Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Sectionals Cancelled

Nothing much. Yeah, tomorrow's sectionals is cancelled. Why? I am sneezing throughout the whole day.

Either, do stay back more often. I can't digress the importance of Individuals. In fact, you will use this time to figure out your techniques without guidance of a senior or trainer. Therefore, you need to know your strengths and weaknesses and focus on it.

Sectionals will be on every Tuesday and maybe a Thursday. Both will be 3 to 4 hours long from 9am to 1pm. I will decide what we do.

And Sherman, here's a video of Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by Bach. A great music that will trance you to sleep, or to your grave. Haha. Blow hard. Let's aim. Next year can play it. Too bad SYF no section ensemble. Oops.

Here's the vid:



And see how relaxed that the wind players are. SCARY. That's how pro they are.

[Izak]

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Nan Hua's Bella Notte II

Firstly, I would like to congratulate my fellow section mates on the good performance. Yes, we might slip here and there due to the lack of focus and the intensity of the nervousness, but we pulled through it all. From the crazy melodious 10 bars of dialog in Symphonic Dances to the continuous rhythmic pattern which is third in importance in Postcard from Singapore.

To Sec 1s, I would like you to come down more often. Do more technical exercises provided by the Symphonic Band Techniques. Improve your tonguing and diaphragm support especially and work on volume and intonation. A good tone must be achieved by the end of this year.

If the pieces tire you off, I can lead other pieces that you can sight-read and challenge yourself. It is good exposure. For example, Sherman and I tried out many pieces that we will never play again, like Hanover Festival, Alvamar Overture and Songs of Earth, Water, Fire and Sky.

To Sec 2s, like myself, just improve your rhythmic pulse and techniques that requires more endurance and experience. For example, the focus of airflow to the centre and continuous diaphragm support. Sherman, if you read this, we need to discuss how to train the future novice euphonists that will be coming in next year. Be aware that I will not be there for Tuesday practice.

Remember, practise hard and smart. And someone read the guides and editor's notes on the Individual logbook! The only person who read it was probably the tubist sec 3s and Cheng Yu!

[Izak]

Sunday, November 16, 2008

David Childs

Well, due to suggestions from Sherman, I decided to post about this fellow who goes by the name of David Childs.

David Childs is a young Euphonist who had a family line of Euphonists. His father is a Euphonist and a conductor while his uncle too was one.

If you listen to him, his sound is damn round, like a true euphonium, being 'Beautiful Voice' in Latin. He don't bite AT ALL. His fingerings is God-like.



Haha. That is one video. Aim to reach his standard, Sec 1s. Haha. Practise, practise, practise. With practice, God willing, you will be good.

[Izak]

Friday, October 24, 2008

Last Time

Yo people.

All i have to say is.
About SYF.

This is the last time to get it right.
This is the last time leave your mark.

Good luck for SYF!
Most importantly Recollections!
I'll be there in the crowd.

Make me proud:)

Thursday, October 23, 2008

O levels disruption

Due to the ongoing O levels, there will be certain times when we cannot practice in the bandroom. I did not take down nor memorise the timings, but it is written on the white board in the bandroom. Go check it out.

-Sher-

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Finally...

Finally after months of waiting, I am an author of this blog...

Okay. This is my first post in this blog, as well as the first post after a long break of about 2 to 3 months.

Basically, there's nothing really important to talk about currently.... I hope u guys did well in ur SA2, or be prepared to get screwed. The punishment is already been made so just get a mental preparation of what u will get. For sec 1s, if u screwed up ur exams, dont worry, there's still 1 more year for u to sort things out. For sec 2s, I have nothing much to say, or maybe too much that i dont want to say it. Anyway, what's done is done, u cant change the past, so get over it and move on.

Speaking of moving on, its time to get back to ur band life and practice. Put in ur 200% or as much as possible, so long as u dont screw up ur own life, in band now. For sec 1s, by now u guys should have mastered anthem for winds n percussion and eighties gold. So try to start on harder pieces like symphonic dances and acclamation. Try out kokopelli too. If any of u dont have any of the scores, look for me or Zaki.

{[(Sher)]}

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

October

One month had passed. I repeat, one whole bloody month had passed. Exams are over.

Now, practice will start anytime soon. Please get back to your instrument immediately as you might have lost what you have learnt.

And also, Rahmat sir, do you know where the tuner for our section is? Do tell.

And on a brighter note, I got 2 valve oil containers; one for me and Sherman. Alongside that, I purchased a Blue Sliver Polishing Cloth on behalf of Sherman and a Yellow Cloth for myself. If you, the Sec 1s, are in need of these accessories, don't be afraid to borrow from us. I would like to send my apologises as I was thinking of purchasing an extra valve oil exclusively for my Sec 1s.

Last note, although this is random, I found out what the Euphonium section lacks. Intonation will the whole band. When I stand and conduct on the behalf of a certain batch practice, I could hear Euphonium sticking out. I am not saying to offend anyone but what I think the section lacks is the ability to balance with the band.

You see, the intonation and balance is derived from the awareness of technique, endurance of the players and quality of instrument. So, in other words, please be aware of your techniques, increase your endurance with the various exercises Rahmat sir taught you and check and make sure your instrument is in good condition and intuned.

Like what I said, the biggest mistake of the Euphoniums is the lack of ability to balance with the band.

"The band is as good as its Euphonium section." - John Philip Sousa

[Izak]

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Change

Okay guys..
It is very difficult for me to say this..

From after the camp, I am no more your Section Leader.
Effectively from 2nd September 2008, I have been suspended from all band activities.
As of such, i am no more your Section Leader.
In future if there ever was a need please seek out Sean Ou, he will be your new SL.

My heart is heavy to say this.
It was a fun and enriching experience to be your Section Leader.
All four of you have the few of the highest substance I've seen in the band.
I am not saying this just because you are from the same Section.
But honestly, the substance I see, don't let it leak out.
Use it.

Sherman, you have a drive that I wish I had. As the weeks go by I watch as you mature and grow out to your potential. But know this, what you are now is not even the least bit closest to your quarter mark. There is more, so much more in you. Work it out, you'll find the answers that you seek within you.

Zaki, you made my experience in band one of the most worth while. I'm proud to say that you are my junior. I wish I was half the man that you are. There never was a day in band that I do not look forward to section meeting, because I know that no matter how sapped you were from the practice, you always manage to put a smile on my face. For that, I thank you.

Secondary 2 players, I am glad to say that what i set out to do has already been done. I wished for you two to pass me in your levels of playing before I leave. And proud to say it, you two have done it. I wish you the best for your future endeavours. You've made me really proud to have been your Section Leader.

Thiya, take control over the steering of your life. If you don't like Chinese, talk it out with your parents. Taking a subject that you do not like is a waste of valuable time. The band is as good as its weakest player. This applies to a Section to. You may be the weakest amongst us, but I know you can carry your own weight when given time. You have an uncanny talent. It's as if your body was just made for the Euphonium. But you need constant reminders. Every time I remind you about your basics, you improve by 10%. You know what to do, trust yourself. Don't double guess your ability.

Cheng Yu, you're the most passive of the Section. Speak up, live loud. I've seen you progress from Day 1 to now. You've reached a level of playing which I deemed of as impossible for Sec 1, considering the fact that you had very little guidance on my part. I'm very sorry for that. You've proven to me that nothing is impossible. Extend your reach, live out your potential. There are more great stories yet to be written.

Secondary 1 players, you've attained a level of playing that was beyond my grasp two years ago, and you guys did all that without my supervision. I'm sorry but I am proud. Without my supervision, you've risen and I know I owe the thanks to the Sec 2s. If the synergy between you guys are this good now, the wonders it'll produce in the future is endless.

To the juniors whom I adore and respect, I'm proud of all of you, the achievements you've attained and the miracles you can do, it is all in your hands now. How ever you would put it, it is difficult for me to leave but my presence have not benefited you guys in the past the change should no matter. I've trained you guys to prepare for the leaving of your seniors. Remember what I've thought you, about band and about life.

Live life to the fullest, live loud, stand proud!

Friday, August 22, 2008

Band Practice

I'm so sorry, i should have made it clear.
When i say there is no sectionals right i mean it to be until further notice.
If there was sectionals, i will write here and also i will messag you guys.
So sorry for the blunder.

Just wanna say, kuddos for being such fine players.
Mr Tan and Luqman praised the sec twos.
That is very good.

I'm sorry you guys have been given an incompetent Section Leader.
Its okay, i was chosen not by merit but rather coz there was noone else to be.
Sorry for not measuring up people.
If ever you don't wanna listen to me, its your freedom of choice.
But whatever i say to you, its for your own good.

I will soon(not so lah) publish the "UFO Scripture".
My knowledge will be written and passed on.
I hope you guys will add on your own info to it once you take over.
And please re-print don't vandalise.
In ten years time, i hope to see it again okay?

"Teach through guidance, learn by understanding."
-Rahmat

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

CA2

Eh, people!
Okay so sorry i haven't been around to guide you during individuals..
Been really busy with family day rehearsals..
But if you really do need help, when you see me, you can just catch me, i'll help you! =P

Okay so there have been word that we will be having recollections again!!
By then, i hope sec 1s are ready to play..
I want by end of September holidays, the whole section to play for band practice.

September Day Camp coming soon!!
I feel so hyped up to "entertain" you guys!!
Buahahahahaha!
If you wanted an angel for a section leader, sorry wrong section!

As of now, we are not given any repertoir to practice and as such, i want the section to practice National Anthem and Victorian Anthem..
It needs brushing up..
Sec 2s, if i'm not around, guide your juniors.

CA2 coming soon!
Study hard people!
For any grade above B4 which is C5 onwards, 20 for every grade above.
Not 20 push ups.
20 something else.

I would end it with this,
A quiet concert hall,
It's not full of silence,
It's a lack of music.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Change of Sectionals

Sectionals are now every thursday from 2 till 4.30..
Bring P.T kit..
And don't forget what i told you guys about taking care of your euphos..

BTW, good job for wearing the ethnic costumes!
I'm pleased..

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Racial Harmony

Music is a universal language.
Enjoyed by everyone, even the deaf who feel the vibrations.
Music from all races are diverse, different.
But whatever language, music is learnt via the medium of notes.
Born from boredom, enjoyed in sprite.

Tomorrow is RACIAL HARMONY DAY!! Please people, wear ethnic clothings..
Those who do not wear anything, will get it from BMs..

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Cancelled

This weeks sectionals is cancelled! T-T
Not enough people to have sectionals with.
Sec One and Twos, good luck for Assesment tomorrow!
Honestly, good Luck!
Sec twos, this friday uniform check.
Don't forget to bring your full uniform.
Anything else I'll write here.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Sectionals

Sectionals are on saturdays 2pm-4pm
From 2-3.30, musical aspect.
3.30-4, fitness aspect.
All must be present and any absenteeism due to circumstances should informed of to me at least 6 hours before.

Saturday, July 12, 2008

New Blog

Okay guys this is the new section blog..
Please keep in mind that this is a section blog and thus, participation is required..
Enjoy and UFOS UNITE!!!