Foreword:
Behind the persona of every artist lies a human being, just like you and I. The Human Diaries series thus explores the multifaceted lives of our musicians, which gained popularity during Season 1 last year. Expect the unexpected in Season 2 as we step into the homes and favourite places of our musicians, conductors, and Composer-in-Residence, discovering stories untold.
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Synopsis:
Similar to cycling, learning music is like embarking on a journey of unlimited possibilities, where you unveil many beautiful sights along the way. Zhongruan musician Foong Chui San share about her takes on life, in this second last episode of Human Diaries!
Text: Sean Goh & Lim Ka Min
Photo: Singapore Chinese Orchestra
25 years in SCO
Chui San joined the Chinese Orchestra since her primary school days. Back in those days, the younger siblings are often expected to follow the elder siblings' footsteps to learn new skills. Since her elder brother joined Chinese orchestra, Chui San also followed her brother’s footsteps.
(Screenshot from Human Diaries video)
Her interest in Chinese orchestra developed shortly after joining. Hence, she went on to join the People’s Association Youth Chinese Orchestra.
That was where she met her teacher, Mdm Koh Kim Wah, a Ruan musician at the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. Mdm Koh encouraged her to join the auditions when SCO was looking for new musicians. Fortunately, she was accepted into the orchestra, and she celebrates her 25th year in SCO.
(Screenshot from Human Diaries video)
The orchestra is like a big family to her after spending so long here, and she look forward to spending even more time together.
Why Ruan?
It was the mellow tunes of the Ruan that Chui San adored; to her, they sounded like humans conversing - they allowed her to express her hidden feelings. Also, it serves as a bridge between instruments of high and low pitch in the orchestra.
(Screenshot from Human Diaries video)
Her Philosophy in Life
“Be curious, challenge yourself, give it a try.” No matter where Chui San is, she always keeps this in mind.
Chui San picked up cycling recently, and she noticed that it is similar to playing music.
She applied her life motto here, to keep trying and face your challenges no matter how unfamiliar the subject it is to you.
Naturally, the technical skills will be a challenge for you in the process, and it is up to you to react.
It is only after the challenge, you will realise how satisfying the process and outcome is. When you look back, you can see how beautiful the scenery is.
(Screenshot from Human Diaries video)
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If you haven't caught Foong Chui San's Human Diaries episode, click here.
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Thank you for following through the article thus far. Here, we share some bonus behind-the-scenes moment:
Enjoying the nature
