Singapore, 30 June, 2025 — The Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) presents “Yellow River Cantata: In Celebration of Yangzheng Primary School’s 120 Years” concert on 31 August 2025, Sunday, 7:30PM at the Esplanade Concert Hall. This commemorative concert marks a meaningful milestone in Yangzheng Primary School’s history, where it features not only the monumental Yellow River Cantata 《黄河大合唱》by renowned composer Xian Xinghai （冼星海）, but also premieres a newly commissioned work The Yangzheng Chronicles 《养正纪事》by Singaporean composer and Cultural Medallion recipient Law Wai Lun. 

Under the baton of SCO’s Principal Conductor Quek Ling Kiong, the performance features the 150-member chorus from Vocal Associates Festival Choruses led by Chorus Mistress Khor Ai Ming, soprano He Miya, baritone Seow Chee Chuan,and narrator Johnny Ng, bringing to life the music and the spirit of resilience and tenacity that defines both school and the composer. 

The strings of fate – Xian Xinghai and Yangzheng 

The recurring performances of Yellow River Cantata by SCO hold special significance, deeply rooted in the little-known but powerful connection between composer Xian Xinghai and Yangzheng Primary School. In the 1920s, Xian Xing Hai relocated from Macau to Singapore with his mother and enrolled in Yangzheng Primary School, where he was mentored by music teacher Ou Jianfu—marking the beginning of his artistic journey and celebrated achievements. 

This special connection has since blossomed into a musical tradition: SCO has been invited to perform Yellow River Cantata for Yangzheng Primary School every decade of school anniversary — first in 2005, again in 2015, and now in 2025, continuing a meaningful artistic collaboration shaped by cultural remembrance and heritage. This concert is proudly supported by the Yangzheng Foundation, whose generous sponsorship reflects their commitment to preserve cultural heritage and honour the school’s legacy. 

Mr Ng Siew Quan, SCO Board Chairman, Chairman of Yangzheng Primary School Advisory Committee and President of Yangzheng Alumni Association shared, “As an alumnus of Yangzheng Primary, this concert resonates with me on a personal level. It is especially meaningful to me, as I serve the school advisory committee, Yangzheng Alumni (Yeung Ching) and the SCO Board. Over the years, I have witnessed how these two institutions—each steeped in rich traditions—intersect through a shared belief in nurturing culture and serving the community. Since 2005, SCO’s decennial performances of the Yellow River Cantata with Yangzheng Primary School are not just anniversary tributes, but symbols of cultural continuity.” 

A Musical Tribute to History: The Yangzheng Chronicles (World Premiere)

To mark this landmark anniversary, SCO has commissioned a brand-new symphonic suite composed by Law Wai Lun, titled The Yangzheng Chronicles, inspired by the historical reflections of author He Naiqiang. The work unfolds in three movements, capturing key chapters of the school’s evolution: 

1. Chwee Lan Hillock – A tribute to Yangzheng Primary’s early days, marked by hardship and determination. The music blends melodies from three generations of the school anthem, weaving strength and reflection into the score 

2. The Octagonal Pavilion– A gentle and evocative homage to the iconic structure where a young Xian Xinghai once discovered music.  

3. Light of Yangzheng – A celebratory finale that integrates various school songs to symbolise continuity, renewal, and hope across generations. 

Revisiting a Monumental Masterpiece: Yellow River Cantata

First composed in 1939 during the height of the Sino-Japanese War, Yellow River Cantata remains a defining work in Chinese music. Based on the poem Yellow River Cantata by Guang Weiran, after Xian Xinghai witnessed the formidable might of the Yellow River and the bravery of its boatmen, he went to complete the cantata in just six days. 

The whole work consists of an overture and 8 movements, namely: The Song of the Yellow River Boatmen, Ode to the Yellow River, Yellow River – Water from the Sky, Ballad of the Yellow River, Dialogue at the River Bank, The Wrath of the Yellow River, Defending the Yellow River, and Roar Yellow River. With its sweeping scope, the piece journeys from sorrow to strength, using powerful story telling through poetry, narration, choral and orchestral music to awaken feelings of pride for homeland  and resilience. 

SCO will present this powerful work through a full Chinese orchestral arrangement, offering a fresh sonic interpretation while honouring the weight and significance of the original masterpiece. The performance, enhanced by a 150-strong chorus, narration, and solo vocals, promises to be a stirring and deeply emotional experience.