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The Sound of Europe: A Symphony of Timeless Piano Craftsmanship

In the world of pianos, there’s a distinct and timeless charm that resonates with those who appreciate the European piano sound. Renowned for their craftsmanship, precision, and rich tonal qualities, pianos from esteemed makers such as C. Bechstein, W. Hoffman, Seiler, and Petrof, along with those designed by European piano masters Zimmerman and Johannes Seiler, offer a musical journey unlike any other.

C. Bechstein: A Legacy of Excellence

At the forefront of European piano craftsmanship stands C. Bechstein, a name synonymous with precision and artistry. With a legacy dating back to the 19th century, C. Bechstein pianos are revered for their warm, sonorous tones and meticulous construction. Playing a C. Bechstein instrument is not just a musical experience; it’s an exploration of history and tradition.

W. Hoffman: Timeless Elegance

Founded in 1893, W. Hoffman pianos embody a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Crafted with precision in the heart of Europe, these pianos are celebrated for their exquisite touch and a tonal palette that ranges from delicate and expressive to bold and resonant. Each note tells a story of timeless elegance, making W. Hoffman a choice for those who seek sophistication in sound.

Seiler: German Mastery at Its Finest

Seiler pianos represent the epitome of German piano mastery. With a commitment to excellence dating back to 1849, Seiler pianos are known for their clear and nuanced tones. The craftsmanship, passed down through generations, ensures that each Seiler piano is a masterpiece, capturing the essence of European piano sound in its purest form.

Petrof: Coming Soon to Cristofori!

As Petrof prepares to join the ranks of world-class pianos available at Cristofori Music, the anticipation builds for a new chapter in European piano excellence. Petrof pianos, originating from the Czech Republic, are celebrated for their rich, singing tone and innovative design. Witness the fusion of tradition and modernity as Petrof makes its debut at Cristofori Music.

Zimmerman and Johannes Seiler: European Masters’ Signature Touch

Designed by European piano masters, Zimmerman, and Johannes Seiler pianos reflect a commitment to the art of piano making. Zimmerman instruments, designed by C. Bechstein boast a distinct warmth to their sound at a more affordable price.

Johannes Seiler pianos, part of the Seiler family of pianos, showcase a fusion of German precision and artistic expression. These pianos, born from the hands of masters, offer a unique sonic signature that elevates the playing experience of any player, from beginner to professional.

 

In a world filled with musical possibilities, the European piano sound stands as a testament to craftsmanship, heritage, and a commitment to sonic excellence. As these esteemed piano makers and European piano masters continue to shape the landscape of classical and contemporary music, there’s no doubt that the appreciation for the European piano sound will endure, creating harmonies that resonate through generations.

 

Find all these pianos at Bechstein Music World (7 Shenton Way #02-01, Singapore Conference Hall, S068810), and Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts (7 Holland Village Way, #02-17/18 One Holland Village, S275748).

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Step into the Spotlight at Cristofori’s Got Talent 2024 – The Grand Return of Singapore’s Premier Talent Search!

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!

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Confluence of Human and Nature: Yen Chun-Chieh’s Debut Piano Recital in Singapore

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)

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Elegance Unveiled: Kayserburg Music School Opens its Doors at SMU

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.

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Cristofori Bukit Batok Makes a New Home @ West Mall

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.

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Cristofori Says, “Hello, Holland Village!”

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.

One Holland Village – the latest addition to the landscape of this historic neighbourhood, and nome to the new Cristofori Academy of Fine Arts.

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

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Musicale 2023 – Music We Grew Up With, A Celebration of Cristofori Students’ Talent and Achievements!

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. 

Part of Your World

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!

Curtain call with all 194 Performers at the 2023 Musicale — a new record for Cristofori!

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!

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Cristofori Brings Joyful Christmas Melodies this Season!

Cristofori is bringing Joy and Music to Singapore this Holiday Season with the Joyful Xmas Melodies Ukulele Program!

Everyone had so much fun last weekend when the Joyful Xmas Melodies program kicked off at Hillion Mall, Buangkok Square, and Punggol Oasis as kids aged 5-12 years old got to be like Santa’s elves DIY-ing and painting their own ukuleles, and learned to play some beloved Christmas Songs with Santa, and sang and played along to “Feliz Navidad” and “Jingle Bells”.

At the end of the program, all of the participants went home with their brand new DIY ukuleles, and FREE MR Bean Vouchers!

Family fun at the Cristofori Joyful Christmas Melodies Ukulele Program

You can still catch the Joyful Christmas Melodies programs until 17th December! Simply approach any of our friendly Cristofori Staff at any outlet to enquire for the remaining sessions.  Program Fees are $50 per pax, with a special price of $30 just for Cristofori Students – Register NOW!

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Romance & Poetry – An Afternoon with See Ning Hui Celebrating Women Composers

Singapore-born, London-based pianist See Ning Hui gave a delightful recital at Bechstein Music World on 2nd December 2023 themed around poetry and romance through the eyes of some lesser-known woman composers. Ning Hui’s selection of pieces by Amy Beach, Kaija Saariaho, and Clara Schumann painted snapshots of love through oceans, storms, and rain. 

Even before completing her PhD studies at the Royal College of Music, See Ning Hui has been championing women composers’ works in her performances. As a researcher, Ning Hui examines issues of gender, value, and the musical canon. She is passionate about practical and meaningful strategies towards the integration of lesser-known composers into concert repertoire and education, which she skillfully exhibits in this recital with her carefully curated programme. 

To quote Straits’ Times classical music reviewer Dr Chang Tou Liang, “See’s performance revealed a keen insight and intellectual nous that is all too rare among artists. It was lovely to hear and see this young artist again, one who has matured over the years, and whose serious yet intensely musical approach to a life of performance and education remains refreshing and inspiring.”

 

 

About the Artiste

Ning Hui See is an award-winning Singapore-born pianist recognized for her “refined touch, voluminous sound, and an all-rounded musical personality” (The Straits Times). She is a C H Scholar working with Prof Rosie Perkins, Prof Natasha Loges, and Danny Driver at the Royal College of Music London. She is also a Graduate Teaching Assistant for historical studies.

A Kris Foundation Artist, she has given recitals at the Pallant House Gallery, The Venue (Leeds College of Music), the Wells Cathedral School, and the Yehudi Menuhin School. She has performed in France, Italy, Brussels, Sweden, Aspen (Colorado), and the Esplanade Recital Studio in Singapore, and has featured on BBC Four, BBC Radio 3 and Symphony 92.4FM.

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Denis Matsuev Dazzles at the Capitol Theatre

Russian pianist Denis Matsuev gave a stellar Singapore concert on the 21st of November 2023 playing numerous classical favorites, and contemporary jazz pieces in the second half with award-winning musicians, double bassist Andrei Ivanov and jazz drummer Alexander Singer.

Matsuev truly showcased his prowess on the C. Bechstein D282 Concert Grand Piano, breezing through most masterfully the works of Handel, Beethoven, Chopin, and a selection of Rachmaninoff’s works, and more.

For a recap of the evening’s “Classics and Jazz” programme, check out our previous article! JAZZ TRIO PERFORMANCE – A Whirlwind of Improvisational Genius!

Drummer Alexander Singer, double-bassist Andrei Ivanov with Denis Matsuev performed a slew of improvisational takes on well-loved pieces at the Capitol Theatre, Singapore.

  A very special treat came in the second half of Matsuev’s programme, where he invited double bassist Andrei Ivanov and drummer Alexander Singer to the stage to perform a mix of contemporary compositions including his own “Ballade” and Ivanov’s “Fiesta” interspersed among some refreshing improvisational takes on Gershwin’s well-loved “Rhapsody in Blue”, and one we particularly enjoyed, Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King” reimagined to a point we may have forgotten, caught up in the sublime evolution and transformation engineered by Matsuev, Ivanov, and Singer, what piece it was, until Matsuev would playfully remind us of Grieg’s genius by sneaking in the main motif into the mix. This concert was nothing short of exhilarating!  

For more concert news, do follow Bechstein Music World on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

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