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Twenty-year-old Hao Rao captivated the audience at his Singapore debut recital held at the prestigious Victoria Concert Hall on September 29, 2024.

The program opened with Zhang Zhao’s arrangement of “My Motherland,” honoring the PRC’s 75th anniversary. Hao Rao’s interpretation provided a vivid portrayal of China’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the outset, his playing conjured cascades reminiscent of flowing rivers and majestic landscapes blanketed in rolling mist. The imagery deepened, evoking scenes of flowing silk, winding roads, bustling cities, and a profound connection to the nation’s history.

As the piece progressed to richer, more sonorous harmonies, Rao brought to life a profound sense of pride, reminiscent of a mass chorus filled with love for the country, underscoring the unity and strength of the nation.

Technically, Rao demonstrated impressive differentiation of textures in his expressive interpretation, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

The instrument itself, a Kayserburg KD275 9′ Artists Series Concert Grand Piano, expertly crafted by Pearl River-Kayserburg, sang with pride in Rao’s hands. Its tone shimmered with a bright, tender quality—gentle and comforting, much like light reflected on the rippling surface of a serene lake or the waves of the sea. Each note glowed softly, adding warmth and fluidity to the performance, enveloping the audience in its calming yet radiant embrace.

Rao showcased his mastery of contrasting Chopin pieces, moving seamlessly between the tender lyricism of the Four Mazurkas, Op. 30, and the dramatic intensity of the Scherzo No. 3. The Mazurkas, with their subtle rhythmic nuances and folk-inspired melodies, exuded gentle nostalgia, creating a serene, almost hypnotic atmosphere. In contrast, the Scherzo No. 3 infused the hall with exhilarating energy, its dissonant octaves and Beethovenian grandeur resonating powerfully. Whether embracing the delicate phrasing of the Mazurkas or the bold drama of the Scherzo, Rao’s performance captivated the audience, revealing the emotional breadth of Chopin’s work.

He then closed the first half of his program with Ballade No. 4 and Andante Spianato et Grande Polonaise. In the Ballade, his seamless shifts in mood highlighted his interpretative sensitivity, executed with effortless grace. The Andante Spianato showcased his ability to evoke beauty and lyricism, while the varied textures of the Grande Polonaise truly displayed his technical skill and artistry.

The second half of Hao Rao’s program featured the Op. 25 Études, where his performance truly shone. He brought out the distinct character of each étude with remarkable clarity, positively gliding across the keys. His interpretation made the complexities feel accessible, fostering intimacy amid the intricacies of Chopin’s writing. This masterful execution testified to both his skill and deep understanding of Chopin’s musical language.

The final piece of the program was met with resounding applause from the audience, who were then treated to a total of three encores: Chopin’s 24 Préludes, Op. 28: No. 15 in D-Flat Major, an energetic Mozart-Volodos Turkish March, and finally, Gabriel Fauré’s Impromptu No. 2 in F Minor, Op. 31.

Overall, “My Motherland & Chopin” served as a splendid introduction to Hao Rao and his immense talent.

Recognition is well-deserved for True Music Singapore for organising this event and bridging cultures by bringing in true talents to showcase to the Singapore audience. Be sure to follow them on their Instagram to stay updated on more upcoming concerts and events.

On 10th September 2024, our teachers got an exclusive look at the new RSL Classical Music Theory Syllabus, RSL’s latest innovation in the field of Classical Music Education. The session was facilitated by RSL’s Director of Product & Marketing Mr Nathan Theodoulou, who was himself heavily involved in the development and production of RSL’s new syllabuses. 

This new syllabus supports the existing RSL Classical practical syllabus lineup and is aimed at equipping learners with the knowledge they need to get the most out of their learning. As a composer and arranger, and a lover of  many different styles and genres of music, Nathan holds a special place in his heart for classical music too. He also understands the value and importance of understanding the building blocks that make up the foundations of musical understanding. At RSL, they are mainly concerned with molding and nurturing not just instrumental players, but well-rounded and knowledgeable musicians who can easily communicate and work with other musicians, thus deepening their enjoyment and appreciation of the music they play.

“At RSL, we make Musicians, not just Certificates.” – Nathan Theodoulou

Playing music is one of life’s greatest joys, and understanding how music works can make the experience even more rewarding. The RSL Classical Music Theory books are designed to gradually build your knowledge, helping you grasp the key concepts in a clear and simple way.

The approach to creating these books was done using the CAP approach: C-reativity, A-pplication, and P-racticality. RSL’s Classical Music Theory places an emphasis on practical skills and activities, with simple transposition, melody writing, and other creative tasks introduced from Grade 1, allowing learners to solidify and apply their understanding of the concepts they are learning with an active demonstration of their knowledge. 

What’s in the Books?

The RSL Classical Music Theory books are available for Grades 1 through 5, with one book per grade. Each book serves as both a course book and a workbook, with step-by-step lessons, clear diagrams, engaging activities, and a practice exam paper at the end. Answer keys are available to download from the RSL website.

How to Use the Books? 

Each book supports & scaffolds the corresponding grade of the practical syllabus by building on the knowledge gained from the previous level to bolster foundational knowledge, as well as introduce the concepts and scales needed to grasp the technical understanding for the next practical instrument grade. Nothing comes as a surprise this way, as the concepts a student will need to tackle their next grade are already introduced to them before they need them for playing.

The books feature step by step lessons with clear diagrams and engaging activities & exercises, making them easy to learn and teach with

Preparing for, and taking the RSL Classical Music Theory Exams

Once students are done with the workbook and sample paper, and are feeling good about sitting the exam, they can go ahead and purchase an exam entry on the RSL Awards (UK) website, and gain access to unlimited practice exam questions on the online platform. RSL Classical’s syllabus and online exam system was developed in association with the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) who have a well established and brilliantly intuitive online theory platform that not only allows you to practice using the actual exam interface, but also gives you immediate feedback on your practice answers, whether you got them right, or if you made a mistake, the system highlights your error and offers the correct answer, so even on the practice system, you can continue to learn and revise as you go. You have access to this for about 1 year before you need to take the exam.

When you’ve practiced enough and are ready to sit the exam, simply switch to the Exam Mode on the online system. Simple, practical and innovative in true RSL style.

Conclusion

In today’s fast-changing musical landscape, a solid theoretical foundation is essential. The RSL Classical Music Theory syllabus provides a comprehensive pathway for learners to deepen their understanding of music, enhance their performance, and unlock their creative potential. As educators and students embrace this forward-thinking curriculum, the future of classical music theory education is brighter than ever, ensuring that the timeless art of classical music continues to thrive in modern times.

On 17th August 2024, we had the privilege of attending the second of two performances of Rhapsody in Yellow, a lecture-concert held at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Conceived by Singapore-based interdisciplinary artist Ming Wong, this bold and thought-provoking work explores the intricate relationship between the United States and China in the 20th century, weaving together classical music, documentary film, and a historical lecture.

Wong’s vision for Rhapsody in Yellow drew inspiration from the “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” of the 1970s—a period marked by the unlikely collaboration between two superpowers through the sport of table tennis. The heart of the performance was the juxtaposition of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with the Yellow River Concerto, a piece born out of China’s Cultural Revolution, reflecting the cultural and political interplay between these nations. The result was a cacophony of sound and image, capturing the turbulence of international relations while also highlighting moments of harmony and clarity.

The introduction to “Rhapsody in Yellow” set the stage by illustrating classical music as a universal medium of communication—one that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to shared human experiences. The show began with a historical exploration of how Western music traditions were introduced to China, particularly through missionary schools, where the young composer Xian Xinghai first encountered these influences.

Xinghai’s musical journey was profoundly shaped by his studies in Paris, where he became deeply affected by footage of China’s civil war and the suffering of refugees. Witnessing the crowd’s passionate singing at a Bastille Day celebration, he found his own musical voice taking a new direction, one that blended the political with the personal, reminiscent of the missionary hymns he had heard as a child. This evolution in Xinghai’s work, particularly evident in the “Yellow River Cantata,” reflected the broader cultural and political narratives of the time.

In contrast, the show also explored George Gershwin’s parallel journey in America, where he was crafting “Rhapsody in Blue,” a groundbreaking orchestral work that came to symbolize American innovation in classical music by blending elements of African American jazz with traditional symphonic forms. By featuring both the “Yellow River Concerto”—an adaptation of Xinghai’s cantata—and “Rhapsody in Blue,” the production established a compelling musical dialogue, emphasizing the distinct yet interconnected trajectories of classical music in the East and West.

The narrative also delved into the period when Western music was banned in China, leading to the destruction of pianos and classical records in many households. This historical context added depth to the performance, underscoring the resilience of cultural expression in the face of repression. Through these carefully chosen musical pieces, “Rhapsody in Yellow” wove together the legacies of Gershwin and Xinghai, offering a nuanced reflection on the intersection of culture, politics, and history.

A Collaboration of Talents

The work’s success is due in large part to the exceptional talents involved in the project. Ben Kim, a Korean-American pianist known for his narrative-driven performances, and Berlin-based pianist Mark Taratushkin, a specialist in the works of Bartók and Prokofiev, captivated the audience with their playing, their technical precision and emotional depth added a compelling dimension to the performance. Both pianists lent their voices to the show’s narration as well, giving the showcase a more intimate yet cinematic feel.

The music itself was a collaborative effort, with Christopher Schlechte-Bond as the arranger. His experience in composing for feature films and orchestras around the world brought a cinematic quality to the score, allowing the audience to experience the historical and cultural narratives on a visceral level.

Henry Hao-An Cheng, the musical director, played an integral role in bringing Wong’s vision to life. An acclaimed conductor, composer, and producer, Cheng’s expertise in navigating complex musical structures and his experience with symphonic, contemporary, opera, and ballet works worldwide made him the perfect fit for this ambitious project. His leadership ensured that the performance was both cohesive and exploratory, a true reflection of the geopolitical themes at its core.

An Immersive Experience

The performance itself was surreal and immersive. The juxtaposition of archival film clips with live orchestral recordings created a dense, almost chaotic soundscape, where moments of clarity emerged from the musical dialogue between the two pianists. Their dueling pianos playing themes and transitional cadenzas from Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue interplaying and intermingling with the iconic, unmistakable lines of the Yellow River Concerto, along with the pianists on-stage presence — walking around, approaching each other—added a layer of physicality to the metaphor of diplomatic negotiation, with their distinct playing styles highlighting the contrasts and occasional harmonies between the two sonic regimes.

The use of two C. Bechstein D282 concert grand pianos provided by Bechstein Music World, further enriched the performance. The differences in the pianos’ individual tonal qualities, combined with the unique timbres of the pianists’ voices in the spoken-word narration and playing styles, underscored the contrasts and synergies between the American and Chinese musical traditions. “Rhapsody in Yellow” is a one-of-a-kind interdisciplinary art piece that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

 Live Music Meets Cinema

The visual and technical aspects of the performance were equally impressive, thanks to the efforts of Liam Morgan (Cinematography, Lighting), Elias Fritz (Camera Assistance), and Torsten Podraza (Technical Director). Their contributions created a surreal atmosphere, where archival film clips, and orchestra recordings intertwined with the live playing —  perfectly synced to the accompanying video footage, enhancing the narrative’s depth and emotional impact.

Production Manager Mariko Mikami lent her expertise in managing interdisciplinary and aided in bringing together the diverse elements of this complex production.

Reflections and Insights

Following the performance, a post-concert discussion facilitated by a representative from the Singapore Art Museum allowed the audience to delve deeper into the creative process behind Rhapsody in Yellow. The discussion provided valuable insights into how the show had evolved since its inception, with the creatives sharing their experiences and the challenges of bringing such a multifaceted project to life.

Rhapsody in Yellow was not just a performance; it was an exploration of identity, history, and the complexities of international relations, all conveyed through the universal language of music. It was a fitting tribute to the intricate dance of diplomacy and a powerful reminder of the role that art can play in reflecting and shaping our understanding of the world.

Nestled within Singapore’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, the Kayserburg – Pearl River Gallery @ SMU has quickly become a sanctuary for music lovers. Since its soft opening in late 2023, the gallery has emerged as a hub for musical excellence, offering a unique space for both seasoned artists and emerging talents to showcase their skills.

Located on the dynamic campus of Singapore Management University, the Kayserburg Gallery features a stunning collection of pianos from the renowned Kayserburg and Pearl River brands, each a masterpiece of precision and craftsmanship. The gallery’s activities have been enriched by the Harmonic Convergence series, a monthly event that began in June 2024. The inaugural performance featured a grand finalist from the 2023 Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition, setting a high standard for the series and highlighting the exceptional sound quality of the Kayserburg Grand Piano.

The Harmonic Convergence series is designed to provide young musicians with a platform to perform, grow, and connect with a wider audience. The most recent event, held on 28th July 2024, continued this tradition, offering yet another opportunity for young artists to shine. The gallery’s inspiring atmosphere and state-of-the-art instruments create an ideal setting for both performers and attendees.

Looking ahead, the Kayserburg Gallery will host 1-2 recitals each month, solidifying its role as a key player in Singapore’s cultural landscape. These events not only promote music as a pursuit for aspiring musicians but also foster a thriving community where art and music converge. The Harmonic Convergence series is just the beginning—there are many more notes to be played, and the Kayserburg Gallery is poised to be the stage for countless musical journeys.

Kayserburg Music School’s vision to serve as a cultural bridge between Singapore and China was prominently highlighted during the event. With a commitment to providing a platform for aspiring musicians to showcase their talent on the global stage, the school aims to nurture and empower the next generation of music virtuosos.

Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more concerts and other events!

On 26th July 2024, music enthusiasts were treated to an extraordinary, yet intimate performance by the Oceanus Trio, presented in collaboration with Bechstein Music World. The evening was a resounding success, featuring a carefully curated program of classical masterpieces that showcased the remarkable talents of Gabriel Ng (violin), Hong Xiang (piano), and Hong Tzin (cello).

Program Highlights

The concert opened with Beethoven’s Piano Trio in C minor, Op.1, No.3, a piece that exemplifies Beethoven’s early boldness and innovative spirit. The trio’s interpretation captured the powerful emotions and technical brilliance that define this work. Gabriel Ng’s violin sang with clarity and intensity, while Hong Xiang’s piano and Hong Tzin’s cello provided a rich, harmonious backdrop.

Next, the audience was enchanted by Gabriel Fauré’s Sicilienne, Op. 78. This short but poignant piece was performed with exquisite sensitivity, beautifully balancing the melancholic and joyful elements. The trio’s delicate interplay brought out the nuanced charm of Fauré’s composition, leaving the audience deeply moved.

Tchaikovsky’s Valse-Scherzo in C major, Op. 34. – a playful and technically demanding piece showcased the trio’s capabilities. The whimsical waltz and the lyrical middle section were performed with delightful energy, leading to a passionate cadenza that left the audience in awe.

The evening concluded with Schubert’s Wanderer Fantasy in C Major, Op.15. This ambitious work was delivered with exceptional artistry, navigating through its varied emotional landscapes with ease. From the commanding opening to the introspective second movement and the jubilant rondo, the trio maintained a compelling narrative throughout. The finale, with its rapid broken chords and arpeggios, was executed flawlessly, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.

Performers’ Excellence

Gabriel Ng, a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, played on a 1909 Francesco Guadagnini violin, generously loaned from the Rin Collection. His performance was marked by precision and emotional depth, reaffirming his status as a world-class violinist.

Hong Xiang, known for his solo recitals and chamber music expertise, demonstrated his exceptional skill and musical insight on the piano. The knowledge and reflections from recent lecture-recital collaboration with C.Bechstein’s director, Ralf Dewor, were evidenced in his nuanced approach to the instrument.

Hong Tzin’s versatility and experience as a cellist added a profound dimension to the trio’s performance. His past experiences with the Singapore National Youth Orchestra and various international stages were clearly reflected in his confident and expressive playing.

Special Thanks

Heartfelt gratitude goes out to Bechstein Music World for their generous sponsorship, which helped make this event possible. Their support of the arts and commitment to fostering musical excellence is truly commendable.

The Oceanus Trio delivered an evening of unforgettable music, leaving the audience with a renewed appreciation for the timeless beauty of classical compositions. Their performance was a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of chamber music.

Be sure to follow Bechstein Music World on their Facebook and Instagram Pages for the latest updates on more concerts and other events for 2024!

On August 16-17, 2024, the Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade will host Rhapsody in Yellow, a groundbreaking musical lecture performance by the acclaimed artist Ming Wong. This event, presented by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay and Singapore Art Museum, offers a compelling exploration of the Sino-American “ping-pong” diplomacy that reshaped global politics.

Rhapsody in Yellow traces the evolution of relations between the US and China through a creative blend of classical music and contemporary commentary. The performance features two stunning C. Bechstein D282 Concert Grand pianos, which will provide a rich, nuanced soundscape essential to the production’s innovative approach. Known for their exceptional tonal quality and precision, these pianos will elevate the performance, adding depth to the intricate musical dialogue.

Ming Wong’s work, with music direction by Henry Hao-An Cheng and arrangements by Christopher Schlechte-Bond, unfolds through a ping-pong double concerto format, interwoven with archival moving images and spoken word. The pianos will serve as both the sonic backbone and the centerpiece of this unique artistic expression, highlighting the evolving dynamics between the two nations with a blend of discord and harmony.

The performance, which has garnered international acclaim at festivals like Steirischer Herbst and Berliner Festspiele, promises to be a thought-provoking and immersive experience. The C. Bechstein D282 pianos will enhance the performance’s exploration of modernism and myth-making, contributing to a memorable event that bridges history and artistry.

Join us for this extraordinary event where the tradition and excellence of C. Bechstein pianos will resonate through Ming Wong’s innovative vision, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in history.

Tickets at $48 are available now on SISTIC.COM

Join us for the Cristofori Music Singapore National Day 2024 Celebration, themed “Together United by Music.” From July 27th to September 1st, 2024, enjoy a series of exciting events, competitions, sales, and special packages designed to celebrate our unity through the power of music. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect during this festive period.

July 27th (Fri) – September 1st (Sun) 2024

Special Offers for New Piano Students

• Free Piano Rental: New piano students who register between July 27th and September 1st will receive free piano rental while stocks last.
• Free $59 Cristofori Voucher: All new student enrolments during the campaign period will receive a $59 voucher applicable for music books, musical instruments, or school fee payments at any Cristofori Music School.
• Free $100 Cristofori Voucher: Only on August 9th, new enrolments at selected locations (J8, FN, CAFA, AMK, WeM, OTH, HM, PGO) will receive a $100 voucher.

Enrollment Discounts

• Special Enrollment Discounts:
  • Pay for 2 terms and get 1 month free.
  • Pay for 4 terms and get 2 months free. Available at selected locations (BT, BKS, BMW, CAFA, KMS, TP, AVCC, PG, WEM).

Piano Purchase Offers

• Brand New Piano Deals

Referral Program

• Refer a Friend: Receive a $50 Cristofori Music Voucher for referring a friend to any Cristofori Music School. Voucher applicable for music books, musical instruments, or school fee payments.

Competitions and Concerts

Piano Recitals

• George Harliono Piano Recital: August 30th, 2024, at Victoria Concert Hall. Tickets: $18, $38, $58, $78. (Sold Out)

Renowned British-Indonesian concert pianist George Harliono is set to captivate audiences at Victoria Concert Hall in Singapore – and we are absolutely thrilled! Known for his exceptional talent and musicality, George Harliono has garnered international acclaim, enchanting listeners worldwide with his masterful performances. 

• Hao Rao Piano Recital: September 29th, 2024, at Victoria Concert Hall. Tickets: $18, $45, $68.

Get ready for an unforgettable musical evening as rising piano star Hao Rao makes his debut in Singapore with a concert titled “My Motherland & Chopin.” Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 7:30 PM at the historic Victoria Concert Hall. This highly anticipated event promises to be a mesmerizing experience, celebrating the fusion of Chinese heritage and Western classical music through Hao Rao’s exceptional talent.

Sales Events

Look out for even more great deals this season with Cristofori:

• Music Carnival: August 5th-11th at Junction 8 Atrium Level 2
• Massive Clearance Warehouse Sale: August 9th-11th at Piano Megastore
• EMI Fair: August 10th-11th at RSL London @ Funan Mall
• Esteve Guitar Launch: August 14th at Music Paradise
• COMEX 2024: August 30th – September 2nd at SUNTEC

Competitions

• Asian Supreme Drum Competition 2024: REGISTRATION CLOSED!
  • Qualifying Round: August 9th-11th at Junction 8 Rooftop Garden Level 3.
  • Grand Final: October 19th at Mochtar Riady Auditorium (SMU).
  • Registration Deadline: July 21st.
• The Fifth “Amazon Award” Pop Piano International Competition 2024:
  • Qualifying Round: September 6th-8th at SMU T-Junction.
  • Grand Final: October 5th-6th at BMW.
  • Registration Deadline: August 18th.

Sales Events and Special Packages

Brand New Acoustic Piano Deals

• Franz Sandner SP210A: $5,559 (National Day Deal: $3,999)
• Enschu E121 with Free Key Silent System: $7,521 (National Day Deal: $5,999)
• Zimmermann S6: $8,720 (National Day Deal: $8,000)

Location-Based Deals

• Junction 8:
  • SEILER Ritmo 116: $18,421 (National Day Deal: $14,999)
  • Johannes Seiler GS132: $10,137 (National Day Deal: $8,999)
  • Johannes Seiler GS122: $7,630 (National Day Deal: $6,999)
• Bechstein Music World:
  • W.Hoffmann T128: $18,530 (National Day Deal: $16,000)
• Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts:
  • ROSLER RD120: $9,265 (National Day Deal: $5,999)
  • PETROF piano: up to 25% off

Special Offer: Receive a free Bohemian-style gramophone and a CD of your choice with the purchase of a C. Bechstein, W. Hoffmann, Seiler, or Petrof piano.

Piano Purchase Offer

• Ritmuller RS122: $5,999 with free 1 term school fees.
• Kayserburg KN3: $8,175 with free 1 term school fees.

Brand New Digital Piano Deals

• PEARL RIVER PRK300 Digital Piano: 

The Pearl River PRK300 Digital Piano, part of the “Designer’s Series,” merges 60 years of piano manufacturing expertise with KORG’s exquisite technology. Designed and produced by the world’s largest piano manufacturer, Pearl River Piano Group, it features state-of-the-art sound technology and Japan’s synthesised sound source. The PRK300 is equipped with a Natural Weighted Hammer (NH) keyboard action, offering a mellow touch in a compact, sleek cabinet, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned players.

$1,322 National Day Deal: $1,099 with a guaranteed trade-in package within 2 years.

Brand New Electronic Drum Deal

• NUX DM8 Electronic Drum Kit:

NUX’s newest flagship model boasts robust hardware and a versatile drum module with impressive sound design and recording capabilities. This kit includes multi-zone mesh drum pads and 360-degree cymbal pads, providing a natural playing experience. The NPD-12 snare and NDP-10 tom pads offer realistic rebound and adjustable tension, while the 14-inch NRC-14C ride cymbal pad and NCY-12 crash pads deliver responsive dynamic play. The kick drum pad accommodates double pedals well, and the hi-hat pad, mounted on a sturdy stand, supports various open/closed positions. The DM-8 module features 48 editable kits, numerous effects, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio/MIDI interface, and custom WAV file import, making it a comprehensive and flexible choice for drummers that will support you from the start of your drumming journey and as you advance and grow!

$2,018 (National Day Deal: $1,799). Purchase with Purchase (PWP): $190 for NUX DA30BT Amplifier.

Brand New Guitar Deals

Playing guitar boosts cognitive skills, enhances creativity, and provides stress relief. It also builds social connections through music. Now is the perfect time to embark on or continue your musical journey with a high-quality instrument that will inspire and support your growth as a guitarist!

• Sevillana 2101 Acoustic Guitar

Meticulously handcrafted from select materials, the SEVILLANA 2101 exemplifies superior craftsmanship. Its full solid wood construction and grand auditorium body with a cutaway ensure rich, resonant tones and enhanced playability. Ideal for various musical styles, this versatile guitar articulates your musical vision with clarity and precision.

$407 (National Day Promotion: $359) with free semi-hard case, picks, and cleaning cloth.

• Suzuki SDG6PK Acoustic Guitar Package 

This 41-inch Dreadnought guitar, full-size (4/4), features a spruce top, agathis sides and back, a catalpa neck, and an ebonized maple fretboard and bridge. Enhanced with black multi ABS binding, a black pickguard, and a high gloss finish. Our best-selling starter pack!

$199 (National Day Promo: $159) with free bag, pitch pipe, spare string, capo, winder, strap, cleaning cloth, and picks.

Celebrate National Day with Cristofori Music and experience the joy of music through our special offers, exciting events, and competitions. Whether you’re a new student, a seasoned musician, or simply a music enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Join us from July 27th to September 1st, 2024, and let’s come together, united by music!

Get ready for an unforgettable musical evening as rising piano star Hao Rao makes his debut in Singapore with a concert titled “My Motherland & Chopin.” Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 7:30 PM at the historic Victoria Concert Hall. This highly anticipated event promises to be a mesmerizing experience, celebrating the fusion of Chinese heritage and Western classical music through Hao Rao’s exceptional talent.

Meet Hao Rao: Bridging Cultures Through Music

Hao Rao is more than just a symbol of China’s national pride; he is a beacon for the new generation of pianists, seamlessly blending Chinese heritage with Western classical music. Born in 2004, Hao has already made a significant mark in the music world, earning acclaim for his extraordinary interpretive maturity, distinctive sound, and poetic sensibility. As the youngest finalist of the 18th International Chopin Piano Competition in 2021, Hao’s performance of Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 captivated audiences and judges alike, earning him the Honourable Mention Award.

Raised in the mountainside city of Jishou, China, Hao began his piano journey at the tender age of 4. By 8, he was commuting 32 hours weekly to Guangzhou to study under Dr. Vivian Li at the Xinghai Conservatory of Music. Now a college sophomore at the Xinghai Conservatory, Hao continues to impress with his virtuosity and passionate musicality, winning major prizes in China and internationally, including the Krainev Competition in Russia and the Ettlingen Competition in Germany.

Hao Rao has performed across Asia, Europe, and North America, collaborating with prestigious orchestras such as the China NCPA Orchestra and the Warsaw Philharmonic. In the 2023-2024 season, Hao will showcase the complete works of Chopin’s Four Ballades, 27 Etudes, and Liszt’s 12 Transcendental Etudes in over 60 cities worldwide. His debut album, “Chopin Recital,” released in 2022 by NCPA Classics, won “Best Piano Album of the Year” at China’s 18th “Hi-Fi Album Awards.”

Hao Rao’s debut concert in Singapore will feature a carefully curated program that highlights both his technical prowess and emotional depth. The evening will open with Liu Chi’s “My Motherland,” a poignant piece that reflects Hao’s roots and national pride.

Programme: 

LIU CHI  刘炽 （1921 – 1998）

《我的祖国》(My Motherland)

F. CHOPIN

Four Mazurkas Op.30 (8’45’’)

• Mazurka Op.30 No.1 in C minor
• Mazurka Op.30 No.2 in B minor
• Mazurka Op.30 No.3 in D♭ major
• Mazurka Op.30 No.4 in C# minor

Scherzo No.3 in C-sharp Minor, Op.39 (7’45’’)

Ballade No.4 in F Minor, Op.52 (11’45’’)

Andante Spianato Et Grande Polonaise Brillante, Op.22 (12’40”)

• Andante Spianato in G Major
• Grande Polonaise Brillante in E-flat Major

12 Etudes Op.25 (29’50’’)

• No.1 in A-flat major (‘Aeolian Harp’)
• No.2 in F minor (‘The Bees’)
• No.3 in F major (‘The Horseman’)
• No.4 in A minor (‘Paganini’)
• No.5 in E minor (‘Wrong Note’)
• No.6 in G-sharp minor (‘Double Thirds’)
• No.7 in C-sharp minor (‘Cello’)
• No.8 in D-flat major (‘Sixths’)
• No.9 in G-flat major (‘Butterfly’)
• No.10 in B minor (‘Octave’)
• No.11 in A minor (‘Winter Wind’)
• No.12 in C minor (‘Ocean’)

*Programme subject to change at artist’s discretion

Hao Rao’s debut concert “My Motherland & Chopin” promises to be an evening of breathtaking music and cultural fusion. Join us at the Victoria Concert Hall on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 7:30 PM to witness this extraordinary talent and experience the universal language of music that transcends borders and connects us all.

Buy Tickets

This event is organised by Kayserburg Music School.

Kayserburg Music School’s vision to serve as a cultural bridge between Singapore and China was prominently highlighted during the event. With a commitment to providing a platform for aspiring musicians to showcase their talent on the global stage, the school aims to nurture and empower the next generation of music virtuosos.

Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more concerts and other events!