Issuu

PROGRAMME

Ruth Zhao, Isabella Quartet for Clarinet, Violin,

Betty

Andaluza, Movement (Manuel

Ahaan Narayanan, Ruth Zhao, Finn Cameron, Take the ‘A’

In Their Own Words

Meet our Centenary Music Scholars

Adeline Kim (Year 9) - currently in Gippsland!

I play the electric bass, electric guitar, and piano. I started playing the piano when I was five, but lost interest during my ABRSM exams. Now, having completed my Grade 7 exam, I’ve rediscovered the joy of playing by tackling pieces like Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2. I never imagined that tackling such a challenging piece - one that many would have given up - would reignite my interest in piano!

I started guitar at seven, learning improvisation early on, which shaped my musical development and improved my sight-reading. I have since achieved Grade 8 Merit and play in a band that has won the TTS Battle of the Bands twice in a row. At the age of nine, I picked up the bass guitar, after my dad suggested I pick it up since I was already skilled at the guitar. At first, I thought bass was boring, but I soon discovered its depth and how exciting it could be especially through techniques like slap bass.

I participate in ensembles including Senior Rock Bands, Piano Group, and Jazz Band. I chose to become a Music Scholar because I wanted to share my passion for music with my peers.

Ahaan Narayanan (Year 10)

I have been dedicated to playing the piano and saxophone for the past seven years. Recently, I attained Distinction in both my ARSM Diploma for alto saxophone and Grade 8 piano examinations. I regularly perform at community events organised by my River Valley Neighborhood Committee and have participated in various piano competitions, including securing 1 place in the La Pianista Intermediate category in 2023. These experiences have been highly rewarding.

At Tanglin, I’m actively involved in the Symphony Orchestra, Big Band, and Jazz Collective, and I also perform piano duets with the Senior Piano Ensemble. My commitment to music has been recognised through the Outstanding Contributions to Arts Award, which I have been honoured to receive for the past two years. I have recently started to learn the clarinet so that I can be involved in more orchestral-based ensembles.

I aspire to inspire my fellow students at Tanglin and nurture a greater passion for Music within our community.

Alex Ashton (Year 13)

I first began learning the cello at the Royal Academy of Music in London at the age of five and went on to join the Senior Orchestra under Nigel Goldberg at London’s Youth Music Centre at nine. I achieved Grade 8 ABRSM in cello with Distinction when I was 14, followed by Grade 8 piano at 15. During my time at NLCS London, I loved performing in a wide range of orchestras and chamber groups; highlights include playing Orff’s Carmina Burana in Gray’s Inn Chapel and singing Handel’s Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall. I also regularly performed at the North London Music Festival, St Martin-in-the-Fields, and William Bruce’s Cello Summer School.

Since moving to Singapore in August 2024, I have greatly enjoyed expanding my musical experience, performing with the Wilshire Piano Trio, Symphony Orchestra, Chancery Quartet, Guys and Dolls Band, Jonathan Dove Orchestra, and supporting the Junior Cello Ensemble. This year, I am especially excited to tackle challenging repertoire with the Piano Trio and join the Tanglin Philharmonic, where I look forward to broadening my orchestral playing further.

I hope to continue developing my musicianship by preparing for an ARSM Diploma in Cello performance and exploring new opportunities to collaborate with ensembles and chamber groups.

Amy Chen (Year 9)

I started my music journey at the age of six and have since achieved distinctions for Grade 8 ABRSM for flute and Grade 5 theory. I am currently working towards a Diploma and Grade 8 theory. In 2024, I took part in the 11th Flute Festival and was awarded silver. At my previous school, I performed regularly in orchestras, bands, and as a soloist. I also plan to continue doing so (and much more) at Tanglin.

Although I started learning the flute many years ago, I had not attended performances during my time in China. However, over the past two years in Singapore, I discovered a deeper interest in music and started joining ensembles. I gained more confidence and experience as a soloist and an ensemble player. I’m excited about the opportunities to perform on the stage.

As a Centenary Music Scholar, I hope to inspire others to express their own passion for music.

Anne Yu (Year 12)

Having been at Tanglin since Reception, the Music Department has been a second home to me, starting with the Infant Choir. I began learning the piano at the age of five, and violin at seven years old. The Music Department has provided countless opportunities to perform at Tanglin. I achieved Grade 8 ABRSM Piano with Distinction at age 11, alongside ABRSM Grade 5 Theory. While I don’t hold formal qualifications for violin due to my dislike of exams, I have nonetheless reached a Grade 8+ standard. I’m actively involved in the Chamber Orchestra, Chancery Quartet, Senior Choir, and this year, I’m joining the Tanglin Philharmonia.

These activities have earned me the Outstanding Contributions to the Arts Award for three consecutive years. Since Year 3, I’ve taken part in ‘Musician of the Year’ or its equivalent. In 2023, I won the Advanced Piano category—an experience that strengthened my confidence and deepened my enjoyment of performing on stage. As a member of the Chancery Quartet, I have also represented the school at public venues including Eden Hall, the Tanglin Club, and various Open Days.

In my role as a Centenary Music Scholar, I hope to inspire others to discover the joy of music - not as a chore, but as a source of escape and relaxation. I also aim to highlight the connections between music and the wider arts, so it can be more deeply integrated into school life.

Austen Zhang (Year 8)

I was born in China and raised in Malaysia. I’ve been called a ‘piano prodigy’ since the age of five, when I performed “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite in front of the entire school during an assembly. I achieved a Merit in both the Grade 6 ABRSM practical and theory exams by the time I was nine, and I’m now preparing for Grade 8 and the Diploma.

I’ve had the privilege of being taught by Professor Snezana Panovska, the Chairman of Persatuan Chopin Malaysia. I’ve also been fortunate to receive and observe masterclasses from renowned pianists such as Ng Chong Lim, Lilya Zilberstein, Kathryn Stott, and Stephen Kovacevich. At the age of nine, I was the youngest pianist selected to perform at Lilya Zilberstein’s masterclass at Malaysia’s Dewan Filharmonik Petronas.

My recent performances include piano duets like La Gazza Ladra and Schubert’s Marche Militaire, as well as solo performances of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 8 and Haydn’s Piano Concerto No. 11 in D major, among many other pieces. Competition highlights include winning Gold at the Chopin Malaysia Competition in 2022, a Silver Award at the Hong Kong Chopin Memorial International Piano Competition, another Silver at the Singapore International Music Competition in 2024, the Piano Category Grand Golden Lion Prize at the Singapore Golden Lion Music Festival, and 3rd Prize in the Amateur Category of the 7th Singapore Steinway Piano Competition in 2025.

To me, playing the piano is more than just pressing keysit’s about expressing music that comes from deep within the heart. As a proud Music Scholar, I’m committed to sharing the beauty of music with more people.

Betty Zhao (Year 13)

I play the piano and cello alongside my IB studies. My piano journey began 12 years ago when I was five, and it has been my passion ever since, culminating in earning my ATCL diploma just before my Year 11 mock exams. I also picked up the cello three years ago. Now, I'm at Grade 8 level and planning to take the ABRSM exam before I graduate from Tanglin.

Being a Centenary Music Scholar has given me the opportunity to play piano both as a soloist and as part of the orchestra for school productions, including Chicago, Guys and Dolls, and this year’s Sister Act. I’ve been consistently competing in the Musician of the Year finals since entering Tanglin, now expanding my repertoire to LTCL diploma-level pieces and beyond. Aside from the more formal concerts, I perform duets and chamber music with my fellow scholars, and had the best time of my life during the Spain music tour last year!

I chose to become a Music Scholar because I wish to give back to the Tanglin community by becoming more involved, and I want to meet more talented individuals who are as passionate about music as I am. After a year of experiencing these opportunities, I can safely say I have achieved all of those goals and so much more.

Bingxi He (Year 9)

Music has always been a big part of my life, and I feel most comfortable expressing myself on the piano. I've put a lot of effort into developing as a musician over the years, and I am grateful for the chances I have had. I’ve had the opportunity to study some of the most fascinating and difficult pieces in the piano repertoire since completing my first diploma (ATCL), and I’m currently working towards my second one (LTCL). I've been particularly inspired by composers like Chopin, Beethoven, and Prokofiev because of their expressive content and high technical demand.

The ability to express those feelings and share them with others is what I love most about playing the piano. Beethoven's stormy drama, Chopin's delicate melodies, or Prokofiev's contemporary style - each composition seems to have its own world, and I get to invite people into those worlds and establish a deeper connection with them through performing. Every performance, in my opinion, is a dialogue between the audience and me, as well as between me and the music.

There is more to being a Music Scholar than just advancing personally. It also means participating in the school's musical life, whether through partnerships or performances. I want to contribute to the development of a community where people experience music as a “common language” in addition to appreciating it.

Music will always be a part of me, even though I don't see it as my primary career path. It has taught me a lot along the way and still brings me joy. I'm excited to develop as a pianist, share many more performances, and give back to the community as I continue to work on my goals.

Charlotte Tseng (Year 11)

I was six years old when I had the privilege of performing a cello solo with my school orchestra on the stage of the Sydney Opera House. In 2022, I achieved a Distinction in Grade 8 cello ABRSM and had the honour of joining the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO), with the opportunity to be the principal cello in some performances.

Winning the Senior Young Musicians award at Tanglin in 2022 and 2024 significantly boosted my confidence as both a cellist and musician. Outside of Tanglin, I have earned several awards at the Raffles International Music Festival, and most recently, I was awarded a Platinum prize at the Forté Cello Festival.

In August last year, I had the opportunity to perform Haydn’s Concerto in C Major with the Tanglin Symphony Orchestra on the SOTA stage, and later performed with the school during the Spain Music Tour last October. In late June and early July, I toured with the Singapore National Youth Orchestra to Macau, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, performing wonderful repertoire such as Dvořák's Symphony No. 6, Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No. 2 with the renowned Ning Feng, as well as a commissioned piece by Tony Makarome. I also achieved my ARSM Diploma cello exam with a high distinction in the summer of 2025. During the holidays, my family and I travelled to Taipei to rehearse and perform with a Chinese orchestra, gaining exposure to new genres of music.

Finn Cameron (Year 13)

I’m a drummer and percussionist. My musical journey began at the tender age of 18 months, when I turned my toy buckets into a drum kit and played along to The Wiggles. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to move on to a proper drum kit and perform in numerous concerts, with repertoire ranging from Slipknot to Mendelssohn. A few years ago, I completed my Grade 8 drum kit exam, but I continue to refine my craft and enjoy pushing the limits of my drumming skills.

Aside from drums and percussion, I also produce dance music and DJ under the name ‘DiskWalker,’ and have been lucky enough to release my music with several internationally-based record labels. While I enjoy a wide range of music, I have a particular passion for house, drum & bass, and UK garage.

I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to be a Centenary Music Scholar and look forward to giving back to the Tanglin community, continuing to grow as a musician, and sharing my passion of music with others.

Isabella Eom (Year 12)

I play both the violin and the piano. Over the years, these instruments have given me many opportunities to grow, perform, and connect with others. Having achieved an ARSM diploma in violin, I’m currently working towards ABRSM Grade 8 on the piano. While these exams reflect the hours of practice and dedication behind the scenes, the real reward for me is sharing the joy of music with others.

Since joining Tanglin in Year 7, I’ve been actively involved in many ensembles, including the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Piano Trio, String Quartet, and various other ensembles. Each one has taught me something different: from the commitment that rehearsals require to dealing with both the excitement and nervous anticipation performances bring. Playing in ensembles has shown me how powerful music can be when shared with others, and I love the way individual parts blend to create something much more intricate and rich in quality. Overall, these extracurriculars have allowed me to grow as a musician and collaborate with other talented individuals.

Looking ahead, I’m excited by the prospect of learning and achieving more of my goals as a Centenary Music Scholar. During my final years at Tanglin Trust School, I hope to meet many more talented people and partake in new activities.

Music has shaped so much of my life already, and as a Scholar, I can’t wait to explore new opportunities to grow as a musician.

Maho Fukuda (Year 12)

Although I began learning the violin at the age of three, it wasn’t until I was about seven or eight - thanks to TwoSet Violin - that I truly began to enjoy it. I completed my ABRSM Grade 5 violin when I was 9, but paused taking exams for several years due to my aversion to music theory. After joining Tanglin in Year 10, I decided to resume my exams. Following a Distinction in Grade 5 theory, I went on to achieve a Distinction in Grade 8 violin and even earned the highest score in the school!

At Tanglin, I’m involved in many ensembles, including the Chamber Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra, and I was recently invited to join the Tanglin Philharmonia. I also enjoy performing in smaller chamber groups, such as Chancery Quartet, and a violin-piano duet with my friend. In addition, I like supporting younger musicians by helping out with the String Sinfonietta.

Taking IGCSE Music deepened my appreciation for the pieces I was playing, and although I was initially hesitant, I eventually grew to love composition. Music has always source of relaxation for me, and I enjoy listening to songs and analyzing what makes them great. While I play a classical instrument, my personal taste leans more towards rock, and I recently joined a band as a bassist to explore a wider range of music in a practical and creative way.

Michael Yuan (Year 12)

My musical journey began at the age of four when I started learning the piano. In Year 4, I had the opportunity to learn the cello through Tanglin’s Strings Programme, which I will forever be very grateful for. I am now in Year 12 and have achieved Grade 8 in both piano and cello, as well as Grade 7 in music theory. This year, I am working towards achieving a diploma in cello.

As a Centenary Music Scholar, I hope to share my love of music with others, contribute to the school’s music programme, and continue developing my skills as both a soloist and an ensemble player. I look forward to the opportunities that being a Music Scholar will bring, and I am excited to see how these experiences will help me grow as a musician and as a person.

Rika Kato (Year 7)

I’m delighted to join Tanglin this year as a Centenary Music Scholar. My journey with the violin began in Year 2 during a music lesson at school. I asked for a violin for my seventh birthday, and that's when I started taking formal lessons. The violin has been a huge part of my life ever since.

This year, I achieved a Distinction in both my Grade 7 ABRSM in April and Grade 8 in June. Last year, I also earned 3rd place in the Music Singapore Competition, which was a great opportunity to challenge myself and grow as a performer.

One of my most memorable experiences as a violinist was being selected as Violin Soloist and Concertmistress for the orchestra at FOBISIA 2025.

Ruth Zhao (Year 11)

I began playing the clarinet at the age of 10 and took up the piano a year later. Even though my journey with music may be short compared to others, I have always truly enjoyed surrounding myself with its magic, something that I think is very special.

In 2023, I competed in the Hitmaker Music Competition and was awarded a Bronze in Piano. The previous year, I achieved a Silver in the Young Artistic Category at the 10th Singapore Raffles International Music Festival. In 2022, I passed my Grade 5 clarinet exam with a Merit, and most recently, I was awarded a Distinction for my Grade 6 piano exam. I’m now preparing for my Grade 8 piano exam next year and my Grade 8 clarinet exam in 2026. I hope to obtain a Diploma in clarinet one day and perform as the soloist in Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Krommer’s Concerto for Two Clarinets.

Since joining Tanglin at the start of Year 10, I have strived to participate in various ensembles to deepen and broaden my understanding of music, by participating in ensembles such as Jazz Collective, Orchestra, the Pegasus Wind Ensemble, and Senior Choir.

I am honoured to be a Centenary Music Scholar, and look forward to the many performing opportunities ahead, as well as the chance to collaborate with other talented musicians. Above all, I hope to inspire others to develop a lifelong love of music.

Stanley Yuan (Year 10)

I’m a dedicated young musician and have achieved ABRSM Grade 8 piano, Grade 8 voice, Grade 5 violin, and Grade 6 music theory. My early start in piano at the age of four sparked a deep passion for music, which has led me to participate in many instrumental and choral ensembles, such as the Symphony Orchestra and Senior Choir at Tanglin, and the Singapore Symphony Children’s Choir outside school.

I’m really excited about performing frequently and bringing joy to audiences through my music. Committed to continuous improvement, I always strive to deliver the highest quality performances.

Sue Park (Year 7)

I play the trumpet and am currently preparing for my Grade 6 exam, with hopes of achieving more. The instrument has been incredibly special to me, helping me build confidence and develop teamwork skills. When I first became interested in music, I explored many different instruments until my dad suggested the trumpet. I decided to give it a try, and now I find myself performing in numerous bands and concerts, which has been an amazing journey.

I have been playing music since I was six years old, and performing since the age of eight. At my previous school, there were limited opportunities to join bands or orchestras, but when I arrived at Tanglin, I was amazed by the wide range of co-curricular activities and musical opportunities available. I signed up for a band right away and I’m still proudly playing in my very first band today.

Tasuku Ebitani (Year 11)

I started my musical journey at a music school in West London, UK, at the age of five, where I learned to play the piano and violin, and found joy in playing music. I continued playing the violin in Tokyo, joining various orchestras, including the Tokyo Junior Orchestra Society and the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. I had the privilege of meeting the most respected conductor, Mr Keitaro Harada, and performing under his baton at one of Japan's most prestigious venues, Suntory Hall. I was also a finalist in the 40th All-Japan Junior Classical Music Competition. After coming to Singapore, I have performed regularly as a solo violinist, including at the Opening Ceremony of the 14th Singapore Middle School Model United Nations. I also passed my Grade 8 violin Performance Exam in 2022 with Merit.

The experience of performing in London, Tokyo, and Singapore (where my performances have been appreciated and touched people across different cultures) has not only deepened my fascination with the power and potential of music but also revealed to me the joy of inspiring and moving others through my violin performances.

As a Music Scholar at Tanglin Trust School, I look forward to performing on many stages, both solo and in ensembles, inspiring other students while bringing positive energy to the community.

Trevor Wong (Year 11)

I first started my trombone journey at the age of six, inspired by my seniors in Hong Kong who performed the Imperial March from Star Wars, which I thought was very cool. Soon after, I started lessons with Mr Yip, who was a Trombone tutor at my previous school. At the age of seven, I began taking ABRSM exams, steadily progressing through the grades and achieving Grade 8 by the age of 12. I’m now working towards a diploma.

I moved to Singapore and joined Tanglin when I was 13, where I successfully auditioned for the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO). I’m extremely grateful to my parents for supporting and encouraging me throughout my music journey.

I look forward to inspiring more Tanglin students to begin their own music journey, just as I was once inspired to start mine. In the future, I hope to explore a wider range of music styles, such as Jazz and Latin, since I’m currently focusing on Classical music.

Tyler Yu (Year 12)

I started playing the piano when I was three years old because my grandma thought it would be a nice hobby! I went on to achieve my ATCL in 2021, LTCL in 2022, and my FTCL diploma in December 2024.

After becoming a Centenary Music Scholar this year, I hope to broaden my experience by performing in more ensembles, an area I’ve always felt I could strengthen. I also aspire to perform a full concerto and take part in more chamber music this year. I already perform regularly as a soloist, having played piano for Chicago (alongside Betty) and taken part in external performances and competitions.

As a Music Scholar, I aim to share my passion for music with the Tanglin community, while also exploring areas of the music discipline that are less familiar to me.