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After a significant 7-year hiatus that has left fans eagerly anticipating his return, the legendary Japanese musician Kitaro is set to grace the stages of Singapore once again. This time, he’s bringing with him not just the iconic melodies that have defined his career, but also a treasure trove of musical gems that have never been performed live. And in a partnership that promises to elevate the experience, Cristofori Music School is proud to announce its role as the official music school partner for this unforgettable concert series!

As Kitaro notes, “For many years, I have always strived to create a memorable and exciting spiritual live concert experience with breathtaking visuals. This time I intended to delve deeper into my past and include music in this tour that I have not performed anywhere previously. I am grateful and appreciative to those in my audiences that have supported me throughout many decades. These performances will reflect my heartfelt delight and appreciation of those many years and many enthusiastic audiences.”

Kitaro’s music transcends genres, blending classical, jazz, rock, new age, and world music into a unique sonic tapestry. His breakthrough came in 1980 with the soundtrack for “The Silk Road: The Rise And Fall Of Civilizations,” a series that introduced his enchanting compositions to an international audience. Since then, Kitaro has continued to push the boundaries of music, earning Grammy nominations and awards, including one for “Thinking Of You” in 2001.

His collaborations with artists like Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead and Jon Anderson of Yes have further enriched his musical legacy. Kitaro’s work extends beyond albums to include soundtracks like “Ancient,” “Spiritual Garden,” “Impressions Of The West Lake,” and “Final Call,” all of which reflect his profound reverence for nature and his quest for spiritual growth.

In 2016, Kitaro collaborated with NASA and Kyoto University to create the “Kojiki And The Universe” film which featured time-lapse images and real-time scenes of the Universe expertly intertwined with his music.

Kitaro continues to produce the remaining albums of the Sacred Journey Of Ku-Kai series. His intention behind the series is to shine a light on an inspirational musical message to unify our cultures, consciousness and spiritual growth. A new and untitled live album with accompanying video will be released in late 2024 by Domo Records.

The upcoming “The Best Of Kitaro World Tour” is not just a celebration of his greatest hits like “Matsuri,” “Silk Road,” and “Reimei”; it’s also an introduction to unreleased live performances that will delight both long-time fans and newcomers alike. And with Cristofori Music School as the official music school partner, attendees can expect an immersive experience that goes beyond the concert hall, offering insights into the artistry and craftsmanship behind Kitaro’s music.

Cristofori Music School, with its commitment to excellence in music education, is the perfect partner to bring this spiritual journey to life. Together, they invite you to be part of this extraordinary event. Don’t miss your chance to witness music history in the making.

Secure your tickets now for “The Best Of Kitaro World Tour” and embark on a musical adventure that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining. At Cristofori Music School, we hope that with sharing this concert with our students, Kitaro’s music will not just be heard; it will be felt, deepening your connection to the world through the universal language of music — because as we say here at Cristofori: Music, Passion, Life.

The legendary Kitaro will be performing at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands on 25th and 26th June 2024 as part of his The Best Of Kitaro World Tour.

Get Tickets to Kitaro World Tour!

May 25th, 2024 certainly became a memorable day with the comeback of Cristofori’s Got Talent! With a post-pandemic hiatus finally coming to an end, the Competition made its comeback, and peaked in epic style at the Grand Finals held at the Level 3 Rooftop Garden at Junction 8 Shopping Mall.

The day opened out with the Solo Children’s category ages with 30 adorable finalists showing off their skills in music, and dance, with creative costumes, props, and skits integrated into their performances. Top winner Theodora Lee gave a touching performance of  “Lemon Tree” in English, and Chinese singing and playing the keyboard and ukulele, and 2nd prize winner Nathaniel Hoe was electrifying on the drums, and 3rd place Choo Heng Lee showed off his piano skills performing “Caballos Españoles” on the grand piano.

The Open Category followed with an amazing array of talents from piano players and violinists, to guitarists, multi-instrumentalists, and singing too! First prize winner (and also Best in Costume) Mahiir was a show stopper with his powerful, emotional vocal performance of Ray Charles’ “A Song For You”. 2nd prize winner Tan Jing Yang dazzled on the piano with the William Tell Overture, and Claire Tay in 3rd place gave a rousing rendition of V. Monti’s “Czardas”, giving us quite a well rounded selection of musicians for the Open Category.

The afternoon session was no less exciting, starting off with the Solo Teens category with a variety of numbers – live looping, guitar and vocals, piano and vocals, drums, piano and dancing to some Western pop and Chinese pop songs, and even some classic K-pop faves. Tori May clinched the top prize in this category with a heartfelt cover of Colors of the Wind, and drummers Jonathan Lee, and Ryan Foo claiming 2nd and 3rd prize respectively, both gave energetic and crowd-pleasing performances.

The day wrapped up with a fabulous bang with the Group Category. The band ensembles truly brought their game to the grand finals with some of the best performances we have seen so far at Cristofori’s Got Talent! Ultimately, the top prize was won by the group “The Fragmented” with their rock-tinged rendition of “The Greatest Show”, the band was tight, and the lead and backup vocals completely in sync! “Drumstruck Ensemble” clinched the 2nd prize with their heart-thumping piece “Nevs”, and 3rd prize went to “Jo Rigid Home Boyz” dance crew quartet with their specially curated and choreographed edgy K-Pop mashup they titled “Resurrect the Underdogs”.

Prizes for Most Popular (selected by audience vote), and Best Costume were awarded too! It was indeed refreshing and a lot of fun seeing participants show their creativity in their costume choices with a lot of DIY in the mix.

All-in-all, our comeback run was a resounding success made possible by the support of our students, parents, crew and the whole Singapore community. We extend our most sincere and heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped to make the Cristofori’s Got Talent vision of creating a platform for everyone to share their talents and shine on stage come to life.

Check out more photos from the Grand Finals day on the official Cristofori Music Facebook Page!

See you at the next one!

There’s a distinct and timeless charm that captivates those who appreciate the European piano sound, and this is precisely the mission of the Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts – to bring the Sound of Europe to Singapore, and to deliver its beauty to our customers. The School equips itself with world-class instruments synonymous with the finest European pianos.

On May 27th, 2024, the Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) at the Petrof & Rösler Gallery in Singapore celebrated its grand opening ceremony. Our Director, Ms. Wong Mee Ching, honored the event by kicking off the celebration with the activation of a Bohemian-style gramophone. As part of the Opening Exclusive Specials, this same Bohemian-style Gramophone comes as a complimentary gift with Petrof and Rösler pianos. The gramophone features Bluetooth connectivity, a 3.5mm Audio connection, USB playing and charging, FM radio, and even a CD player! It will surely add a touch of old-world elegance with modern functionality to any home.

Celebrating the Sound of Europe

The festivities included a thrilling lion dance performance to usher in prosperity, and to set an energetic tone for the event. A series of musical performances showcased the illustrious Petrof P159 Bora piano, alongside captivating violin and guitar performances, immersing attendees in the enchanting sounds of Europe in a richly designed interior reminiscent of the parlors of Vienna or Paris – just like in the days of the great composers.

Debut of Petrof Pianos in Singapore!

The Petrof Bora P159 5’3″ baby grand piano played for the event’s entertainment was a highlight of the day. This remarkable instrument enthralled the audience in its Singapore debut with its stunningly clear and rich tone, defying expectations with its depth and bass, given its compact size. Handcrafted with 152 years of family-owned craftsmanship, the Petrof Bora P159 offers a unique and sensitive touch with superb singing tones.

After the performances, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to play and experience the exceptional sound of Petrof and Rösler pianos firsthand, appreciating the fine craftsmanship and tonal quality of these world-class instruments. Renowned for their craftsmanship, precision, and rich tonal qualities, pianos from esteemed makers such as Petrof, Rösler, and select models from C. Bechstein, W. Hoffmann, and Seiler offer a musical journey unlike any other. 

We are so happy to be able to bring these prestigious pianos for the whole of Singapore to experience!

To sample and try all these wonderful masterpieces of piano craftsmanship yourself, visit Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts at the Petrof & Rösler Gallery (7 Holland Village Way, #02-17/18 One Holland Village, S275748), and our knowledgeable staff will be on-hand to guide you!

Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more updates from CAFA.

On May 21st, 2024, Bechstein Music World hosted an enlightening C. Bechstein Lecture-Recital featuring the talented Hong Xiang, and special guest C.Bechstein Director Mr. Ralf Dewor. 

Hong Xiang, a 30-year-old emerging pianist from Singapore shared personal insights about his identity as a pianist and his profound thoughts on the pieces he included in his repertoire. Hong Xiang’s recital programme featured works by Bach, Schubert, Debussy, Fauré and the contemporary composer Joe Hisaishi. A special highlight was Hong Xiang’s own arrangement of a theme from “Spirited Away,” showcasing his creativity and deep connection to the pieces he performs. The recital culminated in a performance Fauré’s “Sicillienne, for Cello & Piano, Op.78, where Hong Xiang was joined by his brother, Hong Qing, on the cello, adding a rich, collaborative dimension to the programme.

The day’s program was further enriched by the presence of Mr. Ralf Dewor, Director of C. Bechstein Pianofortefabrik (AG). Mr. Dewor remarked that Hong Xiang’s performance, both his solo playing and his duo program with his brother on cello, were particularly inspiring for him, and he reflected that it was witnessing performers like them play that made him feel so proud to be in this industry upholding the tradition for future generations. He then provided invaluable insights and shared his knowledge into the intricate characteristics that define the sound and identity of all pianos, including the C. Bechstein. He explained how these qualities—clarity, color, power, rhythm, dynamics, melody, and harmony—are meticulously balanced to create the distinctive sound of each one. It is then up to the  player, or the listener to choose the best piano for them, or for the music being played.

Hong Xiang and Mr. Dewor demonstrated these principles through the live performances, allowing the audience to experience firsthand the rich, complex sounds that different pianos can produce. During Hong Xiang’s performance, he specifically chose the C. Bechstein D282 Concert Grand for majority of his pieces, accentuating such passages as the delicate lines of Debussy’s “Claire de Lune”, and the powerful dynamic shifts of the selected movements from Schubert’s “Wanderer Fantasy”, and a Seiler 278 Konzert series Concert Grand for the Hisaishi piece “Inochi no Namae”, which he may have felt suited the feeling of a warm embrace the piece exudes. Both pianos from companies founded in the same era, as Mr Ralf emphasized, were both excellent instruments in their own ways, with different characters and identities. 

Every piano should evoke and answer the following questions for each individual: Does this piano do what I want? (Expressive power), Does it provoke new ideas in me? (Inspirational power), Does this instrument respond to me and do what I want it to? (Capacity and reserve), and What does this piano create for me, for my students, or for the music?

These in mind, the lecture-recital highlighted the nuanced craftsmanship involved in piano making. Carl Bechstein’s vision was to merge the robust, dynamic elements of sound with delicate, expressive qualities.  This balance is challenging to achieve, as it requires both high tension for clarity and power, and elasticity for color and expressiveness. Bechstein’s connection to Franz Liszt was also highlighted, with Liszt being notorious for destroying pianos(!) Bechstein needed to create an instrument that was sturdy enough to withstand the abuse, but was also responsive enough to bring out the virtuosity of Liszt’s playing. It is thanks to working with Liszt that he was able to achieve this harmonious blend of strength and delicacy that gives Bechstein pianos, and all the pianos in the C. Bechstein family, their unique voice.

The legacy of Carl Bechstein lives on today. His innovative approach to piano construction earned him the Winner’s Medal at the London World’s Fair in 1862, a testament to the exceptional quality and playability of his pianos. This historical context underscored the enduring excellence of Bechstein pianos, which continue to inspire musicians around the world.

This C. Bechstein Lecture-Recital  was more than just a performance; it served as a deep dive into the intrinsic connection between music, the piano, and the unique interaction each pianist has with this remarkable instrument. Through this event, Mr Ralf Dewor, with the help of Hong Xiang, hoped to impart to attendees a greater appreciation for the intricate relationship between the music, a pianist and the piano itself, and the timeless beauty of the music they create together.

This Lecture-Recital was organised and presented by Bechstein Music World Singapore. Be sure to follow them on their Facebook and Instagram Pages for the latest updates on more concerts and other events for 2024!

A topic that often starts discussion among music teachers is whether singing should be a required component in music exams, particularly in aural or listening tests. Many teachers have noticed that their students often feel most anxious about this part of the exam. Interestingly, research in cognitive science, which studies how we think, learn, and organise information in our minds, suggests that using such tests might not be the most effective way to assess what some exam boards like ABRSM refer to as the “musical ear” or “audiation” – the ability to mentally hear and understand music.

What is Audiation?

The term “audiation,” coined by music psychologist Edwin Gordon in 1975, is essentially another way of describing what ABRSM refers to as the “musical ear.” It involves the process of mentally hearing and comprehending music, much like how we think in words.

ABRSM suggests that singing, both silently in one’s head and out loud, is one of the best ways to develop the “musical ear.” While this is undoubtedly beneficial, it raises the question of whether it is the only way to assess a student’s aural skills.

In contrast, exam boards like RSL in their Rockschool and RSL Classical exams do not require singing. Instead, they ask candidates to identify whether a note is higher or lower in the early grades or to use their instrument to play back a melody they heard, offering an alternative assessment method.

Is Singing an Effective Measure of Audiation?

A study conducted by Sean Hutchins and Isabelle Peretz in 2012 for the International Laboratory for Brain, Music, and Sound Research in Montréal, they designed a specially created pitch slider that subjects in the experiment used to match pitched tones that were played to them. Hutchins and Peretz  found that only 5% of participants could not accurately hear and match pitch. However, a larger percentage of participants, even those who accurately hear and match pitched tones during the tests using the slider, struggled to reproduce the pitches through singing.

These findings challenge the idea that singing proficiency directly predicts or demonstrates audiation skills. They highlight the need for alternative assessment methods that more accurately measure “musical hearing” without ONLY relying on vocal performance. These insights are crucial for improving music education and assessment practices to better support students’ musical development.

Returning to the topic, many experienced teachers observe that accurately singing pitch can be particularly challenging for various groups of people, including those affected by allergies, asthma, hay fever, individuals with chronic or acute respiratory issues, older adults whose voices may be getting more unstable, adolescent boys experiencing voice changes, individuals prone to situational anxiety, some individuals with disabilities or muscle-related issues, and people with neurological conditions that affect their vocal control.

Can anyone really say that these groups lack audiation skills just because they struggle with singing? Yet, this seems to be what examination boards that rely on singing for aural assessment are suggesting. Moreover, in many cases, marks awarded for this part of the exam can make the difference between a Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

RSL’s Rockschool and RSL Classical grades replace traditional tests with playing by ear, introduced gradually and progressively. This innovative approach has practical relevance to instrument players beyond the exam room and does not involve singing.

Conclusion

While singing can undoubtedly enhance musical ear development, it may not always be the most dependable or inclusive method for evaluating it. Boards like RSL that offer a more practical, flexible approach to aural testing provide a viable choice that better accommodates students who prefer not to sing or are unable to sing. RSL includes aural components tailored to the specific instruments and musical styles covered in the Rockschool and RSL Classical exams, allowing students to demonstrate their musical understanding without the need for vocal performance, much to the relief of learners and teachers alike!

Exciting News! Cristofori Music is thrilled to announce that we are now the exclusive authorized dealer of PETROF Pianos in Singapore!

Introducing PETROF Pianos, a prestigious addition to our lineup at the Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts – Bringing you the Sound of Europe! With PETROF, you can experience the exquisite sound of Europe’s leading piano brands, ensuring that only the best instruments grace our halls.

History

Petrof Pianos boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1864, when it was founded by Antonín Petrof in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic. What began as a modest workshop producing just a few pianos per year soon blossomed into a renowned piano manufacturer. Through unwavering dedication to quality craftsmanship and innovation, Petrof Pianos quickly earned acclaim for its exceptional instruments.

Over the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Petrof Pianos expanded its operations and reputation, emerging as one of Europe’s most respected piano makers. The company’s commitment to excellence was consistently recognized with awards and accolades at international exhibitions and competitions.

Despite navigating challenges during periods of political and economic upheaval in Europe, Petrof Pianos persevered, evolving its production techniques while maintaining a steadfast commitment to traditional craftsmanship. This ensured that each Petrof piano remained a testament to quality and artistry.

In the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, Petrof Pianos embraced technological advancements while preserving its heritage of handcrafted excellence. The company diversified its product range to encompass a variety of piano models, from grand pianos to uprights, catering to musicians and enthusiasts worldwide.

Today, Petrof Pianos stands as a symbol of Czech craftsmanship and musical tradition, cherished by pianists, educators, and collectors across the globe. With over 150 years of history, Petrof Pianos continues to uphold its legacy of crafting pianos of unparalleled quality, tone, and beauty.

Growing the Family

From the Petrof family, Cristofori welcomes the following lines of upright and grand pianos:

ANT. PETROF : Petrof’s most preeminent signature line and a tribute to the Petrof brand founder Antonín Petrof. A wealth of modern equipment combined with 160 years of Czech piano-making tradition. The 3 most majestic models of ANT. PETROF pianos, built with premium quality materials and meticulous hand-craftsmanship, have made their way to the homes and the world’s most prestigious concert halls.

PETROF : The largest piano maker in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest in the world. With the head office, R&D, and production plant firmly rooted in the company’s hometown of Hradec Králové, PETROF currently manufactures their grand piano models, ranging from the standard Bora, Breeze, and Storm to the top-of-the-line Pasat, Monsoon, and Mistral, along with a premier lineup of upright piano models.

Whatever model you choose from the PETROF upright models, they are primed to accompany you every day and in every step of your musical endeavours whether you are practising for exams or rehearsing for concerts.

RÖSLER :  Owned and designed by PETROF, RÖSLER piano has its origins in the Czech Republic dating back to 1878. Over the past 150 years, the company has enjoyed steadfast growth under the management of its founder Gustav Rösler and his family members whose expertise in piano and piano making has ensured their continued success and continuity in the European market until the brand was taken over by the prestigious piano maker PETROF.

Today, as a PETROF family brand, ROSLER pianos proudly uphold the rich and authentic European sound qualities, epitomizing the cherished essence of the Sound of Europe.

These masterpieces of piano craftsmanship will be available to try and purchase at Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts at the Grand Opening on 27th May 2024! Visit us at 7 Holland Village Way, #02-17/18 One Holland Village (Singapore 275748).

Stay tuned for exciting updates on PETROF Pianos by following Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts on Facebook and Instagram!

The much-anticipated post-pandemic return of “Cristofori’s Got Talent” ignited a wave of excitement, drawing in both loyal Cristoforians and eager members of the public alike! This year’s edition unfolded with an eclectic mix of performers, showcasing a spectrum of talents that spanned from soulful solo acts on piano, drum, violin, and guitar to dynamic group performances featuring bands, guitar ensembles, drum duos, electrifying drum ensembles, and captivating dance numbers. What truly set this year apart was the infusion of both Chinese and Western music and instruments, enriching the event with a tapestry of cultural diversity.

From April 10th to 14th, the RS Event Center Event Hall at Old Airport Road buzzed with anticipation as over 300 fabulous talents took to the stage for the Cristofori’s Got Talent Live Qualifying Round. Divided into four categories – Solo Children, Solo Teens, Solo Open, and Group Performance – participants left the audience spellbound with their exceptional skills and boundless creativity.

The performances unfolded as a dynamic tapestry of talent, with participants unleashing their prowess across a myriad of genres. From stirring renditions of iconic Eastern and Western pop and rock classics to enchanting melodies plucked from beloved film and Disney favorites, the stage pulsated with a kaleidoscope of musical expressions. Dance numbers, choreographed to the infectious beats of some of the greatest K-Pop hits, injected an extra dose of excitement into the auditions, leaving the audience cheering for more.

The Judges panel certainly had a tough job of selecting the best of the amazing talent that showed at the Cristofori’s Got Talent qualifying round. Participants meanwhile, supported each other with applause and kept high spirits as they awaited their turn to perform.

As the curtains descended on the qualifying auditions, the air was charged with anticipation for the impending announcement of the results. Keep your eyes on the Cristofori Music Facebook page for even more updates and other highlights from this unforgettable showcase of talent!

Congratulations to the Finalists!

Mark your calendars for the Grand Finals slated to unfold on May 25th, 2024, at the Rooftop Garden @ Junction 8 – Bishan. Join us there for what promises to be a Competition to remember, as we celebrate the culmination of this extraordinary journey of talent and creativity!