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Sep 30 2024
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Kelvin Kew and Bing on the Djembe

Djembe Singapore Club at The Esplanade

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Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

Oh snap. It is the Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade!

#mydurian #esplanadesg

We brought our little boy to The Esplanade to watch the Singapore Djembe Club perform with Iya Sako at the Outdoor Theater, and it was an unforgettable experience. Normally, our very active boy can’t sit still during shows, and we’ve often struggled to keep him engaged. But this time was different. The mesmerizing rhythms of the djembe drums completely captivated him, holding his attention in a way we hadn’t seen before. He was frozen in place, his eyes wide as he watched the drummers with absolute focus, enchanted by the powerful beats and vibrant energy of the performance.

The Djembe Man of Singapore

Kelvin Kew and the Singapore Djembe Club

Kelvin Kew is a passionate devotee of Djembe and West African drumming, making him a leading figure in Singapore’s drumming community. Since founding his drumming club in 2004, he has spent 20 years perfecting and promoting this art form. His deep connection to the late Grandmaster Mamady Keita and extensive knowledge of West African rhythms position him as a vital cultural link between Singapore and Africa. Kelvin’s dedication and expertise have made him the torchbearer of Djembe drumming in Singapore, inspiring many with his artistry.

Djembe Lessons in Singapore Schools

Mamady Keita Djembe

Like Kelvin and Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom has actively promoted the Djembe in primary schools across Singapore. We’ve had the privilege of introducing students to this West African drum. When Djembe is unavailable, we share the love of percussion through Cajon.

Djembe Singapore

Teaching at the primary level means laying the foundation for rhythmic ensemble skills. Our role is to inspire young minds. By instilling a love for drumming, we help prepare children to potentially join Kelvin and his team in the future, continuing their musical journey.

Iya Sako – Guest artiste for the Crossing Borders Festival

Iya Sako at the Esplanade

Iya Sako’s incredible Djembe skills left us in awe during the show at The Esplanade. His mastery of complex rhythms and dynamic playing brought a raw energy to the performance, capturing the audience’s attention from start to finish. With precise control and deep passion, Iya showcased the rich tradition of West African drumming, blending technique and emotion effortlessly. His performance was not only a display of talent but a true celebration of the Djembe’s cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Other than Djembe…

Kenkeni Drum
Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade - The Sangban
Dundumba - African Bass drum at The Esplanade
  • Kenkeni
  • Sangban
  • Dundumba

Collectively known as the Dunun, these lesser-known African drums are seldom seen in Singapore and it was such an eye-opener! The first on the list is the Kenkeni drum. The Kenkeni drum is the smallest of the three traditional West African dunun drums, producing a high-pitched tone that serves as a rhythmic base in Djembe ensembles.

The Sangban drum, part of the traditional West African dunun family, produces a medium-pitched sound and plays a key role in establishing the rhythmic patterns that drive Djembe ensembles.

The Dundumba, or Dundunba, is the largest and lowest-pitched drum in the traditional West African dunun family. Known for its deep, resonant sound, the Dundumba sets the foundational pulse in Djembe ensembles, providing a powerful, steady beat that grounds the other drums and instruments. Its rhythms are often slow and heavy, giving the ensemble its driving force. Traditionally, it plays an important role in community gatherings, ceremonies, and dances, where its deep tones are meant to inspire strength and unity.

Djembe is for everyone!

Kelvin Kew and Bing on the Djembe

Bing stood out as the only female Djembe player of the night. She was captivating the audience with her blazing fast and intricate rhythms. Her exceptional skill and control over the Djembe were nothing short of mesmerizing! She effortlessly delivered complex beats with remarkable precision and speed. Each rhythm she played added energy and intensity to the performance, leaving the crowd in awe of her talent. Bing’s ability to push the limits of speed and complexity truly set her apart, making her a standout performer of the evening.

Conclusion

Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

The Djembe has a unique power to bring people together, fostering unity and peace through its vibrant rhythms. Inspired by the efforts of the Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom seeks to contribute to preserving this beautiful art form. We aim introduce its values of community and cultural appreciation to future generations. Ensuring that the spirit of Djembe thrives and continues to inspire harmony in our diverse society.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 17 2024
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Pros and Cons of Learning Guitar, Piano, and Drums.

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Pros and Cons of Learning Guitar, Piano, and Drums

The pros and cons of learning guitar, piano, and drums have always been discussed here at Vinnie Classroom. Both adults and children are often at a loss about which instrument they should embark on their journey. Learning a musical instrument can be incredibly rewarding, but every instrument comes with its own unique set of challenges. As the end of year holiday is fast approaching, we thought it would be a good idea to share our opinion on this. In this article, we’ll explore three pros and three cons of learning the guitar, piano, and drums, with a special highlight on how Vinnie Classroom can enhance your learning experience.

Guitar

 
Pros:
  1. Portable and Convenient
    Guitars are easy to carry around, allowing you to practice almost anywhere. Whether you’re at home, in the park, or traveling, your guitar can be by your side.
  2. Versatile Across Genres
    The guitar is incredibly versatile and is featured in a wide range of genres, from classical to rock, jazz to pop. This makes it an instrument you can use to express a broad range of musical styles.
  3. Personalized Learning Experience at Vinnie Classroom
    At Vinnie Classroom, we emphasize tailored lessons based on each student’s individual goals. Whether you’re into acoustic, electric, or classical guitar, our instructors will adapt to your personal interests and learning style, helping you progress faster.
Cons:
  1. Steep Learning Curve
    While it’s easy to pick up basic chords on the guitar, advancing to more complex techniques, like fingerpicking or lead guitar, requires patience and commitment.
  2. Coordination Challenges
    Playing the guitar requires the simultaneous use of both hands in different ways. Mastering this coordination can take some time.
  3. Complex Chords
    Certain chords, especially barre chords, can be difficult for beginners. They require strength and precision, which can be frustrating at first.

Piano

Pros:
  1. Structured Learning Path
    The piano offers a clear progression of skills, from simple scales to advanced pieces. This structured approach makes it easier for students to see progress and stay motivated.
  2. Wide Range of Musical Expression
    With 88 keys and the ability to play both melody and harmony simultaneously, the piano offers immense musical possibilities. It’s great for those who want to compose or explore complex musical pieces.
  3. Top-Notch Learning Environment at Vinnie Classroom
    Our piano lessons at Vinnie Classroom are designed to nurture both beginners and advanced players. With our state-of-the-art pianos and well-equipped teaching studios, students will always have access to high-quality instruments for practice.
Cons:
  1. Expensive and Large
    Pianos can be costly and take up significant space. This may limit practice options at home for some students.
  2. Challenging Music Theory
    Understanding and applying music theory on the piano, such as chord progressions and sight-reading, can be overwhelming for beginners, especially those new to formal music education.
  3. Challenging to Master Both Hands
    Like the guitar, piano players must coordinate both hands, with one often playing chords and the other playing melody. This requires significant focus and practice.

Drums

Pros:
  1. Great for Physical Coordination
    Drumming is one of the best instruments for improving overall coordination, as it requires the use of all four limbs independently. It’s an excellent workout for both your body and mind.
  2. Stress Relief and Fun
    Drumming is a great outlet for releasing energy and relieving stress. Many students find the physicality of drums to be a fun and energizing way to express themselves musically.
  3. Variety of Drum Sizes at Vinnie Classroom
    Vinnie Classroom offers a range of drum sets tailored to different ages and body types, from compact kits for younger students to full-sized sets for advanced players. This ensures that every student can learn comfortably and progress without limitation.
Cons:
  1. Space and Noise Considerations
    Drums are loud and take up a lot of space. Practicing at home can be challenging unless you have a soundproof room or an electronic drum set.
  2. Physical Demands
    Drumming can be physically demanding, especially for beginners who aren’t used to the stamina required for longer sessions.
  3. Hard to Play Melodic Parts
    Drums are primarily rhythm-based, meaning they don’t play melodies in the traditional sense. This can limit a drummer’s ability to contribute to the harmonic aspects of a song.
Rock band Singapore
Kids band Singapore
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Drum Lessons for kids
Drum Lessons Singapore
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Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5
music class for kids

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in guitar, piano, or drums, each instrument offers a unique journey with its own pros and cons. At Vinnie Classroom, we are committed to helping you overcome these challenges and unlock your musical potential, regardless of the instrument you choose. With our tailored lessons, experienced instructors, and supportive learning environment, we make the process enjoyable and rewarding.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Jun 25 2024
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VCRX Vinnie Classroom Recital

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary

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VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital

VCRX Vinnie Classroom Recital

Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital – VCRX

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital
Celebrating a Decade of Musical Excellence: Reflections on Our 10th Anniversary Recital

As we gather to celebrate Vinnie Classroom 10th anniversary of our music school (VCRX), we are filled with immense pride and gratitude during this recital. Our recent recital was not only a showcase of our students’ incredible talent but also a testament to the journey we have undertaken together. This milestone is a significant one, marked by perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of our community.

Vinnie Classroom Music Lessons

Students performing at Vinnie Classroom Recital

A Journey of Perseverance

Our music school’s inception was fraught with challenges. Establishing a place where aspiring musicians could nurture their talents required hard work and determination. From finding the right instructors to creating a curriculum that balanced technical skill with artistic expression, every step was a learning experience. We faced skepticism and financial hurdles, but our belief in the transformative power of music kept us going.

Overcoming the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented challenge that tested our resilience. As the world went into lockdown, we had to swiftly adapt to ensure our students’ musical journeys continued uninterrupted. Transitioning to online lessons was no small feat; it required upgrading our technology, training our instructors, and reimagining our teaching methods. We encountered obstacles, from technical difficulties to maintaining student engagement, but our community’s spirit never wavered.

During this period, the support from parents and adult students was invaluable. Parents trusted us with their children’s musical education, adapting to new routines and ensuring their children remained committed to their practice. Adult students, too, embraced the new normal, finding solace and joy in their lessons amidst the uncertainty. Their dedication reinforced our belief in the importance of music as a source of comfort and resilience.

Post-Pandemic Growth

As we transitioned out of the pandemic, we faced new challenges. Returning to in-person lessons required careful planning and adherence to safety protocols. However, this period also presented opportunities for growth. We integrated the best aspects of our online teaching into our in-person classes, offering a hybrid model that catered to diverse needs. This adaptability allowed us to expand our reach and accommodate students from different geographical locations.

Students of Vinnie Classroom putting their best foot forward

Students of Vinnie Classroom putting their best foot forward

A Heartfelt Thank You

Our 10th anniversary recital was a resounding success, a celebration of not just our students’ progress but also the collective effort of our entire community. We owe this achievement to the unwavering support of parents who entrusted us with their children’s musical education. Your belief in our vision has been the cornerstone of our success. To our adult students, your enthusiasm and commitment have been truly inspiring. Your passion for learning and growth has enriched our school in countless ways.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We remain committed to providing high-quality music education that nurtures talent and fosters a lifelong love of music. Our journey has been shaped by the challenges we have faced and the community that has supported us. Together, we will continue to create beautiful music and inspiring stories.

Thank you for being a part of our musical journey. Here’s to many more years of harmony, growth, and success! Empowering the next generation through music!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Vinnie, Zee, Leonard and Victor
Vinnie Classroom

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Nov 30 2022
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Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

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Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Perhaps the best reunion of the year! The Vinnie Classroom Reunion!

Vinnie Classroom Reunion was perhaps the main highlight for many of us! It was an event that was shelved for 2 years due to the pandemic and its regulations. Most of us ended up forgetting what it is like to be on stage, to perform with others, and the point of learning an instrument altogether. But that 2 years of darkness are over and we are so glad we did this.

VC recital

Why Reunion?

If you are a long-time student of Vinnie Classroom, you would have noticed the change in our recital name. Coined by our dear Ms. Zee, we changed the title from Vinnie Classroom Recital to Vinnie Classroom Reunion. The new word couldn’t be any more appropriate, the event is literally a reunion of everyone from VC. We get together to mingle, feast(on light snacks), perform, and cheer each other on! While it does move away from our big and formal show, this new format gives us the warm and fuzzy feeling of a big family coming together!

The Quiet Set

VCR 2022Piano Recital Singapore

Piano Lessons SingaporeGuitar Ukulele Singapore

We had a very different recital format as compared to our previous attempts. There are no dim lights, no colorful moving lights and the room isn’t black! Instead, the stage was presented with this clean and white look, representing a fresh start like a blank canvas. The performers were also separated into 2 different sets, the Quiet and the Noisy. For the Quiet set, the audience was treated to a collection of beautiful performances from our Piano, Acoustic Guitar, and Ukulele students.

The key advantage to this format of performance is to allow our students to have the freedom to choose a song that represents them the best. They can go for a technical piece to showcase their current abilities or a song that made them fall in love with their instrument. Compared to performing in a band, performing solo/duet means they can express themselves better!

The Noisy Set

Drum Lessons for kidsDrum Lessons Singapore

Drums Sg

As the name implies, the Noisy Set definitely changed the atmosphere with all the loud thumping! Drummers provide the heartbeat to a song, setting the grooves and tempo right! Our new recital format allows our drummers to shine by choosing songs that best allow them to demonstrate their level of musicianship.

Band life forever

Rock band Singapore

Students performing Sweet Child O Mine

Although it is a great idea to showcase our student’s musicianship, nothing beats the fun of jamming in a band! Solo performances focus on technicality and individuality, lacking the option for students to practice teamwork and coordination skills. So why only 2 bands for this recital? Well, long story short, COVID. The ever changing rules and regulations made it impossible for us to plan our recital and to coordinate students for rehearsals. It wasn’t until mid 2022 that we were given the green light to run live performances, but by then it was already too late. Students are budding musicians, not seasoned performers. They need a good amount of preparation time to get themselves ready before they can hit the stage.

Kids band Singapore

Students performing Bad Guy

If you have noticed, there are no singers on stage! And yet, the kids band performed Bad Guy – Billie Eillish and the adult band performed Sweet Child O Mine – Guns and Roses. 

The secret is… AUDIO ENGINEERING! 

Students were actually performing to a backing track that contained parts like vocal, sound effects and misceallaneous percussion tracks. Sent directly to their In-Ear-Monitor (and not to the audience) includes the metronome and various guides to keep them oriented throughout the performance. This type of performance requires musicians to be extremely sensitive to the tempo with no room for errors. The tempo sensitive nature allows syncronized background video. Enhancing their performance and bringing the quality of the show to the next level.

Vinnie Classroom is planning on offer Rockschool’s Music Production . Contact us if you are interested!

Any videos?

Yes! But they are still baking in the oven. Check back often!

Plans for next recital?

With Covid-19 restrictions out of the way and our first recital in 2 years done and dusted, we feel the confidence on embarking onto the next one. The next recital will definitely feature more bands, more impressive solos, more jaw dropping duets and most importantly another round of happy reunion! Join us for lessons today and be part of our next reunion!

Mar 28 2020
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video call music lessons

Video Conferencing for Music Lessons | Does it actually work?

By Acoustic Guitar, Classical Piano, Drum, Electric Guitar, Music Articles, News, Piano, Pop Piano, Ukulele No Comments

Video Conferencing for Music Lessons Experience!

While we are no strangers with conducting our music lessons via video conferencing for our students. some as far as Shanghai. The new measures from the Ministry of Health have effectively forced all our students to have their lessons over video calls! But does this mean the end of the music education industry? Probably not!

video conferencing music lessonsMusic Lessons | The COVID 19 style

Ideally, music lessons should be done in a conducive room with proper instruments and equipment. The acoustics of the room should also be treated properly with professional-grade acoustic treatment walls to remove unwanted reverb and echo. The lighting of the room must be at the right lux level. These are now considered luxuries.

With the current COVID-19 situation, we converted all our music lessons to video conferencing! Though easier said than done, we really wanted the best for our students! Rooms have to be rearranged, workstation setup to match the requirement of video calling and endless troubleshooting. At the end of the day, the smile on our student’s face is what that matters.

With that, we bravely embraced our first day of full-on online lessons today!

video call music lessons

Video-calling problems we faced and how we solve them

We would be lying if we were to say that it went smooth sailing. With all the issues, we had to put all our brains together! Sometimes to the extent of researching through the entire ocean of articles online. So if you are a music teacher, perhaps we might be able to offer some tips!

Audio Troubleshooting

  1. Make sure students always uncheck the “automatically adjust microphone volume” function.
  2. If you are using the laptop’s mic, keep a distance from your device.

Even with the automatic volume adjuster unchecked, a spike in volume will still cause the app to compress the audio hard. As we would have guessed, apps like this are created with speaking in mind. When a loud volume is detected, the app will push it down to prevent the other users from blowing their speakers. We had no issues with Ukulele and Piano but all the trouble with Drumset.

To combat the issue of feeding the drum’s signal in without having a problem, we mic-ed the entire drumset! Signals are sent into a USB audio interface that is then connected to the computer. The microphone source will be the USB device. This allows us to tweak the input volume accordingly. Things will definitely be easier if you have a digital drumset with a USB connection.

Our guitar rooms are also rigged with a USB mixer. As such, we line our electric guitar directly into the mixer with IR technology. We line our acoustic guitar and ukulele into a DI box and speak through a condenser microphone.

Video Troubleshooting

  1. Daylight from windows will help with illuminating the video
  2. Using a decent stand to help with adjusting the camera angle

piano room lightingMost of us hardly use the camera on our laptop, some don’t even know it exists! Some of us live in a dimly lit room and that is bad for video conferencing. So the first requirement is for the student to be able to have decent lighting in their room. While this isn’t an issue with most instruments, this is a common problem with Piano students.

The user back face the room’s light source with the piano to the wall. This results in the shadow of the student to cast on their hands.

Thankfully, solving this is easy! All you need is to place a small table lamp on your piano! This is especially cool on rainy nights when the table lamp is all you turn on to practice your piano with.

 

The camera angle for chatting with your friends or for a business meeting is very different from teaching and learning musical instruments. The laptop-camera was not designed for music lessons in mind. As a teacher, we want to view the students’ playing from a high to low angle. Think of how teachers usually sit next to the student in the room. So the same height and angle are important. As for demonstrating, various instruments require different angles. Piano prefers a top-down angle, guitar prefers a slanted front angle and drum prefers an over the shoulder angle. So the most basic requirement for video music lessons is perhaps a good stand to hold your device. Watch the video posted by Vinnie demonstrating to his students to get a better understanding!

 

Conclusion

Our first day of video conferencing music lessons went fairly smoothly! Classes went on as scheduled without much hiccups. Students were happy and satisfied with the lessons. It gave us the confidence to proceed with more of such lessons! With more fine-tuning, we will be able to provide lessons with even better quality and efficiency!

Normally we ask you to sign for our free trial lesson, we now ask all those who are interested to join us for the music lesson experience of 2020!

piano lesson video call

Nov 28 2019
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TO PUSH OR NOT TO PUSH?

By Music Articles, Newsletter No Comments

Do we push our children or not, to learn a musical instrument? Even if you didn’t know before, you will – after reading this – value the cognitive benefits learning an instrument can give children. And help them later on as adults too. Based on our experience at Vinnie Classroom, we firmly believe that having a healthy passion, like a musical instrument, can also help keep kids on the straight and narrow.

To force or not to force?

We’ve never heard an adult say “I’m so glad my parents let me quit piano lessons.” Instead, nearly every adult that was once taking piano lessons says: “I wish my parents made me keep up with piano lessons and not give up so early.”

Based on studies (read below), it can only be beneficial to direct our children to take lessons of some instrument. Possibly even one of their choosing. And can’t we also tell our kids – much like we do with studying – that they must practice an instrument? And do this without bringing out the Tiger-parent in us?

Help your child get curious about music so that he or she can develop a desire to engage with music. Let your child play around with different instruments. Listen to music, attend concerts and sing together. Your child will naturally want to imitate you. So a big motivation for children to practice is seeing their parents getting involved with music themselves.

Sometimes lack of enthusiasm may be a signal that it’s time to switch instruments. This also means you may need to be flexible. While it may be expensive to allow a child to start and stop several different activities, try to work with your child to find one he or she enjoys and is motivated to practice.

Evidence-Based Benefits of Learning an Instrument (And Learning It Early)

It increases brain matter

A Harvard neurologist in a 2003 study found that adult professional musicians have a higher level of gray matter volume in the motor, auditory, and visual-spatial regions of their brain than non-musicians. A later study showed that positive structural brain changes take place in young children – average age of 6.3 years – after only 15 months of musical training.

It helps stave off the effect of aging on the brain

A 2011 study demonstrated that having learned an instrument can slow the aging process on your brain. In the study, researchers divided 70 older adults – ages 60 to 83 – into three groups. Those who had studied an instrument for more than ten years, those who had played for one to nine years, and those who had never learned an instrument.

Each group was then given a battery of neuropsychological tests. The group that had played an instrument for the longest scored the highest. In these areas: nonverbal memory recall, visuomotor speed and sequencing, and cognitive flexibility.

The same researcher in a 2012 study confirmed the findings of the previous study. It also suggested that learning an instrument before the age of nine and studying that instrument for at least ten years results in the greatest benefits. Those who met these criteria in the study outperformed non-musicians. In these areas: verbal working memory, verbal memory, verbal fluency, visuospatial, and planning functions.

So, let your child learn an instrument, especially early in life, and stick with it. You won’t regret it because this has positive, long-lasting effects on your child’s brain!

Oct 30 2019
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Crazy Elephant Singapore

Crazy Elephant’s 25th Anniversary Celebrations!

By Celebration Time!, Music Articles, News No Comments

Crazy Elephant Celebrates its 25th Anniversary!

Crazy Elephant Singapore

Img credit : Crazy Elephant Singapore

25 years of Crazy Elephant!

In the early 1990s, Clarke Quay shed its past as a shipping port and was redeveloped into a commercial and entertainment district. It was then, in 1994, that a bar called Crazy Elephant had its humble beginnings. It therefore quickly established itself as ‘the’ Rock ‘n’ Roll Blues live music venue as we know it today! Woohoo!

On 20 October 2019, Crazy Elephant celebrated its Silver Jubilee! The place was overflowing with patrons, some decked out in the craziest suits ever, and a gigantic elephant mask. To mark this major milestone, 7 bands – Dubious People, Crozzroads, Randolf Arriola, The No Daddies, Dirty Dealers, Heritage, Bob Sauler & The Blues Rock Renegade – performed the greatest hits from 1969 to 1994. Finally, to close the night, musicians from all over the world brought the house down at Singapore’s longest running jam session.

 

Fun Fact 1: Do you know Clark Quay used to be a family oriented entertainment ground? There was even an indoor water adverture ride “Pirates of the Carribean” that features the history of Singapore’s Maritime and Port. That was 1993 and before the new redevelopment plans to convert the identity of Clark Quay, allowing the very existence of Crazy Elephant. 

Let’s hear it from the person who knows it best – Anita!

We are so honored to have been part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations, but as ignorant juniors of the local music scene, we have some burning questions about Crazy Elephant! Who can be a better person to ask than Anita, who has had front row seats to the Big Bang at CE?! She has been the Business Development Manager for the last 20 years, she sure knows every little thing about this crazy party house!

When did you join Crazy Elephant? How was it like back then?

1999!!! It was crazy back then as well! The venue was much smaller but we still had many amazing musicians both local and from all over the world come through our doors. Back then and for many years after, there weren’t many places that had live music and doing what we did and continue to do quality Blues and Rock music. It was a full house every weekend and you could hardly move. It was a very different Clarke Quay back then.

When did the famous weekly Jam Session begin? How has it grown?

Since forever! It has definitely grown over the years, kudos to the support of the amazing musicians and music lovers who come through, helping us spread the word as well as our very own jam master Kelly Olafson who does an amazing job of running the jam every Sunday. This year saw the birth of Common Ground, an event that happens every third Sunday of the month that starts a couple of hours before our jam session. The idea behind it is to get musicians and music lovers converging together to swap, showcase music gear, share stories and meet like-minded people. The response has been good and most of the time they stay on to jam as well.

Have you witnessed any musicians taking on bigger stages after gaining experience from performing in Crazy Elephant?

I think it’s almost like a rite of passage to many, be it those who go on to pursue a professional career or those who have just picked up the guitar. The idea of sharing the love of Blues and Rock music, performing live, has always been part of CE culture. Our musicians are always very welcoming, encouraging and generous to share their experiences and give tips, be it which gear might be the best or how to overcome stage fright.

Can you list some countries of your patrons?

Australia. Belgium. Brazil. Cambodia. Canada. China. Cuba. Denmark. Egypt. Fiji. Finland. France. Germany. Greece. Honduras. Hungry. Iceland. India. Indonesia. Iran. Ireland. Italy. Japan. Lebanon. Malaysia. Mauritius. Mexico. Montenegro. Myanmar. Netherlands. Nepal. New Zealand. Norway. Pakistan. Peru. Philippines. Portugal. Russia. Spain. Singapore. Sweden. Suriname. Switzerland. Thailand. Turkey. Ukraine. UAE. USA. Vietnam. Zimbabwe…..just to name a few!!!!

What’s the best part of Crazy Elephant today?

We have and will continue to cultivate the music community and play a big part in the live music scene as one of the longest-running establishments here in Clarke Quay and in Singapore.

Heart and Soul of Blues Rock Singapore

In conclusion, Anita definitely made it clear that Crazy Elephant has been and will always a platform for creative interactions among musicians. The glowing legacy of Crazy Elephant is evident in the crowds it continues to draw relentlessly, night after night for a quarter of a century. Let us leave you with some photos our beloved Rock ‘n’ Roll Blues bar, past and present, from Facebook! See you at Crazy Elephant!

Vinnie

 

Fun Fact 2: Crazy Elephant is founded by Mr John Chee, Mr Samuel Seong Koon and Mr Keef Ong. Mr Chee used to play 5 days a week with the house band Blues Machine. These days, the house is taken over by Bob Sauler and The Blues Rock Renegades! Bob Sauler on Vocals and Guitar, David Ng on Bass, Tan Boon Gee on Drums and Alex Kalino Hooi on Guitar. 

Kelly Olafson, the unsung hero of the Open Mic Jam!

Kelly Olafson

Possibly the first Crazy Elephant Jam Session!

Crazy Elephant Open Mic Jam

From the team at Crazy Elephant!

Some regular faces at Singapore's Longest Running Jam Session

Sep 27 2019
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Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore? (Part 3)

By Acoustic Guitar, Classical Piano, Drum, Electric Guitar, Music Articles, Music Instruments, Newsletter, Pop Piano, Ukulele No Comments

Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore?

Looking for music lessons in Singapore? Read on and find out more in this 3rd and final installment in our series.

Should you choose a ‘music school near me’ ?

It is tempting to opt for convenience when it comes to taking music lessons. However,  this may not be the wisest choice to make. A good music school must have an environment that is conducive to learning. Choose a music school with dedicated studios that are well-maintained and equipped with quality instruments. Some schools may also hold recitals which go a step further by allowing students to integrate performing and all its benefits as part of their learning experience.

VCR 3 Final shot          electric guitar lesson singapore

Should you sign into a music school for children only?

Your child actually benefits if he learns at a music school that is open to both adults/teenagers and children. They grow by getting to experience and interact with peers and older students who are at different levels. What’s more, there is the benefit of being exposed to a variety of musical instruments. With only 30 minutes to one hour of lesson time per week, a music school environment produces better results as the focus at that time is on learning music.

Look out for credible partnerships

Aside from certification, a school that works with multiple other organisations makes it more trustworthy as it has achieved a level of success at an organisational level. When a music academy partners with other schools, it shows that it has proven itself as an academy that is able to provide an all-rounded music education.

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Posted by Vinnie Classroom on Wednesday, 4 May 2016

What should you look out for before signing up?

Do the owners of the school know about music? Have they taught or performed professionally? Do they have the credentials required to appropriately address the needs of students? It is important that the school you choose has the right values to nurture and develop that passion for music.

Not all students fit the same mould. A fixed curriculum or program may restrict learning and exploration of a student’s potential. Check if the school has one-on-one sessions that can be tailored to the student’s musical background and interests. The school should also use recognised teaching materials and exam syllabi or have developed their own syllabus that is student-centered and adaptable to individual needs.

 

Sep 26 2019
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Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore? (Part 2)

By Music Articles, Newsletter No Comments

Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore?

Our Views on Yamaha and Cristofori Music Schools

If you are looking for music lessons in Singapore, two names that pop up are Yamaha and Cristofori because they have centres dotted all around Singapore. They are well-known mostly for group music lessons that cater to younger children with the option for one-to-one lessons as they progress through the years.

We feel that personalised lessons tend to provide better attention to detail for each individual student. Therefore, it is important that the group is not so big that the teacher cannot focus on each student properly. In our humble opinion, music schools that offer one-to-one sessions are preferable. This is especially so for beginners who need to develop and train good techniques and habits.

The most crucial step you must take before signing up with a school is to audition the music teacher. This means you must know if the music teacher you or your child is taking lessons from is qualified. And we don’t mean just paper qualifications. When a music school has many branches, the quality of their music teachers could suffer. It’s important to check if music teachers are hired based not only on their certifications but also their years of experience and their attitude towards teaching.

Some music schools offer a Free Trial Lesson for all new sign-ups. Aside from being able to audition the teacher, you will also experience a lesson first-hand and have a clearer picture of how lessons are conducted.

Is it important to attend one of the Top 10 Music Schools in Singapore?

A top-listed music school may not necessarily improve your musical ability nor ensure you’ll learn any faster than a smaller, more dedicated music school. Every student is unique and has a different learning rate. In the same way, music schools are also varied and offer different advantages.

The list of top 10 schools you see is likely an inaccurate representation of the music school demographics in Singapore. There are many music schools in Singapore and it is unlikely that the selected top 10 schools on that internet list are compiled with a proper point scoring system or an objective assessment of each and every school. This creates a biased and skewed image of the music school scene. What’s more, the list you see might also be dated.

Just remember that big doesn’t necessarily mean best. Smaller music schools may be able to cater to your needs more personally and follow-up on your music education more efficiently.

What’s Music Education like in Singapore?

With the proliferation of music schools in Singapore, what should you look out for when signing up for music classes? Obviously, the teacher is very important. He or she needs to be qualified and experienced. It also helps if he/she can establish a good rapport with students. Aside from this, look for a school with a different approach from the others.

Some schools offer an approach that is performance-oriented. This means that while striving for good academic results is important, these schools place great value on gaining experience as performers. Students will learn more beyond the exam curriculum and understand the tough requirements needed to put up a good show. This ultimately trains and improves students who will grow as artists and overcome performance-related anxiety. You’ll see that attention to these small details plays a big part in ensuring a good music education.

Sep 19 2019
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Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore? (Part 1)

By Acoustic Guitar, Classical Piano, Drum, Electric Guitar, Music Articles, Music Instruments, News, Newsletter, Pop Piano, Ukulele No Comments

Looking for Music Lessons in Singapore?

Many music schools

So you’ve decided to take up music lessons. Now you need to decide which music instrument you want to master. These include piano, keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, ukulele or drums, just to name a few. After that, there are many avenues for learning music in Singapore. The proliferation of music schools just means that your choice becomes more difficult because too many options can sometimes lead to confusion! There are also many different music genres and styles: classical music, traditional folk, pop, rock, country, jazz, and blues. The list goes on. Most schools offer classical music training but some focus on more contemporary Pop and Rock music. Whatever you choose, remember to learn at your own pace, at your own convenience and timing to get the most out of the experience.

Should lessons be exam-based?

Singapore is all about qualifications. However, should music lessons revolve around prepping students for exams only? While this may be the case for some music schools, there are others that cater to a more well-rounded student. Afterall, there is certainly more to learning music than exams. Some schools organise ensembles or recitals where students learn how to perform in front of a ‘live’ audience. They also get to experience working as part of a band. Another possible avenue of creativity is having students learn how to perform in recordings for Youtube videos that will be eventually uploaded onto the internet. All these add variety and a different learning experience for students!

Music Lessons for MEP or DSA

The Music Elective Programme (MEP) is offered by the Ministry of Education to provide students with an aptitude for music to pursue a deeper study in music listening and music making. Music lessons at a good music school can boost and equip young musicians with musical knowledge to support performance and any other musical endeavours they may embark on even after leaving school. Students aiming to qualify under the Direct Schools Admission (DSA) programme can also bolster their music repertoire. This is especially so if they are exposed live performances offered at some music schools, apart from the usual examination-based syllabus.

Whatever your reasons for pursuing a music education, rest assured that there are good schools out there who can partner you in your search for quality and provide many opportunities to improve your playing standards. Look out for Part 2 of our post on Music Schools in Singapore. Coming to you soon!

 

 

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