspiration. Her mother was her first inspiration, and the key figure responsible for encouraging Grace to test herself and realize that music would be her life. Like many children Grace played the piano as a child and she practiced faithfully until suddenly one day, she didn’t want to practice anymore. She moved at this time and it was a while before she returned home and told her mother she was ready to resume practice. Her mother told her it was too late, but Grace was determined to prove her wrong and this was the jolt she needed. She practiced more faithfully than ever before and her mother revealed that she had been testing her and Grace had more than proved her love and dedication (How many of us would have reacted like Grace?)

- thought this could be her dream job. Why not return to Korea?

Grace has been inspiring students here for ten years now. She cites the caring, inclusive atmosphere of the British School as keeping her happy and motivated. Immediately SFBS felt like home to her. Each day throws up different challenges - simple games and exercises with the younger students - to the creative joys of the Senior Choir performing to crowds at the Grand Hyatt and The Four Seasons at Christmas. Every day is fun.

She doesn’t hesitate when asked about the highlight of her year. “When we take the Senior Choir to the Seodaemun-gu Seniors Welfare Center” she says. “The elders there are so happy A significant part of Grace’s musical education to see them and I feel we bring joy into their came in the UK when the family moved to lives. It also teaches the students about care and Manchester, England. Steven Osborne, her teacher responsibility and respect. there, became a true mentor and inspiration. He introduced her to a deeper, wider range of music “I work in a school because I love children” she including musicals, new classical pieces, new world adds. “To see them growing in both mind and music and techniques like improvisation, which ability is a real joy.” she had never known before.

Grace studied Music at Manchester University but soon realised that she didn’t want to pursue the career path of a classical performer. It was too competitive and luck was a huge element in being successful. Instead she found work as an accompanist and began teaching children within the growing Korean community in Manchester.

After her PGCE studies she worked at Derby Grammar and spent several happy years teaching the boys there until she saw an ad for Seoul Foreign British School and - to her huge surprise

Grace’s Top Tips • Look for inspiration all around you. Listen to all different types of music in all different venues and forms • Find a great teacher who loves music and genuinely wants you to succeed (there are lots here!)

• Be disciplined in your practice no matter how hard it may seem and how little you want to do it. Practice is the key to getting better • Music is never an achievement - it’s an ongoing process.

Enjoy the ride!

SF S B AN N ER

29

SFS THEATRE LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

A Dance to the

Music of Time

A scene from 2019 HS Musical Les Miserables, photo by Siwon Lee (G10)

O

ur incredible Theatre Director, Edie

Moon, gives a compelling insight into how SFS

developed the professionalism of the musicals we are privileged to see several times

a year. She draws on her extensive personal experience of significant figures in SFS and SFS theatre history. Having such a breadth of experience gives Edie a unique perspective which she shares here...

A

s far as we know, the first play done at Seoul Foreign School was in 1919 and no, it was not a musical. Rather it was Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It is safe to say that the commitment to Shakespeare in the early years of SFS’s theatre history was significant.

Between 1919 and 1938, audiences in the SFS community could see one play a year and of those plays, seven of them were Shakespeare. Fr. Charles Hunt of the Church of England’s Korea Mission was one of the first theatre directors at SFS and he made Shakespeare a tradition in the 1920s and 30s. The commitment to Shakespeare has not diminished. Musical theatre, however, was not on the stages of SFS until 1965 when The Pirates of Penzance was first performed. Over the next 20 years - and during the time that my sister and I were students at SFS - there were only three musicals done. I performed in Godspell in 1974 under the direction of special guest director Mrs. Dorothy Underwood. At that time, the two leads were played by SFS teachers; one of whom went on to become a professional actor.

My sister, Jennifer Rader Purvis, performed in Guys and Dolls in 1982 and the enthusiasm and interest for it was so high that the show was double-casted so audiences saw different actors each night.

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In 1986-87 when I had returned to SFS as a teacher and director, a band director and music teacher, Mr. Steven Raatz, had also arrived. He was wholly committed to the idea of an annual musical. He and I started small with You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. For the next 20 years, a musical was performed every single year. Many of them were classics like Bye Bye Birdie, The Sound of Music, The King and I, Oliver, South Pacific, Fiddler on the Roof, Once Upon a Mattress, and The Music Man. During this time there were also revivals of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, and Guys and Dolls. With the exception of The King and I, which was performed in the UAC (the one and only musical theatre performance done in that venue), the rest were staged in the original Robb Hall Theatre. It was during this time that another English teacher and director came to SFS - Mrs. Patricia Southlea Kearney.

There was no established drama ‘program� at SFS and she and I were teaching English full time as well as directing the plays ‘on the side.� We decided that we would split this responsibility. I would direct all the non-musical performances and she and Stephen Raatz and John McCracken would direct the musicals. Patti Kearney writes: “From 1990 to 2009 I was privileged to be a

part of the growth of theatre at SFS. Robb Hall was always our main showcase, but through the years we experimented with The King and I in the UAC, Godspell and Joseph on the road as far as Manilla; all before we moved into the state-of-the-art Lyso Center. I especially loved the family feel for theater when the school was much smaller. Elementary school and Middle School students played chorus roles in musicals such as Oliver, Bye Bye Birdie and Music Man. We would form 'family groups' within the cast with the High Schoolers shepherding the younger students into forming bonds that still last today thanks to social media sites. What stands out the most to me are the values we tried to highlight in our productions: the importance of giving second chances in Children of Eden; that love can set us straight in Guys and Dolls; and how to hold on to traditions while still learning to move ahead with what life hands us in Fiddler on the Roof. South Pacific taught us to ignore prejudices that we may have been ‘carefully taught� and Chorus Line pointed us “toward tomorrow.”

Although I’m directing shows in Detroit now, the stage at SFS is still my sacred space!”

With the building of the Lyso Center for the Performing Arts and due to Dr. Harlan Lyso’s dedication to the development of a full theatre program at Seoul Foreign School, I had the privilege to return to SFS in 2007 as the Drama Director for this program. Since 2007, anywhere between 3-4 musicals a year have been performed in the new Robb Hall as well as the Lyso Center. While musicals were in the past primarily high school shows which included middle school and sometimes, elementary students, the past 14 years have included 4th grade musicals, middle school musicals, Key Stage 1, 2 and 3 musicals as well as high school musicals. I have had the privilege of directing 25 musicals since 2008 and other musicals have been directed by wonderful colleagues including Sam Stone, Kyla Hamm, Donna Youngblood and others with the collaboration of our excellent music department teachers and directors. Hundreds of SFS students have participated through these years in shows including Aladdin, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Little Shop of Horrors, The Jungle Book, Back to the 80s, Into the Woods Jr, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Knights at Dawn, Grease, The Addams Family, and now Les Miserables.

As Patti Kearney mentioned, musical theatre at SFS has been about building community. It has also been about breaking down barriers, developing performance skills, encouraging students to take their first steps onto the stage, telling stories, and bringing heart and healing to the community audience.

Today, 6-7 shows a year are produced at Seoul Foreign School representing every section of the school. The commitment to musical theatre as well as many other forms of theatre remains strong as we continue to strive to provide each student with an opportunity to develop holistically through the arts and as we try to touch and enhance their lives with the power of theatre.

SF S B A N N ER

31

SFS COMMUNITY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Do you hear the

People Sing?

Les Miserables cast. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10)

What goes into building a SFS musical? Here, our own amazing Theatre Director, Edie Moon, sheds light on the whole process from start to triumphant finish!

CHOOSING THE MUSICAL

C

hoosing what we perform starts and ends with Edie but she does not operate in a vacuum. The considerations are immense and the process can take years. Edie works in four-year cycles - designed to give every student the broadest possible experience of theatre and musicals during their years at school.

Students should have a taste of the comic, the modern, Shakespeare, and musicals of every genre and setting. She also takes into consideration the tastes of the audience as well as the education and growth potential for the students. As she says, “If it was up to the students they might prefer comedies and musicals but we need to give them breadth and depth. You learn far less if you do the same genre every year!” Edie tries to stretch cast, crew and design team, too. She is always quick to say “We cannot please everyone! It’s impossible and some shows are far greater crowd pleasers than others.” Edie had Les Miserables in the back of her mind years ago - and she was planning and debating how to fit it into the cycle.

And she did!

Countdown to the show... UP TO FOUR YEARS!

Les Miserables cast. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10)

BUYING THE MUSICAL

T

his is not as easy as it sounds. Several companies control the rights to most musicals and there are fixed legal requirements and restrictions.

Schools cannot just say “Let’s do Grease!” like they do in the movies!

Companies who own the rights need to know where and when the show will be performed, who will take part and who will watch. They even want to know what the ticket price will be!

And then there are the costs involved. Most plays and musicals cost something, and the cost - even to a school or other non-profit entity - can be high. As you would imagine the more popular the show the higher the cost. “We are very conscientious about abiding by due process and cost” says Edie. “In this instance we bought the rights to perform Les Miserables at SFS from US agents Music Theatre International. The price was relatively high but it’s worth it for what we will gain.”

Countdown to the show... seven months

CASTING

E

die regularly faces challenges about casting. Like the big, wide world it’s a competitive business and the process is kept as objective as possible. We don’t buy plays with specific actors in mind but Edie’s mind starts working immediately to think who would be good. She watches concerts and talent shows and children interacting on a daily basis. She consults with the music teachers and with her producer, choreographer, vocal director and other teachers when making final choices within the theatre department.

For Les Miserables Edie and her panel asked students to learn and perform “Do You Hear the People Sing?” and “I Dreamed a Dream” along with one more piece. 45+ auditioned and 35 made it through. Roles are determined by performance at audition as well as previous experience and performances in other activities and shows. Chemistry with fellow actors is also hugely important. Edie gets only EIGHT weeks to rehearse a show, so the casting is the kickstarter to the real rehearsal process!

Countdown to the show... eight weeks

REHEARSALS

A

nd then rehearsals start! In a busy school like SFS, students have so many activities that the rehearsals very often have to be flexible.

It’s a myth that you spend all week in rehearsal - technically, Edie reveals, rehearsals are set in one and a half hour blocks three days a week! These rehearsals are supplemented by some Saturday practices, but again, students have other commitments.

Rehearsals take the form of vocal rehearsal for the chorus, then solo singing and acting and the final weekly rehearsal is allocated to choreography. As well as these the show needs to be staged and blocked and put together. Tracking every part of the show is a full time job! It’s an organic process as some sections come together quicker than others and Edie is on top of the needs of the show. After decades doing this nothing surprises Edie.

She is supported in the rehearsal process by Jason Lee on choreography and Tom Ford on vocals. Bekah Schneider provides backstage support for the cast. She is there to answer questions, be attentive to potential situations and generally be a friend to cast and crew. Her position is vital - and Edie stresses that each rehearsal involves everyone no matter what the focus or who is present. It’s a truly symbiotic process.

Throughout rehearsals props and costumes are eased in as soon as possible so the performers feel that they are in eighteenth century France (or wherever the performance is!)

The blackout period comes two weeks before the show goes on.

Within this time there is more freedom to intensively rehearse and iron out all the final glitches, honing each and every individual and group performance. Within this blackout period there are two dress rehearsals. The first one is ‘bare bones� and then the second is a traditional dress rehearsal - as if it were the real thing!

Edie believes in notes between rehearsals and shows - but she stresses that these should be motivational. We’ve all heard of directors screaming at their cast in between the matinee and evening show but Edie believes that this time should be an opportunity to make ‘great� shows even better, to always keep working on and talking about the motivation of each character.

Who knew what a thoughtful and intense process this was!

Countdown to the show... eight weeks to 1 day!

Left, right top, right middle : Les Miserables acting and dance rehearsals Right bottom : Les Miserables orchestral rehearsal

SF S B AN N ER

33

SFS COMMUNITY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

LIGHTS/SETS/COSTUMES

K

ey to any SFS performance are the lights, sound and set design. The show is dependent on the buy in of a big team of both faculty and volunteers - many of whom have been involved from the first decision to stage the show!

Edie sits down with John Black, Theatre Manager and Tech Director, and EunJung Shin, Scenic Designer as soon as the show is announced. They work on initial ideas and all bring their preconceived ideas to the table then brainstorm the way forward.

This is a truly creative and collaborative process. Edie brings her vision as an ‘umbrella� to the show but to make it work the mechanics and visuals must coalesce. Each contributor has sketches, folders, storyboards, colors, sounds and themes they think will work. They have researched previous productions and films. They read the book and listen to the music. They imagine what real life might have been like for the characters and then work to bring that reality to the stage. The aim is to be original as well as true to the story. With Les Miserables they want the audience to believe they are present in the France which Victor Hugo would have known. As they talk through the musical in numerous meetings the set ideas, lighting themes and sounds gradually emerge.

The sets are planned on software known as SketchUp and go from general to specific within weeks.

Edie cannot praise John and EunJung enough. John was Edie’s student and a volunteer for all the shows during his time at SFS. They have developed an understanding and a real mutual respect over the years. “It’s not all plain sailing” Edie says. “Sometimes our great ideas are a flop - and we’re back to square one!” Of her former student, she enthuses, “John can take a director’s vision and use artistry and technique to bring it to life. [That's also why] I never worry about sound - it’s always perfect.”

Countdown to the show... Up to one hour!

VOLUNTEERS AND FRONT OF HOUSE

T

he final piece in the puzzle is the volunteers. We rely on our amazing parents and students from all areas of the school to work on costumes, props, hair and make up. They help feed the cast and usher the younger children into place.

Edie talks about the development of our “Drama Mamas.” Originally there were two - Kristin Freeman who has left our school now and Sun Hye Yang who still volunteers at every show! They created a boundless enthusiasm and ensured that other parents joined and helped design and buy costumes. They sewed into the early hours and fit the most recalcitrant child with patience, creativity and humor! Volunteering on the shows is lots of hard work but it’s also fun! It’s a chance to explore your artistic side and be part of a very special team.

Top: members of Crusader Live working on a set for Les Miserables. Photo by Juhie Suh Two above: volunteers working on hair and make-up for the cast of Les Miserables.

Photo by Siwon Lee (G10)

Front of house can make or break a show. The audience - up to 700 of them - need to be sold tickets and have them delivered! They must be ushered in, supplied with the information they need - and they need to be fed and watered. This process is as streamlined as can be now that John Black has organized ticketing online.

Annalisa Cho HS Grade 10. Student Assistant to the Director

I

wanted to work backstage for many reasons.

One thing I like about the musical is that it involves such a tight-knit community composed mostly of students from all levels of the High School. As a result of spending around 15 hours together a week, the entire team formed unbreakable bonds. From inside jokes, to practicing the dances, to memorizing lines upon lines of script, everyone in the production is a part of this team.

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As the Assistant to the Director, my main focus is making sure that Mrs. Moon can direct the rehearsals without complications. I work closely with the Stage Manager on the set arrangement and movement, prompt lines, and whatever other miscellaneous tasks Mrs. Moon had. I love getting to boss the cast around! Just kidding, but working with the cast, crew, and the amazing teachers is definitely the best part of being the Assistant to the Director!

A DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE - Edie Moon

I

t is daunting to see the novel of Les Miserables, which comes in at 650,000 words across a thousand pages, making it one of the longest novels ever written. I told my cast, “This is the story that we are going to tell when we perform this musical.” That could be overwhelming to hear for young people, but at the same time, it is necessary. Musicals have been known to merely ‘entertain�. Surely, we have all benefited from seeing and being a part of those kinds of musicals. The word entertain is two-fold however. One definition focuses on providing amusement or enjoyment. The other focuses on Les Miserables. Photo by Siwon Lee (G10) giving attention to an idea or feeling. I think the best musicals do both. In this sense, Les Miserables “I do not know whether it will is the best of musicals in that it does entertain; however, at the heart of the experience is the ideas, the be read by all, but I wrote emotions and the depth that the story holds.

it for all. Social problems

When I first saw Les Miserables on a London stage years ago, I was immersed so deeply, I could not stop listening to the soundtrack when I got home. I had not just had an experience of entertainment; overstep frontiers. The sores I had experienced a spiritual reckoning that has become more clear to me as I have gotten older. Each of the human race, those great time I have seen the musical, the implications have been deeper and more profound.

This immersive and potentially spiritual experience is where the meaning begins to happen. Though we have only had eight weeks together for the creation of Les Miserables, Mr. Tom Ford, our vocal director and I have taken every chance we can get to help the cast unearth the purpose and intention of each lyric they sing. Though most of them have not read the book, I have tried to use the text as my primary resource so they understand the context of these complex characters. We have done historical studies, explored the revolutionaries of today as well as those of the past, we have considered themes through physical exploration and discussion. We asked the cast to speak their lyrics before singing them so the words can breathe and come to life for them. We have experienced the story in as many ways as we can so that when the students are on stage singing this story, they will be buoyed and sustained by the work they have done and the understanding they have.

Victor Hugo was not a man of few words. That said, he left nothing to chance. The writers of this musical, Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil, have done something miraculous in that they have somehow condensed over a thousand pages into a 2-3 hour musical. They succeeded because their music, and their lyrics hold the mystery of Hugo’s story. It respects the spiritual nature of its hero and his journey, and it allows for the performers to breathe life into the characters each time they perform. Perhaps what is most surprising of all is the level of relevance this story continues to have well over one hundred years after it was written (1845). We have been following the protesters in Hong Kong fight for their independence and freedom as we have been rehearsing. We have watched teenagers around the world fight for their environment, for restrictions on guns, for the rights of women and young girls. While we have rehearsed, we have considered our own attitude towards poverty, justice and sacrifice. We have seen the transformative power of love and compassion as we hear Jean Valjean sing “To love another person is to see the face of God.”

sores which cover the globe,

do not halt at the red or blue lines traced upon the map.

In every place where man is ignorant and despairing, in every place where a woman is sold for bread, wherever the child suffers for lack of the book which should instruct him and of the hearth which should warm him, the book of Les Misérables knocks at the door and says: “Open to me, I come for you.” - Victor Hugo

I found a third definition of ‘entertain� recently: “to give rest to the weary”. Surely, Les Miserables the musical will do this as well. There is rest to be found in knowing that despite the injustice, violence and loss in the world, there is hope, restoration and love yet to be found.

Left and above: Les Miserables.

Photo by Siwon Lee (G10)

SF S B AN N ER

35

SFS COMMUNITY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Wall of Sound John Black is one of our most loved alumni bringing his skills, passion and talent back home to SFS! Here John explains the first steps of his career and how taking advantage of opportunities in school - and how being inspired by a great teacher and mentor - can help shape the path you eventually follow.

M

Lighting catwalk in the Mainstage Theatre, Lyso Center.

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y journey and passion for entertainment production technology began while in Seoul Foreign Elementary School.

Before the Lyso Center for the Performing Arts was constructed, the main large gathering space on campus was the UAC. The current bouldering room used to be a stage with large barn doors that opened up to the gym proper. That space was used for concerts, high school graduations, international fair performances, and allschool gatherings. When I was in fifth grade, I was attending the annual Hearts to Serve assembly and noticed some high school students sitting at a table with a lot of equipment on it. I was curious. At some point shortly thereafter, I spoke with my choir teacher about those students. What were they doing?

How could I learn to do that? How could I get involved? He directed me to DJ Johnson, the SFS faculty member working in the technology office.

I still remember walking into the technology

office for the first time. The entrance was from the Middle School back stairwell, and upon opening the door you entered a maze of old metal shelving filled with computer parts and equipment that wound through the office and created small workspaces for each staff member.

I found my way to DJ and asked how I could get involved and learn about lighting and sound, and from there my journey began. Seoul Foreign didn’t offer any stagecraft or technical theatre courses, but I dedicated myself through personal study and involvement to learning the technology and the craft. I spent many hours during my middle and high school years setting up and operating equipment around campus and in Robb Hall Theatre. I was nicknamed the “Titan of Tech” by Dale Wood, one of my high school English teachers, which I had completely forgotten about until reconnecting on an SFS campus tour last spring.

Long story short, I knew from fifth grade what my passion was and what I wanted to do with my life. I didn’t know whether it would take me into the touring industry, professional theatre, corporate production - and certainly not returning to SFS. Yet this is where God called me. After completing my degree in Theatre Design and returning to Seoul Foreign, I found myself organizing and training a High School student production crew, Crusader Live, of over

twenty students within two years and shortly thereafter offering an independent study in Lighting Design and Technology for high school student Patrick TomHon. It’s amazing how life has come full circle.

whose job it is to fit and change the wireless microphone transmitters throughout the run of the show. We have My view on technical production at Seoul seventeen microphone Foreign is simple - as much as is possible, let transmitters that students be hands-on and assume roles with will rotate between responsibility. Students participating in Crusader thirty-eight actors and actresses throughout the Live are not part of an after-school club in the performance and it is the job of the microphone traditional sense. They join Crusader Live as technicians to make these exchanges and ensure apprentices, learning and performing tasks as that microphones are properly fitted to the right carpenters, electricians, stagehands, followspot performer at the right time! operators, camera crews and engineers. They touch and are involved in the entire technical The sound engineer - myself for this production production process and the variety of roles and due to its complexity - operates the audio control responsibilities that come with that and without console throughout the production. We are their involvement, the quality and scale of what fortunate to have a fully digital control system we put on the stage wouldn’t be the same. so that our productions can have settings and cues programmed and recalled throughout a Seoul Foreign has invested in purpose-built show. The overarching goal is that each line performance facilities, each with specific delivered by an actor or actress can be clearly considerations and purposes in mind. Whether heard and that a good overall balance between in the 701-seat Mainstage Theatre, 454-seat all audio sources is achieved. From the first Robb Hall Theatre or the intimate Black Box note the orchestra plays of Les Miserables to the Theatre, audiences can enjoy and experience very end of the bows, there are over 250 audio high-quality performances and events. The console ‘snapshots� recalled depending on what Mainstage Theatre was acoustically designed to microphones are on stage and who is wearing meet the needs both of unamplified instrumental them. and vocal ensemble performances, as well as the staging and production needs for large-scale In total, over thirty high school students built drama productions. Though large in capacity, and prepared technical and scenic elements the total depth of the auditorium doesn’t exceed for Les Miserables and fourteen are working in 20 meters from the last row of chairs to the production roles during performances. The stage, allowing for unamplified events to be experiences and opportunities that these students possible. Robb Hall Theatre was acoustically have to be involved and explore the production designed to allow for unamplified spoken-word field don’t even compare to the humble presentations and events, catering to its high use beginnings that were available to me when I as a class assembly presentation venue. It offers was a student. But what I hope hasn’t changed a much more intimate feel when compared to is the support and care of the faculty and staff the Mainstage Theatre, and has been an excellent who once recognized a spark in a certain fifth facility for smaller dramas. The Black Box grade kid. My interest became a passion, and my Theatre, our most intimate setting, is an excellent passion became my calling. I am grateful to DJ acoustic space for smaller events, but especially Johnson, Edie Moon, and others who believed in small music recitals and performances. Each me, who provided opportunities for my interests facility is purpose-built and we are blessed to and skills to grow, and for being role models that have all three options available to support our I can look back on now as I invest in and work over thirty performing arts event season and over with students today. nine hundred additional events each year.

To join Crusader Live or to get involved with the At the time of this writing we are in the sound, designs and lighting of our productions production phase for Les Miserables. In my time contact john.black@seoulforeign.org at SFS both as a student and on staff, this will be the first entirely sung drama production on one of our stages. As such, the audio needs are much more complex than in the musicals we have previously produced. One of the production roles that Crusader Live members enjoy the most is that of ‘microphone technician.� For Les Miserables we have four microphone technicians

Top: One of four followspots in the Mainstage Theatre, Lyso Center Second to top: Backstage workshop for Crusader Live

Les Miserables whole crew with Crusader Live students in the front.

Photo by Siwon Lee (G10).

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SFS COMMUNITY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Learning your Letters

2019 APAC Orchestra at SFS

The musical world is especially fond of acronyms, which is why many of the different sets of letters accompanying dates and venues peppered across SFS notice boards and timetables may mean very little to the untrained eye. Here's a handy guide!

KIMEA KIMEA stands for ‘Korea International Music Educators Association.ďż˝ This association has been around for a decade and was the brainchild of several international music teachers in Korea.

They wanted a place to celebrate the best of music in Korean international schools.

A supportive and progressive collective, its members include most of the Korean Foreign and International schools including Seoul Foreign School, KIS, YISS and many more.

There are sections for Choir, Jazz, Orchestra and Band plus Elementary and Professional Development. Each section has a division chair, and SFS music teachers Ryan Walker, Sophie Holbrook, and Tom Ford are currently the chairs of the Orchestra, Band, and Choir divisions respectively. KIMEA strives to bring students together by combining many schools for music festivals. At the younger levels this includes the Elementary Chorus Festival, and at the highest levels it involves a competitive audition process for the High School National Honor Band/Choir/Orchestra Festival.

KAIAC (Korean American Interscholastic Activities Conference) Highlights of the year are the KAIAC festivals.

These festivals focus on the teamwork aspect of music-making. Unlike honor events where select individuals are chosen via an audition process, KAIAC-member schools represent their program by performing as a full ensemble and receive markings from judges. Last year, the Middle Years Symphonic Band received the Gold at the band festival held at KIS and the High School Concert Choir received the Platinum, the highest possible score, at the choral festival at SIS. The music department looks forward to participating in the upcoming festivals next Spring.

AMIS The Association for Music in International Schools, best known as AMIS, is an organization that brings together students of schools worldwide who excel in musical achievements for days of music practice and then conclude with a concert.

With over 100 member schools on five continents, AMIS provides a network of support for music programs in international schools all over the globe through the presentation of professional conferences, academic workshops, and ensemble festivals. AMIS will organize 21 events during the 2019-2020 school year, hosted by international schools in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Seoul Foreign School is proud to belong to this network and our triumphs with student auditions in recent years have been significant.

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Those of our students who wish to participate submit an audition recording that is judged by a listening committee which reviews hundreds of submissions. Last year a group of our elite Band and Orchestra students went to Salzburg, Austria and the 15 Choir students went to Beijing, China; a record-breaking number of students to be accepted from SFS. Additionally, our Middle Years band director, Sophie Holbrook, was the selected guest conductor for the International Asian Middle School Honor Band in Shanghai, China. This coming festival season will include our and Orchestra in Dubai, UAE and Choir in Muscat, Oman.

APAC APAC is a term we hear a lot! It means ‘Asia Pacific Activities Conference� and it brings together sports and arts in schools around the Asia-Pacific region.

Every year schools in different locations across in Asia and the Pacific host various APAC tournaments throughout the year so students from these schools get the opportunity to travel within the Asia-Pacific to not only compete in sports and in the visual and performing arts, but also experience new cultures and destinations. The groups rotate each year so you will meet new friends and old as you progress up the school making it a great way to integrate and socialise with fellow SFS students and a much broader group.

Seoul Foreign School has hosted numerous arts and sports tournaments and we gain so much both as hosts and visitors. In all arts events there is the chance to perform, to observe and to learn.

When we host, our students and their families are involved in homestays making visitors from around the region feel at home.

We compete in Choir, Orchestra, Dance, Band and Theatre. The hosts and venues this year are: • Choir - Asia Division (Brent International School Philippines) • Choir - Pacific Division (Concordia International School Shanghai) • Orchestra – Asia Division (Seoul Foreign School) • Orchestra – Pacific Division (Taejon Christian International School) • Dance – Asia Division (Hong Kong International School) • Dance – Pacific Division (American International School of Guangzhou) • Band - Asia Division (International School of Beijing) • Band - Pacific Division (Western Academy of Beijing) • Theatre - Asia Division (Shanghai American School, Puxi Campus) • Theatre - Pacific Division (Concordia International School Shanghai)

The graded music exams are designed to motivate instrumental and singing students of all ages and a wide range of abilities. Grades 1 to 8 provide: • • • • •

Progressive goals to aim for Recognition for achievement Carefully structured syllabus requirements One-to-one assessment by an expert professional An objective guide to a candidate’s skills and progress

The exams are designed for everyone with an interest in music and there is no set time frame. Just follow your own path!

ABRSM The ABRSM is an examinations board and registered charity based in London, UK, which provides examinations in music at centers around the world. ABRSM is one of four examination boards accredited by Ofqual to award graded exams and diploma qualifications in music within the UK's National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Anyone embarking on learning a musical instrument will aim to earn qualifications or certificates in Grades 1 to 8. ABRSM exams are musical exams rather than instrumental or singing exams. Examiners assess the quality of the music-making rather than how it is achieved.

Unusually, examiners assess not only for their own particular instrument, but all instruments, thereby examining as music teachers rather than narrow-band specialists.

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SFS ADVANCEMENT LETTER FROM THE

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Letter from

Advancement Dear SFS Community, We are so pleased to share that the funds raised last school year reached KRW 372 million and gifts in kind of KRW 135 million which has helped enhance and enrich the educational experience at SFS. All undesignated funds (Annual Fund) went towards purchasing of equipment for the multimedia studio, Building for the Future Fund for future capital projects, Endowment fund and temporarily restricted funds for their designated purposes. As we approach our 11th year of the Annual Fund, it is such a significant encouragement to witness the continued and growing support coming from our parents, faculty, alumni and the broader members of our community.

The Annual Fund provides additional resources to help continue the tradition of excellence at SFS. It enriches every aspect of campus life through academic and extracurricular activities with strong and innovative programs, facility upgrades, professional development and in a variety of other ways. I hope you would take this opportunity to help support our school to invest in our Annual Fund and make a meaningful impact to the school.

One of the central goals of the Advancement office is to reach out to the community and build meaningful relationships. We do this in a number of ways and this year we hosted exciting events such as the Golf Tournament and Grandparents’ day. On September 25th, 40

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2019 Grandparents Day

the annual SFS Golf Tournament was hosted at the beautiful and prestigious Wellington Country Club. It was a huge success attracting almost 40 participants including SFS parents, alumni, faculty and guests from the international community in Seoul. It was a great opportunity for our community to come together and connect over a great game of golf. The funds raised at this event will support our Annual Fund for this school year. Thank you to all those who joined us and the corporates for your sponsorship. If you missed this opportunity, please consider joining us next year!

On November 20th SFS grandparents joined us for a special reception, student performances, historical picture slide presentation, tours to the grandchildren’s classroom, lunch and a photo opportunity with their grandchildren on Grandparents Day. The goal of this special event was to honor our school community’s grandparents and help them become better acquainted with their grandchildren’s international school life. We were so grateful to welcome many grandparents on this special day and their continued support to the school.

With great appreciation for your support, Yoojin Um Director of Advancement yoojin.um@seoulforeign.org

2019-2020

Annual Fund Donations As of November 25, 2019

A Huge Thank You To… THE RED AND BLACK CLUB (Donated $4,999 - $5,000) In Honor of Kevin and Ellen O’Donnell

THE CREST CLUB (Donated $1,000 - $4,999) Emily Daniels The Feitosa Family Colm and Sinead Flanagan The Freeman Family Matthew Grieve The Holcomb Family The Kahng Family Eileen Yerin Kim �31 and Juhie Suh �92 Ian Wonwoo Kim Jack and Edie ’77 Moon Sakhar Nair Dawn M. Stark Nathan, Megan, Adam and Anna Walker Jessica �15, Michael �18 and Stephanie �25 Woo Catherina Yoon

CENTENNIAL CLUB (Donated $100 - $999) Anonymous (11) Heather Adkins Ethan Albano Mira Ahn Katherine Baird The Beaty Family Liz Boughey The Breedlove Family Andrew Callaghan, Rebecca, Edyn and Calla Mayo Kevin Chae Stephanie Chae Youngwoo Cho Deborah Chu Steven and Julia Church The Ekstrom Family Michael Farrant Chris and Jade Friesen Tom and Faith Ford Tsira Gabelia The Gibaults Kirsten Gray Jee Hye Ha Younghan Hahm and Grace Kim Ryan and Sophie Hammerberg William and Florence Hammerberg Philip and Kathe Hart Holly Hitchcock and Colin Spitler Sophie and Jeffrey Holbrook Soon Duck Huh Nobuko Inada Joeun & Plus Brad and Jehane Johnson Caden and Kaya Johnson Sihyung Joo Jamie and Jonathan Jun Anna Kim Crystal Kim Dae Woon Kim Doyeon Daisy Kim

Hannah Kim Jean Kim Jinny Kim MinSung Kim Ryan Kim Yerin Amy Kim Yoo Soo Kim Sarah and Haydn Kneeshaw Michael Knox and Ketklao Chaiwut Haejin Koh Ryan and Lindsay Kuhl Andy and Joanna Lee Chang Hee Lee Eunjoo Lee Jee Hae Helen Lee Jina Lee Moon Jin Lee Younghi Lee Arabella Lespine Yanghee Lim Piotr, Marta, Jonasz and Aurelia Mazowiecki-Kocyk Elizabeth McGarroch-Slack The McNair Family Marina Miroiu Grace Park, Anna Park and Amy Kim Jaemin (Terence) Park The Prest Family Paul, Hannah, James and Bram Rader Judith Reid David Robinson Simon, Ling and Zoe Justin and Shannon Smith Grace Song John and Tara Striffler Christopher Sykes Jenny Tang and Michael Harvey Prema Thomas and Elish Pangiraj Adam, Lauren, Jade ’18 and Ella ’21 Teather Yuan Tian Lloyd Tsui Yoojin Um The VanWinkle Family Nico and Carolyn Visahan Ryan, Lauren, Meredith ’27 and Joel ’29 Walker Angie Won Joshua Yaniw The Yap Family Judy Yoon

THE LEGACY CLUB (Under $99) Anonymous (13) Lisa Adams Jo Bigwood Jessica Bonnell Kalei Brumsickle Phillip Carr Taryn Carr Bryan and Jacquie Coogan Rebecca Cook Xin Ding Jessie and Jade Gochar The Hutchins Calvin Kamphuis Seung Min Kang Yongjin Kee Esther Jiyoung Kim Sook Kyung (Catherine) Kim Michael Kosh Megan Mathews Grace Miller Brigitte Parr Paige Melanson Brenda Rupp

Bekah Schneider Karen Terry Clif Wilcox and Melissa Villa Caroline Wright Jean Yoo Joanna Yoo Sharon Yoon

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SFS ADVANCEMENT LETTER FROM THE

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Off to a Tee! Throughout the year our Advancement Office is happy to host events to support our community and to acknowledge the importance and support of all our friends and families. On September 25th we held our Annual Golf Tournament at the prestigious Wellington Country Club. Parents, Faculty, Alumni and the broader SFS community made up the party of 40 golfers who came together on a beautiful late summer day.

O

ur teams of golfers played 18 holes each on this majestic course - and there was an atmosphere of very friendly competition!

First, Second and Third Place awards and prizes were presented to the teams with the best scores and for the game of ‘Best Ball.’ To make the event more exciting and fun we included some lovely prizes, silent auction items and everyone went home with a goody bag and a lucky draw gift. Thank you to all our corporate sponsors for their generosity and support.

The event was a huge success and thanks to all the participants for their enthusiasm and support. For those of you who could not make it this time, please watch out for our next golf tournament.

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WINNERS • 1st Place Team: Colm Flanagan (HOS), David Song, Max An & Jonathan Yi (Parents) • 2nd Place Team: Douglas Klinkerman, Christopher Sykes, Haydn Kneeshaw & Bryan Coogan (SFS Faculty) • 3rd Place Team: Don Min, David Chun, Greg Kang (parents) & Richard Yoon (guest) • Longest Drive #1: David Song (246 yd) parent • Longest Drive #2: Shin Han (260 yd) - parent • Nearest to the Pin #1: Rena Pak (0.6m) parent • Nearest to the Pin #2: Hyeon-Min Shin (2m) parent • Best Dressed Award: Wooyoung Byun (parent)

Our Sponsors A huge thank you to our corporate sponsors for your generosity and support!

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SFS COMMUNITY LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

An Incredible Family We are always delighted to hear from families with links to Seoul Foreign School. We appreciate the close ties forged between SFS and all our alumni, which in turn motivate them to keep contributing to the school and help improve and inspire the lives of future students.

The Rathbun family is a prime example of these treasured links and qualities; here they tell the story of their happy days at SFS.

R

everend John and Joyce Rathbun arrived in Korea on December 21, 1961, as missionaries with The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM). With their two boys, John Mark (SFS Class of 1975) and Joel (Class of 1978), their freighter landed at Incheon Harbor.

Within the next five years, both James (SFS Class of 1980) and Joanna (Class of 1983) were born in Seoul. Early on, Joyce taught English at Seoul Foreign School while she and John studied the Korean language. For several years, the family lived on Korea’s east coast in Gangneung, where John Rathbun served as president of Catholic Kwandong University. It was amazing to see the transformation from thatched roofed houses with rice paddies around their home at the time to become the university campus that hosted some of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic's events!

John Mark and Joel attended Seoul Foreign School while living in a boarding home on the TEAM compound at the top of the SFS hill in Yeonhui-dong.

When James was in 3rd grade, the family moved to Seoul. The Cornelson, Pierson, Livingston, Winchell, Hahn, Dignan,

Reavis, and Chase families were some of their TEAM contemporaries at SFS. Other TEAM SFS teachers from that time included Marlene Beck, Karen George, Theda Mae Bolish, Wanda Dykstra, Judy Steele, and Edie Eager. John Rathbun himself served several years on the SFS School Board.

One of the highlights for the Rathbuns growing up at SFS was their musical involvement in the school band with John Mark on trumpet, Joel on trombone, Jim on saxophone, and Joanna on clarinet. They were in dramas and choirs as well as playing a variety of sports, including soccer, football, basketball, and volleyball. James (Jim) particularly remembers playing on the basketball team that won the Far East Tournament in Okinawa in both 1979 and 1980 with a 40-0 undefeated record!

The Rathbun family thanks God for the formative years they invested at SFS, for the way the school shaped them, and for the opportunity to contribute to the SFS community. Currently, John Mark resides in Fairbanks, Alaska, Joel in Kokomo, Indiana, Jim in Wheaton, Illinois, and Joanna in Los Cabos, Baja Mexico. Jim is blessed to be able to travel back to Korea regularly related to his missionary work.

Our thanks to the Rathbun family for keeping in touch and for their recent contribution to a Centennial Stone to invest in the future of SFS.

The Lyso Center Mainstage Theater

What's in a Name?

Most of our shows at SFS take place in the Lyso Center or Robb Hall. But do you know who 'Robb' and 'Lyso' were? What place do they have in the history of Seoul Foreign School?

Read on to learn more.

The Lyso Center

for the Performing Arts is named after our second Head of School, Harlan Lyso. Harlan Lyso was Head of School for 16 years before retiring in 2008. The Lyso Center was built over the site of the old school parking lot which also housed the school buses. The business offices are also located on the site but most of the building is devoted to the performing arts and includes our world-class Mainstage Theater seating 700 people, a fully equipped Blackbox Theater, and three state-of-the-art classrooms for Band, Orchestra and Choir. In addition there are practice rooms available and a music theory and composition room for MYP and IB students.

Today the Lyso Center is used for many different purposes some of which include major theatre productions from the various sections of our school directed by Edie Moon; concerts by the numerous Band, Orchestra and Choir groups, HS assemblies, IB productions, Senior art exhibitions and graduation ceremonies. SFS has always valued a well-rounded education and has been intentional in providing and encouraging the fine arts programs of the school.

Robb Hall

was named after Rona Robb, who served at Seoul Foreign School from 1957-1987. In her 30 years at SFS, she served in a variety of capacities including work as a teacher, school counselor, administrator, director of drama and finally as a member of the US-based Friends of Seoul Foreign School organization. Robb Hall was originally built as a separate auditorium/classroom building between the first K-12 building and what was to be the future Junior and Senior High School building. Built in 1965 it was to seat 450 students which far exceeded the current student body at that time. The back of the auditorium was designed in such a way that it could be subdivided into smaller classrooms when full seating was not needed. On more than one occasion these ‘classroomsďż˝ were used when building renovations were taking place. As the student body grew plans were drawn up to redesign the campus. In 2006-07, the old Robb Hall came down and the Multipurpose Center (MPC) was built to include a new Robb Hall.

Robb Hall Theater

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SFS ALUMNI

The Rules of

Engagement Seoul Reunion, 2019

Director of Alumni, Jack

Moon, explains why our alumni are such valuable members of our

wider community. Staying in touch has so many benefits for students past and present. We encourage you to share your time and your energies with today’s students. Here’s how:

I

was asked one day, “Why and how should I engage as an alum?” I had no problem thinking of a number of reasons, most of which come from alumni testimonials. Our students have often been told that they are “the future leaders of the world”. It’s a message we want them to embrace and live out in their lives whether it is on a grand scale or within the community in which they live.

attends SFS to remain in contact with us whether they graduate from here or not. Keeping us updated on your contact information is one very important way to engage. We also want to engage alumni to act as mentors for those who are looking for possible universities to attend or who are graduating from universities and entering the job market. Internships are another way that alumni can assist university students.

It is our hope that the memories our alumni carry from their experience here at SFS will affect their life choices, whether it is career decisions, or their perspective on world issues or their commitment to fellow alumni. In a world that increasingly operates around the globe and at ever faster speeds, it is important to have a network of people who embrace the ideals of SFS and are eager to respond to the vision and needs of each other and the school.

Besides promoting goodwill, the reunions allow alumni to make new friends by interacting across graduating years. It also allows for networking that can lead to new job opportunities and careers. The reunions are also the avenue we use to inform alumni of our future vision for SFS and the progress that is being made. Stories that come out of the reunions are reminders of our school’s mission statement and how we seek to inspire excellence and build character in each student.

Engaging with the school can be done through a variety of ways. We encourage every person who Alumni of SFS all working at Lee International, IP and Law Group here in Seoul. Bok Lee '89, Nick Park '93, John Min '95 and Robert Kim '89

In order to build an alumni association, we actively reach out to alumni by holding reunions in various parts of the world each year. In the past we have gone to London, then to a city on the east coast of the United States (NYC, Washington, Boston) and on the West Coast (San Francisco, LA). We’ve also hosted reunions in Chicago and New Orleans. Of course, we hold one, annually, here in Seoul too.

I want to encourage you to reach out to me in the Alumni Office if I can be of help to you or if you want to engage with SFS to fulfill our vision for the future.

Please contact me at jack.moon@seoulforeign. org or at 010-6390-4091.

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California Dreamin' S

ome of our favorite events of the academic year are the Seoul Foreign School Alumni Reunions. Most years we have three or four including two in the States (East and West Coast), one sometimes in Europe and then here in Seoul. This year we have started early and September saw us travel to Los Angeles for the first one of the 2019-20 academic year.

The Reunion began as a 30 year celebration for the Class of ‘89 but they were soon joined by others from the classes of '73, '78. '88, '90, '91, and '03.

The Friday evening dinner was held at El Cholo restaurant on Friday for great food and a lot of memories of Korea Stories were shared about Korea Week, sports and musicals. Mark Lang and Gloria Lee were mentioned when Bye Bye Birdie was brought up. John Kim, who is our resident foodie here in Korea, talked about being the editor of the Yearbook and the hours of work put in by all those that were a part of the staff.

Biology. The day arrived and we were standing around the lab table when Lawrence pricked his finger. As soon as the blood appeared, Stephen fainted dead away and fell into my arms. The lesson for that day turned out to be "careful what you wish for."

Jack Moon and Dawn Stark spoke to the group about Seoul Foreign School today and ways to stay in touch and assist in the formation of a strong alumni association. All in all it made a strong impression on each guest.

We invite all alumni to attend a reunion in the near future. If you can’t find one close to home then why not organise your own? Who knows we may just drop in!

Jack Moon, Director of Alumni - and ex-Sports coach and Biology teacher met lots of old friends there and shared his memories. “From my �89 tennis team which went 9-1 and took the KAIAC conference title, Chang Park, Taejin Park, and Joe Kang were there along with managers Jason Pai and Patrick Chang. Lawrence Shin had the best story of the evening when he reminded me about the time Stephen Sunquist kept asking about when we would be testing our blood in IB

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SFS ALUMNI LETTER FROM

THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

A Musical Future!

Seoul Foreign School produces some wonderful musicians - from incredibly successful Broadway directors to conductors and performers and many teachers of all disciplines. All of them believe their love of music has been nurtured during their time at Seoul Foreign School. Here three of our musical alumni share their inspiration, history and future hopes and dreams:

Jade Teather Alumni in Music, Class of 2018.

M

y name is Jade Teather. I started at SFS in 3rd grade and I graduated in 2018.

I’m currently in my 2nd year of studying Music Education at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. During my 10 years at SFS I was heavily involved in the music program and had amazing opportunities there that helped me discover my lifelong passion: music. I learned so much from the faculty in the music office throughout my middle and high school years with Mrs. Roddick, Mr. Walker, Mr. Goldie, and Mr. Ford, all of whom gave me incredible opportunities like allowing me to conduct classrooms full of students and imparted so much wisdom about what it means to be an inspiring teacher, leader, and musician. I hope I’m half as good of a teacher as they all were.

In addition, I met lots of students and teachers through the community that were looking to learn guitar so I was able to start teaching guitar lessons when I was in 7th grade. I got to foster meaningful relationships with my students and learn a lot about private instruction as I continued to teach some of my students until I graduated.

In addition, living in Seoul provided me with an amazing music scene. At 13, I started playing at open mics around the city and formed connections with other musicians and producers which led to me writing and releasing my own 5-song EP during the month of my graduation. Music is such a huge part of my life and who I am and I’m so grateful to SFS for giving me the opportunities to discover that passion.

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Gene Moon class of 1993.

G

ene graduated from SFS in 1993 and attended the University of Central Oklahoma where he studied piano and viola as a double major in music performance and music education. He took his studies further by completing a Masters of Music degree in music education at New York University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in orchestral conducting at the University of Oklahoma.

He is currently a tenured professor and director of orchestras at Stephen F. Austin State University, Music Director and Conductor of the Longview Symphony Orchestra and Music Director and Conductor of the East Texas Youth Orchestra. He regularly guest conducts with orchestras throughout the U.S., Hong Kong, Macau and South America.

Gene devotes his time to music education and works tirelessly to share his passion for the craft with the younger generation of classical music audiences.

Charlina Ahn class of 2005.

‘Music, Flute, and the Law� One fateful day in the fourth grade, a friend brought her flute to school for orchestra practice. I remember thinking it was the most beautiful object I had ever seen or heard.

She could not have known then that classical flute would become my lifelong passion.

While it was a relatively late age to begin an instrument, I showed a natural knack and progressed quickly to become the youngest flutist to earn a spot in one of three orchestras at the Manhattan School of Music Preparatory Division.

In high school, I played in the band and orchestra. Professionally, I became a member of the Seoul Flute Choir, a charity group consisting of over 60 professional flutists.

Seventeen years later, I continue to perform in our annual concert at the Seoul Arts Center. In college, I was principal flutist of the orchestra for four years, and won the first annual concerto competition.

As a musician, I often ask questions like, “how should I structure this phrase in this Mozart concerto to convey a mother cradling her baby to sleep? What technique should I use in The Carnival of the Animals to show little birds basking in the sunlight?" As an attorney, when writing memos or drafting contracts, I ask, “What am I trying to say here?” Playing music has cultivated my mind and soul; it allows me to use my imagination to think, write, and speak to appeal towards an audience’s emotions.

Whether an audience consists of 3,000 classical music fans, a judge, or a fellow attorney, the goal is the same: craft and convey your message in the clearest way possible. Being a musician makes me a better attorney, and the skills I have acquired as an attorney make me a more insightful musician than I would have been without my legal training.

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Playing Away Our young musicians gain real, authentic experience outside our school. It’s part of their musical education. It’s also a source of great pride to see our musicians take to the stage representing our school and their sections.

S

tudents might enter competitions and perform solo or in a group.

They might then join with other students from around the city, country or world and perform as a larger group.

Our students are invited to perform at events and ceremonies. Over the last few years jazz bands, choirs and quartets have played at the BCCK Christmas and Summer events. Two string quartets recently performed at the British Embassy. Our British School Choir also delights BASS - a long established British association - at their Mince Pie Morning each year.

There were tears all round last year as they stood on the stairs and their lovely voices rang out.

We also believe that showcasing talent at our own events is a wonderful opportunity. Students grow in confidence as they play for students, parents, faculty and the wider community. Our students have sung at many charity events and for the benefit of others. They recently sang for the homeless community of Nanumi - and each year our choir sing at the Senior Welfare Centre in Seodaemun-gu. Our talent is everywhere for the benefit of all who love music no matter where they are.

Follow our social media and check our calendar to see where and when our students will perform.

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SFS CALENDAR

The school year is a treat for everyone - whatever their musical interests and whatever their connection to the school. We would love to encourage everyone to support and enjoy music at all levels. Highlights of the year to look out for:

THE MUSICAL YEAR BEGINNER BAND DAY HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL WIND ENSEMBLE AND ORCHESTRA CONCERT BRITISH SCHOOL KS2 MUSICAL CHRISTMAS CONCERTS (TOO MANY TO LIST!) KIMEA BAND AND ORCHESTRA APAC NATIONAL HONORS FESTIVAL NIGHT OF JAZZ CONCERT FOR DONGDAEWON SPRING CONCERTS - BAND, CHOIR, ORCHESTRA IB RECITALS

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Seoul Foreign School - The Music Issue Playlist @ Spotify

Filter

What we're listening to now Livin' On A Prayer - Bon Jovi

Finale to the Fifth Symphony - Beethoven

Amazing Day - Coldplay

Adagio for Strings - Barber

Smile - Charlie Chaplin

O Come To The Altar - Elevation Workshop

Glow - Eric Whitacre

Happy - Pharrell Williams

Coming in Hot - Andy Mineo / Lacrae

Tiny Dancer - Elton John

10000 Reasons - Matt Redman

Wake Me Up When September Ends - Green Day

And Can It Be - Charles Wesley

Sultans of Swing - Dire Straits

A Thousand Trees - Stereophonics

Walk Me Home - Jade Teather

Samson - Regina Spektor

Nocturne op.9 No.2 - Chopin

Agnus Dei - Barber

Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

Solitude - Billie Holliday

Scottish Symphony - Mendelssohn

With or Without You - U2

California Stars- Wilco

Farmer in the City - Scott Walker

Shout to the Lord - Hillsong Worship

Wouldn't It Be Loverly (My Fair Lady) - Julie Andrews

The Four Seasons by Vivaldi

Sophie Hammerberg (ES Teacher)

Jane Forster (Director of Communications & Marketing) Madeleine Kim (Director of Admissions) Tom Ford (Choir Director)

Jeff Holcomb (HS Principal) Lisa Adams (ES Counselor)

Katherine Baird (ES PYP Coordinator) Andy Freeman (BS Principal)

Calvin Kamphuis (HS Teacher)

Piotr Kocyk (IB Diploma Coordinator) Justin Smith (MS Principal) Ryan Kuhl (MS Teacher)

Colm Flanagan (Head of School)

Nico Visahan (HS Maths Teacher)

Eye of the Tiger - Survivor

Matt Johnson (Assistant Principal - MS)

From the Inside Out - Hillsong United Paul Kim (Christian Ministries)

Changes – 2Pac Shakur Sakhar Nair (HS Teacher)

Beautiful Day- U2

Jessie Gochar (BS Counselor)

9 to 5 - Dolly Parton

Sue Hong (BS Math Teacher)

Born to Fly - Sara Evans

Dawn Stark (Assistant Head of School - External Relations)

Call It Dreaming - Iron & Wine

Melissa Brabon (HS Christian Studies Teacher)

My Funny Valentine - Chet Baker Michael Harvey (AQT Coach)

Beautiful Day - U2

Brad Johnson (ES PE Teacher)

Love Me Again - Olly Murs

Angie Won (Admissions and External Relations Assistant)

Country Roads - John Denver Jack Moon (Director of Alumni)

Symphony no 3, 3rd Movement - Brahms Jongbaek Yoon (ES Music Teacher)

Purple Rain - Prince

Jason Lee (Choreographer)

La Traviata - Verdi Mia Yaniw (Parent)

Josh Yaniw (HS Band Director)

Yana Welch (SWEP Music Teacher) David Beaty (Director of Technology) Michelle Kim (Camp SFS)

Kerry Mees (Speech Language Pathologist) Grace Song (Executive Assistant to the Head of School) Rebecca Mayo (HS Counselor)

Lauren Teather (MS G6 Teacher)

Yanghee Lim (HS Language Acquisition Teacher ) Harold Daw (ES G5 Teacher)

Robin DuRant (HS ELL Teacher)

Tara Striffler (ES Learning Support Teacher) Jany Shim (Assistant to the Elementary School Principal) Kirsten Gray (Aquatics Instructor)

Time of your Life - Green Day Rebecca Emrich (HS Teacher)

This Must Be the Place' - Talking Heads Karl Hanratty (ES Teacher)

Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection" by Gustav Mahler Sophie Holbrook (Band Director)

Enter Sandman - Metallica Jake Breedlove (HS Teacher)

Orinoco Flow - Enya Jo Bigwood (ES Teacher)

All Star - Smash Mouth Sarah Martin (MS Teacher)

Painted from Memory (whole album) Elvis Costello & Burt Bacharach

John Striffler (Director of Performing and Visual Arts)

Back to the Island - Leon Russell

Clif Wilcox (Assistant Head of School - Operations & CFO)

What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong Susan Guderyon (HS Teacher)

Fake Plastic Trees - Radiohead

Damian Prest (Elementary School Principal)

Steal The Light - The Cat Empire

Jan-Mark Seewald (Assistant Head of School - Academics)

Speechless (from Aladdin) - Naomi Scott Yhu-Bin Lee (Admissions Associate)

Soundtrack to Les Miserables - Original Cast Recording Edie Moon (Theatre Director)

You're The Best Thing About Me - U2 Juhie Suh (Designer and Brand Curator)