Music Students in “Music of the Silk Road” - Workshop with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble

“It’s amazing to see the professionals play at this level and how they use their music to bridge the gap between cultures,” enthused music student Ryan Goh, 16.

Ong Shu Chen, also 16, a voice major, reflected deeper understanding about musicianship. “When we practise music, it’s always about technique, but now I know that it is so much more, that music is about communication.”

The remarks echoed hugely the sentiments of 117 SOTA music students who were privileged to attend a workshop with world-renowned Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble, part of an initiative founded by the legendary cellist 10 years ago to promote the study of cultural and artistic traditions of countries along the former Silk Road trading route. The workshop titled “Music of the Silk Road”, was organised by American Express. With successful predecessors in Japan and Hong Kong, the workshop was held for the first time in Singapore on 29 April 2010 at the Esplanade Concert Hall. SOTA students interacted with the critically acclaimed team of internationally-renowned musicians, composers, arrangers, visual artists and storytellers from more than 20 countries. The workshop provided the students with an opportunity to observe the ensemble at their rehearsal for their scheduled Singapore concerts and benefit from the generous sharing of experiences and expertise in a Q & A session with Ma and the ensemble.

Principal, Mrs Rebecca Chew was greatly supportive of the students’ engagement. “The deep learning experience from the master class given by Mr Yo-Yo Ma and The Silk Road Ensemble is a 'one-in-a-lifetime' opportunity to learn from the great musicians. Made possible by American Express, the education outreach to bring music that speaks to the heart impacts and influences the child's creative imagination. It is both exciting to see the development of ideas and thoughtful re-connection with the rich heritage in the arts. Indeed, the School of the Arts is privileged to be part of this meaningful collaboration with The Silk Road Ensemble.”

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