Band/Flying rocks

Hong Kong 2011 - Day 0

2011-02-27T11:00:00.000+08:00

260211 2107 local time (GMT +8)
B-HNE over the South China Sea

We're going to Hong Kong again, on the first 777-300 ever built no less.

The day started normally, dropped by RI to give Quanhui his R2D2 thumbdrive before heading for Changi Airport. We met Hafiz there, and chatted with him before entering through T2, the first time for most of us in a long while.

We spent some time spotting and at the Skyview lounge, and got a decent haul, and some spiked drinks for Calvin. I also swung by Bengawan Solo to pick up stuff for my aunt.

Our gate was D34, and while I was disappointed that our flight was on a 777-300, I was happy to note that it was B-HNE, the 773 I saw yesterday and the first ever built. We boarded and met with Jinjun's parents. The flight's empty, so we reshuffled our seats for takeoff.

We took off at 1850, passed over Tekong Disneyland, and were treated to a glorious sunset. I must say before we took off, I had a view of our cycling spots and kind of felt homesick. As usual though, my spirits soared with the aircraft.

Dinner was good. I had pork rice, and what was supposed to be white wine but ended up tasting like pure ethanol. The meal was good, but Calvin's risotto was fabulous. Ok maybe not the risotto, but the sauce was heaven.

We should be landing in Hong Kong soon. It's only been 2 months since we left, but I'm still looking forward to seeing her again.

270211 0100 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong, China

I feel like I've been dreaming for the past 2 months and just woke up back in Hong Kong.

We landed at 1003, then taxied to gate 67 on the far side of the airport. As a result we had a long walk to go. We cabbed over to Rai Lei to dump our stuff, then we all went our separate ways. I made it, with Jinjun in tow, to the Albany, my aunt's new place. It's really nice. Anyway tomorrow will be a long day, so I guess it's off to bed!
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Kuala Lumpur 2011 - Day 1

2011-02-19T13:43:00.001+08:00

190211 1344 local time (GMT +8)
Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia

It's my first trip of the year! And we flew here on Tiger. What a great way to start the year.

Headed for the budget terminal in the morning and met Calvin and his parents, who were nice enough to buy me breakfast. We met Hafiz too, who was sporting a D300 and a fisheye. I dislike fisheyes for some reason, can't think why.

Anyway we headed into immigration with not much time to spare, and almost immediately headed for gate 9. 9V-TAE was waiting for us, and we took our seats, 1A and 1B, next to an Irish fellow, who was studying in Singapore for one semester and was heading for Laos on AK after the TR flight.

We took off at 1046, and more or less rocketed into the sky. The engines were running at what sounded like full power almost the whole way. Of course, being Tiger, we had nothing to do, so we bought some presents. I also struck up a conversation with the Irish fellow in 1C. Pretty soon, we were descending into Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and landed at 1126. Still 5 min short of my record of 35 minutes from takeoff to landing Jetstar did on the return flight 2 years ago. While deboarding, both me and the Irish chap were stunned by the amount of baggage Calvin was lugging for a 1 day trip. To this day I still wonder what manner of things he had inside.

We cleared immigration after a long while, since we spent a lot of time taking photos outdoors on our way through the ~~bus interchange~~ LCCT. Didn't spot much interesting except for some D7 A330-300s. Once out, we found a shop selling AirAsia souveniers, and I bought a cheap but old-generation model of an A330. We then found a RM2.50 shuttle bus to the main terminal, where I am now. Sure beats the RM40 taxi.

23000 local time (GMT +8)
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

On the KLIA Ekspres now after a long and tiring day.

Once we reached the KLIA main terminal, we went for lunch at the second floor food court. This wasn't that great. We then headed for the viewing mall. Sadly though, except for one or two A330s, most of what we saw were Malaysia Airlines 737s. Mostly -400s, but some -800s as well. Eventually we gave up and headed for the hotel. After a brief rest, we headed back to the airport and caught the express to the city.

We spent a bit of time at the Petronas Towers shooting them, then headed for dinner at Madam Kwan's. The kway teow there is excellent, I have to say. We then picked up a charger for my phone before heading over to Jalan Petaling. We did intend to find souveniers for people, but nothing there really caught our eye. Eventually we gave up. On the way back to the hotel now for some much needed rest. Also, Calvin is going to die :)

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2010 in review

2011-01-01T16:15:00.001+08:00

I still remember clearly how the year started... Jinjun, Paul, Jeremy, Calvin and I, among others, standing at the end of East Coast Park with our bikes, watching the fireworks.

At the time, I was reflecting back on the way that 2008 ended (pretty well), and how it foreshadowed 2009, which was a great a year. I thought to myself that perhaps, since the way 2009 was ending was pretty good, 2010 should prove to be a good year too. Was it? Let's see.

Another good year in the Republic of Singapore Air Force. I think our little platoon has gone from strength to strength. We've seen many people leave of course, James, Joel, Andre and etc, and their passing (ok maybe not the best word to use) definitely left an impact. But at the same time, we've seen new people join the family and keep the flag flying. I will be really sad to leave in 26 days time, as I've grown too attached to the place and the people that make it up.

Travel wise, this year was a good year for me, visiting Malaysia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Bali, Japan and Hong Kong. It is good that I've gotten so many opportunities to visit different countries and experience their cultures and scenery. As an aviation enthusiast, the number of aircraft, airports and airlines has been staggering and I'm really thankful for these experiences. 2 new types this year for me, the DC-9-50 and the Beech 1900D, both flights proving to be good ones. Flying over the Rockies has to be the highlight of my flying experiences, along with the business class flight back from Hong Kong not 3 days ago.

Musically, this year was slightly more prolific, and I had the good fortune to both see and play in some excellent concerts. Guest-playing in Prometheum, and in VCH for the last time, was a magnificent experience, and both Up and Chess were very enjoyable. Then we had Of Voices and Winds, my first recital experience. It went decently, could be better, but was a great stepping stone. JCBF was an unexpected windfall for me, allowing me to once again perform in the Esplanade, and once again perform under Mr Oura. JCBF also fulfilled a third of my dream piece list, at least, a third of the ones that I really want to play. The second of the three was fulfilled slightly later than JCBF, at:

Coda VI - Singapore Conference Hall, 20th December 2010
Visions of Flight
Oregon
Romance for Band
Enka Medley
El Camino Real
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Four Hits for Five, by George
Glenn Miller Medley
Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea
My Neighbour Totoro
Japanese Graffiti XII
Riverdance
Hymn to the Infinite Sky
Hogan's Heroes March

Well if you're wondering about my choice of bolded item this concert, it's because I didn't play for Gershwin. Really though, this time I cannot really think of a single repertoire item that didn't hold significance for me. Of course, the main highlight would be Hymn to the Infinite Sky, the second of the trilogy, and playing for that was an emotional high. However, pieces like El Camino Real and My Neighbour Totoro bring back such fond memories, and most of the pieces are a blast to play, so I really enjoyed the repertoire a lot.

Another thing about RWinds this year, as I'm sure I mentioned earlier, is that I think the whole cycle leading up to Coda has been the most enjoyable and meaningful ever. Unlike previous times, I've gotten to know quite a few people, and grown close to some of them, especially the saxes. Juggling work, RWinds and JCBF in December was hell, and I still have not even had the chance to try to recover, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I hope this year, this trend will continue, and RWinds will provide even more musical and non-musical fulfillment.

Of course, the most important factor of the past year are my friends. I've had many wonderful experiences with them this year, the highlights of which have just come to pass with Coda and Hong Kong. Once again, word of thanks to the following people, in order of birthdays.

Benjamin Ni - Another year of great musical friendship. All the best for NS, wherever you end up, and hope to see you in Coda VII pracs!

Calvin - Enjoyed the flying around the past year, let's try to avoid Murphy as much as possible on this one.

Hafiz - Thanks for the friendship again, and for coming down to support the various performances. Hope we get the chance to play together again soon.

Jinjun - Well what can I say. Another year of great music, travel and friendship, which I will forever cherish. I hope you've gained as much out of our friendship as I have, and here's to more great experiences in 2011.

Huijun - Thanks for the support this year, you've helped me out sometimes when I needed it. All the best for whatever pursuits you may have, especially in terms of your uni.

Shuotian - One of the most dependable persons I can call a friend. I guess this year will be the last I see you regularly, but that's the way it is, I suppose. Thanks for everything this year, hope you do well in the USA.

Jeremy - Another one of my longest standing friends, if not the longest standing. 8 years have passed already, but our friendship's still as strong as it ever was, for which I cannot express enough gratitude

Paul - Ok this is sounding a bit repetitive, but yeah, thanks for all the fun and laughter you've given me this past year, especially towards the end when I really needed it. May your dreams come true someday, even if not now.

That about wraps it up for individuals, though of course if your name's not there, it's not to say I'm not extremely grateful for all the help and friendship rendered over the past year. Special votes of thanks also go out to RWinds members, especially the saxophones, and to 2^7 Thunder, for making my year especially enjoyable and fulfilling.

2011 holds many things in store. It's marking another big transition in my life, ORD followed by university. Travelwise I am looking at 2 huge (relatively anyway) projects in the form of Japan and the USA, some minor stuff and who knows what else. Musically there's Coda 7 and Of Voices and Winds 2, possibly more experiences in the form of good performances and learning experiences too. Friendship wise, I hope that I can say the same thing next year that I did a few paragraphs ago.

Onward to 2011!

Hong Kong 2010 - Day 2

2010-12-27T07:12:00.000+08:00

261210 1337 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong, China

I am in heaven. Spotting heaven that is.

We woke up to clear skies, and decided to seize the chance to go spotting at the far side of the airport. Breakfast was had near the hotel, some beef satay noodles which I quite enjoyed.

We headed to our favourite MTR station, Tung Chung. That name sure brings back memories, doesn't it. Anyway we split up when we were there. Shuotian, Jeremy and Paul hit the outlet mall while we proceeded to catch a bus. Unfortunately we caught the wrong one. Looks like our old friend Murphy's caught up with us.

Anyway that was a minor setback and we did eventually make it to where we are now, a small beach near the aircraft maintenance building. The spotting opportunities are endless, I've seen many interesting airliners (and one or two less interesting ones). The highlight was the return of 9V-SWG, our old friend who brought us here yesterday.

Now we're just waiting for the guys to call us and let us know when they're done. We're also hoping to do some whale watching while we're here.

2200 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong, China

Well in the end we did manage the whale watching, then headed back to Tung Chung to join the others. Lunch was at the ICC, some nice noodles and xiao long bao. We then tried to get up the ICC, but sadly it wasn't opened, so we decided to head up to the peak.

On the way to the peak, we were debating over whether the bus or the tram was faster. We didn't reach a conclusion, so we decided to settle it in traditional manner with one of our First Gear races. Jinjun, Calvin and Jeremy would take the bus, while Shuotian, Paul and myself would take the Peak Tram.

The race flagged off at Hong Kong station, from which the three of us immediately rushed out to find the Peak Tram. We were rushing to wait though, as we got there and saw an enormous queue. This effectively cost us the race, as we stood around waiting for our turn in line while the others' bus had already reached the top.

We did make it, eventually, although sadly it was dark by the time. We admired the views of the harbour and a nearby forest fire, then got dinner at a nearby fries place. We all took the bus down after that, which was more fun than it sounds.

We tried to pull off another race after that, me, Jeremy and Jinjun MTRing across the harbour while the rest took the Star Ferry. In the end, we gave up on this and just headed back to the Rai Lei.

Today's been quite tiring, though enjoyable. Still miffed at not seeing the Peak by day though. Disney tomorrow should be fun.
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Hong Kong 2010 Day 1

2010-12-26T07:08:00.000+08:00

251210 1039 local time (GMT +8)
9V-SWG over the South China Sea

Merry Christmas to all, and this is the first time I'm spending Christmas in the sky.

Woke up early this morning at 5:30, then woke Jinjun up (he was staying overnight at my place). Had a quick breakfast and did some last minute packing, then made for Changi Airport.

We met Calvin there, and I saw his parents for the first time. We also ran into Hafiz and chatted a while, before bidding him farewell and clearing immigration.

For once we actually had a bit of time after clearing customs, so we relaxed and took a leisurely walk to A12, where we found a beautiful 777-312ER, 9V-SWG waiting for us.

We boarded and took our seats. Sadly it was impossible for us to get 3 seats together, but we made do with 50A, where I am now, 50B and 35A. I feel quite bad for Calvin though, maybe I should swap with him later?

Takeoff was a bit late at 0846, but the plane made up for the lateness with a typical GE90 start up and takeoff, in short, a tremendous surge of power befitting the most powerful turbofans in the world. We had brunch soon after, I took the char siew noodles while Jinjun had the omelette. The noodles were good, if a little dry, and I enjoyed them. I'm disappointed with the IFE though, two of my staple programs for SQ, Merry Widow and Top Gear, are gone. Oh well, I've always got my own. As is tradition on flights, I'm listening to the Yagisawa trilogy. The difference this time is that now two of the three feature yours truly, and I appreciate having played them.

Just an hour or so out from Hong Kong now, really fast flight.

1405 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong International Airport, China

Finally, we've arrived. Landed early at 1155 and taxied over to gate 21, passing by many interesting airliners in the process, and some less so (i.e a Tiger Airways A320).

We did some spotting, then headed for lunch at the good old T2 food court. After dropping our bags off at the lockers and enjoying a good Japanese lunch (pity they ran out of Calpis though), we left the airport by bus. We're now on the way to our favourite MTR station, Tung Chung. Why do I feel a strong sense of Deja vu

2300 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong, China

It sure is nice to see all these familiar places again. Basically what we did was go to Citygate so that Jinjun could buy shoes, then head back to the airport to camp. We decided to camp at our old camping ground near the end of the airport. Once there we also realised that we were wearing the same clothes we did on the first day of the first trip. Really Deja vu here.

Eventually the others showed up, and we caught an airport express and a cab to the Rai Lei, where we ran into Yanlong. Dinner was at a KFC, then we walked around for a bit, visiting a Fortress and buying some cool mango drinks and XO conch, before calling it a night.

My memories of the place are still crystal clear... It's good to be back.

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Coda VI

2010-12-24T05:55:00.008+08:00

Chairperson's Message

This concert marks my 5th with RWinds, and so far the previous four have been really fun, though some more than others. Personally, though, this has to be the best one so far. Sure, the run-up was a lot shorter and a lot more hectic than the previous ones, but to me, the gains in both musical standard and friendship were much greater than before. Sure, I was dying of exhaustion by the time it ended, but it was well worth it.

Conductors

I have to give special mention to Quanhui this year, we have improved tremendously musically and it's probably thanks to him and his increasing standards for the band. To keep at it the way he does is really impressive.

Special mention also goes to the assistant conductor, Yunsong, as well as Jinjun for his brass sectionals. Especially leading up to the concert, they played a huge role in pushing the band up to where it was.

Committee

Well as a librarian this year, I'm quite happy that most things went according to plan. Still room for improvement in the way we do things though.

About the concert

As with most nights the previous week, the saxophones were out until early in the morning either folding Totoros or getting drunk, the details of which I shall not go into here. As a result, I slept pretty late, at about 2 or 3. Woke up the next morning and drove out to J8, as usual, to do some ultra-last minute concert note writing, which I took a bit more literally this time around.

Went back to school for the usual instrument moving fest, which was done in good time, before setting off on the bus. Instead of VCH though, we ended up getting sent to SCH... Still, setting up of the stage went real smooth and we actually managed to start rehearsal on time. Rehearsal went pretty well, I think, and soundchecks aside the saxes definitely had some good photos taken of ourselves.

Dinner was (again) spicy, but at least this time there was chocolate (courtesy of the boss). This year, I found I had more time to give out concert notes, at least it didn't feel rushed. Pity I didn't really have time to find gifts, other than our signature drink.

At around 7:15, we walked on stage and the concert began. An annoyance of mine during the concert was that my glasses kept sliding off. Minor, I guess.

Intermission was spent mingling, then prepping for ensembles. We walked on stage, did our thing, walked off, and walked on again for the full band's second half.

After the concert ended, with the usual photos and all, we wasted no time in packing up, collecting scores and engaging in a bit more mingling befo re taking the bus back to RI. Supper was spent at McDonalds in nearby Ang Mo Kio, listening to the recordings along the way. I then dragged myself home and got ready to work a few hours later, feeling extremely tired, but satisfied.

Visions of Flight was quite possibly our best piece that evening. Listening to the recording feels extremely inspiring, and I'm quite happy with it. I've grown to really love this song, about as much as the mainstay pieces of the repertoire.

Oregon wasn't as good as Visions of Flight, could have been better, but overall OK. Enjoyable piece to play, I suppose.

Romance for Band caused a lot of worry running up to the concert, but I'm glad we didn't have to highlight the advancements made recently in MIDI technology the way we did for Berceuse. Decently played, I think.

I always think Enka Medley wasn't really worth 11 minutes of time, but overall it was decent. My friend really likes it, for some reason.

Ensuring that every concert I play in has at least one repeated piece, El Camino Real hails from the honour band days of JCBF 2007. I think we did better here than then, although we were a bit less energetic than then. Overall was pretty happy with this one though.

Can't say much about Four Hits for Five, by George, because I didn't play for it, it being a brass quintet item. Apparently it was better than at OVW, so kudos to the brass quintet.

For a last minute addition to the repertoire, we did this one pretty well. I was pretty satisfied with my playing here, but always room for improvement of course.

Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, cute song, played decently, but we really slowed it down near the end. Actually one of the main issues with our ensemble overall was tempo control, something that we can work on in future.

My Neighbour Totoro is fast becoming our signature tune. I hope the audience appreciated the hard work we put in to make the Totoros, as well as the amount of Calpis consumed as a result.

Japanese Graffiti XII, featuring GE999 and of course, Space Battleship Yamato, wasn't that well played I think, in fact I'd say there's a long way to go with this one. Amusingly, while playing Yamato, I couldn't help but hear "Uchuu Senkan.... TO-MA-TO" in my mind.
Riverdance was pretty good, I think. Quite enjoyable to play, and even my friend who knows nothing of band music finds it fun. Choo Wee's solos were good, as was most of the rest of the piece.

Well for 2 practices, I think it sounded really good. Quite fun, I think, marches usually are. We ought to do more marches, really.

Nice Easter Egg at the end by the trumpets. Rather fail ending though.

Acknowledgements

Well I think this has to be the best Coda ever. Although of course, the performances could be improved a bit more, we definitely outshone last year's performance. The disappointing thing I suppose is that we definitely could have done better too. Hopefully next year, we can execute what we've learnt this time and make Coda VII the best Coda ever.

However, standard aside, I really enjoyed playing this repertoire. Most of the pieces either started out having great meaning to me, or developed it as we went by. Of course, I don't really need to identify my two favourites here, and to play them really made my year, along with Perseus last Tuesday.

Personally I think this cycle was really too short, or at least it felt so. It's definitely been much more enjoyable than any before, in no small part due to the fact that we are now mobile. The saxophone section has been really crazy, practically living with each other the week before the concert, and enjoying good food and Calpis in the process. I'm really happy to have worked with this section, and gotten to know Joanne and Yixian. Really hope they hang around.

I certainly look forward to performing with the section again in OVW2, and the rest of the band in future. Definitely one of the main things I want to take away now are increased bonds with the rest of the band, getting to know each other better. Of course, I'd love to see the music we make soar to new heights too, especially as it's our anniversary. If we work as hard for the whole cycle as we did for the last two weeks for this one, then I am really looking forward to hearing ourselves at our 10th anniversary concert.

Player List

To close off, I would like to thank a number of people who really made this concert what it was, I have to say probably the best concert in my life to date.

Quanhui and Yunsong: Thanks for pushing the band up, never accepting anything less than perfection in the drive to improve, and yet having patience, especially under such trying circumstances. We couldn't have done it without you.

Audience Members: There would be no performance without someone to perform too, so I have to thank all friends and family members (eg 2^7) for coming down to support and watch. I hope you enjoyed the concert as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you.

Committee: Thanks for the hard work, as usual, in making sure this concert went smoothly. Look forward to working with you all again for Coda VII.

Calvin: Thanks for the help filming the concert, hopefully we take less than 3 years to do the video. Good to see your close-ups on the right track this time :)

Batchmates who performed i.e. Jinjun, Jeremy, Paul, Shuotian and Yuhyiing: For most of you guys this will have been our last performance in a concert together, hopefully not for all. It's been fun, and I hope we keep the batch spirit alive in future.

Shelley Chan: Special mention since I received a note from you and failed to reciprocate, for which I feel quite bad. Thanks for that, and for being so outgoing and friendly!

Finally, my section, especially the ensemble. Amir, Joseph, Yixian, Choo Wee, Joanne and Jeremy (again): You guys really made this concert for me, especially the last couple of weeks. I felt like dying, but somehow the drive to do well for ensemble and full band kept me awake and alive. OVW2 and Coda VII beckon, let's carry on the good name of the saxophone section!

See you next year!

Junior College & Polytechnic Band Festival 2010 Concert

2010-12-17T16:02:00.005+08:00

Back at the Esplanade once more, something I didn't really see coming at the start of the year.

Went to work super early in the morning, not really something I wanted, but sadly unavoidable. Following work, I headed for lunch with Jinjun and Shuotian, to Ippudo at Mandarin Gallery. While we were there, we bumped into Shelley, though not entirely by accident, and enjoyed some excellent Ramen.

Headed off to the Esplanade after that for the usual soundcheck and dinner, which was... passable, I suppose. Then followed a really long wait until the performance. We were to be the last item after intermission, so we had a long time.

Walking on stage for the first time since Limelight, I savoured the moment. The hall seemed fuller than I had expected, not that I expected much. Mr Seville walked onto the stage and lifted his baton for...
Ride, a piece that reminds me of Choo Wee's driving. This was fast, with changing key and time signatures left right center and justified. Still, we did manage to keep relatively together and I suppose it sounded good.

Suite on Celtic Folk Songs was next, a piece I'd played in Coda II 4 years ago, keeping up my traditions of always having repeated pieces. Pretty well done too, I suppose, we managed to sort out a lot of problems that were evident in the practices.

After that piece, the moment I was waiting for arrived. Mr Oura walked onto the stage, I stood, preparing myself for...

After the concert, I quickly packed up and rushed to RWinds, where I joined the others for supper. Ended up at Adam Road Food Center till about 2am, as seems to be usual these days.

Well, this has definitely been a tiring week, especially jugging work, RWinds and JCBF, and with JCBF pracs extending till 10+ at night. Still, I think the experience was definitely worth it, met a few people, improved myself and learnt some things. Of course, the main reason I went was well worth it, and more. Onward to Coda!

JCPBF 2010

2010-12-14T15:49:00.000+08:00

For the past 5 days or so, I've been juggling Rwinds with a new activity: JCBF's alumni band. So far it's been short, but rather fulfilling. I'm looking forward to the concert immensely, especially the last piece. I'm sure it's obvious why.

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Japan 2010 Day 5

2010-09-15T10:51:00.000+08:00

130910 1127 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF at Hong Kong International Airport, China

Well, this is the final leg of the trip. At gate 65 now, just opposite where I boarded the plane to Osaka on Thursday, and at seat 56A.

This morning I decided to go to Tsim Sha Tsui via the Star Ferry. Of course this resulted in an almighty rush to get here in time, and I barely made it on. On the plus side the weather was brilliant for shooting, no haze at all. My aunt tells me the past few days have been quite bad, and I've got firsthand evidence from Wednesday night to back that up, so I guess I was lucky.

Time for pushback soon, on my first pureblood Cathay 747 flight, then homeward bound it'll be. Seems like a delay though, failure of the automatic fuel system so they're manually refuelling the plane.

1151 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF at Hong Kong International Airport, China

Seems like they're done, we're pushing back. B-HNN just pulled up beside us too.

1218 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF over the South China Sea.

Wow. By some definitions that was my 100th takeoff. And what an astounding view of Hong Kong. 1206 saw the 747 launch itself into the sky and straight past Victoria Harbour. Coupled with the clear skies, a rarity here, the view was awesome.

Watching Top Gear once more, really a good show to watch I flight.

1346 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF over Vietnam

Halfway home now. Been a good flight so far, enjoyed the fish and oyster sauce lunch. We're almost there.

1438 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF over the South China Sea.

Starting our descent in 3 minutes, and we're just 160nm out of WSSS. Feels good.

1510 local time (GMT +8)
B-HUF at Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Touchdown on 20R at 1505 marked the end of this short but enjoyable journey. Now parked at D41 near 9V-SYD awaiting deboarding.

1530 local time (GMT +8)
Singapore, Singapore

Well, that's that. It's been a really fun experience, and I'm sorry it had to be so short. Ah well, someday I shall return to Japan once more.

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Japan 2010 Day 4

2010-09-13T15:16:00.000+08:00

120910 1123 local time (GMT +9)
Japan

I wish I could say exactly where I was, but at this speed it wouldn't be accurate, the train's covered 5km in the time I typed this sentence. On another Shinkansen, a 700 this time, running a Hikari service for Kyoto at a good 250km/h, though I'm not sure, it's gone off the scale of my GPS. I am really impressed by the Shinkansen.

1802 local time (GMT +9)
B-HKU at Kansai International Airport, Japan

All good things must come to an end I guess. Sitting at 33K on another ex-SQ 747-412, B-HKU. We're parked at gate 3, with 2 ANA 737-700s at 2 and 1. I think the closest is JA11AN.

Nothing much occurred today. After another amazing Shinkansen ride, we proceeded to souvenier shop. I then departed back to Osaka via the final and slowest (in terms of number of stops) Kodama Shinkansen, but again, it was a 700.

Once at Osaka, I headed for Yodobashi hoping to pick up good stuff, but failed. My mom was supposed to meet me at Namba station, but by the agreed cutoff time, she hadn't showed up, so I headed to take the Rapi;t Beta back to the aircraft carrier.

After checkin, I did some spotting, the highlight of which was the ANA Panda 767-300. I then had a quick lunch, then went to the Rokko lounge. This was quite small, nothing more than armchairs lining the walls with drinks and peanuts available.

Well we've started pushback and received the usual farewell. Sayonara Japan, till we meet again.

1920 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKU over Taipei, Taiwan

Beethoven's famous 9th Symphony is providing the background for this post.

We took off on 24L at 1818, did an S turn for some reason, probably the SID, and left Japan behind. The dinner of Japanese beef and rice was pleasant, and Top Gear's Bolivia special was hilarious.

Almost back in Hong Kong, and Singapore comes ever closer.

1942 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKU over the South China Sea

I wouldn't be nothing if I didn't have you.

I'm starting to love this song.

1956 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKU over the South China Sea

I think we're landing soon, Shantou's lights are just out the window, the plane has turned and is descending, and the seatbelt light is on. That's almost an hour early.

2023 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKU at Hong Kong International Airport, China

Textbook touchdown at 0820 on 25R although the approach was a little rough. Time to head back into the familiar terminal.

2359 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong, China

Nothing much to report of the journey, parked at gate 2 next to where we parked on the way in from Macau, got off and headed for the all-too-familiar Airport Express into town. Met my aunt at the IFC, then cabbed to her place.

Once there we sat and talked, along with her husband, over tea and cakes. That done, I decided to retire. Hope to get up early tomorrow for some photography.

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Japan 2010 Day 2

2010-09-12T16:31:00.001+08:00

100910 1159 local time (GMT +9)
Kawachinagano, Japan

Woke up early this morning to participate in a Buddhist ritual, in which all the guests had to watch the priests play with fire and pray. After that, we visited a famous cemetery. Highlights include a flagpole with the flags of Japan, Australia and Malaysia, and a memorial put up by a pest extermination company for all the ants they killed.

At the moment I'm on a train headed for Nara. RIMB and alumni who went for the 2008 trip should be familiar with it as the first stop on our tour.

2230 local time (GMT +9)
Kyoto, Japan

What a tiring day, and I didn't even do that much. Basically went straight to Nara and had a delightful tonkatsu near the Cafe et Pain, before visiting Todaiji. It was just as I remembered it, complete with deer. Some scaffolding marred the view of the temple though. Hmm I wonder if the deer remembered me.

The next stop on our journey was Kyoto. By the time we reached, it was quite late, so we just headed for the hotel. The hotel was nice, budget but with Internet and a toilet which opened automatically when the door to the bathroom was open. Annoyingly though, while the net worked on my phone, my com couldn't get it.

Anyway we went for dinner at Hisago, one of the most acclaimed sushi restaurants in Kyoto. While the sushi was excellent, the prices were absurd. One particular type of tuna sushi costed 1000 yen, which could probably get you the whole buffet in Sakae. The owner of the bar was nice though, she told us she'd been to Singapore before.

After dinner we walked around Gion district. Apparently Shinbashi is supposed to be the most beautiful street in Asia. However I personally felt that Lorong 2 Toa Payoh looked better. The whole place reminded me of the sort of place some of my colleagues are probably way too familiar with. In all I can best describe Gion as the Geylang of Kyoto.

Ah well, off to sleep now, as I'm dead tired. I hope tomorrow is more relaxing.

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Japan 2010 Day 1

2010-09-12T16:31:00.000+08:00

090910 1143 local time (GMT +8)
B-HKE over the Pacific Ocean

Had a quick rest in the hotel, then headed to the airport for my free breakfast. The spotting wasn't that good this morning, so I enjoyed the lounge.

I was pleasantly surprised to see B-HKE at gate 64. Distinguishable by her PW engines compared to the usual RR of CX, this aircraft once flew the Singapore flag.

We took off slightly late, leaving China behind for Japan at 1022. Got a nice view of the new ICC on the way out too.

The new CX seats are way more comfortable than the old ones, and the entertainment system is a vast improvement. It is a little glitchy though. Lunch was better than last night's dinner too, except that I still prefer SQ's soba.

1401 local time (GMT +9)
B-HKE over Japan

It's been a pleasant flight so far, the best I've had on Cathay, and I'm almost sad to land. We're running parallel to the Japanese coastline now, and I'm preparing for our carrier landing by listening to Perseus, Ocean and Sky.

1652 local time (GMT +9)
Sakai, Japan

Once again, I'm back in the Empire of the Rising Sun. We touched down at a rather empty Kansai Airport at 1426 and taxied over to gate 3, just opposite where 9V-SRL and 9V-SRP parked back in 2008.

Going through the arrivals area brought back fond memories, especially the cool arrivals screens. I then caught a Rapi'T Beta, which is apparently what they call their airport express, and changed to a local train at Tengachaya. The train system is highly confusing, but once you figure out how to read the information board, you'll get the idea

1805 local time (GMT +9)
Kiikamiya, Japan

I'm enjoying some beautiful vistas as I take this 2 carriage rural train up the mountain. It's quite relaxing really, and a little amazing to think people live like this in Japan, in stark contrast to Osaka and Tokyo.

2230 local time (GMT +9)
Koyasan, Japan

After the train journey, I took a cable railway up to Koyasan station, where I transferred to a local bus. Interestingly here you get on at the back and off at the front.

The temple is nice. It has no aircon or chairs, but Internet. I always thought the Internet was on a higher tech level than aircon.

Also, the feeling of partaking in a Japanese bath once more was indescribably good. I wish I could set a good one up at home.

Ah well, off to sleep and time for another day tomorrow.

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Japan 2010 Day 3

2010-09-11T13:27:00.000+08:00

110910 1447 local time (GMT +9)
Kyoto, Japan

Another walk down memory lane for me, literally. After a futile search for a breakfast place, we headed up the all-to-familiar shopping street below Kiyomizu temple. This has to be one of two locations in Japan I am most intimately familiar with, and I'm on a bus to the second now.

At the top I tried something new- a walk down a literally pitch black tunnel, representing some Buddha's room. It was as if my eyes were completely closed.

Following that, we explored the main temple, and I said hi to my good fire extinguisher friends. We then proceeded down the shopping street to find some lunch.

I had a Kaiseki meal for lunch, which is a traditional Japanese way of eating involving many small courses, and a changing menu depending on the season. This was long and expensive, but really delicious and the presentation of the courses was superb.

Now on another bus, let's see where this takes me.

2300 local time (GMT +9)
Osaka, Japan

What an exhausting day.

When I last left off, I was on a bus to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavillion. I've seen her many times, but she remains my favourite spot in Kyoto.

Following that, we took a JR train to Kobe, as opposed to the private railways we'd been on for the past couple of days. JR trains, I found, tend to be faster and smoother, and have forward facing seats, a big plus for me.

While on this JR train, I saw a sight which captured my imagination. As we were gaining speed out of Kyoto, we were overtaken by one of the most elegant trains in the world, a Shinkansen 700 series. It overtook us, then banked left and swooped away, almost like an aircraft.

Once in Kobe we headed somewhere to try the Kobe beef. This was quite good, but also exorbitant. Following that, we took a Nozomi service back to Osaka. Nozomi is the fastest of the three Shinkansen, though the only difference is in the number of stops, and since Osaka was the next stop, there's no difference no matter which you take. Still, the experience was nice, the speed and smoothness of the ride was evident.

After walking around Dotonburi and sending my brother off to the airport, we headed for the hotel near the Shinkansen station, thus ending my last full day in Japan. It seems so short now...

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Japan 2010 Day 0

2010-09-08T20:24:00.000+08:00

080910 0825 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG at Singapore Changi Airport

Once again I'm flying off, this time to wonderful Japan. At the moment, I'm in 60K of Cathay Pacific's A330-300 B-HLG waiting for pushback at gate D44. I'll be flying to Hong Kong first, obviously. Now parked next to 777-246ER of Japan Airlines. Not going to see them around in Singapore soon, but no doubt I'll see many where I'm going. A Garuda 738 is near too. Oh and we just started pushback and startup. Trent 700s powering us here.

2145 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG over the South China Sea

Took off at 2037 in front of a Tiger Airways A320. We passed by a company 777-267, probably headed for Colombo. Watched Wall-E in Cantonese, at least the front of it. Interestingly it seems to be in sepia. Probably some problem with the projector. Ah well. Dinner hasn't been served yet either, wonder when they'll get round to it.

2337 local time (GMT +8)-
B-HLG over the South China Sea

Well, almost there. We're beginning our descent into VHHH now. Dinner was below average. The vegetables had the same texture and consistency as mashed potatoes, and the actual potatoes were bland. The chicken wasn't too bad though, and this meal at least beats the last one I had on this airline.

I'm feeling really tired, for some reason. Ah well, it'll help me sleep later.

090910 0030 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG over Hong Kong

This feels like a scene from Red Alert 2. There is a massive lightning storm outside, and we tried to land through it. As a result, we got hit by the worst turbulence I've ever seen, passengers started screaming and the pilot, probably wisely, decided to give up. The aircraft dived and climbed countless times before finally surging up and out of the storm. We're now in a holding pattern while he decides whether or not to divert. On a plus side, the lightning has been rather magnificent, and it's a pity I can't capture it on camera well enough.

0100 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG over Hong Kong

We seem to be deciding. Is the captain going to shoot for it? But the destination marker's on top of Macau now?

0206 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG at Macau International Airport.

Evidently my suspicions were confirmed. We landed at 0102 on runway 34 at Macau International Airport, thus allowing my record of having never flown directly from Singapore to Hong Kong to stand. I wasn't sure at first, but I knew it when we turned onto the taxiway bridge over the water, not to mention when I saw the casinos.

There seem to be quite a few other stranded aircraft here. Saw a Cathay 747-400, some random Cathays and now parked next to an Air Hong Kong A300-600. We've been here an hour now, wonder what will happen from here on out.

0300 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG at Macau International Airport.

We've been here for a good two hours now. Luckily it seems like we'll be heading over to Hong Kong very soon. Gonna miss the view of the Crown and the City of Dreams.

0425 local time (GMT +8)
B-HLG at Hong Kong International Airport.

Finally we arrived. This is the shortest airliner flight I've ever been on, possibly the shortest flight ever, taking off on 34 at 0356 and landing on 25R 20 minutes later at 0416. Feels good to be back.

0510 local time (GMT +8)
Hong Kong International Airport

Whew what a long journey. And it's barely the half way point. Good thing I was connecting though, I got a free hotel stay and a $40 voucher for breakfast once I got off the plane at E1. I'm now lying on the bed at the good old Regal Airport Hotel, enjoying my runway view out the window. Hopefully today's leg will be less eventful, I really need some rest.

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Of Quanhui and the rest of us.

2010-08-23T03:30:00.002+08:00

Slightly overdue comes my post about last Friday's recital. However if you were expecting my usual detailed review of the concert, you'll probably be disappointed because I have not much to say, having only performed for 15 minutes.

The day started in RI, where the sax ensemble had some last minute practice. We then headed over to YMS, courtesy of Choo Wee's car, and had a bit more prac in the tight spot before the concert began, together with an almost nonexistent soundcheck.

For those of you who thought VCH's backstage design was bad, YMS's will come as a slight letdown. There's no way of accessing the backstage except either via the stage (obviously impossible during a performance) or a door that leads outside to some random backalley. Also, the floor creaks, making unwanted noise during a performance. Ah well, it's not a full-fledged hall anyway, and I guess it's standard for an auditorium.

Quanhui's song cycle went first, though I can't comment much because I was too busy going through my own pieces. It was definitely the heaviest piece of the evening though.

The saxophone ensemble then took the stage, opening with Close Your Eyes and Listen, by Astor Piazzolla of Libertango fame. I think we did this piece quite well, considering our previous expectations, and I'm pretty happy with it, despite some minor screwups.

I shall not elaborate on our performance of Berceuse, except to highlight to the composer, my old friend Jinjun, both the recent developments in MIDI technology as well as the advantages of engineering as a university degree.

Yakety Sax was pretty fun, though I was feeling pretty nervous before my solo. Still, this has to be my best runthrough of the solo, as my rehearsal ones were definitely more tense and rushed.

After the intermission, we had more songs by Quanhui, including Wintersturme, solo items by Jinjun and Luke, and finally the brass quintet. I'm quite impressed by their performance, their items weren't easy, and it's been great to see the younger musicians improve over these few months.

Post-concert was relatively standard, loaded my bari sax up onto Quanhui's car, then headed for dinner with some of the performers as well as my batchmates who came down.

Personally this concert is probably not one that will go down etched into my memory. Besides the short performance time, our ensemble could definitely have done better. Granted, we were plagued with many problems and external commitments, and a tough repertoire. Next time we try something like this, it will have to be executed with greater care and more practice.

Another point that I find annoyed at was the relatively large number of people who backed out at the last minute. On hindsight, considering our performance, this may or may not have been a bad thing, but it's still one of my pet peeves, especially as all reservations for this concert were paid for, and considering recent events.

Still, I suppose that overall the concert was a success, and it did achieve its aims, with a relatively full hall. I look forward to redeeming our ensemble and having an even better performance should we have an event like this again.

Anthem

2010-08-10T01:03:00.000+08:00

No man, no madness
Though their sad power may prevail
Can possess, conquer, my country's heart
They rise to fail
She is eternal
Long before nations' lines were drawn
When no flags flew, when no armies stood
My land was born

And you ask me why I love her
Through wars, death and despair
She is the constant, we who don't care
And you wonder will I leave her - but how?
I cross over borders but I'm still there now

How can I leave her?
Where would I start?
Let man's petty nations tear themselves apart
My land's only borders lie around my heart

Happy 45th, Singapore.

Shot in the back over a matter of $80

2010-08-01T01:13:00.001+08:00

Quote above from Back to the Future III, really quite a nice movie.

貴重な私には私たちの友情は、あなたにもない価値が80ドルですか？

SIBF 2010

2010-07-26T07:48:00.004+08:00

This past long weekend has more or less revolved around band. Obviously Saturday saw the resuming of RWinds practices, but Saturday was sandwiched between two intensive days of competition. Yep, SIBF, that event that marked a horrendous conclusion to school band life for me returned for another year. However, the differences in the one two years ago and now could hardly be greater (besides the obvious fact that I didn't actually participate).

As compared to the poor playing and low results that marred my own SIBF, the results of the two Raffles bands were spectacular. 1st and 2nd in division, and 1st and 3rd overall, no mean feat. Of course, the results are meaningless compared to the music, but in this too, a high standard was achieved. Perseus brought a lump to my throat, and while Machu Picchu, not having any emotional connection to me, did not quite have the same effect, I could see it was reasonably well played.

Seeing the happy faces of the band members and looking at their high Facebook statuses takes me back, and I wish I could feel the same way somehow. It's just pure passion and exuberance which is hard to come by these days (of course my dream is to instill this in the members of RWinds). I'm also very happy for Mr Oura, as these results probably reflect his own hard work, and I hope that seeing how happy he's made his students has been a just reward for this gift of music which he has given to them.

Why

2010-06-07T05:36:00.000+08:00

なぜうち、私と私の友人？の間に引かされるすべての1つの行の左に私はのですか？？？

Prometheum XIII

2010-05-24T11:03:00.005+08:00

Six years and a day after my first performance at Victoria Concert Hall came my last. Both were Prometheums, X and XIII, and both featured alumni playing chess, or rather, Chess. The difference was, this time, I would be playing as the alumni. And how far we've come, the Prometheum X alumni band was a motley collection of RI alumni, brought together solely for Prometheum, while the alumni band of Prometheum XIII would be the well-established (I hope) Raffles Winds.

Sadly I had to work in the morning, and rushed down after some failed hairstyling by my colleagues. Had lunch in the good old RJC canteen, which I do miss. I then headed over to the Varese to get the stuff ready.

While we were preparing, Amir said that the RI people had requested our help to move the percussion instruments. It ended up being a mostly RWinds effort in loading the percussions up, until Mr Oura saw this. He unleashed all fury on the RI people, and blasted them with the question of why all the "old people" were on the lorry doing all the work (Amir promptly responded "We're not old").

Eventually we boarded the buses and headed for VCH for the last time. Once there, we moved instruments up, and once again, I felt unsurprised at the lack of efficiency on the RI side. However, their soundcheck did sound better than I expected.

Soon it was our turn. Problems with the tenor saxophone scores aside, everything went well, and I was confident that it would be a good performance. Dinner was spaghetti, which was excellent, probably the best I've had pre-concert in Singapore. I then proceeded to change, and headed to the foyer to meet people. I met Shuotian, Calvin, Huijun and Paul and passed them their tickets, but didn't enter the hall as I wanted to mentally prepare myself for our performance.

Intermission came and we assembled backstage, before quickly proceeding onto the stage to warm up and tune. Soon, the bell rang, the emcees introduced us, we stood as Quanhui strode on stage, and proceeded with what was possibly, if not definitely, the best performance in the history of Raffles Winds.

Up was uplifting, we played well, and I could think of few, if any, problems, none of them major. I really enjoyed playing this lighthearted, relaxing piece, and I'm glad Jinjun and I recommended it.

Chess was, quite simply, the best performance RWinds has put up so far, in my opinion. Despite the fact that there were a few problems, and it was I think not as well played as Up, considering the relative difficulty and length, I think we did really well. Anthem especially brought a lump to my throat. Having recordings of superb quality helps of course. Quanhui's passion was evident, not to mention infectious, and I played my heart out, for RWinds and for VCH.

After the performance, we vacated the stage to allow RI to enter. Jinjun and I busied ourselves collecting scores, following which, possibly the largest camwhore session I have ever seen ensued. Cameras were flashing left, right and center, probably because of the amount of time we had before the end of the concert. Near the end though, I snuck out and to the stage door on the opposite side, to watch Mr Oura conduct from the performer's POV, or at least, as close as I could.

When the whole performance is over, we took a few more shots, then moved our stuff down to the porch. While waiting for the RI people to load the percussions, my batchmates and a few of the other RWinds members had a chat with Mr Oura, discovering, among other things, his Facebook profile.

We headed back to school and after packing up, the remaining RWinds members headed for Junction 8 for supper. During supper, we discussed the plans for the Coda VI cycle, and set the wheels in motion.

This concert was a significant performance to me. Of course, all my performances, no matter how small, are significant, but this was particularly special in that it would be my last at Victoria Concert Hall before she underwent plastic surgery. Victoria Concert Hall has been the site of most of my most precious memories, especially Prometheum XI, Coda IV and Coda V. I will forever treasure her.

On the RWinds side, I was thankful for the chance to do more with RWinds besides just a yearly Coda. I think this performance really showed what we can do, and I wish for more such chances, to keep the RWinds momentum going.

Of course, I need to thank Mr Oura, once again, for his patience in taking RI band through this concert, for all the wisdom he's shared and for all the fun moments too (like when he found my file lying around). Someone I'll never forget, really.

I guess it was a fitting end to a VCH career. Here's a final tribute to the great concert hall.

2004 - Prometheum X
2005 - Unisono
2006 - National Band Competition, Prometheum XI, Coda II
2007- Coda III
2008 - Coda IV
2009 - Coda V
2010 - Prometheum XIII

Thanks, VCH.
For RIMB and RWinds.
For Twelve Seconds to the Moon, Ragtime, Vox Stellarum, Seventh Night of July, Saga, Up and Chess.
For the music and the memories.
For everything.

A Tempo XX

2010-05-12T23:59:00.002+08:00

Let's take a trip back in time, just a few days short of 2 years, back to the 26th of May 2008...
It was a school holiday, so I woke up relatively late at around 10am, then headed for the Esplanade via car, before transferring to the MRT to school.

Flash back to today. Unlike then, I woke up at 5am in order to reach camp by 7am, then spent the full day at work.

Pre-concert was a whirl of activity, the usual concert stuff. Of course, the fact that it was in the Esplanade made things slightly different, but the familiar still held.

After work, I took a cab down to Raffles City, where I tried to find nice gifts for people, but ended up buying various types of "flowers" for people. Had a rushed dinner with Paul and Eugene, then headed for the age-old Victoria Concert Hall. It didn't strike me then, but this would be the last concert I would ever watch in that hall. Fitting that it be RJCSB's A Tempo XX

A Tempo XIX - Love Knows Not of Death or Calculus Above the Simple Sum of Heart Plus Heart - This line adorned the front of our programme booklet, intricately designed in full colour, and featuring heavily our theme of love.

A Tempo XX was emblazoned on the front of the programme, resembling not so much that of the previous A Tempo than that of Coda V, with photographs of the Golden Gate Bridge, Mt. Fuji and an airliner landing over an array of approach lights.

Of course, before the concert, there was a mad exchange of giving gifts and notes and receiving them. I gave out stuff ranging from a DVD to a box of "Chicken McNuggets", and received... absolutely nothing, other than notes I mean. Not totally unexpected though.

While it was surely a night of musical enjoyment and appreciation, it was really hard to ignore the fact that many of the people sitting (and standing) in front of us were people that I once played with.

Before.

It was a surreal feeling. This is the first time I've watched RJCSB since graduating, and unlike the times when I was watching RIMB, since I knew many of the people on stage, it was really hard to ignore that fact.

It's a feeling hard to describe. Their batch of J2s were the people I had known since I was sec 3, and played alongside all the way till last year. And surely, no one will be able to forget aobut the times we had, the songs we sang together?

RJCSB occupies a special, inerasable part of my heart.

It's guilt, it's regret. All the endless possibilities, of things that I could have done with this band 2 years, even 1 year ago, that I did not accomplish. During the concert I was alone and took a moment to ponder about all of these. I stifled a tear out.

Hearing the music, I couldn't help but noticing that those were not faceless, nameless people on stage as is usually the case, but people like Samuel, Benjamin, Alastair, Huijun, Zhenyi, Yethong..... the list goes on. I saw them both as people and as the musicians they were, adding to the emotional rollercoaster I never expected to feel.

You could say that I was going like, "ugh why do they have to start with Army of the Nile"? It brings back way too many memories.

Our first piece was Army of the Nile, with Mr Oura walking in halfway. I think we did pretty well, and the song brought back fond memories of RIMB 2006.

Their first piece was Army of the Nile, with Mr Oura walking in halfway. I think they did pretty well, and the song brought back fond memories of, well, everything. RIMB, A Tempo XIX, Limelight... Emotions welled up in me even though the piece was a simple march.

I'm not going to review the rest of the pieces in depth, except for a few that mean much to me. Suffice to say, mostly, they were all well played with few errors, and more importantly, I could see that the band, and Mr Oura, was playing right from their heart, having a good time and enjoying the music.

Throughout the concert though, I couldn't help but hear in my mind, as each piece was played, the repertoire of A Tempo XIX

Saga Maligna was arguably one of our two best songs of the evening. I love the piece itself, it epitomises the sound of the band and it is majestic, light and grand all at once. I almost cried during God in Heaven.

Satoshi Yagisawa's Symphonic Poem - "Northern Mother Earth - With the Beat of All Living Things" was epic. A grand, majestic and beautiful piece that RJCSB premiered outside of Japan. I really loved it, and enjoyed it immensely. I hope the players did too.

The intermission was a boring one, nothing much to say here.

During the intermission, I popped downstairs and ran into a few people, but it was generally uneventful.

Titanic Medley... I really can't describe how it felt playing this song. Memories of my batch, my time in RIMB welled up and in the end, during the saxophone soli, where my first solo was played during Investiture 2006, I couldn't hold it in. I just let go completely and let my emotions and tears run. They kept running too, all the way until the end, as I just played my heart out. After the song, I couldn't turn the page to the next song, I just stared at it, until Mr Oura raised his baton for the next piece.

The next song that struck a chord (pun not intended) with me was the Joe Hisaishi piece. I love his music, and it was really nice to hear familiar tunes such as those from My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away.

In it's third year serving as an RJCSB encore piece, Takarajima brought the house down with it's lively tune and hyped up rhythms and sax solo.

Encore was sooo awesome...

In it's fifth year serving as an RJCSB encore piece, Takarajima brought the house down with it's lively tune and hyped up rhythms and sax solo. It was the best part of the concert for me. I felt emotional and high all at once, wanting so badly to join in the music but knowing that I could not. Pity Samuel was not as audible as I would have liked, but no matter, the band really had fun, and Mr Oura was smiling all over.

After that amazing performance, we went to recieve the performers, despite rain and more rain. As each RJCSB guy and girl walked past, a different memory came up, which when pieced together, reveals the essence of RJCSB, and my time spent, especially guest playing last year.

After the concert, of course the usual occurred. We went to find our friends, and I handed out my "flowers" and took a few photos. I really really enjoyed seeing all my juniors again, especially the J2s. After some nice chats with them, as well as the good old VCH uncle, I headed off with Jeremy for supper.

In the end I feel as a whole that the concert was a rousing success. The audience thought we played brilliantly, and everyone left the concert happy. I guess no matter how divided our band has been, we, for a brief moment of time, felt as one.

This will probably be the last time I'll be seeing the J2 batch in action. They aren't going to be present in Prometheum. And technically, it will also be the last time seeing them in action, since I'll be performing WITH them in RWinds in the future.

Which all translates to: the last concert that I'll ever see my juniors in.

And it ended well.

Well, what do I have to say. My mind kept flashing back to that day, 2 years ago, and I still remember it so clearly. As we greeted the performers, I flashed back to the Esplanade stage door 2 years ago, where we got a hero's welcome from the audience, and I remembered as clearly as if it were happening then the events, hugging my juniors and friends, talking and chatting. As the lorry arrived (drove into VCH itself no less), I remembered pushing instruments up onto the lorry in the Esplanade with the bottle of milk. And as the pieces played, technically good or not (and they mostly were), I remembered how it felt to be back on stage.

Walking alone after the concert, I kept thinking about these events, and how I missed being back in the school bands. I wondered, too, why RWinds never evoked the same feelings, despite my passion for her. I came to the conclusion that it was probably because RWinds is more or less eternal, in the sense that it will always be there as long as the people are willing. However, in school bands, graduation's graduation. A Tempos, Prometheums and Cadenzas are finishing points, and starting points, more so than Codas.

This A Tempo was also special because of the people playing, especially the J2s. I've watched them grow since 2005, followed them through Prometheum XI, Prometheum XII, the Japan trip, and especially Limelight, where they made me feel more at home than I was with my own batch. To see them end their career with school bands, and at such a great concert at that, it's almost like watching your own son grow up and leave home...

Ah well, I'm getting way too emotional. But really, it's hard not to. I think no other Prometheum or A Tempo will ever evoke in me these feelings, of grief, laughter, pain, indifference, remorse, despair and hope.

To the RJCSB - Thanks for providing a place to further my musical skills, to my batch, for pulling through in the end, for giving me a night that I'll never forget

Most of all, to Mr Oura - Thanks for everything, over the past 6 years, for all your musical guidance, humour and imparted discipline and wisdom, for teaching me what it means to be in a band.

Also thanks to: Benni, for providing half the material in this post, and being a part of the wonderful music today.

Confused

2010-04-20T23:20:00.002+08:00

I've been feeling quite lonely the past few days, and it's not just due to Bali/USA withdrawal. Recently I've been plagued with yet another wave of uncertainty and distress, feelings of nostalgia and loneliness all rolled into one, and recent events haven't really helped all that much.

Specifically recent events such as the Pixar exhibition have left me feeling even more neglected than ever. I suppose I shouldn't feel this way, but really, when your friend asks you to go for an outing, then turns it into a group outing with you as the sole outsider, it's almost inevitable to feel this way, and the feeling was heightened through the events of the day. I may as well have gone for it myself. But it's not just that of course, I find myself feeling left out, neglected and lonely. I've also come to the realisation that most of the time, events which I try to initiate always seem to get rejected whereas I find myself caving in to the demands of others, and flashbacks of events such as the A levels release day don't help.

Who do I have to blame for these? My friends, for leaving me out or not taking heed? No, I believe I have to blame myself, at least mostly, for feeling this way. How can I, after all, blame my friends for having others they value more than me? It's their right after all. Who am I to detract from their friendship with others? Friendship isn't just something I can demand, it has to be given freely. And it's not as though they don't give the friendship, they do, just that somehow I never feel satiated. It's like a neverending hunger of mine.

I just wish that sometimes, people would make me feel as though I mattered. Maybe it's just my luck, or the fact that the people I'm friends with don't see things the way I do, but I never really get this from most people. I know, consciously, that they regard me as friends but sometimes my heart just needs more. Sometimes I just feel like a friend of convenience, that people call if they need me or want company, but otherwise they'd rather not go out of their way. I guess it's the differences in the way I see things, I regard each person as an individual and treat the friendship as such, while most people would be happy with anyone's company, not caring who it is.

This loneliness and unjustified jealousy and possessiveness is something I need to get rid of, but I have no idea how, really...

Indonesia 2010 Day 4

2010-04-09T09:17:00.003+08:00

This post hasn't been posted live because the day offered no chance for me to blog at all. It was a pretty eventful one, and I'm glad that all the problems are solved now.

We woke up, finally, after the sun had risen, and went for breakfast at the hotel. It was a buffet, with some pretty good food. We then headed back to the room to rest a while before heading out to shop.

Our shopping trip wasn't very fruitful though. We walked around trying to find a specific CD, but couldn't. In the end, we bought 3 souveniers, for Huijun, Yethong and Jinjun's friend, but try as we might, we couldn't find anything else. This was probably due to the fact that most of the shops were, for some reason, selling nothing but large wooden carvings of a particular section of the male anatomy.

We headed for the hotel, packed, had our final lunch with my final orange juice, then set off for the airport in an unofficial cab. Along the way, Calvin and I were showing our passports to each other. Big mistake, I think.

At the airport, disaster struck. Calvin found that his passport was missing. We had an hour before the flight, and we frantically searched for it, but to no avail. The only thing to do was to find the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta, and at this point I was thanking God we had chosen to fly back via Jakarta, as there is no Singapore Consulate in Bali. After some searching for a police post to make a report, we gave up and headed for the plane. Some panic arose as Calvin forgot his bag and phone, but thankfully they were found.

The airliner, PK-LGK was a 737-900ER, the first time I'd flown this type. We passed by numerous interesting airlines on taxi, including some Pacific Blue airliners, Cathay, Thai, China Airlines, a BAe-146 and for some strange reason, a Trimotor. Took off straight west and headed for Jakarta.

The flight was really uneventful, save for me noticing that the safety card consisted of a series of prayers for the Islam, Hindu, Catholic, Protestant and Buddhist faiths. Somehow this didn't encourage me. Nevertheless landing in Jakarta was uneventful, and we taxied to our gate in Terminal 1, parking next to the Dreamliner special livery that Lion Air painted on their first 737-900ER. Something I found ironic was that the planes were parked directly in front of jetways, but they used airstairs instead. Still, I always like walking on tarmac.

A strong sense of Deja Vu as we found that Jinjun left the tent on board the aircraft. Upon realising this, he sprinted back across the tarmac and climbed the airstairs ... of the wrong aircraft. Calvin and I shouted after him, but he seemed oblivious, and only the flight crew of that aircraft managed to convince him. He then sprinted across the tarmac again to the correct aircraft and retrieved the tent.

We cleared baggage claim and headed for the shuttle bus to the international terminal, with Calvin calling the embassy along the way. The bus took us past the ex-SQ Lion Air 747-412 and an Emirates 777-300ER.

At the terminal, we made it to the Lufthansa check-in counter, and tried to organise Calvin's ticket. Thankfully they agreed to waive the change fees if Calvin could provide the documents to prove that he had indeed lost his passport. I withdrew some money for Calvin, as well as to pay the departure charges, and we checked in. At this point, we bid Calvin farewell as he headed for the embassy. I felt really bad leaving him behind, and would have rather we stayed together, but in this case circumstances such as our tickets having to be paid for to change and our NS obligations prevented it.

We started queueing at immigration for about 10 minutes before realising we had queued at the queue for Indonesians. We then joined the back of a foreigners queue, and I was cursing the fact that Soekarno-Hatta airport did not have a priority lane for business class passengers. Just as we reached the front of the queue, Jinjun realised that he could not find his departure card. We had to go all the way to the Turkish Airlines check-in counter to get one, then rejoin the queue at the back.

Nevertheless we did make it through with a bit of time to spare, and after a couple of quick photos we headed for the lounge. I left for a while to try (and fail) to photograph our 747, while Jinjun hit the buffet. When I got back, we enjoyed relaxing in the lounge, which is pretty luxurious, to the point that there's a guy who does nothing but open the restroom door for you.

All too soon it was time to board our flight. We headed for gate D5 and boarded the 747, turning left instead of right at the jetway and taking our seats in 2H and 2K, forward of the nose landing gear. We were presented with a welcome drink as the safety video was played, then the airliner taxied out and made ready for her takeoff.

Now, I know I'm about to wax lyrical, but the 747 and I share an emotional connection of sorts. The feeling of takeoff on this aircraft is vastly different from any other, even the A380, and on this, Jinjun will agree. For me, taking off on a 747 is always a special experience, and usually, it's heightened by the fact that normally the flights I take on a 747 are homeward bound, as it was in this case. We surged skyward as I felt a small lump in my throat, as is normally the case with the 747, simply because of its power and my connection to the plane. The sound of the nose landing gear being raised was quite magnificent, as the plane shot to the sky like a bat out of hell, heading home for Singapore at a 3000fpm climb.

The service on this flight consisted of what must be Lufthansa's idea of a "light snack". I'd hate to see what their main meals must be like then, because it turned out to be a full four-course meal, with a main of fish in butter sauce with ratatouille and pasta. Really delicious, but not as much as Singapore Airlines, I have to say.

Throughout the flight Jinjun was like a kid with a new toy, playing around with the business class seats, and I don't blame him, remembering my first time on SQ's business class. For my part, I relaxed a little, explored the seat and just thought about how happy I was to be flying again, under such great circumstances. At the same time though, I wished Calvin were around to share in the experience.

All too soon though, the flight turned over Singapore for landing. Surprisingly we landed on 20R, 20 minutes ahead of schedule. The feeling was quite fun, as the main gear touched down before the nose gear, we were suspended with the nose above the ground for about 10 seconds before we felt the nose gear slam into the ground. We took a long taxi around the north cross, then parked at E24. We deplaned after taking some good photos of the cabin, though sadly, none of the flight deck.

We met Jinjun's parents at the airport, and I managed to catch a ride home from them. But the story doesn't end here. Calvin faced a couple of snags in his passport process, and in the end came back on the same flight two days later. I met him at the airport, and it was my turn to give him a ride home.

Overall, besides the snag with Calvin's passport, this trip has been really enjoyable. Short of the Hong Kong trip, this has to be the best so far. I will never forget all the moments, the big moments, like summitting Batur, seeing dolphins swim during the sunrise and flying, or the small ones, like walking around Kuta, playing Pokemon with Jinjun in the rooms at the Vilarisi or sleeping in Surabaya Airport.

Much as I felt Calvin's pain at the end of the trip, I felt really happy seeing Jinjun so happy during the trip and on the LH flight, the first time I've seen him really enjoying himself in a while, and I'm really thankful, for him, that he got the chance to spend his birthday this way, and for myself, that I got the chance to share in the experience, and I hope Calvin felt the same way. I guess it's true about friends, that you share in their joys and their sorrows, and I really hope this won't be the last time we share the joy together. (*cough*)

All good things must come to an end I guess. Indonesia Raya, and on to the next trip. Advance Australia Fair!

Indonesia 2010 Day 3

2010-04-06T13:19:00.001+08:00

040410 0030 local time (GMT +8)
Bali, Indonesia

Happy birthday Jinjun!!!

Damn I hate waking up at this time. We have a little time to prepare, Jinjun's cooking Maggi using my mess tin. Oh well, got to rush!

0300 local time (GMT +8)
Mount Batur, Indonesia
1100m ASL

Wow. Batur looks imposing at night. What a starry sky though.

We took a 2 hour drive to get here, where we met our guide and prepared to head up. Just starting now, all the best to us!

0700 local time (GMT +8)
Mt. Batur, Indonesia
1600m ASL

Wow, the sunrise is simply stunning. It's almost surreal.

I can't really describe it, the vista with clouds below and Mt Abang and Mt Agung shrouded by mist in the distance.

The climb was much easier than Mt. Ophir. Took us 3 or so hours to get to this point. It's not the summit but it does give us good views of the sunrise.

There are quite a few people here, not to mention a bunch of playful and smart monkeys who love stealing our food and producing babies in front of us.

We'll be heading to look at the crater soon, then pressing on to the summit.

0900 local time (GMT +8)
Mt. Batur, Indonesia
1717m ASL

Summit!!!!

The view is brilliant.

The climb up took us up slippery slopes of volcanic soil. Kept slipping down, but I found it easier to get a comfortable footing as compared to rocks.

On the way we heard about a Swede who fell into the crater and perished. Sad, really.

We carried out a flag raising ceremony on the summit, using of course the Raffles flag. Really nice to plant our colours on the summit.

I feel really happy for Jinjun, to be able to spend his birthday this way. I know it means a lot to him. It means a lot to me too, as his friend, to be sharing this with him. I really have him to thank for making it here. Calvin too. I never had any motivation to climb myself, so every inch of the way, my main motivation was not to let them down.

Should be casing the colours and making our way down soon, as rain clouds are coming in. Agung looms in the distance, but I'm thankful we didn't climb her. We wouldn't have made it, not to mention missing out on the dolphins and stuff.

Facebook on the summit is fun.

1200 local time (GMT +8)
Kintamani, Indonesia
1300m ASL

The descent was pretty ok. Had a taste of skiing as we delberately slid down the volcanic sand on our feet. That was really fun. The rest of the descent was easy, checking out stuff like volcanic vents called fumeroles and cooking combat rations on them.

Now on our way to buy Babi Guling, or roast suckling pig, which is one of the most famous Balinese delicacies. The mountain looks like Totoro from here. Hope we get back soon, we need to change room again and I'm exhausted.

2100 local time (GMT +8)
Bali, Indonesia

A strong case of Deja vu. I left the room for a while to use the net downstairs and when I came up, Jinjun and Calvin had both fallen asleep, leaving me locked out. They didn't even wake up to the repeated excerpts from William Tell Overture. In the end I had to find a spare key once again.

We wanted to watch the sunset that night. However, Calvin and Jinjun slept through, and no matter how hard I tried, I failed to wake them up.

Dinner was KFC. Not as bad as I remember it, but nothing fantastic. Now at the restaurant having a LAN session with the other two guys.

Back home tomorrow, it's a bittersweet feeling.
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Indonesia 2010 Day 2

2010-04-06T13:14:00.001+08:00

030410 0300 local time (GMT +8)
Bali, Indonesia

Got turned out just now. We were supposed to wake up at 1:45 to catch our ride at 2. We ended up being woken by our driver. Now on the way to the north of Bali, Lovina beach, to see dolphins.

1300 local time (GMT +8)
Bali, Indonesia

Wow. We did manage to see a whole load of dolphins and some beautiful corals, as well as some cool night views of the mountains, such as Batur and Agung. The dolphins and sunrise were really pretty. I've always loved dolphins, and the sunrise was vivid. Bali is really a beautiful place.

Back in the hotel now, lunch was traditional local food from McDonalds. Later we aim to watch sunset from Kuta beach.

2000 local time (GMT +8)
Bali, Indonesia

Mission CX due WX. Nothing much left to do but camp in the hotel, use the net and play Pokemon. Sad, right? Hope we get a good few hours of sleep, since we have to wake up at 12. We were actually supposed to sleep by now, but I'm not nearly tired enough.

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Indonesia 2010 Days 0-1

2010-04-05T12:49:00.001+08:00

020410 0033 local time (GMT +7)
Surabaya Airport, Indonesia

I'm back with another trip report, less than 3 weeks after my first. This one will be much shorter of course.

Mad rush down to the airport after work, where I met up with Jinjun, Paul, Hafiz, Calvin and Shuotian in that order. Had a bite at Popeye's and presented Jinjun with his birthday present. Hope he likes it.

We then ran for the gate, having only 15 mins before scheduled tine of departure... only to find that the plane was delayed. Luckily though it turned out to be a special livery.

Eventually we boarded, and were soon on our way, passing by stuff like a CX 777-367, a JAL 777-346ER and 9V-SPP. Takeoff at 2217 was slightly rough, but not very.

The flight itself was possibly the longest sector the 3 of us had flown together. This says a lot considering it was 2:15. Dinner was chicken with potatoes or seafood rice.

Landing on runway 10 at Surabaya was rough, with an on time of 2208, during which we noticed that the tower resembles a lighthouse. Also, the first plane we saw was a CX A343, B-HXA.

We cleared immigration after deplaning and were treated to the realization that the landside of the airport isn't air conditioned. The night's not going to be comfortable. At least there's a 24 hour place here.

0733 local time (GMT +8)
PK-GZI over Bali

Yay we survived the takeoff!

The night was a little restless, but at least I caught some sleep. Still feeling dead tired though.

Walked out to the plane at gate 8 and took off at 0713. Pretty ok so far, except for a rough takeoff, albeit with a powerful climb.

The volcanoes we saw on the way were really scenic. Also Jinjun tells me we can see Agung. Time to go find it.

2100 local time (GMT+8)
Bali, Indonesia

That was a pretty good pair of landings our plane did. First aircraft we saw was our own 9V-SRC.

Getting our bags proved to be a snap, and we then caught a cab to our hotel, the Vilarisi in Kuta.

The hotel was nice, but despite our need to rest, the room wasn't ready. We dropped off our bags and decided to "Jalan-Jalan", hoping for A Vision of thr Isle of the Gods, as Bali is otherwise known. We saw Kuta beach, with it's many sunbathers and surfers having a good time, and the more subdued Bali bombing memorial.

We then returned to the hotel to rest. Calvin and I concussed almost immediately, while Jinjun, who had managed enough sleep in Surabaya, managed to stay awake long enough to find out that...

Mt. Aging was closed! He woke me up with this shocking piece of news, and, faced with this huge problem, decided to go for lunch at the hotel restaurant.

We discussed plans and settled on climbing Mt. Batur instead, our original plan. We tried, but failed to wake Calvin up to enter our room, so we had to ask for a spare key.

After resting a while, we took a walk out again, to watch the sunset near the beach. On the way, we decided to plan something for the next day, and had a tough choice between watching wild dolphins or white water rafting. In the end, the dolphins won.

We then took a cab over to Barong beach to watch sunset and planerise. The sunset was simply beautiful, but far away, shrouded in mist, Agung stood taunting us.

After it got dark, we set off for the return trip to our hotel, and had dinner at the hotel restaurant again. We then decided to turn in early, for tomorrow will be a long day.

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Satoshi Yagisawa "LIVE"

2010-03-21T00:49:00.002+08:00

Victoria Concert Hall, 20th March 2010
To The Crown
Berutness - Ship of the Sun That It Invites to Ocean
Cluster of Light from Pleiades
Birth of Life from Sea
The Honour of the King
-----------------------------------------------------------
March Willing and Able
"The Bells of Sagrada Familia" - An Everlasting Will of Antoni Gaudi
Perseus - A Hero's Quest in the Heavens
Ephermal Dream of Prosperity
"Morning of Keith Haring" And the Darkness was Filled of Happiness

Yes, I know, the titles of the pieces look like they were fed through Babelfish.

Met Benjamin at the Esplanade's rooftop, then headed for dinner at Just Noodles at Suntec. After dinner, we attempted to find Eugene a gift, found said and headed for Victoria Concert Hall, where I discovered that our reservation wasn't present. We did get tickets though, and a CD.

I shall not comment much on the concert, because my comments are going to get boring. But suffice to say, it was brilliant. Excellent musicianship and conducting from both bands and all three conductors. For me the highlights were, of course, seeing Mr Oura in action once again and seeing Satoshi Yagisawa in action live.

I was most impressed, and moved almost to tears, by the performance RGSSB put up with Perseus. It has to be the best performance I've ever seen by a secondary school band, and was of a standard I wish RI could even reach half of.

After the concert, I was pulled aside by Mr Oura to meet Yagisawa himself. At this point, I was really touched by his actions. Not only did he give me some special token (some cute Yagisawa piece stickers), when I requested his autograph, he did it in Kanji instead of his usual English "just for me".

Had a quick photo with Yagisawa, where I introduced Benni in Japanese as "the best percussionist under Mr Oura". Benni of course was smiling happily and nodding, not knowing what I was saying. We then left for Macs and home.

This concert was one of the best I've attended. Musically, it was brilliant. I half expected to be bored after so much Yagisawa but that was not the case, as each piece had its own unique flair. NTUSB and RGSSB put up magnificent performances, and credit goes to Yiheng and Eugene among others.

On a personal level, it was good to spend some time with Benni in person. For all the talking we do on MSN, we don't see each other in person that much, and it was a good bonding experience.

Sound advice of course from Satoshi Yagisawa, music must come from the heart. I loved the way he conducted, you could see that he was pouring his heart into his conducting and that he really felt the music. I would really have loved the chance to play under his baton.

Finally, the actions of Mr Oura today left a deep mark on me. More than Yagisawa, I was really looking forward to seeing him today. As my teacher of six years, as the person who taught me music and life, I really miss him and his doing what he did, minor though his actions may be, really touched me. So, obviously, you're not reading this, but I have to say this, once again, but it won't be enough.

全て私の心からありがとうございました

UK/USA 2010 Day 11-12-13

2010-03-11T03:25:00.001+08:00

090310 0713 local time (GMT -7)
Denver International Airport, Colorado, USA

Well I'm off on the next leg of this 2 and a half day long journey home, and I'm back in KDEN queueing fo security and looking at N927FR out the window. She has a dolphin on her tail, I think Jinjun would be happy, I know I am. The queue is quite long. No rush though, and I managed to get my bag checked through all the way home. What's the worst that cou... Oh crap I shouldn't be saying that.

0843 local time (GMT -7)
N791UA over Colorado

Channel 9 rocks. Had it all the way from the gate, and I made good use of it, listening into ATC. We took off at 0827 and are now headed for southern California. Incidentally we were followed by the dolphin plane I noticed earlier. Quite fun to hear Denver ground tell him to follow "the United heavy".

At the moment I'm listening to Monument again and enjoying the scenery it describes out the window, which is simply spectacular.

0902 local time (GMT -7)
N791UA over Utah

How poetic. The last notes of Monument ended just as we exited Colorado and left the Rockies behind.

0837 local time (GMT -8)
N791UA over Nevada

I just listened to a nice talk by the captain about the flight, the 777 and so on. I found it pretty informative, and it was a really nice personal touch by the captain.

We're flying near Las Vegas now, sadly it's too cloudy to see out. Should be over California soon. Whatever happens in Vegas stays there I guess.

0857 local time (GMT -8)
N791UA over California

Descending into KLAX now. Channel 9 is the best form of inflight entertainment ever. It's really fun to follow your flight and hear what's happening around you. Crossing over another beautiful mountain range now, the Sierra Nevada.

1000 local time (GMT -8)
Los Angeles International Airport, California, USA

Quote of the day:
"American 2099, light chop and heavy 777" (referring to our own 777)

On time was 0918, much earlier than I expected. Something interesting to note is that during the post-landing announcement, the flight attendant mentioned that we had members of the armed forces on board and thanked them for their service. I did notice earlier that a major in uniform was upgraded for no apparent reason. Now why can't Singapore Airlines do this?

I did want to find my way to the In-N-Out at LAX, but decided it was too difficult and that finding spotting places in the Tom Bradley International Terminal would be easier. I'm there now checking in for SQ11

1246 local time (GMT -8)
9V-SPO at Los Angeles International Airport, California, USA

Most of my time, other than a break for curry rice brunch at Hamada's, was spent photographing airliners from all over the world. My ride home is a new one, 9V-SPO. I'm finally back in Singapore, officially. Let's hope she's a great way to fly.

1518 local time (GMT -8)
9V-SPO over Oregon

We taxied out a little late, but not very. Amusingly during the taxi there was a little kid who kept going "bye bye plane!" I remember a story in the news once of a mother and a kid who got kicked off because the kid was saying exactly that.

Fortunately this didn't happen this time round, and the majestic 747-412 took to the skies at 1332. It felt good to be flying, better to be flying home, better still to be on Singapore Airlines, but the best part was really the 747.

We flew out over the Pacific for a while, then turned north to fly over California. The lunch was excellent. I had a really tough time choosing, reason being that one choice had smoked salmon for an appetizer and the other had soba, my two ultimate favourite SQ dishes. Eventually I went with the soba and teriyaki chicken, and as usual, it was superb.

For now the queen of the skies is over the third mountain range I'm flying over today, the Cascades. She's just about to cross the coast once more, and we expect to reach the Empire of the Rising Sun in 10 hours or so.

Interestingly, we're now flying close to Everett, Washington, the place where this magnificent airliner was born and first took to the skies.

100310 1718 local time (GMT +12)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

Hmm I pretty much concussed after we left the Alaskan coastline, so not much to say. 4 hours left to Tokyo and once again we're racing the sun. Doubt we'll win though.

1804 local time (GMT +11)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

Am I the only person who thinks that flying, especially oceanic flights, and Satoshi Yagisawa pieces, especially Hymn to the Infinite Sky and And Then the Ocean Glows, go extremely well together?

1756 local time (GMT +10)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

Just had the "light meal" which wasn't that light. It was good though, ham and potato salad followed by a really good barbequed chicken with mac and cheese.

Looks like we just came off the PACOT and I think we're passing GUPPY. Sapporo is just off to the right, so we should be reaching Tokyo soon. The clouds appear to be bathed in the light of the early stages of the sunset. Hopefully the sun doesn't set that fast.

1746 local time (GMT +9)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

Just felt the unmistakeable downward pull that means we've started our descent. The sun is well on its way down, I really hope we make it before it does.

1845
Narita International Airport, Tokyo, Japan

Touchdown was on the dot at 1816. Sadly we lost the race against the sun, and it was quite dark by the time we got to the gate. Still, I did manage to catch some planes. Interestingly I think I saw more United and Delta/Northwest airliners than JAL and ANA ones. Should be boarding soon for the last leg of the journey home.

2032 local time (GMT +9)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

We took off quite late, almost an hour after scheduled time. This was probably due to a long queue for the only long runway there, 34L. I wonder if we were routed via taxiways O U R A again.

Eventually we made it into the air at 1959. I'm dead tired and intend to conk out after dinner. Looking forward to wheels on at Changi.

2032 local time (GMT +9)
9V-SPO over the Pacific Ocean

The winds are really bad. Something close to 160kts headwind. I think we could hover if we wanted to. As it is we can't even hit 600km/h of groundspeed. This is going to be a long flight.

110310 0104 local time (GMT +8)
9V-SPO over the South China Sea

Wow. I've never seen so many stars out the window of an airliner before. It's simply epic.

It's nice to be back in my home time zone again, and we're just abeam of Kota Kinabalu. We took a far more westerly route than Japan flights usually do, for some reason, missing Taiwan completely as opposed to the usual overflying it.

Just over an hour to home.

0120 local time (GMT +8)
9V-SPO over the South China Sea

"Singapore 11, contact Singapore Center on 127.3, have a good night"

Just entered the Singapore FIR. Less than an hour.

0153 local time (GMT +8)
9V-SPO over the South China Sea

For the last time on this trip I feel the familiar lurch of an airliner starting its descent that in this case means we're near home.

0319 local time (GMT +8)
Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

I'm home.

Touchdown at 0219 after flying past all the familiar sights of home and the 2L approach.

At the airport I found myself turned into an airport guide of sorts, helping a Texan guy find his way to T2 in the absence of a SkyTrain. There was also a Japanese student flying to Sydney who I met. She turned out to be a flautist with her high school band. I walked with her from the plane and helped her find a transit lounge to shower. On the way we talked in both English and Japanese, and turns out she was on an exchane program. Sounds way too familiar. Still, it was good talking to her, telling her about Singapore (her first time here) and of course, good to help people.

On the ECP headed home now, finally. It was a good trip, overall, especially the later half. I enjoyed visiting the United Kingdom, the United States of America and for a brief while, Japan. But really, there's just no place like home.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 10

2010-03-09T21:40:00.001+08:00

080310 1219 local time (GMT -7)
US 160, Arizona, USA

We are currently barrelling down US 160 at twice the speed limit and really pushing the Hyundai Santa Fe because as usual, we are late. We have a flight at 1400 and our GPS tells us we'll reach the airport at 1358.

We did go to Monument Valley again, and this time the weather was much better. We drove on dirt roads within the valley and saw many natural wonders. The place is indeed a place of outstanding beauty. There was a bit of light snowfall but it soon cleared up.

At the gift shop I noticed some Native American flutes and immediately thought of Colorado Dreams from Monument. Fitting name for the piece and the location I guess.

But anyway, as a result of all this we are now horribly late for our flight back to Denver, and I hope we can reach Farmington on time

1357 local time (GMT -7)
Four Corners Regional Airport, New Mexico, USA

Well, that was certainly a mad rush. We got to the airport at 1345, but thankfully the flight would depart only at 1500, having been delayed. Now sitting around charging my camera, which died somewhere after leaving Monument Valley. Incidentally there's a Learjet parked here with United States Air Force roundels on it.

1501 local time (GMT -7)
Four Corners Regional Airport, New Mexico, USA

Hmmm the flight's supposed to leave at 1507, but when I got to the gate, there was no plane. Why does this sound so familiar?

1602 local time (GMT -7)
N201GL over Colorado

Boarding took pretty long because of weight and balance issues. Apparently we went out at MTOW. Still, we had a good takeoff at 1555 and we're now well on our way to KDEN, though it is a bit bumpy.

2100 local time (GMT -7)
Denver, Colorado, USA

That landing was fun, especially since I had a front view thanks to the open cockpit. We landed at around 1700, then taxied to the gate.

Had a good dinner at Applebee's before heading to the hotel. Going to sleep now, tomorrow will be a long day, but it's the journey home, so I can't complain.

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UK/USA 2010 Day 9

2010-03-08T23:57:00.000+08:00

070310 1023 local time (GMT -7)
Denver International Airport, Colorado, USA

Weather's causing numerous flight delays, result being that while we should have been at Farmington a minute ago, we're still in Denver.

Crossing the taxiway bridge was fun, and I spotted quite a few Frontier aircraft, but visibility is quite bad. In fact, at the Panda Express earlier, I could see airliners at adjoining gates, but once they pushed back, they all but disappeared. Notable highlights (all 737NGs) include Aeromexico, Continental Star Alliance and my catch of the day, Alaska's Dreamliner 737-800.

Still waiting for my flight. Latest word is 1144. Well, at least the plane's here...

1843 local time (GMT -7)
Kayenta, Arizona, USA

The flight was really great. It was on a small Beech 1900D, and on such a small plane, you really feel like you're in the air. Such a small plane is way more susceptible to turbulence, and gives a wild ride. The flight was exactly an hour and fifteen minutes long, and flew over much of the Colorado Rockies.

We landed at Farmington, New Mexico at 1330 and proceeded to get our car. The good news was, we got a free upgrade. The bad news was, it was to a Hyundai.

We set off for Four Corners, the intersection point of the states of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. Sadly, we got there to find it closed. Still, thanks to the road network, we did traverse all four states in the span of 15 mins.

The car ride to Monument Valley was long, but really beautiful. This is the first time in the whole trip I felt happy about long distance driving. We passed by magnificent, and ever-changing scenery characteristic of the American southwest. Even the dreary weather couldn't spoil it, though it did make photo taking hard.

After 2 hours we came to the outskirts of Monument Valley, and I was struck by the beauty. Words can't describe it, so I shall let pictures do the work.

We wanted to hit the visitors center but found it closed. I got some shots, then we headed for the Holiday Inn, where I am now. This is the first time I've been somewhere that has wireless but no phone reception.

2315 local time (GMT -7)
Kayenta, Arizona, USA

I just watched Up win best original score. I'm happy for Pixar, but of course my favourite Pixar film is still Cars, and I can see the reason out my window.

I love this region of the USA. The scenery is breathtaking and the small-town environment is warm and friendly. I feel an affinity to the western United States and its ruggedness and free spirit. Monumnt Valley especially is epic.

Tomorrow I begin the long journey home. Much as I'll miss this place, more so than the rest of the places visited so far, I can't wait to get home.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 8

2010-03-07T22:23:00.001+08:00

060510 1542 local time (GMT -5)
New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York, USA

About to fly again, this time on Delta, the last of the remaining legacy carriers I have yet to fly on. Of course, this flight's being done entirely on former Northwest metal.

Didn't do that much in the morning, saw both St Patrick's Cathedrals and that was it. Of note though is that I passed a plaza surrounded by all the flags of the world. It was a windy day and all the flags were flying, except for one flag which had wrapped around the flagpole. Normally I wouldn't take notice of such details, but in this case I did. This is due to the nation whose flag was stuck. Can you guess which one.

I'm getting quite annoyed with my family. Really.

1741 local time (GMT -5)
N783NC over New York, USA

The shuttle bus ride from terminal 3 to terminal 4, as well as the slight delay, offered excellent spotting opportunities. Today JFK was 777-200LR land with Air India, Pakistan International Airlines and Qatar Airways among others. Watching the Indian and Pakistani 77Ls face off was amusing. Of course, the highlight was 9V-SPJ, good ol' Singapore Airlines 747-412.

When I got to gate B22, there was no plane, and I felt a strong sense of deja vu. It showed up eventually though, and we boarded.

We pushed back and started, and for the first time I got to experience the noise of the old PW JT8Ds. Felt brilliant. We taxied off to runway 4L and took off at 1725.

Being on this aircraft has the atmosphere of flying in the old days, with ancient seats and windows that make B-HNH's look spotless. I'm also enjoying the fact that the land we're flying over is blanketed in snow. Really nice.

1918 local time (GMT -5)
Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Michigan, USA

The flight was short and uneventful. Some nice snow covered scenery along the way. Landed at 1846 on 27L and taxied to gate A11. I managed to visit the flight deck, a real treat for me a I've never flown an airliner from that era, let alone the DC9.

Detroit Airport is really nice and modern, with a hint of Seoul Incheon International Airport. At a nice Japanese place now, with the tram running just above. It's quite sad though. Once a giant Northwest fortress, there is now no trace of Northwest other than the other DC9 we parked next to. Everything's Delta now...

2048 local time (GMT -5)
N318US over Michigan, USA

Had dinner at this good Japanese place. Given the amount of Japanese traffic that probably passes through Detroit on Northw... Delta, I guess it's to be expected.

Boarded an A320, an airliner which I've had more than enough flights on. I was quite annoyed to find a kid on my assigned window seat, but what could I do? Remind me to do my long overdue rant on flight etiquette soon.

We just took off at 2043, let's see what happens next.

2101 local time (GMT -7)
N318US over Colorado, USA

I'm really exhausted, and a little numb to my surroundings at the moment. Can't really be helped I guess, given the hectic nature of the trip so far. We'll be hitting the ground in Denver soon, already descending.

2300 local time (GMT -3)
Denver, Colorado, USA
Monument by Robert W. Smith rings in my mind as I arrive in Colorado. The airport is nice, and I love the decor, especially the world peace mural.

And my sense of dislike for travelling with family grows and grows.

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UK/USA 2010 Day 7

2010-03-06T15:24:00.001+08:00

050310 1553 local time (GMT -5)
Woodbury, New York, USA

At a huge discount mall now. Being me this isn't exactly my idea of a great time. I'm feeling quite annoyed at the wastage of leave, and I think the homesickness is taking its toll. Ok it's not exactly homesickness. Just missing one aspect of home terribly. I'm sure you know what that is if you're reading my blog in the first place.

2055 local time (GMT -5)
New York, New York, USA

I'm in Carnegie Hall watching a band concert at the moment. The first band was a jazz band, which was pretty decent. Looking forward to the symphonic segment. The hall's pretty awe-inspiring too.

060310 0217 local time (GMT -5)
New York, New York, USA

Back from the concert. It was a really interesting experience, seeing an American band concert. The 3 symphonic bands were all good, the second being my favourite. I also enjoyed Der Traum des Oenghus by the third, and massive, band. It was played really well I believe, kudos especially to the two basses for supporting such a huge band.

I notice the Americans love giving standing ovations too. Good spirit I guess. But I did get annoyed by midmovement applause.

The scene post concert reminded me of that back home. People crowding to the backstage to find friends, phototakings along the aisles and outside the hall and a lorry for the percs were all present. The only diff was really the American flags in the background as compared to the statue of Raffles.

Our dinner was at a pretty nice Japanese ramen place which featured innovative dishes such as Philadelphia cheesesteak springrolls. Cute.

From tomorrow onwards I'll be flying everyday for 5 days. I take comfort in the fact that every flight except one short one will now be taking me closer and closer to home.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 6

2010-03-05T23:04:00.001+08:00

040310 1512 local time (GMT -5)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

This morning was a little more eventful than I expected owing to the towing away of our car for illegal parking, but still rather uneventful. Amusingly my mum left the room without the car keys. We had no way to contact her, but she came back eventually.

We had lunch at Under the C Seafood below the Comcast Center, same as last time and the staff even remembered us. Now back at the hotel lobby waiting for our car.

1809 local time (GMT -5)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
The only thing we did so far was shop for $308.38 worth of stuff. Waiting for Curtis results now.

2300 local time (GMT -5)
New York, New York, USA

Back in NYC after a fully uneventful day other than the numerous amount of traffic violations. It was amusing to see a whole row of cars with traffic tickets on them. That's all for today I guess.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 5

2010-03-04T21:48:00.001+08:00

030310 1345 local time (GMT -5)
I-95, New Jersey, USA

This morning's quite pleasant, weather wise. Spent the morning at my aunt's house chatting with people, which left me feeling quite well.

Headed for KJFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport) to pick up my brother, seeing the flag of Singapore among others there. Also I caught sight of Air India and Air Jamaica.

On the road again! Down to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There are banks of snow along the roads, which makes the drive looks quite nice.

Also, I used to wonder which cities could possibly be represented by Simcity 4 in terms of the neatly ordered streets abs building design. I used to wonder which city in the world would be designed that way. Somehow it never occurred to me till now that New York was it. Maybe it's because it's the first time I've been to New York while playing Simcity.

1550 local time (GMT -5)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Back in Philadelphia, a city I'm somewhat familiar with by now. We had Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwiches for lunch at Geno's. It's famous, but I preferred the one we had last time.

Parked outside the Curtis Institute of Music now, the main reason we're here. And to think when leaving last year I thought I'd never see the place again.

2300 local time (GMT -5)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

In the hotel now after catching a performance by the world's largest working pipe organ and a massive steak for dinner. I need a break...
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UK/USA 2010 Day 4

2010-03-03T12:40:00.000+08:00

020310 1641 local time (GMT)
N26123 over the United Kingdom

It's good to be flying again, I must say.

This morning I headed back down to Piccadilly to buy stuff at my regular HMV. Of course, I utilised the London Underground. My impressions of their subway system are that it is rather messy. Stations are more like mazes, and changing lines is tough. To be expected from a system that grew rather than one that was planned, I guess.

Headed to the airport after a good lunch of stew. The airport, like the subway, is quite messy and we had to navigate our way to Terminal 4. We checked in and proceeded through security, where my mum once again got caught for liquids.

My usage of the net once in the terminal caused me to miss some good photo ops, including the Emirates A380. I did manage some shots of interesting aircraft though, such as an Amiri 747 I think of the UAE.

Soon our flight was called and we boarded the 757. Interestingly we were subjected to a full patdown and bag search halfway down the jetway. The plane's half empty, so I expect the rest of the flight to be quite comfortable.

We pushed back for quite a long time, one of the longest pushbacks I've experienced, before taxiing to runway 9R for takeoff. There was a long queue for takeoff including a BA 772 with GE90s. I love the way BA registers their 777s.

Our off time was 1607 local time, and the plane did a right bank over Heathrow that afforded me some good views. The takeoff was supremely powerful, and I was pressed backwards into my seat throughout. The 757's climb was like a bat out of hell too. I admire this aircraft and its diversity and capability. I also like its feel. You can hear its every movement, unlike the newer planes. Sounds like the flaps and gear give it a very organic, almost human feel, to quote Jeremy Clarkson. Speaking of which, I'm listening to Born in the USA on the IFE

Continental seems like a good airline so far, though the flight's just begun. Hope it keeps up.

1745 local time (GMT -1)
N26123 over the North Atlantic

So far so good, grilled chicken dinner was pretty nice. Just watched Planet 51, corny but good entertainment. Mozart Symphony no. 40 playing now.

I love flying. Most people just see it as a mode of travel but I always find it something more. Looking down at the clouds and the ocean is really nice, and I find myself at peace up here.

1921 local time (GMT)
N26123 taxiing in Newark Liberty International Airport, New Jersey, USA

Finally back in the United States of America.

I used the IFE a lot on this flight, watching The Wizard of Oz and Ratatouille. Nice that the airline gives you the earphones to keep.

We came in over Canada, then headed inland for a while before turning to land on runway 04R at 1917. Our gate, 120, is a tow-in gate, meaning that the engines are shut down and the aircraft is towed in to prevent the engines from damaging baggage carts and stuff in the gate. At the moment we're waiting for the tow.

2300 local time (GMT -5)
New York, New York, USA

Not much happened after deplaning. The pilot was kind enough to tell me the registration of the plane on arrival. Smooth pass through immigration and customs, then we headed for my aunt's house.

The UK was good, but I'm happy to be back in the USA. Also, I was very happy with Continental Airlines. Their service standards are far above the standards one expects from a US Airline.

Flying for me tends to be a time for personal reflection, this was no different, but probably not such a good idea.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 3

2010-03-03T11:29:00.001+08:00

010310 1900 local time (GMT)
London, England, UK

Today began with a long car ride up to Stonehenge, which I took a walk around. Not much to say though, you have to be there.

We then went to Salisbury Cathedral, which is really huge. Soon after we entered, the massive organ started blaring Pachelbel's Canon in D. I can find no escape from that piece, can I. In the room containing the Magna Carta, I discovered something quite interesting. The guide stationed there served in the Royal Air Force during WWII, and was posted to, of all the possible bases in the British Empire, RAF Tengah. This base, obviously, is now known as Tengah Air Base, RSAF. Small world.

After a stop on the motorway for lunch, we headed for central London for my mum to shop. On my part, I stopped at Chappell's to buy a trumpet mute and be stunned by the high price of reeds. Then, I headed for Russell Square to meet Brian. I made a call to Jinjun on the way, which I found reassuring I a way.

By the time I met Brian it was around 5. We embraced each other as though we hadn't seen each other in months, which, since I missed him in Singapore, was the case.

We took a relaxing walk around the UCL area, and talked about life, love and RWinds. Brian also showed me around UCL before bringing me up to his room. We chatted a while, discovered that SLRs can't be used to camwhore and slacked a bit before he had to head for a meeting or something.

I bid Brian farewell outside his faculty building with another embrace, then tried to find my way back to Russell Square. This did not go too well, but after some aimless wandering I found my way to King's Cross and took the train to Queensway.

I am there now, enjoying the long queue for the lift. This is quite annoying, both here and in Russell Square, the only access to street level is by lift. Not very efficent, is it?

2230 local time (GMT)
London, England, UK

Dinner was quite uneventful, and we headed home after that.

I'm starting to like London a lot. In a way, I'm feeling the same affinity and warm familiarity as I do with Hong Kong. I don't feel this way with my other two favourite cities, San Francisco and Tokyo. Not just because I haven't been to them as often, but probably because I've explored London and Hong Kong myself on my own time. Nevertheless though, there is still no place deeper in my heart than my hometown.

Also I really, honestly, loved meeting Brian and Yuhyiing again, especially since I missed them in Singapore. Makes me want to come back to see them next year.

Off to the United States tomorrow, and I am looking forward to that. I love London, so I am sad to leave, but as a country, I love the USA. New York is waiting.
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UK/USA 2010 Day 2

2010-03-01T05:57:00.001+08:00

280210 2139 local time (GMT)
London, England

It would seem that carsickness is the bane of my plan to update asap. Today has been rather busy I guess.

Typically we woke up late in the morning, leaving our plans for the day in a mess. Still, we left the house eventually and headed off for Oxford.

By the time we reached Oxford it was 1100. We then tried to find parking. This was eventually done by 1145. Says something about Oxford.

We met up with my mother's friend, the same guy from yesterday, then I set off to find Yuhyiing. I eventually met her outside Waterstone's.

After a good lunch at O'Neil's, Yuhyiing proceeded to show me around town and the university. We stopped by a music shop to take a look, but bought little. We also met up with her friend, another Singaporean student. At his room I demonstrated my lack of ability to play the violin, then we talked politics.

Soon it was time for me to leave. I bid Yuhyiing farewell and met my mum and her friend, who took us around Christchurch College. I also witnessed a woman appearing to have a heart attack. It was scary, especially as paramedics were rushing there as we left.

That aside, we finished our tour and left the city to meet another relative. My aunt lived in this little village, incidentally next to a nuclear reactor. Her house and food were both nice. We then left for a walk to take in scenery, then my mum and I headed home for a good steamboat.

All in all today was better than yesterday. The weather was warmer and more inviting. Also it was really good to see Yuhyiing, as I haven't had the chance to meet her in a long while. Hopefully tomorrow will be as good as this.

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UK/USA 2010 Day 1

2010-02-27T18:42:00.000+08:00

270210 1043 local time (GMT)
London, England, UK

Murphy's Law states that if anything can go wrong, it will.

After deplaning and stopping for a couple of quick photos, I made my way through immigration and baggage claim. We then set about collecting our car.

The car rental area offered a good view of the runway and I enjoyed watching planes take off. Once we got our car, we realised that we left one luggage bag on the carousel. We had to go get it back, which involved me going back into the sterile area to find it.

Once this was done we headed for my aunt's place in London. However, satnav cockups caused some delays. Eventually we did make it here though. Today wouldn't be so interesting, I suppose, but we'll see.

1400
Leicester, England, UK

We were delayed again, this time to figure out how to use the SIM card we bought. Eventually we did, then drove out all the way to Leicester to meet my mum's friends. Now we should be going to a scenic castle in Warwick.

1630
Warwick Castle, England, UK

I'm standing here looking at the most beautiful rainbow ever. Got some shots of the brilliant double rainbow.

2211
London, England, UK

What a tiring day. As I mentioned above we did go to Warwick Castle. Pretty cool stuff we saw, including various human body parts. One thing that stood out to me was the enthusiasm of the guides. Though they couldn't have earned much, their passion for ther job really shone, and their acting skills are superbs.

I saw the abovementioned rainbow while leaving. We were headed to meet another of my mum's friends for dinner. I was pretty tired by then, think I slept in the car. Dinner was uneventful, then we headed back to rest for the next day.

So far, the weather has, with the exception of the rainbow, been miserable. It's not helping that I'm sick either. I find myself getting pulled down by the dreariness, a far cry from the warm and inviting London of last year. I now find that I'm yearning for the physical and metaphorical warmth of my Singapore.

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UK/USA 2010 Day 0

2010-02-27T14:44:00.001+08:00

270210 0104 local time (GMT+8)
9V-SKI over Malaysia

I'm taking advantage of my phone's blog feature to try something new - live on-the-spot blogging. At the moment I'm at seat 74K aboard Singapore Airlines Airbus A380-841 9V-SKI bound for London Heathrow, listening to Yagisawa's Hymn to the Infinite Sky. Photos will be added later.

The trip began at the airport a few hours ago, where I met Shuotian, Paul and Calvin at check-in. I was deeply disappointed that I didn't get to see Jinjun, but sadly it was not possible. We had US fries and a Topless 5 at Swensens, reminiscent of the time we went to Japan two years ago.

I dislike being sent off, as compared to being received, as I usually hate leaving my friends behind. This was no exception.

I proceeded to gate A10 (Thunderbolt II) where 9V- SKI was waiting. After a quick call to Jinjun, I boarded her and took my seat.

Pushback was slightly late, not that I minded, since this meant that there was a chance the sun would rise before we landed. We taxied out behind a considerable queue, the longest I've seen in Changi so far. I saw numerous airliners landing, including a United Airlines 777-222ER and a Japan Airlines 777-246ER. Also, we were overtaken by a Qantas A380-841 along the way, probably racing us to London. This lead to an interesting situation of us holding for the runway on W1, the Qantas A380 holding parallel to us on W2 and what I assumed to be a Paris or Zurich bound Singaporean A380 parallel to us on W3. The plane that was holding us all up? A Jetstar A320. Imagine the view from the right of that plane of 3 A380s lined up waiting.

The other A380 took to the skies, then we lined up and began our takeoff run. Our off time was 0033, making this the second longest delay I've experienced in Changi, and probably the longest out-off interval I've had in a while.

As the plane soared into the sky, I felt some of the burden on my back fall away, for which I am thankful. I guess I really do love being in the sky.

Till now the flight has been uneventful, although the clocks in the flight maps are an hour forward for some reason. Interestingly I was asked for my dinner order in advance. Not sure if this is due to my silver status with SQ. Also, after a year, the stage selections appear to be unchanged. Dinner should be interesting. Yusheng for starters. If you get more luck the higher you toss it, then I wonder how much one can get from tossing it 35000ft in the air.

0044 local time (GMT +6)
9V-SKI over the Bay of Bengal

Interestingly I was served dinner first, again not sure if it's due to my status.

Dinner was, as usual, excellent, especially the yu sheng, and I did do a little personal toss of it. Just took a little walk around the back end of the A380 to have a stretch. Top Gear as usual during dinner, love that show. I really should try to get some sleep in.

0344 local time (GMT +4)
9V-SKI over Afghanistan

Guess I'm not getting any more sleep than this. Probably because it's already nearly 8am back home. And I see as I'm typing this that we've just crossed into Iran. Fun part of the world this is.

0414 local time (GMT +3)
9V-SKI over Azerbaijan

Time's passing slowly thanks to the time zones. Just watched Merry Widow, which they've been showing since I flew this flight this time last year. Soon be over Armenia. I'm considering listening to Armenian Dances now. Should have listened to Persis when I was over Iran.

0525 local time (GMT +2)
9V-SKI over Moldova

The seafood noodles Singapore Airlines serves are excellent. Just crossed into Europe and it shouldn't be long more. Incidentally I did listen to Armenian Dances when we passed into Armenian airspace, but we crossed into Georgia before even halfway into the piece.

0549 local time (GMT +1)
9V-SKI over Germany

Deutschland Deutschland uber alles, and I am at the moment over Deutschland, therefore I am above all, and I just happen to be in the RSAF. Just over an hour left to go. Incidentally I am quite annoyed by an article in SilverKris magazine. It talked about how a successful trial flight was conducted on how to save fuel and all, lauded the achievement, talked about the vast environmental benefits and spooned praises to all involved, but made absolutely no mention at all that the star of the show, the aircraft, was a 747-412. Does Singapore Airlines really dislike it that much? Had it been an A380 you can bet the article would have highlighted the fact.

0619 local time (GMT +1)
9V-SKI over Belgium

My last post before landing. Listening to Saga Maligna on the way down. Been a good flight so fat, still racing the sun and hoping it wins.

0553 local time (GMT)
9V-SKI over the United Kingdom

Guess not. Holding over LAMBON. At least this should give the sun more time to come up.

0641 local time (GMT)
London Heathrow Airport

Great landing to a great flight. It was not as bright as I'd wanted, but still quite bright. The next aircraft to land was the Qantas A380 that raced us here (and lost). Now back in the all too familiar LHR T3. I shall end off here and carry on in the next post.

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Too much of a good thing

2010-02-22T00:07:00.001+08:00

Over-reliance on stuff isn't a good thing. But there's still such a thing as that.

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Another spontaneous post

2010-02-16T00:00:00.001+08:00

Lying on my bed after a good day's mahjong. Just as I am hurt when my friends are, I feel joyful as they do, and today was really the most joyful day of the week... Oh wait it's Monday so technically it's the only day so far... Oh well you get the idea.

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صديق / 朋友 / Ami / Freund / φίλος / יָדִיד / मित्र / ともだち / 친구

2010-02-14T21:37:00.004+08:00

It's Chinese New Year and it's Valentine's Day. Family and romantic partners get together for fun, laughter and joy. So what's missing?

To me, friendships are a very important part of my life. Not that family's not, but I think a lot more about friendship, maybe because it's more complex. Sadly, I'm one of few that feels that way.

What defines a close friend to me? I was asking this question a while back, but couldn't find a definitive answer. Now, though, I think I have one. A close friend is someone who will share your joy and sorrow as though it were their own. I experienced this personally myself only recently. I guess you would regard someone as close if, when they were suffering or in pain, you felt it as well and conversely, would feel happy for them when they did. This is in contrast to just a friend or acquaintance who would probably try to help, but not feel anything much.

In this respect recent events have reaffirmed how I feel about my friends, especially this one. I think sometimes, friends are the best means of support, because sometimes you'd feel awkward talking to your family members, or they might not be able to help much. Obviously partners who you share a solely romance-based relationships wouldn't be a good idea either because relationships like that with no foundation in friendship can be unstable. As the saying goes "Joy shared is joy doubled, sorrow shared is sorrow halved", and I'm thankful to have people who I can share my joys and sorrows in, and I really hope I can be the same sort of person to them.

While everyone is thanking their family and their partners, here's a shout out to those people who fall into neither category, but who deserve recognition all the same. They may not be many, but they're more than enough for me:

ベン
ポール
ジンジュン
フイジュン
ジェレミ
シュオチアン

Music that means a lot to me

2010-02-07T22:09:00.008+08:00

Some snippets of the music that means the most to me, that evoke so many different emotions in my soul. (if you want to identify them, answers below)

Disclaimer :
1. The order of pieces is really completely random
2. Only the melody is included. Obviously most of them are band pieces but in some cases where there are more than one melody competing for the spot, the first among equals (chronologically) is picked
3. Most, if not all, of them are in their original keys, or the keys I know them best in

If you're curious as to what the pieces were:

1. Monument
2. Hymn of the Highlands
3. Gondor leitmotif (The Lord of the Rings)
4.浜辺の歌 (Traditional Japanese song)
5. El Camino Real
6. Auspicium Melioris Aevi
7. The Wheels of a Dream
8. And Then The Ocean Glows
9. Majulah Singapura
10. Theme from Jurassic Park
11. Hymn to the Infinite Sky
12. My Heart Will Go On
13. It's a Small World
14. The Seventh Night of July
15. God in de Hemel
16. Rohan leitmotif (The Lord of the Rings)

ともだち

2010-02-07T11:31:00.001+08:00

わかりました従って前のポストは小さい…直接であるかもしれない。しかしそれは自発の憤慨から耐えられ、私は謝る。但し、私はこれが幾分がちな時に来ることを仮定する。最近、円卓会議のおかげで夜にベンとの小隊、私の議論、薄い枯渇および他の多くの要因、I'で話す; 私に意味する何を友情の意味についてたくさん考えているveおよび。私が親友を考慮する少数の人々がある。私が友人と考慮するが、だれない多くはレベルの親切なそれに。、親友間に相違があるけれども、そして。私は私が彼らの会社を楽しみ、がそれらとの楽しみを有する、時々猛烈に無感覚でもいく精神的支持の提供で非常によくないという意味でJinjunおよびポールを親友考慮する。また、この日および年齢に、楽しみしか提供なできる友人必要性の時サポートは来にくいが。この点で私は私の友人としてベンがあるために私に感謝していなければならないことを推測する。悲しげに私達が直々に会う機会を持っていないが彼がずっと最後の2年にわたっての私を提供したサポートは非常に貴重である。実際は、彼は私が堅い時の精神的支持のために実際に数えてもいいおそらく、私が持っている唯一の親友であり2人の1才、私がチェスターに真剣にこのごろ話さないので近い友情の最も厳密な定義に続けば私達が互いにこのごろ会わないという事実を割引く(私が望む事実はいつの日か変わる) 面白くこれは私によってが2005年の前にあった状態を平行にし、batchmateより後輩に近い方にある。また、私はバッチに基づいてラインを引出すべきではない。ついにそれはそうすることよいそれではない。ついに、年齢は友情程に大いに私が私のバッチの多数をその当時言ったように、重要ではない。私は今回が、私望む渡ることを推測することを。反射はよいが、たくさん引きがちである。

Exasperation

2010-02-07T10:55:00.001+08:00

Could anyone be more insensitive? I know you're a good friend, and I value it, but please, at least try to be more mindful of the feelings of others. Sometimes being the most practical or the most perfect isn't what important, I hope you realise that someday, even if not now.

A little affirmation...

2010-02-01T22:51:00.002+08:00

...can really go a long way. Even if it's just a simple "good work" by your boss, or an expression of friendship unlooked-for. At least, that's how I see it. Sometimes that's all you need to turn a dreary unremarkable day into a brighter one.

RWinds Chalet

2010-01-10T21:12:00.002+08:00

After not having an RWinds chalet last year, I was eagerly anticipating this one. As opposed to the conventional method of taking a shuttle bus from Tanah Merah MRT station, I decided to bike from my house to the chalet. I was not disappointed by my choice, I did enjoy going all-out along the cycle path, enjoying the wind in my face and the beach going by, punctuated with the odd landing in Changi Airport.

I arrived just as the vanguard of the comm did, and we did some basic unpacking before settling down for a game of Taboo. I noticed that they had renovated NSRCC chalets completely. This proceeded with the trademark RWinds hilarity, and we played for quite some time before switching to preparing food and watching the Simpsons.

At this point people, especially ~~J1s~~ J2s, started trickling in. Around this time, I decided to go return my bike, stopping to rescue Shang, I took the bike down to the PCN Pit Stop at Area G, then strolled back to the chalet, admiring planes and listening to music.

When I got back, the barbeque was in the process of spawning, led by Huijun and Yethong. I flitted around between the barbeque and the movie (Incredibles and Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End), though I spent a lot of time relaxing by the barbeque pit and enjoying some idle chatter.

At one point however I was called upon to give advice, and while I attempted to dispense it as best I could, I'm not sure if my efforts were enough, or indeed, if they were in the right drection... Sometimes I feel helpless in such situations, knowing that a friend's in need and there's nothing you can do to help.

Still, we did rejoin the party and enjoy some excellent barbeque and great company all around, definitely what makes RWinds special. We soon settled down for a game of charades, the trademark of RWinds. More hilarity ensued, doubtless our esteemed quartermaster would have some videos.

After charades much of the group left, aiming to catch the last train. The remainder settled down to, on request of Quanhui, watch Coda IV and V. Memories resurfaced, but ultimately this was more of a technical critique of our playing, always useful to see what we can learn from to lead to a better Coda VI and beyond.

A game of Saboteur was initiated, but as we had too many people, some satellite groups formed. On my part, I took a walk with David, Yethong, Shuotian and Jeremy to find some food. This attempt failed, but we spent some time in the main lounge relaxing and chatting about topics such as university applications and the latest army vehicles.

We returned to the chalet and the other highlight of the night began - Werewolves. This is a convuluted version of Polar Bear that I shall not attempt to explain here, though, suffice to say, it was -BOOMZ- some great fun.

Later on in the night we were left with Richard, Edison, Amir, Jiamin, Shirlene, Ben, myself, Jeremy and Shuotian playing, with Ivan somewhere else in the building. This group of people would be the ones staying till the very end. We played a few rounds of Werewolves and ordered some supper.

After those rounds of polar bear, which were especially enjoyable as moderator, most of us settled down for sleep. I gazed at landing aircraft for a while, then fell asleep on the floor.

I woke up after half an hour, thereabouts, and saw everyone still sleeping. This is one of the moments I hate the most, the window between early morning and dawn when most people are asleep. I can't convince my body that easily, and the floor didn't really help matters.

The room was pretty cold. As I love cold places and I was dressed somewhat warmly, I was mostly fine with it. However, I could tell some of my compatriots were not. I felt another short wave of helplessness, sitting next to my friend in the morning, watching him shiver in the cold and not being able to offer any help.

I did catch a little more sleep, missing the sunrise, sadly. However, I did see what I had come to see, the Qantas A380-800 flight from London Heathrow and bound for Sydney. Jinjun had risen by then, so the two of us strolled along the beach path towards the Changi Park Connector.

We got some nice view of incoming aircraft and were soon joined by Shuotian. The three of us returned to the chalet hungry, as none of us had eaten much the night before. We then ordered in McDonalds again, and spent the morning playing Taboo and chatting some more.

A couple of people, such as Jeremy, were beginning to leave. We then proceeded with games of Saboteur and Bohnanza.

At this time, I then decided it was time to retreat, we all did, actually, so in in the end, Jinjun came over to my house a while before leaving for home.

Ultimately, this year's chalet was a big success! Bonds definitely stengthened, especially among the different batches. It was definitely a highly enjoyable and relaxing, though tiring, event. While I had not been able to help some people, for which I still feel slightly guilty, I really did enjoy the performance, the dinner, werewolves everything. Hard to get bored at RWinds chalets!

I hope this year and the following, we have more such events, they're good ways to bond the various people that make up this band. Onward to next year!

I've come to realise...

2010-01-04T23:50:00.001+08:00

That I miss guestplaying for RJCSB. More than I miss playing for RJCSB. Maybe it's just Hymn of the Highlands or something, or the way I kind of miss the smaller things rather than the bigger ones. Or maybe it's just that the experience was more recent. Regardless I can't help but feel a sense of longing for that period of my life, when I'd rush down from work by cab, or listen to hymn on the MRT on the way. It's almost the same way I feel when I listen to Furusato in fact.

It does seem like a short time ago, and yet it's already been six months. Time is passing so slowly, yet so quickly that I can't get my head around it all, and it's driving me nuts.

It doesn't help either, that I suffer from the same problems as a fellow bassist, and keep wondering if that situation will ever improve....

What started as a simple one line post, the first above, has somehow turned into this long rant. It is quite interesting, though, this is one of the first tines I've tries writing so spontaneously; most of my blogposts are preplanned, and this is the first time I'm just writing whatever comes to mind. I'm not even at a com, I'm lying in bed posting this from my phone.

I guess sometimes it is a good thing, to release stress like this, although I hope I don't say anything offensive or compromising in the process.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

2009 in review

2010-01-02T08:32:00.005+08:00

I still remember clearly how the year started... Jinjun, Paul, Jeremy, Wen Chong, Calvin and I, among others, standing at the end of East Coast Park with our bikes, watching the fireworks.

At the time, I was reflecting back on the way that 2007 ended (pretty well), and how it foreshadowed 2008, which was a great a year. I thought to myself that perhaps, since the way 2008 was ending was pretty good, 2009 should prove to be a good year too. Was it? Let's see.

Obviously the big change in my life was National Service. As a result of this the first 4 months of the year proved to be the darkest time of my life so far, and I remember thinking if I'd ever recover from my spell of depression and isolation.

Fortunately recover I did, probably due to my inception into the Republic of Singapore Air Force, which, in contrast to the Army, inspires pride and passion in me. I think that being in the Air Force has been an exceptional experience for me, in no small part due to the people who make up this wonderful service. Everyone seems proud to be there and do their job, and in such an environment, can one not help but feel the same way?

Through working in the Air Force, I've definitely grown somewhat, and picked up new skills and experience along the way, especially learning how to work with people not of similar backgrounds to me, which I've not really experienced before. Fortunately things couldn't be better in my squadron, a small but cohesive group, especially my platoon.

Travel wise, this year was a good year for me, visiting the United States, United Kingdom, Kuala Lumpur and New Zealand. It is good that I've gotten so many opportunities to visit different countries and experience their cultures and scenery. As an aviation enthusiast, the number of aircraft, airports and airlines has been staggering and I'm really thankful for these experiences. 2 new types this year for me, the Airbus A340-300 and the DeHavilland DHC-8-300, both flights proving to be good ones. Flying over the Southern Alps has to be the highlight of my flying experiences. Seeing the 787 fly was another great moment, and I won't easily forget the feeling at 2am on that Wednesday watching live as the bird took to the skies.

Musically, this year was not as prolific as the last, for obvious reasons. However I had the good fortune to both see and play in some excellent concerts. The highlight of my audience experience this year would be the trip to Kuala Lumpur for the Igudesman & Joo concerts, both of which I found humourous and yet musically excellent. The duo opened up new avenues with which to enjoy music, and I still hope to see them in Singapore one day (when we invite them).

Musician-wise, I had the good fortune to go back to my alma-mater to guest play for:

Limelight - Esplanade Concert Hall, 15th July 2009
Army of the Nile (repeated from Band Fiesta 2006, National Band Competition 2006, Prometheum XI and A Tempo XIX)
Hymn of the Highlands
Greensleeves
Daphnis Et Chloe
--------------------------------
March Willing and Able
Shichi-Go-San
Poppo-Poppo
Gershwin!
The Third Man Theme
---------------------------------
Takarajima (repeated from Coda, A Tempo XVII, A Tempo XVIII, A Tempo XIX)

This concert was a good experience for me, especially playing Hymn of the Highlands. I still hope to see some recordings of it someday. The most important thing this concert did, though, was to bring me closer to my juniors, especially the batch of now-J2s. Definitely, without this concert, I may not have become as close to some people, especially Huijun, as I am now.

The most important musical journey I've made this year however, was taken alongside the Raffles Winds as we journeyed towards:

Coda V - Victoria Concert Hall, 30th December 2009
A Yorkshire Overture
Shirim
Wintersturme
Saga Maligna (repeated from A Tempo XIX)
---------------------------------------
Saxophone Ensemble:
La Paloma
The Teddy Bear's Picnic
My Neighbour Totoro

The Incredibles
Beauty and the Beast (repeated from Prometheum X and Play 2008)
Ode to VCH
Persis Overture
---------------------------------------
Can't Take My Eyes Off You (repeated from Prometheum X)

The journey here wasn't been easy, especially as a librarian... mention the words "The Incredibles" or "Shirim" in the same sentence and I will faint. Even so, it has been very rewarding. This year's committee has been a great bunch of people, and I find myself closer to them than last year. The band too, seems to be growing every year, with a few more committed members each time.

The concert itself was a remarkable experience. Sadly the second half didn't go as well as I liked, but the first half more than made up for it. I remember discussing with Benni a few days before, and him asking me which piece I felt would be the center piece of the concert. At first I replied that it could be one of Saga Maligna, Ode to VCH or Persis, but now, my answer is clear. I would give anything to relive that experience of playing Saga Maligna. I think the band worked magic with that piece, and many audience members and players probably agree. The outburst of emotions I felt during God in de Hemel... Somehow I don't think I'll ever feel that again.

Of course, the most important factor of the past year are my friends. For once, I can say that the same people I considered my close friends at the end of 2008 are the people I consider my close friends at the end of 2009, with one or two minor changes. I think this is the first time such a thing has happened. Once again, words of thanks to the following people, in alphabetical order:

Ben - Another year of great musical friendship, thanks for accepting the offer to be in the comm, you've done a great job, especially considering no instruments have been lost, which is more than I can say about the scores. Thanks too for all the talks about band and life, and the interesting blog. 1000th post, I've heard.

Bertrand - Another year of great aviation friendship. All the best in realising your dreams of being an Air Force pilot, hope to see you above all soon, in the best service of the SAF.

Calvin - As ever, if I ever need someone to help out, you're always there. Part of the travelling trio that seems to have grown into a regular thing though. May you keep flying, busing and hopefully one day you'll get to fly an AirAsia A320 too.

Huijun - We met immediately after my first bookout, and at the SYF dinner, but I think without Limelight, I wouldn't have gotten to know what a great person you are. Hope that we can play together again next year, but first, let's reach the summit of Ophir!

Jeremy - Thanks for the support, friendship and fun over the past year, hope you achieve your dream (though I know what it is, I'm not saying it here). Thanks too for extending your ORD to be with Jinjun and I in 2011!

Jinjun - Once again, you've made this year survivable for me. Our friendship has continued to grow, thankfully, since 2008 and I don't know what I'd do without you. Our travels together shall continue to extend far and wide, and more countries around the world will turn blue, I'm sure.

Paul - The same as ever. The year has been marked with many outings to each other's house, chiefly to GH with Jinjun and others. Keep being happy, and have some more fun this year.

Shuotian - Ever dependable, and a great friend to have. I'm really thankful that you played for Coda 5, and hope to see you again next year. All the best for the coming year, and here's to USA 2011.

I guess that about sums it up, if I've forgotten anyone, I sincerely apologise and beg you to let me know.

2010 holds many things in store, travelwise we have Ophir, Kinabalu and who knows what else. Musically there's Coda 6, possibly more experiences in the form of good performances and learning experiences too. Friendship wise, I hope that I can say the same thing next year that I did a few paragraphs ago.

Onward to 2010!

Coda 5

2009-12-31T14:49:00.009+08:00

Another year, another Coda.

I'm a positive person, so let's get all the negative stuff about the concert out of the way first:

1. Music
Personally I think our second half needed much improvement. Persis especially was a letdown, considering it was our final piece. We rushed, messed it up, and paid for it. Other than that, the second half suffered from blasting, rushing and improper balance.

2. Non-music
I would have appreciated if more of my batch came back to RI to help load and unload. I know that a batch supper or something was in the works, but as a responsible player, the least we should do is go back and help out. What if everyone decided not to go back to RI?

Also, the amount of people who agreed to go and later backed out was quite astronomical compared to usual concerts. I think people should generally not back out from commitments, but I guess sometimes this can't be helped, can it?

Alright, with those out of the way, let's go to the day itself.

I did go back to RI before the concert this time, as I had to handle the original scores for the performance. After a quick lunch with Shuotian at J8 MFM, we headed for school, where we loaded up in record time and were soon on our way to Victoria Concert Hall for the last time.

At the concert hall, we proceeded for a soundcheck, which was not exceptionally good. Our ensemble then had the hall for a while, following which I had to help Calvin set up and write notes, the result being that dinner was almost gone by the time I got there. Thanks to Shirlene for helping me find some food!

Pre-concert was pretty usual, so I shall not elaborate much, so let's go on to the bread and butter of the concert.

We opened with A Yorkshire Overture, a lush, yet light, overture. I think we did this well, as Quanhui said, better than any on Youtube. Giant bionic rabbits aside, this piece was done with vigor, lightness and flow that I don't recall hearing during rehearsals. Images of New Zealand flashed through my mind throughout the piece, having just returned from there, I could identify with the Yorkshire countryside feeling.

Yanlong took Shirim next, definitely one of our best pieces this time round. Jewish in nature, this piece featured some traditional melodies and a very Yiddish feeling, which we managed to convey I think. Having been to Israel before, this piece definitely brought back further memories of my travels.

Probably a first for a Singaporean band, we had Wintersturme from Die Walkure next, conducted by my dear friend Jinjun featuring Quanhui as a soloist. I can't comment much on this, given my position it was hard to hear well. However, the recording sounds good, and I know Quanhui was happy with it.

After Wintersturme, we proceeded on to what for me would be the defining moment of the concert. Now, the next segment may be considerably long, because of all the experiences I've had playing in a band, this has been the best, the most meaningful for me. I can honestly say that I have never and will never feel this way again.

Grief, the feeling of sadness, dejectedness after leaving RI, failure of the Japan Trip, abysmal ending to an RJC band career

We launched into Saga Maligna well, playing softly, darkly and almost evilly. I think our control of dynamics in this part was pretty good, and our climax was emotional, leading to a quiet finish that brought us to...

Laughter, fun times spent in the Varese, during chalet and during band practices with Mr Oura

The Village Fool opened with a bassoon solo, then proceeded to introduce the rest of the band. Again, nothing wrong here, we played it lightly, in contrast to the previous movement, and followed Quanhui's interpretation well.

Pain, loneliness of an outcast, loss of everything I held dear, failure to achieve my aspirations

Pain's opening was slightly... painful given the early entries, but other than that it was alright, I think, although this is a movement of the piece I'm not too partial too.

Indifference, the feeling of time flying by as the one and a half years passed faster and faster, and not realising until it was too late

At this stage I was growing more and more confident of our playing and our musicality for this piece, and Time Flies did not disappoint, I could really feel happy playing it. The band was energetic and lively, minor balance issues aside. Around the end I started feeling a rush of adrenaline, anticipating what was to come.

Remorse, that perhaps band life in RJC could have been much better if only I'd tried harder, the feeling of regret and longing, remembering good and bad times and wishing I'd made the most of them.

No audience applause this time, thankfully, as we began God in Heaven. Playing the first note, emotions started building up in me, behind a dam that was growing ever weaker as the flugelhorn (played by David Zhao) and trombone (played by Lee Jinjun) soared in a beautiful solo in which I could find no fault. Shirlene's euphonium resonated with the sounds of Thomas's feelings and passion, with the band steadily but slowly building up beneath her.

The chorus opened up for the first time, and I was finding it increasingly difficult to prevent myself from losing control. The band wasn't helping either, playing the piece with power, passion and emotion, yet following Quanhui brilliantly. As the bridge started, tears started to well up in my eyes, which was not a good thing as my view of Quanhui began to blur. Unfortunately I was unable to wipe them away, due to the nature of the segment. My embrochure was giving way too, but fortunately it held.

The second chorus opened up after a glorious build-up and at this point, the dam burst. I poured everything I had into my playing, remembering what this piece meant to my batch and what it meant to me. Words really cannot describe how I felt, and tears flowed freely.

Mercifully I had a break after the chorus ended and the outro began, which allowed me to compose myself and clear my eyes, only to prepare myself for another emotional rollercoaster in...

Hope and Despair, intertwined throughout my life in RJCSB. Despair was often, but more often, hope prevailed, and for me, the piece will forever end with a D major rather than a D minor chord.

Finally, a band plays this movement the way it's supposed to be played (ie not slow and draggy, but energetic and slightly fast). The emotions I felt in God in Heaven came back to me, and I think I may have overdone some bits, but the recording just sounds brilliant. 4 before W, as the buildup began, I couldn't help but shed another tear. As the ending progressed, the band grew ever more powerful, leading to a climactic finish.

This performance of Saga Maligna has to be the best piece I've ever played in, and quite frankly, given how much the piece means to me, I doubt this experience can ever be repeated.

Ok that was long. Intermission time.

Now, we shall have the Raffles Winds Saxophone Quintet (with 4 players) to present some musical interludes.

Considering the lack of practice, we did La Paloma well, and I played it much better than I expected myself too. Still room for improvement, nevertheless, it was a good start.

The Teddy Bear's Picnic was the first piece we practiced as an ensemble. I could have played better, although this piece did prove challenging due to lack of convenient places to breathe. Still, we did better than usual, in my opinion.

My Neighbour Totoro, another special piece for me. We did this one exceedingly better than Laputa two years ago, definitely. I was inspired by the baritone saxophonist of the Amigos saxophone quartet; while i didn't make it there, at least I moved closer.

The main band was back for The Incredibles. We did this one pretty roughly, there's definitely room for improvement, in the sense of volume control and dynamics. At least it wasn't too messy though.

Beauty and the Beast could have been great, but like most of the second half, it suffered from balance and speed problems. Not that bad, but enough to prevent a good performance from being great. Also, I hereby confer a citation to this piece, the first that I have played in all 3 Raffles bands that I have performed in.

~~Hymn to the Infinite VCH~~ Ode to VCH was next, our best piece of the second half. I don't know why Jinjun doesn't like it that much, personally I like it quite a lot. I was conscious of the fact that we were performing this in VCH, and allowed myself to remember some of the fonder times there.

Delibrately skipping the next song is in my best interests because I... whatever. Having said that though, it wasn't all bad, the opening and slow movement were both quite decent. It's just a pity we turned what should have been the picture above into the picture below.

Can't say much about the encore, it was decent as encores go, but I think our morale was at a low after lukewarm audience response and a horrible ending to Persis. At least it was decent though.

Post concert there was a mad rush of scores, photos and instrument to handle, and as a result I didn't have all that much time to socialise. I met who I needed to meet though, but left my batch behind as duty called. It did feel kind of lonely on the bus back, though the flash war was fun.

Back in school, I panicked as I thought I'd lost my video camera's charger, and with it the important recordings. Fortunately Calvin kindly agreed to bring it over to school. While waiting I shed another silent tear, feeling rather down and lonely.

Supper was a quick one at Macs, followed by a rush home to process the recordings, as I was sure many were waiting for them. I managed to complete and push out all the recordings in good time. After that, I listened to Saga Maligna, and for a third time that night, I wept, this time tears of relief, satisfaction, joy and yet longing and sadness that the concert was over.

Did this concert outdo Coda IV? For me, yes, but not to the extent that Coda IV was better than Coda III. The second half was ok, but not so good. The first half was pretty good, but there was really one big reason for why this concert meant so much to me.

Saga Maligna.

To RWinds, thanks for everything, especially that piece. To the comm, thanks too for all your dedication and hard work. Let's work to make Coda VI even better!

Around the world in 80+++ minutes

2009-12-29T19:21:00.006+08:00

So the day we've been working hard for since May has arrived. In exactly 24 hours Yorkshire Overture will fill Victoria Concert Hall. I've invested as much, even more perhaps, into this concert as I have into Coda 4. I'm hoping it will be even better than the previous concert, just as I hope Coda 6 will be even better than this one. Technically we're not as ready as I would like, but I think we all can pull together tomorrow and impress our audience with our love for the music. After all, music without love is just empty noise.

"Victoria clearance delivery, Raffles Winds 5 requesting IFR clearance to Leeds Bradford as filed"

Dreamliner

2009-12-25T00:15:00.002+08:00

It was a beautiful morning, and the air in Paine Field crackled with excitement, for today would be a monument occasion for Boeing. Today was the day that the 787 would finally take to the air, to challenge the sky and the heavens above and usher in a new era for commercial aviation, bringing new visions of flight to many around the world.

As the sun rose slowly over Seattle, three men stepped out of a bus and onto the open tarmac of KPAE. The first was the captain of the flight, Robert W. Barnes, one of Boeing's leading test pilots. The second, also a leading pilot, was James Smith, also a leading test pilot for Boeing. The two of them had flown many test flights for Boeing, and were icons of the Boeing flight department, being referred to as "those magnificent men in their flying machines" by many of the ground staff. The third man was Satoshi Mashima, chief pilot of All Nippon Airways, the launch customer. He had flown over from Japan in March, willing and able to help Boeing with the test flights as well as learn the ropes of the 787.

In front of them was N787BA, the first of the 787s to fly. She had been rolled out 2 years earlier, on July 8th 2007, but that was a temporary thing, and many in Boeing still remembered the rush on the seventh night of July, in order to get it ready. Since then, it had undergone an extreme makeover to render it fit for flight. Her aerodynamics were the best seen in any commercial airliner, and she looked almost like an angel, ready to take flight on wings of magic. Despite this, the first flight kept being pushed back, to the end of 2007, then to mid 2008, then to October 2009, until finally, on the 15th of December, she was ready to realise her fantasy of flight.

"What traffic can we expect today?" Robert asked James, who was perusing a clipboard with most of the necessary information.

"Well, ATC's pretty much cleared it up for us, other than the test flight of the Thunderbirds' latest support 737, and a delivery flight of a refurbished 753 for Northwest, there's nothing except us."

"It's a pity we couldn't fly earlier," Satoshi commented, "sunrise is the best time of the day"

"I've never actually seen the sun rise from the cockpit before," James said, "As test pilots we don't fly much at that time"

"Ah it's magnificent, especially over the Pacific," came the reply. "The sky begins to turn bright, then over the blue horizons, the sun starts to peek out. And then the ocean glows with the light from the sun, and the sky is like a magnificent painting. It is like paradise, like Utopia, and where there is land, it is like a vision of the isle of the gods. I especially like seeing the sun rise over my home on the island of Takarajima, just south of Kyushu."

"Wow, that's something I'd love to see before I retire" Robert sighed wistfully

"Talking about paintings, I just came back from Paris, where I bought a portrait of two lovers for my wedding anniversary," James interjected, "It shows them doing a series of Armenian dances, and being a dance teacher, I think my wife will be happy... Hmm, it appears that there's some weather buildup over the Cascades. I hope it doesn't persist, as it'd be best not to fly into the storm."

"By the way, Satoshi, how did you get here?" Robert asked, "ANA?"

"No, I thought I'd try Singapore Airlines, I heard good things about their first suite, and I wasn't disappointed. I even got some postcards from Singapore to add to my collection"

The pilots continued their idle banter as they conducted a walkaround check of the Dreamliner. The plane, decked out in the blue shades of the Boeing house livery, glistened in the purple light of the dim morning sun. On the side were small icons showing the logos of the various airlines who had ordered the plane, and there were many. After Qantas's order for a hundred or so planes, many airlines were eager to jump onto the bandwagon to get the new plane.

Soon, the ground crew had cleared the area and the flight crew were preparing for engine start.

"Paine ground, Boeing 001 heavy request push and start" James called out

"Boeing 001 heavy, cleared to start your engines, contact when ready for taxi"

As James set the fuel cutoff switches, Robert pulled the ignition handles that would set off a small firework in the engines, causing fuel to ignite and starting the internal combustion system in the engines. Unlike older planes, whose engines tended to sound like 76 trombones playing different notes simultaneously, the engines on the 787 were not noisy by any standards, and James, who was a religious man, later said they sounded almost like an old hymn, a hymn to the infinite sky that would soon receive the new airliner.

After receiving taxi clearance, the 787 moved slowly out of its bay on the flightline and turned towards the active runway, 34L. James busied himself lowering the flaps, setting the autobrakes and readying the aircraft for takeoff.

"Let's hope this plane works as well as it should, or we'll be setting ourselves up for a short ride in a fast machine," Robert muttered as he eased the plane around a bend. The plane was being led by a follow-me car, men walking beside the wings. Standing on top of the Future of Flight Museum, a large crowd had gathered, and, in a true American salute, were waving the star-spangled banner in all forms, small and large. And this was going to be a day to remember, up with such milestones in aviation as the Wright Brother's first flight, which lasted a mere twelve seconds, to the moon landings of Apollo and the flight of the Boeing 747, the largest commercial airliner of its time.

"How are the kids by the way?" Robert asked

"Daphnis and Chloe? They're fine", James laughed as he armed the spoilers, "Chloe's managed to get herself a boyfriend, I think, but she won't tell me. I can ense the omens of love coming from her though"

"How did you come up with the name Daphnis?" Satoshi looked puzzled, "Isn't that a French name?"

"My wife's part French, that's why I got her a French portrait. Her father thought it would be a nice name."

"Does it have any special meaning?"

"Nope, it don't mean a thing"

The 787 pulled up at the hold short line, and the pilots carried out their final checks.

"How's the weather like, tower?" James called out over the radio

"Mostly clear, but some reports coming in from Canada. Pont La Mer is experiencing showers, and a storm appears to be forming over Pont St Anthony. Variations in the weather are expected, but nothing significant."

"Roger, Boeing 001 heavy is at the holding point for 34L, requesting takeoff clearance"

"Boeing 001 heavy, standby for American 221 crossing over to 34R"

As the plane stood on the holding point waiting for the traffic to cross, the pilot waved at the 787 as he taxied by. Soon, he was clear, anf the big moment had arrived.

"Boeing 001 heavy, winds are 350 at 7, cleared for takeoff runway 34L"

Robert eased the throttles forward before engaging the autothrottle. The 787 slowly advanced forward before picking up speed, and as it accelerated it bounced over the runway lights, causing the plane to jolt slightly. From the outside it almost looked like a comedian's gallop, but soon the plane was moving too fast to notice.

"80 knots..... V1.... Rotate!"

Robert pulled back on the yoke, and the 787's nose turned skyward, just as it had done the previous day. The main wheels left the ground, and the crowd below erupted into applause. The Dreamliner soared into the sky, and it was the very image, surging skyward, the morning sun glinting off its wings, of freedom and amazing grace.

"Positive rate of climb, gear up"

James retracted the airliner's landing gear, while Robert retracted the flaps. Satoshi helped to monitor the crucial systems of the aircraft as Robert set her into a slow right bank that would take the airliner over the Cascades.

Soon, the plane was soaring over the ridges of the Cascades, their snow caps gleaming like silver crests below, and the three pilots were reminded why flying was their first love. The landing gear remained down throughout the flight, that the chase planes might be able to study them. As well as the four original warm up flightplans that they had devised, the pilots decided to do some other flight tests, that took them out over the ocean.

"I've got a report from another airliner. Apparently winter storms are building up to the north" James called out.

"Roger that. Let's hope the buildup doesn't continue, or we might have to cut early." Robert replied.

They had hoped for blue sky and sunshine. March would have been a much better time for this flight. The clouds were getting thicker, and the chase planes were dancing in the wind, already feeling the effects of the rising storm. Because of the weather, the crew elected to turn south, flying towards Oregon rather than risk the bad weather over Canada. Mashima aided the two test pilots as they ran the Dreamliner through some basic exercises. Running his hands across the SEA VOR indicated on the map, he suggested a route for the pilots that would avoid the inclement weather.

Soon though, it became evident that the flight could not continue, and Robert made the decision to land off. The plane turned towards Boeing Field Airport and descended through the cloud layer. By this point, all the pilots could see was a silver screen outside the cockpit, but fortunately the plane's instruments were all in good order. They eventually managed to touch down, executing a perfect landing, and taxiied in amidst thunderous applause.

The test pilots went their separate ways soon after the press conference, James and Mashima caught a flight back to san Francisco, where James lived. From there, Mashima got ready to head back to Japan, while James found his car at the carpark and headed for home. As he turned into his house, a small bungalow off El Camino Real, he reflected on the day's events and decided that the incredible Dreamliner saga had just begun.

My instrument

2009-12-15T00:35:00.000+08:00

まず第一に、バリトン歌手のサクソフォーンは非常に大きい器械である。 It' s.aの低音の器械。 It' それを必要とする場合の他の器械を支えるs常にそこに、それdoesn' tの輝やき全然。実際は、it' sはまれに聞かなかった。 It' かなりまたs柔軟性がない器械。交響バンドか多分異様なジャズギグの外、don' tはそれをで見るすべて。それcan' tはメジャーリーグのオーケストラのほとんど、およびあっても、it'で聞かれる; sの報告書および非常に顕著。 It' かなりsはつまり正しく評価されない器械、多くの人々のまたは存在についての心配知っていない。ほとんど人々は、残り物90を得るそれに終って部品か重要性について考えるとき最後それに順位をつけがちである時間のパーセント。

I guess there is some truth in what they say, that the instrument you play is representative of your character.

128!!!

2009-11-23T13:36:00.002+08:00

Yay my 128th post on this blog! Anyway, I just got back from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where I watched a fantastic concert by Igudesman and Joo. I won't talk much about the trip here, because Jinjun, Calvin and I are setting up a separate blog for our travels. However, I must say that I really appreciated the chance to travel with them again.

I guess it was a very fruitful trip for me, I flew on a couple of new aircraft, and especially enjoyed 9V-STF. I flew a 747-400 sim for the first time, and hopefully not the last. I got to meet and listen to great musicians, and thoroughly enjoyed the concert. I sampled some great food and overall had a great time. But most importantly, I think that the best thing I took away from this trip were the strengthened bonds I have with the two of them, and I really wish that all our future endeavours can be successful.

朝日の帝国

2009-10-14T20:07:00.001+08:00

私は(または多分のために)日本のための私の愛にもかかわらず、どうかして場所が罵倒されることそれがなぜあるか知らない。そこに行くことのための3回今私の夢はずっと打撃である。これは2005年のようにまた改めてあるが、悪い状態を構成するためにどんなRIMBがよい記憶の点ではしたか武力がバンドが付くシンガポールは決して私を提供しなかった。私は私が… 2008年に少なくとも入ることを得たこと私がちょうど感謝しているべきであることを仮定する.私は私が実際に傷私の友人、それのために利己的、まだ感謝していないべきではないことを知っている。

Babelfish is fun

2009-10-07T01:12:00.002+08:00

私はI'を考える; 感情の範囲を冒険談Malignaのそれに対抗するために同時に経始めるm。 There' 私が感謝しているすべてのそれらの小さい事のsの笑い声、当然。しかし問題は、それらの部分が表す何を、丘の後ろのの幾分より大きい現われる問題、der Hemel、Pijnの神、Irae、またはむしろ死ぬ。

FurusatoジョーHisaishiの話を先日聞く、I couldn'を述べないために、; 叫ぶことからのt停止自分自身。私が推測するそれらの曲のたくさんのノスタルジア。それdoesn' 私が誰かのための感じを有する今ようであることtの助けあると同時に私の感情の状態が十分の上でねじで締まる時明示した感じ。当然、私はこの関係が渡ることを来ることができることそれdoesn'望む; t I' mそう本当に私がそれを乗り越えてもいい。

多分追求している私は注意でありがRI/RJの古い日、RJの私のクラスメートと望み、見るJ8等に行く図書館の映画を使われる特にバンドおよびすべてのそれらの任意時の間ちょうど… 私はAのレベルを再度望む。

I' 去年以来のほとんどこの方法であるveしかし全部の任意強い波は迷惑である。それは特に私が朝にキャンプし、私がRIに持って行くのが常であった同じルートによって行くことを行くとき傷つく。

I' 決して私が推測するRWindsのために感謝していているがあっているve。そこの安定性の少なくとも姿、私をそこに定着させておくことを何か。私はまた私の友人に感謝していなければならない。時々彼らはちょうど私を傷つけるか、悩ますか、または私に感じをする、私は是認するが、それはおそらく私の自身の欠点が原因である。ほとんどの場合、I' 私のためにそこにあることのためのそれらに感謝したm。私はにそこにいること(アルファベット順に)特にBenni、Huijun、ジェレミー、Jinjun、ポールおよびShuotianのような人々に、ちょうど感謝しなければならない。 I don' tはどんなI'か知っている; dはあなたすべてなしでする。

明日毎日の粉砕の別の(うまく行けば短い)日。週ごとにシカゴはより近く得ている… また、自分自身をかき混ぜることを試みるべきここのちょうど心に強く訴えるような引用Iの場所。

暗闇を恐れなければ。
Theodenのライダーは起こったり、起こる!
やりは、盾裂ける揺れる、剣日、太陽より前の赤い日は、上がる!
乗車! 今乗車! 乗車! 台なしのための乗車、およびworld' sの終り!
死!
Eorlingas!
*cueのhardangerのsolo*

This quirky world we live in

2009-08-25T23:40:00.018+08:00

The first of four of a series of photoessays designed to back up my precious collection in case my HD fails again. All the photos are either mine or were taken in my presence, so enjoy! This one features some of the strange, fun and random things the world over, arranged in rough order of longitude, in a western direction from 103.37E

Joke of the year 2008

T-shirts on sale in Jerusalem

Globalisation is rampant

Juxtaposition

Housekeeping service in the Egyptian cruise ship is fantastic

It's not everyday a helicopter lands like this

Nice variety of instruments on sale

One of the happiest logs I've ever seen

You can get Chinese everywhere these days

Hey, even Ancient Romans need to keep dry

World Cup fever hits Munich

in more ways than one

Henry the Steinway?

Greeting cards with a musical theme

You'd have to have gone through BMT to get this one

Heaven

Networking in the sky

Creative design

Laid-back town in Vermont

The rest, as they say, is history

Ok not exactly quirky but I couldn't fit this photo of the original (really original) viola score of Dvorak's 9th Sympony anywhere else

I wonder if Wookies are equally as welcome

For the man who has it all and needs to be protected too

When did we get to Egypt?

That is one long train

Sometimes the shortest way up isn't always a straight line

Thankfully that has already been done

UV sterilisers in a traditional Japanese setting

Engrish

More Engrish

This is why one should never aim to be a taxi driver in Hong Kong

This photo is outstanding on more than one count

Hope you've enjoyed that little photoessay, more will follow when I have the time.

Moving...

2009-08-10T09:53:00.000+08:00

This will be my last post at my old house, before we move. I'm reluctant to move, since this is the place where I've spent most of the happier years of my life, but I guess there's no choice... I'll miss the place, and all the happy memories.

What do you see?

2009-08-10T00:04:00.009+08:00

Today was National Day, our nation's 44th birthday. It is sad that I missed the chance to perform for it, one of my biggest dreams, and that I missed out on what I heard was a fun batch outing. But then, I did have a duty to protect Singapore, even though my part in the backstage effort was a minor one, and I suppose I have to give something back.

What do I see in Singapore, this little island in which I've called home for my entire life?

I see my city, one of the most beautiful in the world.
I see the food, the language, the people that make up the unique culture that Singapore is.
I see my job, my current life as a member of the Republic of Singapore Air Force, defending what I love.
I see the sceptre-like tower of Changi Airport, a site of many emotional departures and arrivals.
I see my home, the surroundings in the east.
I see my second home, Raffles Institution and Raffles Junior College, flying the school and national flag proudly.
I see the twin durians of the Esplanade, and the clocktower of Victoria Concert Hall.
I see the golden bird, soaring into the sky on the tail of a Boeing 747, carrying Singapore's name around the world.
I see the ships out the window on finals, looking at my house in the distance, feeling the jolt of the landing gear on the ground, and hearing, over the roar of the reversers "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Singapore, and to all Singaporeans, a warm welcome home."

Most importantly, I see my friends, the people whom I care about most, and they are the main reason I call Singapore home.

Majulah Singapura!

Some interesting facts

2009-08-08T23:59:00.004+08:00

Pigs CAN get sunburnt.
Cats need more protein than dogs.
Types of mushroom include Shiitake, Chanterelle and Hen-of-the-woods.
Lacrosse was first played by Native Americans.
Madam Chopin is not a Star Trek character.
Kissing the Blarney Stone in Ireland is thought to bestow the gift of eloquence.
The Hundred Year War actually lasted 116 years.
Potatoes are poisonous.
Painting used to be an Olympic event.
Rearranging the letters in "Lost Five Straight" gives you an amorous beginning.
When green olives ripen, they turn black.
There is no such Simpsons character as "Pizza Guy"
The definition of "behove" is "to behave appropriately"
Bumper to bumper jams are not fun.
Wearing your heart on your sleeve means to outwardly display emotions.
The Eiffel Tower is in Paris.

About that warmth I mentioned earlier...

2009-08-02T00:01:00.004+08:00

Seems there is still some of it going around after all.

Despite the lack of presence of my batch, the BBQ RWinds held today proved to be highly enjoyable for me, despite the running around and stuff. While it is sad we couldn't have our chalet, I think most of us had quite a good time today.

Basic rundown of events, met up with the comm at Parkway Parade to buy supplies, jammed the entire comm into a Liana with hilarious results, had lunch, did a bit of prep for the BBQ, introduced the J1s to Wii Music, escorted them to ECP to hunt for people/tow novice rollerbladers around, clear out an ants nest over the phone, run up and down and of course, charades.

I love RWinds, really. Not just for the opportunity it gives me to revisit my music, but because of its friendly openness and warmth. Although musically we have a long way to go (and one of my foremost wishes for RWinds is to go that distance), in terms of bonds and relationships we're quite strong. Of course you can see some notable cliques, especially batches, and this is not a bad thing, but more important is that even those who are without such a group can feel welcome (such as myself). Steps are taken (e.g. the traditional charades or even the simple action of chatting with new members) to make sure no one is really left out of stuff. For this I have to thank the founding fathers of RWinds, as it can be seen that most of such initiatives are their doing.

I will forever be grateful that I decided to commit myself to RWinds last year, an action which in itself has made RWinds what it is for me. I have to be grateful to RWinds as well, for allowing me a chance to get to know and grow close to my seniors, batchmates and to a somewhat larger extent, my juniors (somehow I always feel closer to my juniors than seniors, and my batchmates aside from a few of them are largely MIA). Of course I have to thank all my friends who stick to band and RWinds, especially Shuotian and Jeremy, two of my friends who have really stuck with me all the way since RI. Thanks, to everyone.

I need some warmth

2009-07-27T21:20:00.003+08:00

And no, this is not literal considering the average temperature is in the low 30s. I guess one of the things I miss most about pre-NS life is the warmth of the school, of Raffles. It felt really nice to feel appreciated, even if only for a while and not by many. Now, as I look back and think of all who meant so much to me in those days who I have since lost... life just feels so empty. I need the Rafflesian Spirit back. To all those in Raffles now who don't believe in it, well, I guess sometimes the only way to understand what it is is to lose it...

3 years on, the magic lives on (somewhat)

2009-07-21T23:00:00.002+08:00

21st July 2006, the most memorable day of my life in RIMB, and to this day remains the day of a concert that has touched my life forever, despite it's technical flaws. RIMB performed as one on that day, a feeling I've found hard to come by since. I'm just going to repost some quotes, as I believe that they capture the essence of what Prometheum XI was to us all back then, and what it still is for me.'

"Prometheum, has come and gone… it is now part of the glorious history of our band. It was a great concert, and I have played my part in making it great. I can’t possible describe the sensation of performing on stage, the feeling of nervousness, the exhilaration, the joy, and the regrets…"

" It was a night of passion. No, not in that sense.

We played our hearts out. And when Mr Oura smiled, we smiled.

No matter the screw ups (and there were few). We were one band. One heart. One soul."

"i luv RIMB.

we owned.

1st half only a few nice songs. when ensembles took place, magic happened. something forgettable turned into a night of colour. ... went back to school, at around 10+ did unite cheer around 11+ and band cheer too totally loud. had supper b4 going home with eric and jiahui.

still reading the note by brian, dunno what's going to happen to us after they leave.

we still owned.

i luv RIMB."

"That's something I won't forget for a long time.

It's amazing you know, that some things when you practice you keep screwing up, but when it comes to the actual performance, you do it flawlessly.

At least I got to play the drumset part XD

Percussions <3 Special mention for Brian KinChun Jerald Benjamin and Wentao! "

"<3 my class and the guys who came, <3 my section, <3 my batch, <3 the band

we met the bigtime and totally owned it"

"aniwae it was good experience and Im glad I was in (The Best Country)Singapore, (The Best School)RI, in (The Best CCA)RIMB, in (The Best Section) Saxophones and Lower Woodwinds, and playing the best instrument (Bassoon). how was the layout? impressive??? i thought soo..."

" ytd was prometheum XI
very very happy very very high
i'm proud of the trumpets
i'm proud of jeremy
i'm proud of pok
i'm very very proud of rimb
gogo rimb"

"
In the end, that was probably the most memorable night of my life. We all played well, the audience was fascinated, Mr Oura was happy, the band was happy. This band certainly has more passion and dedication than the band that went in for Prometheum X. I'm proud of us."

I think that says it all... I really really miss my batch and those days in RIMB, of the band cheers and the fall-ins, but most of all Prometheum XI, our concert, our crowning moment. I cannot help but think about those happier days, as mundane as my life is now. I wish with all my heart that my batch, and the RIMB of old, can be reunited someday. An impossible dream, really. But even if all I have to hold on too are the faint memories, those are some darned good memories at that.

Dreams

2009-07-19T00:53:00.002+08:00

Have you ever had the feeling, where you listen to a piece of music and you can't stop wishing that just once, you would have the chance to play that music, to be a part of the glorious melodies, basses and whatever else makes up that music? It's just sound, really, sound arranged in a particular manner, but there's something else too, definitely.

Will I ever get a chance to play my two dream pieces on stage? Maybe, maybe not, but I really hope so. I actually have a lot of pieces I would love to play, but most of those pieces I'm dying to play are those that I've already played before (eg Monument, Hymn of the Highlands). But there are 2 of them, by the same composer and in the same style, that I've never played, yet I feel compelled towards them...

One day. One day I will get the chance.

In the Limelight once more

2009-07-15T23:50:00.020+08:00

Well, the ~~big~~ first event of the year, probably my last concert in the Esplanade, unless ~~we get into the SIBF finals, I get into SAF Band or I get invited back to RJCSB as a guest player~~ RWinds plays there sometime. I'm not going to lie and say that this was the most meaningful day of my life, or that this was the most satisfying concert I've played in, because that honour still belongs to Prometheum XI and Coda IV. However, it was still a good night.

Today marks the first performance I've had in over 6 months, the first I've had in the Esplanade for over a year, and the first time I'm guest playing in RJCSB (I refuse to call it RIJC Band). Overall I would not say that it was technically brilliant, but I wouldn't say it sucked either, and I think the main problem was really a lack of time to practice to make a reasonably good concert a great one.

The morning, as with last year, consisted of heading off to Bishan via Esplanade, with a quick stop at the rooftop to grab photos. Once there I met up with the band members for lunch at the canteen, which I really miss. Warm up went quite well and instruments were moved with relative efficiency. I won't go into too much details about the moving process, since they're relatively similar to the usual, except for a few interesting details.

1. ~~I managed to leave my notes to people at home. Then I bought new ones at J8. Then I left those in the varese -.-. Luckily I managed to source some spares from Ziluo to use.~~ I actually got the notes ready this time.

2. ~~The truck devolved into one without a lift, although that may have decreased loading time a little.~~ The truck evolved into one with a lift controlled by foot buttons, quite interesting.

3. ~~I never knew there was a stage door near the bus stop/mall side of the Esplanade, first floor near the library~~ We used the mall side stage door again.

The pre-concert proceedings were as usual (and I find it quite sad in a way that concerts are becoming so routine...). Soundcheck was decent, and we settled all our gimmicks and movements beforehand. Dinner was, as usual, spicy, but for once it was not intolerable. I gave out some gifts but saved my section for later.

By 7:15 we had lined up in the all too familiar backstage area and we proceeded to walk in and see... a rather full stall but completely empty circles, which was quite sad but not totally unexpected. Our first piece was an old favorite, namely...

An army of Singaporeans doing what they do best along...

the Nile river.

Our first piece was Army of the Nile, ~~with~~ without Mr Oura walking in halfway. I think we did pretty well, and the song brought back fond memories of RIMB 2006 and A Tempo XIX
Having been repeated many many times, this piece has a lot of history for me, and began tugging at my heartstrings from the first note. Playing Army of the Nile on stage at the Esplanade once more was reminiscent of A Tempo XIX, the Saga Maligna of my band concert history. I enjoyed revisiting this piece for what may well be my last time.

After that rousing opener we proceeded to...

Ardross Castle
Alladale

Dundonnell

Hymn of the Highlands was my dream piece for this concert, as I'm sure those of you who know me well enough may have guessed. Sadly, due to lack of preparedness and tension, Ardross was not played all that well, in my opinion. Alladale, however, was nicely done by the three other saxes, and I am duly impressed, especially by Huijun, as it is definitely not easy to stand in front of a large audience and play such a solo. Dundonnell sounded better, and I found myself tearing slightly as I heard that emotional bagpipe melody come forth near the end.

The green sleeves of the new SAF No.4 shirt

This piece was played reasonably well, lyrically and expressively. I didn't touch this piece much, nor is it of a lot of significance except the resemblance to At Wit's End, so not much comments here. Daphnis Et Chloe

Delibrately skipping the next song is in my best interests because I... whatever. Actually, having only played the piece once or twice at most, and not being too familiar with it, I have not much to say. Furthermore, it's the SYF piece for the rest of the band, and I am really in no way qualified to comment on whether the piece was good or bad, not really understanding the music that much

The intermission was a boring one, nothing much to say here. It was quite brief with not much going on other than some rehearsals on the movements for the second half's pieces.

We moved back on stage in time for:

A demand curve, showing the quantity that consumers are willing and able to pay at a set price

My first time playing a Yagisawa piece on stage, this one was quite nicely done I think. Not impressive, but good nonetheless. I maintain that it sounds like the Star Alliance theme.

A Condor 757-300 (commonly referred to as a 753)

Given the lack of time we had to prepare this piece, I'm pleasantly surprised at the way it turned out, sounding rather happy and light, as it is meant to be. Still doesn't hold a candle to Seventh Night though.

A little pigeon, known in Japanese as "Hato Poppo"

PDQ Bach would be proud of this little musical joke, which was pulled off nicely, especially, I think, the saxophone soli. Really nice work there, and I enjoyed trying to figure out where the various segments were stolen from.

George Gershwin, famous American musician

Another piece which I think was well done, being familiar to some of the band members from Con BRIo. I hope my solo here could actually be heard, but even if it wasn't, the piece was fun to play and received well.

After giving Mr Oura some well deserved thanks and the RJCSB teachers in charge some thanks too, we proceeded with the last piece before the encore.

Movie poster for a random movie

The last piece was again a samba, which was fun to play, though not as much as the encore yet to come. The gimmick we had at the end of the sax soli was an epic failure, but otherwise we played well and had fun.

Three guesses what the encore was. You're right, its:

Takarajima, part of the Tokara Island chain in Japan

RJCSB's Takarajima

The audience kept calling for encores, so we decided to give them ~~two~~ one. In it's ~~third~~ fourth year serving as an RJCSB encore piece, Takarajima brought the house down with it's lively tune and hyped up rhythms and even better sax solo.

I have to say that before this, I was feeling a little emotionless throughout the concert, as I normally am these days. However, right from the start of this piece, the emotions came rushing back. I don't think I've ever felt so high and emotional on or off stage at any point before, nor do I think I will anytime soon (oh wait did I say this about last year's Takarajima?). Regardless I really really enjoyed playing this piece, and my hat really goes off to Samuel. The rest of the band, as well as Mr Oura, were enjoying themselves and overall it was really nice.

After the concert, we made a quick move, as there wasn't much time to meet people. Met a few of my good friends, some RI sec 4s and RWinds members, then proceeded back to school for some informal gift exchanging with the section.

I have to say, this concert was not technically well done, and musically there was a little lacking. This is probably due to the lack of time, as the potential was there. Perhaps if the concert were in August it would have been much better. Regardless, it was ok, with some good reviews from audience members, and I think we did quite well given the constraints.

I also have to say that I enjoyed the practices and the concert a lot more than last year. The band has been really welcoming and fun to be around, especially after a hard day's work, and the pieces were fun to play.

I have to thank my batchmates, RWinds members and other friends eg Calvin and Hafiz for coming down to watch the concert, and I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed playing in it.

Also, I have to thank my wonderful juniors for their support and for making the band what it is. I do hope to continue making good music with you all in Coda V. I have to make special mention of Benni, who's been a real help to me getting through some tough times, offering encouragement when I felt down and random chat when I'm bored. Hope that we can work together on making V a great success!

Finally I have to thank my wonderful section, Zhenyi, Huijun, Jiawei and especially Samuel, for making my short 1 months worth of band reservice what it was. I really enjoyed the time we've spent together and hope to see more of you all. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart, for giving me the chance to perform under the baton of Mr Oura, to wear the band uniform with pride and to once again give all I have on stage.

Well, one more chapter of my band life closed, reluctant as I am to let it, and it is time to focus on RWinds and making it work.

Last practice (again)

2009-07-14T09:58:00.002+08:00

Well today was once again my last practice with RJCSB (hopefully I'll have a few more though). I really enjoyed the past couple of months playing under Mr Oura again, and alongside some great friends, some who I've known for the past 5 or 6 years, others who I got to know through RWinds last year and still others who I've just got to know, but all are really great people.

If I said the past couple of months have been going smoothly for the band, I'd be lying. Of course, there have been many problems to overcome and many hard times to pull through, but pull through they did. The last couple of pracs I went for showed marked improvement, and I've also grown to like the repertoire quite a lot. Army of the Nile and Takarajima are old favourites, Shichi-Go-San is reminiscent of the beauty that is 7th Night, Poppo-Poppo reminds me of PDQ Bach, and of course, Hymn of the Highlands, which was love at first hear.

I can't say that Limelight will be a very significant concert for me (to the level of Coda IV or Prometheum XI), which is probably a given since I'm a guest player. However, I can say that this has been one of the most enjoyable practice seasons I've had, and besides being the first concert I'm guest playing in, I think this will also be one of the more enjoyable performances.

The band has been really great, and I enjoyed playing alongside my juniors in the J1 and J2 batch again, such as Benni and Alastair. But the people who made this one really special for me were my section, who welcomed me with open arms and never failed to make practices fun and meaningful. Huijun and Zhenyi I barely knew of course, save for Coda pracs and crashing Jinjun's various outings with Huijun, but they've been really nice and fun to be around. Samuel and Jiawei, two of my old sectionmates from RIMB, were always around providing free entertainment trying to outdo each other.

Tomorrow's the concert, so let's do this thing.

The Seventh Night of July

2009-07-07T23:16:00.003+08:00

This is one of my favourite band works for a good reason, it's really beautiful. As it is currently the eponymous seventh night of July, thought I'd share the joy. This is a piece that has seen me through some truly happy times, and of course Coda IV's rendition of it is one of my most played. Just listen and enjoy (though pity it's not ours)

Saxophone outing at Orchard!

2009-07-05T01:26:00.002+08:00

Today was, I have to say, one of the better days of my life this year. Saxophone section outing was really good, short though it was. Hearkens back to the old days of RIMB saxes 2006, we had Jeremy, myself, Samuel, Bertrand and Huijun (not from RIMB 06 but nevertheless part of the Raffles saxophone family). Dinner was at Subway, since sadly Billy Bombers axed their 2 for 1, but lanning BF2 was fun. Fourth of July fireworks abound, and the moment of the day has to be the co-ordinated F-35 strike on the Gulf of Oman map.

All in all a good day, hope we have more of these section outings in future.

A problem with the new Windows Live Messenger..

2009-06-29T09:53:00.001+08:00

is that the new favourites system is good for looking for people you like to talk to, but depressing when you log on and see every single one greyed out for long periods of time...

The product of extreme boredom at work

2009-06-23T19:43:00.003+08:00

I've come to realise that some of the most significant events in my life have been the various concerts throught it, acting as punctuation marks in my life and signifying changes, emotions, hard work and the fruits of such all at the same time. The varied music I've played in them showcased the full range of human emotions possible, and will continue to do so. Since I've really got nothing to do, it's a good time to reflect on my history of performing in the many concerts (not competitions) that have made up my band life. I'm also not going to cover minor stuff (eg band fiesta) as they haven't been as significant as the many major ones in my time.

One interesting thing to note is that other than the Sentosa concert, all of the concert performances I have played in feature a repeated piece (not including guest performances although some of them do actually feature repeats). I've also highlighted, in the more recent performances, what I consider to be either my favourite or the key piece of the concert.

Back in Sec 1, having just been invested into RIMB, our batch got its first performace in the form of:

UNTITLED - Sentosa Musical Fountains, 23rd November 2003
March Spirit
Music For A Ceremony
Selections from The Merry Widow
Do-Re-Mi
Baby Elephant Walk
Omens of Love

My memories of this concert are, by virtue of the fact that it was a good 6 years ago, quite vague, and I'm not sure if that's all that we played (I know it's not in order). I don't remember much, except that I quite enjoyed it. Perhaps that was the spark that kindled my love for band, although it would not be such a fast process.

Fast forward to 2004, as a Sec 2 with a bit more experience. It was a long process, and in the process some of my batchmates left the band, but we ended up with:

Prometheum X - Victoria Concert Hall, 20th May 2004
March Spirit (repeated from Untitled)
Appalachian Overture
Beauty and the Beast
Jalan Jalan
Carmen Fantasy
----------------------------------------
Ensembles
Highlights from Chess (Alumni band)
Twelve Seconds to the Moon (Combined band)
Wave
The Hustle
Evergreen 70s
----------------------------------------
Gelato Con Caffe
Can't Take My Eyes Off You

This was the first real concert I performed in, and it was quite good. Again, vague memories of this concert, but I do remember some random details, such as my mum's SMS "The encore was obviously a set up, but the best part", and Raphael's "The alumni are playing Chess outside". Around this point, I had begun to enjoy listening to band music and the various recordings. I also began to bond closely with my batch. This batch bonding would be further improved in the run up to the SYF 2009, which included guestplaying for:

Play '05 - Raffles Junior College Multi-Purpose Hall, 18th February 2005
Flight of the Thunderbird
Selections from Der Vogelhandler

---RJCSB's repertoire long since forgotten---

This was not a remarkable performance given the fact that the hall sucked, as Mr Oura put it "no need to hold the last note, the hall will do it for you". We viewed it more as a chance to give the new Sec 2s some performing experience for SYF. SYF that year came and went, as did the Japan trip which I did not attend. Then came:

Unisono - Victoria Concert Hall, 31st July 2005
The Bandwagon
Selections from Der Vogelhandler (repeated from Play '05 and SYF 2005)

---RGSSB's repertoire and Miyazaki Dream Band repertoire not clear but includes:-----
And Then The Ocean Glows (Raffles Girls School Symphonic Band)
Takarajima (Miyazaki Dream Band)
Kaze no Mae (Combined band)
Chiisa Na Sekai (Combined band and choir)

What I remember most about this concert would be singing It's A Small World (in Japanese), carrying the instruments out and about and having fun interacting with the Japanese students. This concert also intruduced me to 3 of the pieces which I would later come to love, ironically none of which we actually played.

Fast forward to 2006, where the school came up with the idea of a combined arts concert, namely:

MyRIad - Esplanade Concert Hall, 28th May 2006
--- Raffles Voices, Raffles Institution Chinese Orchestra, RI String Ensemble, RI Guitar Ensemble and Handicapped Welfare Association repertoire long since faded from memory---

Carmen Fantasy (repeated from Prometheum X)
Highlights from Ragtime
It's A Small World (combined orchestra)(repeated from Unisono)

This would be the first concert I remember clearly, and my first in the Esplanade Concert Hall. As I would soon be leaving Singapore for almost a month, it was quite emotional, as by then my love for the band and my batch was strong. I remember vividly playing my heart out, as Mr Oura even turned and conducted the audience at points, and I remember standing up with a tear in my eye at the end of the concert, giving my batch hugs and watching the band bus/lorry drive off without me. I think MyRIad was important in preparing us for the main event of the year.

At the end of the year, sadly, my time in RIMB came to a close. However, as a sort of Coda to my time in RIMB I had my inaugural concert with the Raffles Winds, which was, of course:

Coda II - Victoria Concert Hall, 28th December 2006
Conzensus
Suite on Celtic Folk Songs
Danse Diabolique
Mononoke Hime Medley (repeated from Investiture 2004)
Overture for Vox Stellarum
----------------------------------------------------------
Ensembles (forgotten)
Saxophone Ensemble:
An American in Paris
The Pink Panther
Gulliver's Travels
Tong Hua
Highlights from Les Miserables
----------------------------------------------------------
It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)

My first concert, in fact my first participation in a band outside of RIMB went very well. I enjoyed meeting the new people, especially the saxophonists who are really a great bunch, I got to know the RJCSB bari sax, which I still love, and the pieces challenged me to improve, all of which I enjoyed. Vox Stellarum was fun, composed by our own Wong Kah Chun, as was Tong Hua... eh wait sorry Tong Hua was composed by Jun'ichi Tanaka. Overall a nice experience.

Sadly, my entry to RJCSB was not as smooth, as I suddenly found myself alone, separated from the batch and band which I loved and being pretty much an outcast for the first half of the tenure. While that did not cause me to quit the band, the stable anchor of Mr Oura grounding me firmly, it did cause the next concert to be rather unsatisfying. That concert was, of course:

A Tempo XVIII - Raffles Junior College Performing Arts Centre, 9th/10th March 2009
Metroplex
La Mer
Kaze No Mai (repeat not counted)
Postcards from Singapore
Miss Saigon
--------------------------------------
Ensembles
And Then The Ocean Glows (repeat not counted)(Raffles Institution Military Band)
The Stars and Stripes Forever March (repeated from Prometheum XI)
Norweigian Dances
I Need To Be In Love
Sounds of the 60s
Silver Screen
---------------------------------------
Takarajima

This was a forgettable concert, especially the first night, where Mr Oura was not very happy with our playing. The second was better, but still not really satisfying. The fun part was mostly the new pieces, as I enjoyed pieces such as Silver Screen, Takarajima and my favourite march, The Stars and Stripes Forever (I think my recommendation was responsible for it being there). Listening to RIMB was great, though.

There followed a long hiatus in terms of performing, except for SYF and some minor events, and that in fact would be my last concert performance with RJCSB for the year. What happened next, which was all the way in December would be

Junior College Band Festival 2007 - Esplanade Concert Hall, 16th December 2007
Holst Band:
Cancion De Espana
October
Kaze No Mai (again and again)
Lerner and Loewe in Concert
Fennell Band:
Festival March
Prelude, Siciliano and Rondo
Japanese Graffiti XII
-------------------------------
Honour Band:
Festmusik der Stadt Wien
First Suite in E flat for Military Band
Der Traum Des Oenghus
El Camino Real
His Honour March

It is of interest to note that in this concert, the honour band played a piece by Holst (First Suite), Fennell (His Honour March) and a piece with Honour in its title. I was privileged to be in the Honour Band, and enjoyed it greatly. At first glance the repertoire was boring, and given my usual shyness, I thought I would not enjoy JCBF. Boy was I wrong. My section was small, but I got to know them and became friends, and the music turned out to be really good, leading to El Camino Real now being one of my favourite pieces. All in all a wonderful experience.

Concurrent with JCBF, Raffles Winds started up once again under a new resident conductor, Quan Hui, and this led to:

Coda III - Victoria Concert Hall, 26th December 2007
March and Procession of Bacchus (repeated from Prometheum XI)
Foster in my Mind
Morricone's Melody - Gabriel's Oboe
Peterloo Overture
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Variations
Ensembles (mostly forgotten)
Saxophone Ensemble:
Laputa - Castle in the Sky
Metro Gnome
Othello
--------------------------------------------------------------------
I Will Survive

Coda III was quite fun too, although it was still not much special, probably because my batch were mostly not involved in playing, nor in the audience. Technically it was ok, but not really impressive. Mainly I enjoyed being back with the alumni, who by then I had grown to know reasonably well. However RWinds was still not yet that major to me. This would, of course change later.

A few months later we had a mini concert to promote our major one in RJ. This was:

Play '08 - Raffles Junior College Lecture Theatre 2, 28th March 2008
Various random ensembles featuring percs and the same old brass quintet from A Tempo XVIII
Beauty and the Beast (repeated from Prometheum X)
Pirates of the Caribbean (repeated from Investiture 2006)
My Heart Will Go On
Shrek Dance Party

This was not really a conventional concert in the sense that it featured a stage play as well. The playing sucked, big time, but for some reason the audience enjoyed it. The concert also featured some insights into the running of the band and some of the notable flaws. Overall, one of the worse experiences in terms of concerts, although not without its enjoyment here and there. The main purpose of this was to provide some publicity for upcoming events.

In June we had the Japan trip with RIMB, leading to

The Second Regular Concert of the Fukui High School Band - Fukui Harmony Hall,
14th June 2008

---Fukui HS Band's repertoire largely forgotten besides 20th Century Fox Theme and Takarajima---

The Bandwagon (repeated from Prometheum XI)
Dance Celebration
Selections from The Merry Widow (repeated from Untitled)

The concert, while technically looking like a disaster next to a Japanese band, was fun and went well, including my interview on stage in Japanese. It was fun playing to a near full house in a nice concert hall, and I enjoyed it immensely. Food was much better than usual too.

And so 2008 came to a close, leading to a 6 month hiatus from band until A Tempo XX in 2009, which hopefully will go well. Coda V and Con Brio II are coming up too, leading to more fun with RWinds, which I have grown to love. All the best for the future!!

The more astute of you will have noticed that 3 concerts are missing from this list. Can you tell which ones?

Prometheum XI - Victoria Concert Hall, 21st July 2006
Silvercrest
Le Carnival Des Animaux
March and Procession of Bacchus
Jalan Jalan (repeated from Prometheum X and National Band Competition 2006)
Overture for Symphonic Band
Carmen Fantasy (repeated from Prometheum X and MyRIad)
----------------------------------------------------------------
Saxophone Ensemble:
Jazzablanca
The Stars and Stripes Forever
Percussion Ensemble:
Thunder and Lightning
Whistle While You Work (repeated from Band Fiesta)
Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines
The Bandwagon (repeated from Unisono)
Highlights from Ragtime (repeated from MyRIad)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Army of the Nile (repeated from Band Fiesta and National Band Competition 2006)
Spanish Fever (repeated from Band Fiesta)

This has to be the most significant concert to me of my career in RIMB, and ties for second in terms of overall impact on my band life. Why this isn't first would probably be for musical reasons, the repertoire wasn't that impressive and mostly repeats. However, RIMB was my family, and it felt magical playing on stage, hearing my name mispronounced during ensembles and enjoying the wonderful music. We all thought we wouldn't make it, but in the end it was beautiful, who cares about the technicalities when we all just played from our hearts. Highlights from Ragtime left me in tears at the end, and when we went back to RI, we were all so high when we cheered, and that is a memory I will treasure for life.

You may by now be wondering why the Japan trip is not down here, simply this is because this is a review solely on concerts, and what I loved about the Japan trip was much more than concerts. That, and there's a much longer review in my archives

A Tempo XIX - Esplanade Concert Hall, 26th May 2008
Army of the Nile (repeated from Band Fiesta, National Band Competition 2006 and Prometheum XI)
St Anthony Variations
American Salute
Romanza
Saga Maligna
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florentiner Marsch
Monument
Titanic Medley (repeated from Investiture 2006)
Utada Hikaru Vocal Selections (aka First Love/Addicted to You)
Jounetsu Tairiku
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Takarajima (repeated from A Tempo XVIII)
Tico Tico (repeated from Random Busking Along Orchard Road)

This concert ties with Prometheum XI for second place in terms of significance to me, but on the other end of the scale. Unlike in RIMB, RJCSB wasn't really a second home to me, although I had some good friends there. It just didn't feel as nice as RIMB was, maybe because of my own failures to put in effort and socialise, and not being in the core of the band as what I was used to was disappointing. I guess my life in RJCSB can really be represented by Saga Maligna, incorporating sadness, laughter, pain, indifference, remorse, hope and despair at various points.
What made the concert special was the scale of it, it was the largest scale concert I've ever played in. The music and standard were all impressive, and the repertoire was brilliant. Army of the Nile and Titanic Medley brought back fond memories of RIMB, Takarajima and Tico Tico left me feeling high and while we didn't play Saga Maligna and Monument as well as we could have, the two pieces, my favourites of the concert, are astounding.

It is somewhat interesting that what I consider to be the best and most significant concert of my band career is also the latest.

Coda IV - Victoria Concert Hall, 30th December 2008
Firework!
Armenian Dances pt. 1
A French Portrait
Highlights from Phantom of the Opera
---------------------------------------------------------
Saxophone Ensemble
Canon in D
Diamond State Rag
Percussion Ensemble
Brazillian Street Dance
ABBA Gold (repeated from REACT 2007 and RJC Open House 2007)
In The Mood
Queen's Park Melody
The Seventh Night of July
----------------------------------------------------------
Looney Tunes Overture

Simply put, Coda IV has been the best concert of my life to this date. Some of you may be wondering why this concert, not being as technically impressive as A Tempo, is my personal favourite, especially when it's not even a school band, but an alumni band. First off, the repertoire was really to die for, a good mix of classics, familiar tunes and original compositions by certain persons. All the pieces were enjoyable to play and I loved them. Technically, too, the band played better than it had ever done.

If Saga Maligna represents my life in RJCSB, then The Seventh Night of July has to represent my life in the Raffles Winds. The piece is one of my favourites, it's simple and so beautiful, so hopeful, and that's pretty much what life was like in Rwinds - simple and fun, and loving. Even the rather sad part near the end (perhaps representing the problems faced as a librarian) is shot down by hopeful and strong lines from the brass, culminating in the big finish that I love.

Coda IV presented me with the best of both worlds, a technically and musically good concert in a band that I felt a part of, and the feeling that the hard work I had put in had paid off. Overall the concert cycle was the best I'd experienced throughout my RWinds life, and it's going to be hard to match.

You may also be wondering why for the top spot I didn't choose a concert conducted by ~~the god of music~~ Mr Oura. Again, the reason is simple, Mr Oura taught me throughout my whole band life, and by extension he taught everyone in RWinds, so we still owe him Coda IV. Besides, this is a post on concerts, not life as a whole, where Mr Oura comes out tops by a long shot.

That about concludes my review on my curriculum vitae on concerts, Hopefully you have gained something from reading this, even if it's only the knowledge that life in NS is boring enough for me to do this, and if you've read this far, I love you deep deep for it.

An experiment

2009-06-21T21:11:00.001+08:00

Track 01 - The Incredibles - Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra

Band...

2009-06-09T08:37:00.002+08:00

I'm finally back in the band scene after a 5+ month hiatus, and it feels good to be back. The wheels have started turning for Rwinds, and I'm confident that, as good as last year was for us, we can do much better this year. It's great to be back in RJCSB as well, to play under the baton of Mr Oura again and this time, to see my favourite juniors alongside, in fact, it almost feels like RIMB 2006 all over again.

On the other hand, having things to do for the bands brings with it a level of stress I haven't experienced in a while, thanks also to the fact that I am now working, and this post is probably going to be a rant designed to let a lot of that stress out. Physically, my schedule is screwed up and I'm wondering if it was such a good idea to commit to both RJ and Rwinds, with a result that my day looks something like wake up at 3:30am, work from 5 to 3, go for prac till 7+, come back and search for chalets etc for Rwinds. On the other hand, from experience, I know that such efforts will come with rewards and the satisfaction of seeing the fruits of my labour, so I shall not slack off!

Yesterday's RJ prac, however, wasn't really that good. Mr Oura wasn't all too happy with the band, and I can see why. It's really sad to see that most of the J2s aren't committed to playing for the band for this concert, and I was surprised at the low number who are. Last year this was the case for SIBF, but SIBF was a minor competition compared to the A Tempo in May, so perhaps it's more understandable why my batch never committed.

On the other hand, when Mr Oura commented on how disappointed he was with my own batch last year, I felt as though I was shot straight in the heart with a SAR21, but at the same time I couldn't help but agree. It's really disappointing to see the effect the current culture of the school has on the band, and it's unfair to those who do their best and want to see the band improve.

For my own part, I'm also disappointed in myself. If I'm guest playing for this concert I need to play my best, and I think my playing yesterday was substandard, no, it was downright bad. I can't use the excuse that I need to get back in shape because my playing on Saturday was much better. But what's done is done, and the importance now is in improving. The good thing is that I now have photocopies of some of the harder pieces, especially Shichi-Go-San, so I can study the scores in my own time.

Speaking of scores, another thing I should probably do is settle my own missing scores as best I can, especially Army of the Nile and Takarajima, which we played last year. If I can't find those around I suppose I should borrow the conductor's score and type them out myself. Just because I'm a guest player doesn't mean I should have the mentality that the members of the band need to prepare everything for me, yeah? Speaking from experience as an Rwinds librarian, I think the poor RJ librarians have enough trouble already.

I really feel for my juniors, those who are committed and give their all to the band, they deserve much better than what the band has now, but circumstances conspire against them. For my part, I will do my best for the band that I love so much, and help out where I can.

Speaking of which, Rwinds pracs are going to start soon, and I hope that I will not have to make the choice between the bands, although this is not likely. I need to buck up as the Rwinds librarian too, and not repeat the mistakes made last year.

Well, I guess when you make band your life, you have to take the downs with the ups. In the end, though, I hope it'll all be worth it, that I see Mr Oura's smile as the band stands up after A Tempo on the Esplanade's stage, that I'll enjoy good food and fun times with Rwinds on the first prac and the chalet, and that Coda V will trounce Coda IV in every way possible. If we can achieve that, it'll all have been worth it.

Maybe when I wake up this nightmare will be over...

2009-06-02T23:46:00.006+08:00

Note: This is a post born out of sheer desperation and frustration at certain recent events, however, as the viewpoints below may be sensitive to some, they have been translated.

Πρέπει πραγματικά να σπάσω απότομα από το, αυτά τα συναισθήματα της μοναξιάς και την απελπισία. Πρέπει να προχωρήσω με τη ζωή μου, και πρέπει να σταματήσω ανάλογα με άλλους στο σημείο της προσκόλλησης σε τους, επειδή it' το s μη καλό, στο τέλος αυτό βλάπτει περισσότερων. Αλλά Ι πραγματικά don' το τ ξέρει πώς… Ι haven' το τ που βλέπει τους ανθρώπους που χρησιμοποίησαν για να σημάνουν τόσο μεγάλο μέρος σε με για πολύ, με μερικές εξαιρέσεις. Οι προηγούμενες λίγες εβδομάδες I' VE αισθαμένος πραγματικά κάτω και έξω, και συνεχίζω ότι η ζωή θα επέστρεφε σε κανονικό, αλλά ξέρω that' s μη πιθανό. Η ζωή πρέπει να πάει, φυσικά, αλλά it' s μη εύκολο εξετάζοντας τέτοια πράγματα. Ξέρω ότι οι φίλοι μου είναι ακόμα εκεί, αλλά it' s τόσο σκληρό για με να φθάσω σε τους σήμερα ότι μπορούν επίσης να μην είναι. Ξέρω it' s nobody' ελάττωμα του s, αλλά επιθυμώ ότι τα πράγματα ήταν διαφορετικά… Η εξέταση τη J1 batch με καθιστά τώρα ζηλότυπο, με τέτοιο τρόπο ώστε, ο οποίος Ι don' το τ έχει μια θέση για να καλέσει το σπίτι άλλο, ακόμη και στο χρόνο μου σε RJ θα ήμουν σε θέση ακόμα να δω τους φίλους μου… Και μιλώντας για J1s πρέπει πραγματικά να σταματήσω τους τόσο συχνά. Υποθέτω that' s η μόνη σταθερότητα που έχω στη ζωή μου τώρα, και they' επαν πραγματικά μεγάλοι άνθρωποι, αλλά that' s πραγματικά όχι μια δικαιολογία για με για να συνεχίσω κάτω από εκεί. Επιθυμώ ότι θα μπορούσα ακριβώς να πάω πίσω στις ημέρες RIMB το 2006 ή RJC το 2008… τέτοιοι ευτυχέστεροι χρόνοι που δεν μπορώ πλέον να έχω…

You know what the whole irony is? I want people to understand my viewpoint but I'm posting this in Greek.

FFI

2009-05-27T22:29:00.002+08:00

Today I went to collect my A level cert, and in the process, did some crashing/raiding/advertising on behalf of Rwinds. I always love visiting RJ and RI, and seeing Mr Oura today was nice. Quite good response from the RI Sec 4s, let's hope they show up and make Rwinds the best it can be for the RI concert and for Coda V.

I don't know quite how to describe the feeling of being around the RJ juniors, especially the J1s. On the one hand a little awkward since I'm not really in their batches, or for that matter in the band. On the other hand, it's a good feeling to be around them, since they're so welcoming and so energetic that it feels almost like being back there.

I guess when you're feeling stressed or down, sometimes solace and help can be found in the most unexpected places. In my case I've found it in my juniors, particularly one of them, who've been really a great help recently, providing either free entertainment (eg Samuel and Ryan) or more importantly, a listening ear for some troubles I've been having, and if you're reading this, thanks, I have no idea how I'm gonna repay you.

If only I could drop by Bishan more on the way from Murai to Siglap...

A Tempo XIX + 1

2009-05-26T19:30:00.000+08:00

One year on since what I believe has to be the biggest concert of my life. I'm sad to say however, that it was not what it could have been for me as compared to concerts such as Prometheum XI and Coda IV. Why this is the case, though, shall for now remain in Japanese somewhere below. Despite this it was a good concert, and one that I enjoyed playing in, as it was both technically good and musically entertaining and engaging, and I think the audience loved it too. We had a mix of the emotional (Saga Maligna), majestic (Monument), classical (St Anthony), romantic (Romanza), marches, pop, and of course, Titanic Medley. What did others think of it?

"It's a feeling hard to describe. If you take RJCSB, remove all the girls and the newcomers, and slot our Sec 4 batch in, we'd have RIMB '06. And surely, no one will be able to forget aobut the times we had, the songs we sang together?

RIMB '06 occupies a special, inerasable part of my heart.

Of course, A Tempo was filled with many solos, especially by Jeremy, Chester, and Matthew. However their standard was humbling. It definitely made our band, especially us Sec 4s, the graduating batch of this year, think. It was a clear reminder that there is so much more we can achieve, so much more that we can do. "-わたし

"IT WAS SO DAMN PRO!

True, there was no ultra-flashy stuff like that which we had at Prometheum XII

But musically speaking, everything was brilliant. There may not be such a thing as a perfect performance, but this is was as close to it as you could get. Tuning, tone, rhythm, technicality, everything was very, very PRO." ショ-ティアン

"a tempo xix it was a really cool concert, after all it's by our seniors ^^. it was technically impressive but that didn't mean it wasn't entertaining, it was totally totally worth the buck." - アラスタ

"it has been a honor" -ベン

"In the end I feel as a whole that the concert was a rousing success. The audience thought we played brilliantly, and everyone left the concert happy. I guess no matter how divided our band has been, we, for a brief moment of time, felt as one." ショ-ティアン

"Don't worry, all our mistakes will be recorded in HD (high-definition)" ジャラルド

Circle Line Viewing

2009-05-24T01:03:00.003+08:00

После длиннего дня работы…

2009-05-22T01:10:00.001+08:00

Я желаю что было кто-нибудь которое смогло научить мне как помочь им от становления как мы были назад вовремя. К им оно значит много, и я могу увидеть то. К мне также, I' ve всегда чувствовал близко к им. Я надеюсь оно doesn' t приходит пройти что они последуют за нашим руководством… Я даже делая правильную вещь?

100th Anniversary

2009-05-22T00:57:00.002+08:00

This is the 100th post on my blog! All the way from Sec 4 till now, although I haven't been updating it all too regularly. It's captured a few scenes of my life, but mostly, my concerts as well as those significant ones I've watched, and I think those have been the key posts in my blog, covering:

myRIad - 28th May 2006
Prometheum XI - 21st July 2006
Coda II - 28th December 2006
A Tempo XVIII - 9th/10th March 2007
Singapore Youth Festival - 11th May 2007
Con Brio - 6th July 2007
Junior College Band Festival - 16th December 2007
Coda III - 26th December 2007
Prometheum XII - 15th May 2008
A Tempo XIX - 26th May 2008
The whole Japan trip, represented by concert day 9th-16th June 2008, concert on the 14th
Singapore International Band Festival 2008 - 24th July 2008
Coda IV - 30th December 2008
Coda V - 30th December 2009

More such posts will come as more milestones are hit I guess. Thanks to my blog for recording the significant events in my life.

5 years ago..

2009-05-21T00:47:00.001+08:00

My first performance on stage at Victoria Concert Hall, now the site of many fond memories of Prometheums and Codas past. My first major concert as part of my band life, my first Prometheum. It's been a long time, and I've come far, but I haven't forgotten what it was like to be on that stage for the first time.

And an update to my earlier post

I' ve는 지금 막 나의 심혼에 귀중한 누군가와 가진 대화가 있고, 나는 그를 위해 걱정되고 그가 안으로 믿는 무슨을을 위해. 나는 그 he'를 희망한다; 도로 I'의 아래 저를 따르기 위하여 가지 않는 s; 가지고 가는 ve, 때문에 it' s 아주 즐거운 것 아닙니다. 나는 나가 2007 aren'에서 그 당시에는 직면한 문제 희망한다; 나가 더 이른 포스트에서 언급했다시피, 재포장하기 위하여 가는 t는 거기 I' 몇몇 것이다; d 오히려 잃지 않기 위하여, 그리고 이것은 그들중 하나이다. 특히 나는 나가 할 수 있는 것처럼 나가 좋다는 것을 친구 희망한다, 그리고 아무것이, 필요의 그의 시간에서 그를 지원하는 경우에, 그리고 그 문제에 관해서는 이 대본에서 포함되는 누군가. 나는 또한 아무도가 그것을 이해할 수 있을 때문에 Babelfish가 이것을 이렇게 잘 위로 난도질한ㄴ다는 것을 희망한다.

Raffles Bands

2009-05-20T20:20:00.003+08:00

And so, RJCSB has gotten a decent gold for SYF. It's not the gold with honours they deserved, considering the amount of effort the band put in, but I think they played really well. It's true that it may have been a little better, but I think that from the recording, you can tell it's top class. If you can't, perhaps this should be good enough for you.

takehiro says: anyway, you guys moust be proud of your performance of today
takehiro says: to tell people of the world singapore school band is able to play Ravel's music so well
takehiro says: matured manners, musicality,
takehiro says: it is different level of the gold you got that the gold acjc got (I can only compare with acjc, cos only listened to them today)
takehiro says: (11:26:22 PM)i was happy and enjoyed the time spend time with you last 3weeks
takehiro says: (11:27:04 PM)every practice improved

On another note, there are some other things I'd like to talk about, but since they may be sensitive, they have been translated in a very inaccurate manner, so if you want the original, ask me.

私はthere'を実現する; まれのs時I' 私の過去、バンドとラッフルの学校の私の生命について考えないmように全体。このisn' 必ずしもt悪い事、しかしit' やや消費しているようになり始めるs。私は量をの仮定するフリータイム私は128 hasn'で持っている; 助けられるtしかしそれはある興味深い反射をもたらした。主に、I' 現在のJ1バッチを長い間見ているveおよびI don' tは十分になぜ理解する。多分it' s 私のバッチがだったかもしれないならないまたは多分it'もの私がそれらで見るので; 先輩としてsのでの 2年、I' それらが秒1の始めから今まで育ち、私が助けたことを望むのを見られるve この成長。私はこれが私達の下に私達のバッチおよびバッチの1つの達成、育てるために彼らのバッチをであることを仮定するそれがであるものに、しかし私達can' それのためのtの取得信用。彼らのバッチを構成する人々は特別な何かがあるそれは示す。実用的な標準はRIMBでしばらく見られないレベルしかしit'にある; sちょうどそれ。 RJでは、私のバッチはよく、すべてだったが、私が家に呼ぶことができる私は少なくとも少数を知っていることそれは決して実際に場所ではなかったし私のバッチ分け前の他感情。実際に人々としてバッチでき事のように、感じられたバッチ夕食は決して通常なかった、私に出場できなくされて、私は決して私がバッチに実際に属したことを感じなかったし。但し、J1sと、I' 多くを感じるために作られるm 歓迎および私の自身のバッチより誘われて。例えば" Nahはのこれあなたのhome"である; または引用されるこの効果への何かベン著私がバッチ夕食を衝突するために謝った場合の。 It' sの小さい事は挨拶のようなこれを、との好む私が最後の水曜日そして話すことバレーゼに私のすばらしい後輩に入ったときに完全にのあたりで、Jerald、ベン、デイヴィッドは微笑する、サミュエル、Alastair等It' s私が私に少しを悲しくそのI'余りにさせる、私の自身のバッチと決して実際に感じなかったちょうど何か; mないそれらの友情を造るバッチおよび機会で限られていなさいありなさい。私のjuniors'を読むこと; ブログは私によってが行った同じ旅行によってまたかなり興味深く、基本的にそれらを行く見る私の6年中の自分自身を通して、ちょっと第3人の見通し。当然it' s完全に同じ、しかしI ある平行を見ることができる。但し、私はそれらが大いによくすること確信しているより私持っている感じる。

Ok the above post is a demonstration of why an air force signaller has too much time on his hands. Shall not elaborate too much more. Looking forward to A Tempo XX, the big 20.

SYF 2009

2009-04-11T07:53:00.002+08:00

Well for the secondary schools, SYF is over, and I must say that the results have been nothing less than shocking. Having said that though, I'm proud of the juniors of RIMB for the way they've handled all this. I must say that our batch would probably never have come out of such a setback as well as they have.

"we are a band of brothers. not a silver band. nor even just a gold band (which we deserve, some might argue), but a band made up of brothers. thats not a colour of a medal you can get, can you?"- RIMB

Out of Tekong

2009-03-11T14:53:00.002+08:00

As I type this post, I am sitting on the second floor of the world's largest passenger airliner, the Airbus A380-800, at around FL400 above the city of Berlin. I have recently passed out of BMT, and am now on my way to New York via London. So far the flight has been excellent, as is expected of Singapore Airlines, and it is rather sad that there's only an hour or so of the flight left. I will report on the trip later, but for now, reflections on some recent events.

The A level results have been released, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that I had done well. So far it seems that almost everyone is satisfied with their grades, at least the people that I know. To those that are, congrats and keep it up. To those who aren't, don't worry, the A levels aren't everything. Don't lose hope and things will turn out for the best.

BMT for me was a short one, being PES C, but I found it enjoyable, the only real problem I had was the lack of contact with my home and the real world. I'm not sure how much I'm at liberty to describe, so I shall use some of the more memorable quotes from BMT instead.

"You want me to send you all home and watch TV is it? I can order KFC for you also!" - Medic

"Sucks to be you" - 3SG Joseph

"What the f***" - 2LT Shane

"If you all don't march properly i'll make you sing the Star Wars song (Imperial March) and march" - 2SG Nurudin

"Nice!" - 2LT Ajay

"Ming bai ma?" - 2LT Ben

"You all are trying to make my blood boil is it?" - 3SG Ismail

"Do you realise that your targets are a little bigger" - 2LT Shane

"You deserve a megamac!" - 2LT Shane

"Should we give them the small one, the medium one, the big one, or shall we give them the whole family?" - 2LT Ajay

I guess in all, BMT was enriching and fun. HG and BTP were definitely the highlights for me, although I'm disappointed that I couldn't do much for field camp.

I suppose I shall continue later with reports from my trip to the US and UK, and I do look forward to seeing my friends again when I return.

Another quiz from Jinjun

2009-02-14T21:17:00.003+08:00

Rules: Use the first letter of your name to answer each of the following questions. They have to be real...nothing made up! If the person before you had the same first initial, you must use different answers. You cannot use any word twice and you can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

1. What is your name: Aaron
2. A four Letter Word: Aims
3. A boy's Name: Andy
4. A girl's Name: Angelina
5. An occupation: Aviation Operations Specialist (AOS)
6. A color: Amber
7. Something you'll wear: A T-shirt (cheating haha but the only item of clothing I can think of is an anorak and I usually do not wear that)
8. A food: Angus steak
9. Something found in the bathroom: A mirror (ok now I really can't think of anything)
10. A place: Asia
11. A reason for being late: Accident
12. Something you'd shout: argh
13. A movie title: And The Band Played On
14. Something you drink: Apple juice
15. A musical group: Anderson Military Band
16. An animal: Aardvark
17. A street name: Avenue Q (it doesn't have to be a real street does it)
18. A type of car: Aston Martin DB9/DBS/Vantage/Vanquish etc
19. The title of a song: And Then The Ocean Glows
20. A verb: Aim

Conscript reporting

2009-01-27T23:38:00.000+08:00

Well this is it. The moment no one's been waiting for, but one that we all must face. In about 11 hours time I will cease to be a civillian and be enlisted into the Singapore Armed Forces as a recruit. I cannot honestly say that I am looking forward to BMT, frankly, especially considering I'm going to know no one in my platoon (almost sure of the fact due to PES status).

I suppose I should try to look on the bright side. The long confinement is going to be a killer at 18 days, but once that's over, that's 50% of my BMT done. I guess PES C BMT, while not a holiday camp, won't be as tough as the poor enhanced guys who've been sharing horror stories. And I hope I can meet some good people, maybe forge some new bonds.

I kind of wish I had people who actually cared I'm going in tomorrow still around, but I guess most of them are already enjoying Disneyland Tekong. Oh well, I suppose all I can do is do my best to survive and hopefully come out of BMT a better person.

There is one old slogan I think I'll carry around with me for motivation

We Should, We Must, We Can, We Will (+ common sense - Mr Oura)

Yet another Jinjun quiz

2009-01-16T17:18:00.002+08:00

1. How many months are there until your birthday?
-2

2. Have you gotten gum stuck in your hair?
Nope

3.When was the last time you got straight A’s?
PSLE, I think that's the last time most people got them

4. Where is your sister/brother right now?
At church

5. Is your handwriting large, tiny, or pretty normal?
Pretty average

6. Are you currently listening to a song?
Well I was listening to Takarajima from Jinjun's blog 30 seconds ago

7. Do you have a cell phone?
Duh?

8. Do you own any kind of yellow clothing?
My favourite World Cup 2006 shirt

9. What do you hate about the opposite sex?
The sheer difficulty of reading them and keeping them happy

10. How many piercings do you have?
None

11. What time is it?
0920z

12.What color are your eyes?
Black

13. How are you today?
Bored, a little depressed and counting the days down to POC

14. How long does it take you to shower?
Quite fast, I'm not like some people who sing the whole day there

15. Do you wear your seatbelt in the car?
Yes, I think not wearing the seatbelt when my mother drives is just suicidal.

16. What jewelery do you wear all the time?
Not a bit

17. What would you say if your doc. told you were pregnant?
Then I would question the doctor's medical abilities as well as his common sense.

18.Do you believe in aliens?
I don't really believe we'll find any, but it's plausible

19. Any siblings?
One

20. What are you doing tomorrow?
Absolutely nothing

21. Tell me a story about a scar you have.
I don't appear to have any

22. What color are your socks?
Mostly white

23. How long is your hair?
Too long

24. What school do you go to?
Basic Military Training Center School 2 (In a few days time)

25. What are you allergic to?
Airbus A320s

26. Can others make you cry easily?
Yes, especially one Mr Yagisawa.

27. Whos house did you last go to?
Jinjun

28. Where did you get the shirt you are wearing?
From some random place

29. Who is your best friend?
Hmm it's hard to say really, but scroll down one entry and you should find the most likely answer.

30. Do you know what you are going to wear tomorrow?
I'll just take whatever's on top

37. What are your favorite color(s)?
Green, gold

38. Do you know anyone who lives in another state?
In passing

39. Are you easily confused?
This question is confusing

40. Who have you talked on phone today?
Paul!!!

41. How has the past week been?
EXTREMELY BORING

42. Do you like anyone at the moment?
Quite a few people?

43.What made you happy today?
My com's back in action

44.Do you like thunderstorms?
Unless I'm caught in them, yeah

45. Do you watch Hannah Montana?
Please no

46. When’s the last time you cried?
Just

48. What’s the weather like right now?
Too hot! It's 24 degrees celsius! Sigh I miss HK's and Egypt's weather.

2008 in review

2009-01-08T16:55:00.002+08:00

I still remember clearly how the year started... sitting on the Padang watching fireworks with Paul, Jinjun, Shuotian, Chester, Calvin and others.

At the time, I was reflecting back on the way that 2006 ended (badly), and how it foreshadowed 2007, which wasn't that great a year. I thought to myself that perhaps, since the way 2007 was ending was way better, 2008 should prove to be a good year too. Was it? Let's see.

Academically, of course, we had the big one. The A levels came and went. I think I improved since last year, and hopefully I did well. Some moments in class were really priceless, and of course, the numerous mugging sessions at the Esplanade and the airport will be remembered.

However, I think academics were a minor part of my year. So many things have happened, and I shall attempt to broadly categorise them into a few areas.

Travel wise, this year was a bumper year for me, visiting Japan, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, UAE, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. It is good that I've gotten so many opportunities to visit different countries, experience their cultures and scenery and in the case of Japan, meet new people and exchange ideas. As an aviation enthusiast, the number of aircraft, airports and airlines has been staggering and I'm really thankful for these experiences. Some of them (Emirates, Etihad, Singapore Airlines) have been wonderful, others (Cathay Pacific) less so. Still, it's not every year one gets to fly 3 new types.

Musically, this year for me has shown great improvements in my personal standard. January saw some minor events here and there, while March had Play 08, which was a light and refreshing event. May saw A Tempo XIX, the highlight of the year in RJCSB. However, I must say that while it was a great concert, for me, I found it slightly lacking in terms of emotion and feelings on my part, which I can't really explain much. In June, RIMB went to Japan, ending a 3 year long wait. I really enjoyed that trip, and I hope, however unlikely, that I can experience something similar in future. July saw SIBF, a less than ideal finish to my band life under Mr Oura, who I dearly miss, but also saw the start of Rwinds practices. As a committee member for Rwinds, I found myself more heavily involved in Coda IV compared to previous Codas. Of course, this meant more work, sometimes more than I could handle. Despite this, our efforts paid off in what may well be the best concert of my life to me. In Coda IV I found a passion for music I had lost in A Tempo, and for the first time I found myself really tearing on stage. The band played well, not technically as well as A Tempo or JCBF, but with emotion and fervour I've rarely seen.

Of course, the most important developments are in friendship. There are a few people who I have to acknowledge, and in alphabetical order (except for the most important) they are (apologies if I offend anyone, but I bet no one reads this anyway):

Ben - I regret not getting to know him in RIMB, because he's been a great friend so far, offering invaluable advice from a different perspective. It was great to play with him, and the rest of his batch, in Coda and I hope I continue to have that privilege

Bertrand - I haven't been able to see him much this year, inevitable I suppose given our difference in batch. Still, we remain good friends, and comrades in our love for aviation. I look forward to flying more with him in the future.

Calvin - Been seeing a lot more of him the past year, and we've grown closer. I think I may sometimes overlook him, but recently he's been a very good friend, always being there when I needed someone. I still distinctly remember coming out of arrivals after an extremely distressing flight from Dubai and seeing him there, then just running over and hugging him tight. I must thank him for all he's done for me.

Jerald - He's been another great junior and friend to me so far, and I commend him on his exemplary leadership of the RIMB this year. I suppose I have him to thank for the wonderful Japan trip and for a great job emceeing Coda too.

Jeremy - I guess in 2007 we sort of drifted apart, but I'm lucky to have re-forged our friendship this year. I guess when you've known each other for six years, such friendships die hard, and I hope it continues to improve.

Meiyi - One of the most important new relationships I've forged over this year, and we've spent some times together, both trying (during the A levels) and fun (Our trip to ~~Hong Kong~~ East Coast Park). I wish for our friendship to continue to grow.

Paul - Still the same bubbly guy as ever. I must admit that at times I found him a little insensitive perhaps, but I put that down to my own insecurity and a bit of selfishness I guess. He's been a great friend to me though, and I sincerely hope that continues.

Shuotian - How I wish we could have played together in Coda, but due to extenuating circumstances that was not possible. He's one of the few people I've had no doubts about, and one of the people I feel I can really depend upon.

Shuyi - I guess we've really drifted apart in the later half of the year, but the bond of friendship we shared in the first half is something I still cherish, and perhaps wish I still have.

To round off this whole post, there is someone special who I must thank greatly, because I don't think I could have survived the year without him. I started the year probably regarding him as an acquaintance of sorts, but now, I don't know what I'd do without him. He's followed me almost all the way, even as far as Hong Kong and KL. He's offered invaluable support during the hardest periods of the year, and was there to share all the happy moments too, not to mention teaching me a lot of stuff about music, photography and a whole lot of other things. I don't know how I'll ever repay him for what he's done. I hope, though it's not very likely, that we'll be able to share our journey through NS together, as well as other fun times in the future. I don't think I need to mention who this person is, because I'm sure he knows. If you're reading this, I don't know how I can express my feelings in a few words, but I'll try. Thanks, thanks for everything.

Yet another quiz

2009-01-05T19:09:00.002+08:00

1. Made out for more than 3 minutes?
With my bari, yeah

2. Slept in a different bed?
Many many times

3. Loved someone so much that you couldn’t live another second without that person?
Nope
4. Made out with 2 different people in one night?
Not even 1

5. Thought your cousin was hot?
Not ever

6. Been in love?
747-400!

7. Slept past noon?
Rarely
8. Taken a shower with the opposite sex?
Nope

9. Gone over the speed limit?
as a passenger, too many times to count

10. Painted your room?
Nope

11. Drove a car?
Mainly the CDC Toyota Vios

12.Danced in front of your mirror?
No

13. Gotten a hickey?
Nope

14. Been dumped?
No

15. Stole money from a friend?
Never

16. Gotten in a car with people you just met?
Once or twice

17. Been in a fist fight?
Nope, saw one in a school in Japan though (teacher vs student)

18. Snuck out of your house?
Nope

19. Had feelings for someone who didn’t have them back?
No (wow my life is boring)

20. Been arrested?
No

21. Made out with a stranger?
No

22. Left your house without telling your parents?
No

23. Had a crush on your neighbour?
I don't even know them

24. Ditched school to do something more fun?
Nope

25. Slept in a bed with a member of the same or opposite sex?
Both

26. Seen someone die?
Nope, hopefully won't

27. Been on a plane?
If by plane you mean anything other than x, no, where x =: (in order of size)
Curtiss-Wright Travelair 4000
Cessna 182S
ATR 72-500
Embraer ERJ-190
McDonnell Douglas MD80
Airbus A319-112
Boeing 737-400
Boeing 737-800
Airbus A320-214
Airbus A320-232
Airbus A321-214
Boeing 757-200
Boeing 767-300ER
Airbus A330-300
Airbus A340-500
Airbus A340-600
Boeing 777-200ER
Boeing 777-300
Boeing 777-300ER
Boeing 747-100SR/SUD
Boeing 747-400
Airbus A380-800

28. Kissed a picture?
Nope

29. Slept in the opposite sex’s bed?
Erm?

30. Love someone or miss someone right now?
I miss a lot of people, but not in a romantic sense

31. Laid on your back and watched cloud shapes go by?
Never laid down, but did that before

32. Made a snow angel?
Nope

33. Played dress up?
A long long long time ago

34. Cheated while playing a game?
Many many times

35. Been lonely?
yeah, am right now actually

36. Fallen asleep at work/school?
A couple of times

37. Been to a club?
yeah

38. Felt an earthquake?
Nope

39. Touched a snake?
Couple of times

40. Ran a red light?
As a pedestrian, yeah

41. Been suspended from school?
Well my bag was once (literally), but no

42. Had detention?
Nope

43. Been in a car?
Sure

44. Hated the way you look?
Nope

45. Witnessed a crime?
Haha depends on the strict definition of crime

46. Been lost?
Sure

47. Been to the opposite side of the country?
This is Singapore...

48. Felt like dying from embarrassment?
yeah haha

49. Cried yourself to sleep?
Yeah.

50. Sang karaoke?
Nope

51. Done something you told yourself you wouldn’t do?
Yeah a few times

52. Laughed till some kind of beverage came out of your nose?
Yep

53. Caught a snowflake on your tongue?
Nah, but i've caught them in my hand

54. Kissed in the rain?
nope

55. Sung in the shower?
Nope... played instrument in shower maybe but not sang.

56. Had a dream that you married someone?
Nope

57. Played getting married?
Nope, played the wedding march before though

58. Got your tongue stuck to a flag pole?
No?

59. Ever gone to school partially nude?
Nope

60. Been to a blind date?
Never

61. Sat on a roof top?
Sure, why not

62. Ever not take a shower for a week?
Longest maybe 3 days?

63. Ever been too scared to watch scary movies alone?
Maybe when I was a kid

64. Played chicken?
Nope

65. Been pushed into a pool with all your clothes on?
Nope

66. Been told you’re hot by a complete stranger?
No...

67. Broken a bone?
Never

68. Been easily amused?
Yeah

69. Laugh so hard you cry?
Haha it's a good feeling

70. Cheated on a test?
Not intentionally

71. Forgotten someone’s name?
Nope

72. Blacked out from drinking?
Never

73. Played a prank on someone?
Couple of times

74. Gone to a late night movie?
Do DVDs at home count?

75. Made love to anything not human?
No, unless you consider the regular kissing I do with my bari sax.

76. Failed a class?
Chinese! haha and Japanese too.

77. Choked on something you’re not supposed to eat?
Nope

78. Played an instrument for more than 10 hours?
Strict definition no, but I've had practices more than that.

79. Cheated on a girlfriend/boyfriend?
Nope

80. Did you celebrate the 4th of July?
Somewhat, I usually listen to the Stars and Stripes Forever.

81. Thrown strange objects?
Going to soon... maybe, I dunno if PES C ppl get to throw handgrenades.

82. Felt like someone else?
No?

83. Thought about running away?
That time when Shuhui wanted to propose to me, I was one click away from booking a flight to New York

84. Ran away?
One click away man

85. Had detention and not attend it?
Never had detention

86. Made parents cry?
Nope

87. Cried over someone?
Not really

88. Owned more than 5 sharpies?
i'm not B major u know -.-

89. Dated someone more than once?
Nope

90. Have a dog?
Not by the strictest definition

91. Own an instrument?
Yeah, a Yamaha alto sax

92. Been in a band?
RIMB, RJCSB, Rwinds, JCBF 2007 Honour Band

93. Drank 25 sodas in a day?
nope

94. Broken a cd?
haha many times

95. Shot a gun?
Tekong Disneyland here we come!

96. Been on IM for more than 5 hours?
Way longer than that

97. Fell asleep at the computer?
Once

98. Have a major crush on someone right now?
Nope

99. Have a religion?
Roman Catholic

100. Thought about what people would say at your funeral?
Yeah

101. Loved someone but didn’t dare to tell that person?
Nope

102. Slapped someone in the face?
Nah

103. Swam in the sea?
Yeah

104. Made out in a movie theatre?
No.. I'd be watching the movie

Coda 4!

2008-12-31T10:21:00.006+08:00

Yesterday was one of the best days of my life!

Wanted to go down to RI to set up, as usual, but this time I went straight to VCH (after lunch and stuff at Raffles City), due to my video camera. I went over at 1, but had to wait a while with Jerald, Hillary and David for the hall to open up. Once it did, I went over, set up the camera stuff and waited for rehearsal to start.

Not much happened during rehearsals, although the ensemble rehearsals (particularly for Canon in D) were exhausting. Also, the dinner, intelligently, contained chilli. I don't know why pre-concert dinner always contains the stuff that tends to affect wind players, but...

So at 7:15, the stage was set and we were all ready for the first piece, which was:

Firework! Yeah there's only one firework for some reason. I think this piece was a good concert opener, but we didn't do it very impressively. I think a bit more energy would be good, but still this piece was done decently.
Armenian Dances was next and I think we did it really well, despite its difficulty. The audience appear to have a good impression too. I started out this Rwinds cycle not really liking this piece, but it's grown on me. Rushed a little here and there, but overall this piece was one of the nicest in the concert.

~~Jinjun's Piece~~ A French Portrait was composed by my dear friend above. Obviously however the picture is not representative of the piece, merely of the composer. It had a bit of a Vox Stellarum feel to it, and quite representative of the stars it describes. I think our premiere of the piece was also quite a good job, expressive and majestic.

Phantom of the Opera was one of the bigger pieces of the concert, and Yanlong's first. Overall this piece was a little messy here and there, but for the most part it sounded ok. Again, the band seemed to play this with much emotion and passion, which I'm sure the audience must have felt too.

Intermission for me was a short one because I had an ensemble coming up. Unlike Coda 3 a substantial number of people actually came looking for me, which I appreciated a lot.

Our saxophone ensemble went up on stage to perform the first of two pieces namely:

I think you can figure out the name of the song from the picture, so I'm not going to repeat it here. The hardest piece for me in the concert, also the most boring, repeating the same thing 10-20 times is not fun. Still, we did ok.

We next did Diamond State Rag, a rag based on the state of Delaware in the USA. Compared to the previous piece, this one was fast, lively and fun, and I liked it a lot.

After that we had the percussion ensemble, then the whole band gathered back on stage for:

ABBA Gold! Yeah way back from REACT ensuring that the tradition of my concerts always having a repeated piece continues. This was quite ok too, a good, fun song to play and it brought back memories of the good times of 2007.

Our next piece, arranged and conducted by Yan Long, was In the Mood, a very fun swing song that got me high. I've got the melody for the most part, and it was really enjoyable to play. Everyone was getting high so to cool down we had:

Queen's Park Melody, which was a really nice and relaxing piece. Very "band", as Mr Oura would say. The second half of the melody was really soothing and melodic, and I really like it.

After that, we had acknowledgements, including Ms Lim Lai Cheng, principal of "Raffles Institution". We also thanked the band teachers for "supporting the band in every way possible". Finally we came to our last piece which was:

The Seventh Night of July is a really great piece, telling the tale of two lovers separated by a galaxy who can meet but once a year. I fell in love with the piece almost as soon as I heard it, and as I mentioned earlier, my highest aspirations for the concert were pinned on this piece, especially this one part near the end which really gets my emotions going. I am proud to say that I was not disappointed, we did beautifully. It filled my heart with joy to hear the faster parts, and the slower parts were so melodious and beautiful I almost cried. The finale gave me an epic rush of emotion that I will probably never feel again. I know, technically we didn't play as well as, say, Kosei, but the emotions I felt there more than made up for it.

Our encore piece was Looney Tunes Overture, and judging from the video we were all happy while we played it, and feeling the happiness of the music and seeing the smiles on everyone's faces made the whole concert complete.

After the concert, because I was unable to obtain transport home from school due to car troubles, I left for dinner at a nearby Golden Arches and proceeded home.

Well, 6 months of hard work have paid off for me, and for the rest of the band. Ticket sales soared to a record high, and the hall was fuller than ever. The concert went off without a hitch and of course, the band and the conductors did marvellously. I must especially thank the committee, especially Amir, and the two conductors for all the work they've put in.

As to why I find this concert a particularly memorable one, I have to say that I felt more for this concert and the pieces than I have ever been able to feel since Prometheum XI. When I played for A Tempo XIX, it was great, but somehow I couldn't feel anything for the music, try as much as I did. I just played, that was all. For this concert, maybe it's because I invested more into it, I felt it was more of my concert, our concert. Whatever the reason, I could actually feel the music, put my all into it, enjoy the fast and happy songs and release as much passion and energy as I had in the beautiful melodies that made up this concert, especially in the 7th Night of July.

I'm going to miss RI's band room, the place I've been having pracs at least twice a month since 2003, and of course, the Varese room. Also my dear instrument, which has been a close friend of mine these two years. Hopefully I'll see them, as well as the great people that made up this Rwinds, again next year. Onward to Coda V!

Dal segno al coda

2008-12-30T00:44:00.002+08:00

In 19 hours time, 6 months of hard preparations will culminate in Coda IV, my last performance of the year and my last at least until after BMT...

The journey here hasn't been easy, especially as a solo librarian... mention the words "Queen's Park Melody" or "The Seventh Night of July" and timpani in the same sentence and I will faint. Even so, it has been very rewarding.

I think Coda IV will be a very meaningful concert to me. It remains to be seen whether it will best A Tempo XIX, and I doubt it will hold more significance than Prometheum XI, but to me it clearly beats anything else. I think firstly it's because I'm a comm member and I've invested more in this concert than I normally do. Also, I feel more attached to the pieces we're playing, especially the one I'm listening to now. Finally, the people in the band are great, and they've really made Rwinds a great place to be.

Today was the last practice I'll have in the RI band room for a long long time... After having at least 2 pracs there each month since February 2003, it's hard to let go of it, or of my instrument. But nevertheless, my mind is now focused on delivering music tomorrow, and so I shall.

The Seventh Night of July... personally I've pinned my highest hopes on this piece, because I really like it. Of course, not forgetting the others. Tomorrow will be the day. (Or actually today by now)

Meiyi's Quiz

2008-12-24T08:37:00.003+08:00

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?

- I performed overseas in a band, and did a major national examination

2. Did you keep your New Years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I don't make New Year's resolutions

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

- Nope!

4. Did anyone close to you die?

- Not really, no

5. What countries did you visit? (official names)

Republic of Singapore (obviously)

Malaysia

Kingdom of Thailand

People's Republic of China

People's Republic of China (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region)

United Arab Emirates

Arab Republic of Egypt

State of Israel

Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Kingdom of Bahrain

~~Empire of the Rising Sun~~ Japan

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?

A 747 flight!

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory?

- 26th May, 9-16th June, 24th July, 20th November, 20th November-4th December, 13th December - 19th December, 21st December, 30th December.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

- Completing A levels and performing well for A Tempo XIX (hope Coda IV comes up here too)

9. What was your biggest failure?

- Hard to say... I don't really consider anything this year a big failure

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

- Well I suffered from severe illness and fatigue, being sick and tired of the A levels.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

- The Concorde for FS9, which is beautiful

12. Whose behaviour merited celebration?

- Loads of people.

13. Whose behaviour made you appalled and depressed?

- Cathay Pacific

14. Where did most of your money go?

- Excellent question, I'm dying to know myself

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

- A Tempo XIX, Japan trip, Middle East trip, Hong Kong trip, LOTR symphonies in Singapore and KL and Coda IV

16. What song/album will always remind you of 2008?

- Quite a few... whenever I listen to my concert recordings for one.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:

happier or sadder? happier
thinner or fatter? around the same
richer or poorer? around the same

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

- Fly

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

- Not fly

20. How will you be spending Christmas?

- Running around visiting families.

21. Who did you spend the most time on the phone with?

- Different people at different stages of the year, I guess.

22. Did you fall in love in 2008?

- Remained in love with the 747

23. How many one night stands in this last year?

- NONE

24. What was your favourite TV program?

- I don't watch TV

25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

- Cathay Pacific

26. What was the best book(s) you read?

- The World According to Clarkson.

27. What was your greatest musical discovery?

- The LOTR Symphony

28. What did you want and get?

- The HK and Japan trips!!!

29. What did you want and not get?

- Flights on 747s and A380s

30. What were your favourite films of this year?

- Wall E!!! And Dark Knight.

31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

- 18, I was trying out my birthday present from SEAB, the A level Physics paper 2

32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

- Hmm no one thing would have done that...

33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?

- I couldn't care less about fashion

34. What kept you sane?

- friends

35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

- None of them

36. What political issue stirred you the most?

- US Presidential Elections 2008!

37. Who did you miss?

- Some people

38. Who was the best new person you met?

- Hmm I haven't really met many new people, but I have forged a few precious new friendships

39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.

- Hmm hard to say

40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year?

- It's a world of laughter, a world of tears
It's a world of hope and a world of fears