Chinese concert pianist and Kayserburg Artist, Paul Ye, hailed for his formidable technical mastery and profound musical sensitivity stands among the most compelling artists of this generation. 

Born into a musical lineage, Ye has been hailed by critics for his poetic pianism, earning him the title “Poet of Piano.” His debut album “The Chopin Prodigy”, released in 2004, has propelled Ye’s 15 other albums and has surpassed more than 60 millions streams worldwide.

Mark your calendars, because this April, Paul Ye is set to dazzle at his Singapore Debut Recital to be held at the Victoria Concert Hall!

Event Details: Paul Ye Piano Recital

Date: 22 April 2024, Monday 8:00p.m.

Venue: Victoria Concert Hall

Tickets $18 / $38 / $58

Get your tickets here!

Paul Ye’s piano recital navigates between the classical vigour of Beethoven and Chopin’s pieces, and the evocative sounds of twentieth-century Chinese piano masterpieces in a harmonious dialogue between East and West, demonstrating the universal language of music.

From the captivating realm of Beethoven’s ‘Appassionata,’ a masterpiece hailed as one of his greatest and most technically challenging piano sonatas, to the timeless works of Chopin, where Paul Ye will showcase his versatility, setting the stage for an exploration of Chopin’s varied and profound musical expressions.

In this program, Paul Ye presents distinguished Chinese compositions such as “Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix,” “Ode to the Yellow River,” and “My Motherland,” where the resonance of traditional melodies weaves through the notes. This recital will not only entertain, but also serve as a bridge between two rich musical traditions, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of all who embark on this cultural odyssey. 

Programme:

L.V. BEETHOVEN:
Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 “Appassionata”

王建中 WANG JIANZHONG :
Birds paying homage to the Phoenix 《百鸟朝凤》

冼星海 XIAN XINGHAI:
Ode to The Yellow River《黄河颂 》

刘炽 LIU CHI:
My Motherland  《我的祖国》

CHOPIN:
Waltz No. 1 in E-Flat, Op. 18
Waltz in A-Flat, Op. 34, No. 1
Barcarolle in F Sharp, Op. 60
Scherzo No.2 In B Flat Minor, Op.31
Scherzo No.3 In C Sharp Minor, Op.39
Andante Spianato Et Grande Polonaise Brillante,Op.22

(Programme subject to change at the artist’s discretion)

Total Program Duration: Approx. 95 minutes
Excluding 15 minutes intermission.

This recital is part of the Kayserburg Singapore Concert Series 2024.

About the Artist:

Paul Ye  (叶子宸)

Winner of 2008 Ettlingen International Piano Competition, Paul Ye became the second Chinese to take these honours since Lang Lang in 1994.  Ye entered the Robert Schumann Hochschule Düsseldorf at just 12 years old and was also the youngest Chinese to perform at the Golden Hall of Musikverein in Vienna. Shortly thereafter, Ye embarked on a remarkable journey, performing with major orchestras and appearing at many leading concert halls in nearly 100 concerts across Germany, Italy, France, Poland, and other countries in Europe. 

Besides his pianistic accomplishments, Ye has contributed his efforts in the fields of conservation, environments and social change. He is a United Nations messenger for Sustainable Development Goals and was also appointed as the Goodwill Ambassador for Yongtai prefecture, Fuzhou China（永泰县,  福州市) in 2023.

Ye performed for 31st Summer Universiade in Chengdu and the 19th Asian Games held at Hangzhou with global live coverage by CCTV (China Central TV Station). 

About Kayserburg Music School:

Since becoming the World’s No. 1 piano maker in 2003, the Pearl River-Kayserburg Piano Group has relentlessly embraced new technology and innovation leading the way in bringing classical music into the 21st century. The Pearl River-Kayserburg Gallery in Singapore is a home for musicians from all over the world, with the gallery serving as a platform, allowing their music to resonate through concerts and performances, enriching the cultural tapestry of Singapore. 

Kayserburg Music School serves as the bridge connecting China and Singapore, championing music education at the forefront of technology. Through live performances, the school strives to cultivate a young audience, fostering a passion for music and innovation.

Visit Kayserburg Music School at 70 Stamford Rd, #B1-46 SMU Li Ka Shing Library Building, Singapore 178901, or contact 6951 0632, or WhatsApp 8766 0632

Discover the key to transforming your Teaching –  join Prof. Laurens Patzlaff, esteemed lecturer at Lübeck University of Music (Germany), and International Concert Pianist & Educator for a practical session on improvisation in classical music!

The ability to improvise has become a high priority in classical music education in recent years. Historically a prominent art in the 18th and 19th century era of music, improvisation was highly valued by the likes of Bach, Mozart, Czerny, Liszt and Chopin, so much so that they integrated improvisational elements in their performances, and compositions where sections of works were often left open for the performer to embellish or improvise, showcasing their creativity and virtuosity.

During this period, musicians were expected to be adept at improvisation, and it was considered a fundamental part of their training and performance practice. Musicians of this era were often expected to not only interpret and perform written compositions but also to spontaneously create music during live performances. Improvisation was a skill closely tied to their ability to entertain and captivate audiences.

Improvisation was not limited to a specific genre either; it was valued across various musical forms, including solo performances, chamber music, and orchestral settings. Musicians were expected to navigate different styles and contexts with ease.

Improvisation was a significant component of musical education during th18th & 19th Centuries. Musicians were trained not only to interpret existing compositions but also to create their own music spontaneously. This skill was considered integral to a well-rounded and versatile musical education, and provided musicians with a means of expressing their individuality and creativity. It allowed them to add personal touches to their performances, contributing to the unique character of each rendition.

Join us in this integrated program, where master, practitioner and pioneer of improvisation at the University of Lübeck will guide learners to explore the creative skill of improvisation, and provide insights into extend your musical vocabulary and increase your stylistic interpretation.

Event Details:
Date: 18th March 2024, 10am-4pm
Venue: Bechstein Music World, 7 Shenton Way #02-01 Singapore Conference Hall (S068810)

Register Here!

About the Speaker

Professor Laurens Patzlaff, acclaimed as the “Master of the art of improvisation,” embarked on a remarkable musical journey shaped by his debut album “Reflections on Debussy” in 2012. Born near Stuttgart in 1981, he demonstrated his musical prowess early on, delving into piano improvisation alongside classical repertoire and jazz influences. With a holistic view of music, inspired by figures like Leonard Bernstein, Patzlaff’s versatility shines through his diverse studies, chamber music collaborations, and performances at prestigious venues globally.

His musical journey extends beyond solo performances; Patzlaff has graced international festivals and collaborated with esteemed orchestras. A multi-award winning pianist, he imparts his expertise through masterclasses at numerous music academies worldwide. His dedication to piano improvisation is highlighted in his role as Germany’s first professor for piano and improvisation playing at the Lübeck University of Music since 2013.

Patzlaff’s approach to teaching embraces the 19th-century ideal of the universal pianist, combining improvisation, composition, and score-playing. His enduring impact on the world of music echoes through his captivating performances, educational initiatives, and the revival of the art of improvisation.

The Dragon holds a significant place as an auspicious and extraordinary creature, unparalleled in talent and excellence. It symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck, and success. 

Ring in good luck and prosperity in the Year of the Dragon with triple $88 Cash Angbao + 6x Big Sweep when you buy a brand new piano at our Piano Megastore, and triple $88 Angbao at select Cristofori Outlets this Chinese New Year 2024!

The prosperity continues, get 1 Cash Angbao when you purchase your new piano from the above outlets until 24th February 2024, and even more great value offers. Click here to find out more.

For further enquiries, you may approach any of our friendly staff at your nearest CRISTOFORI outlets, or

WHATSAPP US! 

Prosperity Sale Angbao will also be available on the following dates at selected Cristofori Outlets!

12th February 2024:
Ang Mo Kio (53 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Ang Mo Kio Hub #03-21. Singapore 569933)

13th February 2024:
Hillion Mall (17 Petir Rd, #02-22/23/04 Hillion mall, Singapore 678278)

Rockschool, RSL London@Funan (107 North Bridge Rd, #04-10 Funan, Singapore 179105)

Simei (3 Simei St 6 #06-01 Eastpoint Mall Singapore 528833)

Our Tampines Hub (1 Tampines Walk, #02-88, Singapore 528523)

CAFA (7 Holland Village Way, #02-17 18 One, Singapore 275748)

14th February 2024:
West Mall (1 Bukit Batok Central #04-13/14. Singapore 658713)

Bedok Djitsun Mall (445 Bedok North Street 1 #02-03, Singapore 469661)

Punggol Plaza (Blk 168 Punggol Field #04-09, Singapore 820168)

Alexandra Retail Centre (460 Alexandra Road #03-01, Singapore 119963)

15th February 2024: at our Cristofori Piano Megastore, Block 3014 Bedok Industrial Park E, #02-2150 (S489980)

Wishing everyone a prosperous Chinese New Year!

Get ready for the most exhilarating showcase of talent as we bring back the biggest Talent Competition in town! 

Cristofori’s Got Talent has been a long-standing tradition at Cristofori Music School, giving our students even more platforms to explore their talents and share their skills. In this event, students get to show off not just their musical skills, but their creativity, artistry and showmanship too!

This year’s competition will feature  a total of 4 Categories to Thrill and Inspire:

Solo Category:

Children (Ages 12 and below) – Entry Fee: $60 (Cristofori Students) | $80 (Public)
Teenagers (Ages 13-18) – Entry Fee: $70 (Cristofori Students) | $90 (Public)
Open Category (No Age Limit) – Entry Fee: $80 (Cristofori Students) | $100 (Public)

Group Category
Gather your crew of 2-8 performers (no age limit) – Entry Fee: $140 (Cristofori Students) | $180 (Public)

A Total of $10,000 in Cash Prizes to be won!

Unleash your creativity in any talent, at any age, any instrument, any style – Music, Dance, Acting, and beyond! But remember, keep it fabulous and steer clear of anything inappropriate, dangerous, copyrighted, discriminatory, or offensive.

Lock in Your Spot – Sign up by March 31, 2024! 📅

The Stage Beckons! Take note of the Key Competition Dates:

🎙️ Live Qualifying Round: April 10, 13, 14, 20, 21, 2024
Venue: RS Event Center Event Hall, Blk 51 Old Airport Road #02-56, Singapore 390051

🎥 Video Submission Deadline for Qualifying Round: April 25, 2024

🌟 Announcement of Finalists (via Email): May 2, 2024

🏆 Grand Finals @ Bishan Junction 8 – Rooftop Garden: May 25-26, 2024

🎉 Award Presentation Ceremony @ Bishan Junction 8, Rooftop Garden: May 26, 2024

Claim Your Spotlight – Register Now! Visit www.cristofori.asia or drop by any CRISTOFORI Music School outlet to register.

For inquiries, call +65 8766 0611 or email us at 2024cgt.cms@gmail.com.

Seize the Moment, Share Your Talent, and Be the Star You Are!

Renowned Taiwanese pianist Yen Chun-Chieh is set to enchant Singaporean audiences with his upcoming piano recital, promising an evening filled with virtuosity, emotion, and musical mastery.

Yen Chun-Chieh, celebrated globally for his mesmerizing performances and significant contributions to the world of classical music, will take center stage in Singapore for a memorable piano recital. With a repertoire that spans both classical and contemporary genres, Chun-Chieh’s artistry promises to captivate audiences of all tastes.

Chun-Chieh, inspired by the profound connection between nature and human emotions, will explore this theme through pieces such as Chopin’s Barcarolle and Ravel’s Jeux d’eau. The recital promises to be a musical journey that mirrors the beauty and depth found in the natural world.

The program will also showcase Chopin’s Op.25 Etudes, where Chun-Chieh will display his virtuosic qualities and bring out the emotional richness embedded in each composition. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the pianist navigate the intricate nuances of Chopin’s masterful piano writing.

Leading the audience into the whimsical world of Schumann’s Carnaval, Chun-Chieh will bring to life a diverse cast of characters through contrasting musical styles. Schumann’s insertion of musical cryptograms within each section adds an intriguing layer, making it a delightful challenge for listeners to decipher his masked ball.

Beyond his captivating performances, Yen Chun-Chieh is also a dedicated educator, currently serving as a full-time Associate Professor at Taiwan Normal University. His commitment to inspiring future generations of musicians is evident in both his performances and his role as a faculty member at international music festivals.

Whether you’re a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of piano recitals, Yen Chun-Chieh’s upcoming performance in Singapore promises an evening of musical brilliance and emotional resonance. Book your tickets now for a chance to experience the magic of this internationally acclaimed pianist.

Mark your calendars and join us for a night of enchanting melodies, where Yen Chun-Chieh’s piano keys will weave a musical tapestry that transcends time and space.

Date: Saturday, 9th March 2024
Venue: Victoria Concert Hall, Singapore

Tickets are on sale now! Buy your Tickets now: https://ticketmaster.sg/activity/detail/24sg_chunchiehyen 

(Price : $78, $58, $38 and $18)

Singapore’s vibrant arts and cultural scene has a stunning new addition with the soft opening of the Kayserburg Pearl River Gallery at SMU. Nestled in the heart of the city, this gallery is poised to become a sanctuary for music enthusiasts, art lovers, and those seeking an immersive experience in the world of pianos and other fine instruments.

Held between 27th October to 24th November 2023, the soft opening of the Kayserburg Pearl River Gallery at SMU was nothing short of a celebration of elegance and craftsmanship. The gallery showcases a curated collection of exquisitely crafted pianos, including the renowned Kayserburg and Pearl River brands. Each instrument is a testament to the precision and artistry that defines the world of piano making.

The strategic location of the gallery at Singapore Management University (SMU) adds a unique dimension to the musical landscape of the city. Surrounded by the energy of the university campus, the gallery provides a dynamic space for students, faculty, and the public to engage with the beauty of pianos and the art of music.

The soft opening featured not only an impressive display of pianos but also live performances by accomplished young musicians. and a few of the Grand Finalists of the 2023 Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition also graced the event. These performances highlighted the exceptional sound quality and versatility of the Kayserburg Grand Piano.

In line with its commitment to promoting musical education, the Kayserburg Music School @ Kayserburg Pearl River Gallery currently offers courses in Violin, and soon in 2024 will be offering courses in Piano too. 

As the Kayserburg Pearl River Gallery at SMU opens its doors to the public, it brings with it a dedication to elegance, innovation, and a renewed appreciation for the art of piano craftsmanship. The gallery’s soft opening was a prelude to what promises to be a symphony of cultural experiences, as it establishes itself as a prominent player in Singapore’s musical landscape. Here’s to the continued resonance of art and music at the Kayserburg Pearl River Gallery at SMU.

Change is the only constant, and for the music enthusiasts in Bukit Batok, change brings a new melody to their lives. Cristofori Music School, a trusted name in musical education, has made a new home, promising a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity for aspiring musicians in the community.

On November 4th 2023, Cristofori-Bukit Batok celebrated the move to the new premises at West Mall with a big Open House Celebration! 

This transition from Block 132 Bukit Batok West Ave 6 to West Mall in the heart of Bukit Batok Central marks a significant milestone for Cristofori Music School. To celebrate this exciting move, a warm Open House event was organized, attended by both loyal patrons and curious newcomers. The Open House featured performances by our dear students and teachers, along with lots of great deals on Pianos and other musical instruments.

Cristofori’s new home at West Mall offers a welcoming and inspiring environment for students of all ages. The spacious classrooms, adorned with the latest in acoustic design, provide the perfect backdrop for musical exploration. The school’s commitment to creating a nurturing space for learning remains unwavering, ensuring that students can continue their musical journeys with passion and dedication.

As Cristofori Music School makes our new home at West Mall, we bring with it a promise of continued musical excellence and a commitment to nurturing the talents of the next generation of musicians. The move is not just about changing locations; it’s about creating a musical haven where the community can come together, learn, and celebrate the transformative power of music. Here’s to the next chapter of musical exploration and discovery at Cristofori Music School, West Mall.

Say “Hello!” to the newest Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts at Holland Village – Bringing the Sound of Europe to all our customers!

Historically an expatriate hub, Holland Village was developed in the 1930s as a military village with local businesses mainly catered to the needs of British soldiers and their families based in Pasir Panjang and Alexandra. Its proximity to Tanglin, a residential area associated with the European community, also contributed to the early development of Holland Village as an expatriate enclave.

Gradually, the local residential population expanded, particularly after the completion of the new Buona Vista public housing estate in 1972. Businesses catering to the local residents grew as well cushioning the effects of the withdrawal of the British military from Singapore in the early 1970s. Today, Holland Village is a haven for foodies, and serves and attracts a mixed crowd of local teenagers, families, yuppies, and expatriates, which contributed to the Village’s cosmopolitan atmosphere.

In 2014, redevelopment for rejuvenation and extension of Holland Village through a new mixed-use project with retail, commercial and residential elements, as well as public spaces and pedestrian walkways was proposed, resulting in the newly opened One Holland Village. The perfect new home for Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA)!

The showroom will boast a selection of the finest European instruments with pianos by Seiler (Germany), C. Bechstein (Germany), W. Hoffman (Czech Republic), guitars by Alhambra (Spain), Raimundo, and more!

The Studios will also be equipped with the same top quality instruments for the most immersive experience.

Courses in Piano, Violin, and Guitar will be offered too, so keep your eyes open for the CAFA Grand Opening!

Source: National Library Board

Cristofori’s annual grand students’ concert and star student recognition awards, Musicale 2023 wrapped up on 8th December at the National Drama Centre with colorful, touching numbers performed by our very own students and teachers, featuring songs from our childhoods.

This year’s concert also broke records for our school, having the largest number of performers to date in the concert program with performers numbering close to 200! With the largest number of big ensembles presenting, Musicale 2023 will certainly be a memorable one!

The concert opened with a highly energetic Jay Chou extravaganza by a percussion ensemble playing to one of his greatest hits “霍元甲 Fearless” to heighten the mood with a heart-pumping beat. A medley of familiar tunes from nursery rhymes to anime themes and K-pop tracks, and radio hits followed in “Mixed Musical Anecdotes”, and was then succeeded by a rendition of Maroon 5’s “Memories” by violin ensemble.

With Disney’s surge of revival films, “The Little Mermaid” has now been reintroduced to a new generation and was reinterpreted in epic fashion with a suspenseful introduction leading into the familiar strains of the well-loved “Part of Your World” played by band, strings and flute. 

The evergreen melody of Richard Clayderman’s 1977 instrumental piece “Ballade Pour Adeline” invoked feelings of nostalgia, interpreted soulfully by the guitar ensemble. A piano duet then came on stage to play “Disney Princess Medley”, bringing many of us back into our childhood years. The Star Students Awards then followed as we took a break from the performances to honor this year’s Star Student Awardees.

The performances resumed with Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” arranged for very unique instrumentation with handbells, otomatone, melodica, piano, and band, giving a whimsical holiday twist to this composition. An acoustic rendition of a medley of Mandopop hits from Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysian singers was the next programme that surely captured the hearts of the audience followed by an instrumental cover of Lady Gaga’s chart-topping “Bad Romance”.

Disney is certainly a big part of our collective childhoods as evidenced with a spectacular solo piano rendition of “Prince Ali” from “Aladdin”, followedand closing out the program was a choir presentation of the songs “Homeward Bound”, and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”.

The performers’ efforts definitely paid off, giving their best to a SOLD OUT house! Despite the challenges of arranging group rehearsals, the support of teachers, staff and family members made everything possible.

The evening was also a chance for us to acknowledge our hard-working students at the Star Student Awards, recognising the role models among our students with their work ethic and support of Cristofori activities and events.  (any poster/artwork for all star students?) Congratulations to all 28 Cristofori Star Students for 2023! Keep up the good work!

Full List of Performers, Star Student Awardees and Acknowledgements can be found in the Musicale Concert Programme!

The Musicale 2023: Music We Grew Up With was an excellent and enjoyable show for the whole family. Congratulations to all the performers, and we look forward to seeing everyone again at next year’s Musicale!