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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!

Kayserburg Music School has officially opened its doors with a Grand Opening Ceremony on 20th April 2024.

The festivities commenced at 10:30 am with captivating performances on guitar, piano, and violin, setting a vibrant tone for the day ahead. The event kicked off in style with a traditional Lion Dance and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, graced by esteemed guests including Mr. Leng Tshua (蔡能), Director for International Marketing at Guangzhou Pearl River Piano Group, Kayserburg Artist & United Nations messenger for Sustainable Development Goals, and Goodwill Ambassador Paul Ye (叶子宸), and our very own Directors and Managers from Cristofori Music.

An exciting highlight of the day was the launch of the Fifth Amason Award Pop Piano International Competition 2024, with Cristofori Music announced as the official organizer. Additionally,Tan Jing Yang, a finalist of the Pearl River International Piano Competition 2022, was honored with a Diamond Award for his outstanding performance at the previous Amason Award International Piano Competition in 2022. 

Details for the 2024 Competition:

Singapore Division Qualifying Round: September 6-8, 2024

Regional Finals: October 5-6, 2024

International Grand Finals: November 2024 

Location: Guangzhou, China

Registration deadline: August 18, 2024

Throughout the celebration, guests were treated to captivating musical performances showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Kayserburg and Pearl River instruments, including the KA212 Grand Piano and the HA8000-GCB Acoustic Guitar.

The audience in attendance got a special treat as Kayserburg Artist & United Nations messenger for Sustainable Development Goals, and Goodwill Ambassador Paul Ye performed at the Kayserburg Music School Grand Opening on 20th April 2022 ahead of his Singapore Debut.

The festivities continued, with Direct Factory Sales at the Kayserburg Music School (KMS) Roadshow @ SMU at level B1 of the Li Ka Shing Library Building that showcased 30 brand new piano models available at exclusive discounted prices until 26th APRIL 2024. 

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.

We got an exclusive interview featuring Mr. Leng Tshua, the Overseas Marketing Director of Guangzhou Pearl River Piano Group, and Kayserburg Artist Mr. Paul Ye who would make his Singapore Debut on 22nd April 2024. Stay tuned to catch those interviews!

We wish continued success to Guangzhou Pearl River Piano Group and Kayserburg Music School!

Embark on a captivating musical journey with renowned pianist Ilya Rashkovskiy as he presents a diverse and enchanting program in Singapore! The recital begins with Mozart’s A minor sonata, showcasing the composer’s signature elegance and melodic mastery. Following this, Rachmaninoff’s Corelli Variations will mesmerise with rich romantic textures, weaving a tapestry of emotion around the familiar ‘La Folía’ theme.

The second half of the evening will be dedicated to Chopin’s 24 Preludes, a collection of miniature gems exploring a range of sentiments. Rashkovskiy’s performance promises to be a tour de force, demanding both technical brilliance and profound musical expression.

Event Details:
Date: 5th July 2024, 8pm
Venue: Victoria Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place #01-02, Singapore 179558

Ticket Sales Open from 1st May 2024 on Ticketmaster

About the artist: 

Russian pianist Ilya Rashkovskiy displayed exceptional musical talent from a young age, debuting at eight years old with the Irkutsk Chamber Music Orchestra. Throughout his remarkable career, Rashkovskiy has earned many accolades from prestigious international competitions, like the Long-J. Thibaud Competition and Hamamatsu International Piano Competition.

From Novosibirsk to Hannover and Paris, Rashkovskiy pursued his musical education, studying under esteemed mentors like Mary Lebenzon. His piano artistry continues to captivate audiences at iconic concert stages worldwide, where he gives solo recitals or collaborates with renowned orchestras, including the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France and the Mariinsky Orchestra.

Beyond his solo career, Rashkovskiy has been a highly sought-after chamber musician, sharing the stage with artists like Gary Hoffman and Bomsori Kim. Since 2015, he has been committed to imparting his knowledge and musical passion as a guest professor at Sungshin Women’s University in Seoul.

This event is presented by Bechstein Music World. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram Pages for the latest updates on more concerts for 2024.

Are you ready to embark on a musical journey or take your skills to the next level? Look no further than Cristofori Music School, where we’re thrilled to introduce a range of irresistible offers and promotions for both new and existing students. Whether you’re dreaming of mastering the piano, guitar, drums, or violin, now is the perfect time to dive in and make music with us!

Special Offers for NEW Students

New Piano Student Enrolment: Free Piano Rental

Calling all aspiring pianists! From 29th March to 30th April 2024, we’re offering FREE piano rental to the first 100 new piano students who register with us. Here’s what you can expect:

Choose from our premium selection of pianos from Cristofori and Pearl River brands, and enjoy free piano rental for up to 1 year, with accessories included. Benefit from a 12-month piano guarantee for added peace of mind. Terms and conditions apply.

Special Enrollment Days: Free $100 Dairy Farm Voucher

Mark your calendars for 29th March and 10th April 2024 – our special enrollment days! New students who sign up for regular music lessons at any Cristofori School.

New students signing up for regular lessons at the Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) @ Holland Village, and Kayserburg Music School on these dates will receive a complimentary $100 *Dairy Farm voucher when they enrol anytime between 29th March to 30th April 2024. 

Eligible Courses include: Piano, Violin, Guitar, Drum, and I Can Play. Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your musical journey while enjoying fantastic savings!

*Dairy Farm Gift Vouchers can be used at Giant, Cold Storage, Market Place, 7-Eleven and Guardian

Exclusive Offers for Existing Cristofori Students 

Free $200 TANGS Gift Card

For our loyal Cristofori Music School students, we’re offering a fabulous incentive! Pay 1-year 2024 school fees upfront and receive a complimentary $200 TANGS gift card. It’s an offer you won’t want to miss. Terms and conditions apply.

Buy Brand New Ritmuller RS122 Piano: Free 3 Months School Fees

Ready to invest in your musical future? Purchase a Ritmuller RS122 Upright Piano and enjoy three months of FREE school fees! This exclusive offer is available to current Cristofori Music School piano students, as we aim to providing unparalleled value and support as you pursue your passion for music.

Don’t let these incredible offers pass you by – seize the opportunity to make music with Cristofori Music School today! For more information and to enroll, visit us at any Cristofori Music School outlet, or contact our friendly team. Let’s make beautiful music together!

Welcome to the vibrant new home of Cristofori at Anchorvale Community Club! We are thrilled to announce the soft opening of our latest outlet on 29th March 2024, marking a new chapter in our musical journey.

The festivities kicked off with an exciting housewarming celebration, inviting the community to explore our new space and join in the fun. Guests were treated to an open house experience, complete with free-flow popcorn and cotton candy, engaging musical games, captivating performances, and much more.

Situated against the picturesque backdrop of Sengkang Riverside Park, our new outlet offers breathtaking views and easy accessibility. With the school located on the ground level, cyclists can pedal their way to our doorstep, enjoying a scenic ride along the way (but remember to cycle responsibly!).

At Cristofori, we believe in making music education accessible to all. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, our courses cater to all ages and skill levels. From piano and violin to ukulele, guitar, and drums, there’s something for everyone. For our youngest learners aged 3.5 to 5 years old, our I Can Play program provides the perfect introduction to the world of music.

Join us at Anchorvale Community Club and embark on a musical journey like never before. We can’t wait to make music with you!