Symphonic Band

The ACS (Independent) Symphonic Band is an award-winning band with a long, illustrious history in the school. Founded in 1966 as a brass band comprising a modest 18 members, it has since grown into a full symphonic band, with a diverse instrumentation, and a membership of 80 strong budding musicians. Over its long history, the ACS (Independent) Symphonic Band has obtained numerous stellar accolades both locally at the Singapore Youth Festival as well as international platforms, such as the Australian International Music Festival. The Symphonic Band is currently under the baton of Mr Francis Tan, and who is assisted by Ms Sharon Tan.

The ACS (Independent) Symphonic Band provides an environment for learning unlike any other CCAs in the school. Newcomers do not require any prior musical experience to join the Band. Year 1 members are taught basic music theory and instrumental skills and techniques by experienced instrument tutors in the Junior Band. The Symphonic Band, comprising Year 2 – 4 members, and where Junior Band members eventually graduate into, have multiple opportunities throughout the year to hone and to showcase their musical skills. The ACS (Independent) Symphonic Band stages several concerts a year. These range from the school’s Festival of Arts performance, to Band Night, as well as performances at community events and at the Istana.

Beyond musical proficiency, the Band programme also inculcates important values such as diligence, integrity, resilience and empathy, which would shape members to be exemplary in character. Many leadership opportunities are afforded to Band members, ranging from positions such as Section Leaders, to pinnacle positions such as Drum and Band Majors. In recognition of the rigour and wholesomeness of the Band programme, Symphonic Band members are exempted from having to join a second CCA in the school.

Last but not least, the ACS(I) Band (comprising Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble) was also awarded the Champion Band in the 2022 Singapore International Band Festival, Division 2A, and performed at the Esplanade Concert Hall for the SIBF Winners’ Concert on 31 July, 2022. Following that, the Symphonic Band performed well in the 2023 Singapore Youth Festival Arts Presentation, receiving the Certificate of Distinction for its performance.

If you would like to be a part of this award-winning CCA, interested Year 1 students may find out more about the CCA during Performing Arts Showcase (Day 2 of Discovery Camp), and at the Performing Arts Gallery Symphonic Band booth on 4, 5, and 8 January 2024 (Days 3 to 5 of Discovery Camp), and may indicate their interests at the Band booth. Catch our live performance on Day 2 of Discovery Camp, 3 Jan, Wed, at CPA 2!