Just before the end of the previous academic year, I had the privilege of orchestrating my very first Electone musical concert. Attended by students and staff of Epsom, I played songs that came from very well known movies, hence dubbing it ‘Cinematic Echoes Of The Electone.’
I remember when I first brought up the idea to Mr Russell Crann, the Director of Performing Arts, about trying to get more people to know about the Electone. I didn’t expect it to turn into a full scale project that would require tireless hours of constant practicing and handling logistics. I admit that it got to a point where I wasn’t sure whether it would be successful or not. On top of my external exams and prefect duties, I still had the workload of perfecting my performance and making sure everything will all be orchestrated well together.
The concert, which I had initially started out of a whimsical interest, actually bloomed into a reflection of my life. It was where I could also step back and glance at my past. From when I first picked up the Electone, to my very first public appearance, especially not forgetting the people who have accompanied me along the way like my tuition teacher, parents and fellow music buddies back at home. It was such values that I held so deeply in my heart that I wanted to share it to the audience who had attended the concert. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to host my very first recital at Epsom, not only allowing me to push my limits of being a performer, but also rediscovering and strengthening why I was passionate about music and the Electone.
Just over a month ago, the funds from the concert tickets and refreshment sales all went to a local orphanage and old folks home in my hometown of Muar. I thoroughly enjoy giving support to other people, despite the scale of the deed. I believe that the people at the old folks home should be able to retire to a peaceful life, while the kids at the orphanage with so much potential, which led me to believe that if I helped out, I could contribute to giving the opportunities I was so fortunate to have. Who knows? They may even become a performer of music just like me!
Khai Zhe L.
Year 13 Student