The Phil Blogs

The 2008/09 Phil Committee

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:19:00 +0000

The following new committee of The Philharmonic Society of Selangor for 2008/09 was elected during the recent AGM of the Society. Congratulations!

Chairperson: Cheryl Teh
Vice Chairpeson: Richard Yeoh
Secretary: Erin Lee
Treasurer: Alain Boey
Committee Members: Wong Wing Thim, Pan Swee Chin, Joanne Mah, Elaine Lee, Nichole Lam

Christmas @ CHIJ, Cheras

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 01:19:00 +0000

The choir of The Philharmonic Society of Selangor sang for the sisters at the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, on December 21st, under the baton of Cheryl Teh. The performance was followed by tea, catered by choir members (and with the delicious contribution of specialty teh tarik by one of the sisters!)

Some photos from the event are posted below. Here's wishing all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

(1) The choir...
(2) An appreciative audience..
(3) The small group on Still a Bach Christmas....
(4) Wishing all a Merry Christmas...
(5) Sister Anne addresses the choir

The Phil's AGM 2008

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:58:00 +0000

The 51st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society will be held as follows:

Date: 20 December 2008
Venue: 19, Persiaran Basong, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur.
Time: 7.00 pm

A complimentary dinner for all fully paid up members shall follow the AGM. Guests are welcome at RM30.00 per person.

Kindly RSVP by 15 December 2008 to selangor.phil@gmail.com / SMS 012.383.1654 (Cris) or 012.260.3802 (Wai Leng)

Postponement of 50th Anniversary Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 15:43:00 +0000

Please note that the 50th Anniversary Dinner earlier scheduled for December 14th, 2008 has been postponed to a date in early 2009. Further information will be provided on this blog in due course.

Phil It Up! Coming your way this August 16th!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 09:52:00 +0000

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor presents

Phil It Up!

A one-night-only concert, part of The Phil's 50th Annviversary celebrations, showcasing some of The Philharmonic Society of Selangor's talented members, both past and present.

Featuring Classical, Crossover, Jazz & Contemporary Favourites performed by The Penang Trio, Eddy Chin, Timothy Ooi, Zalina Lee, Janet Lee, Cris Yap & Friends, and The SNL Singers.

Date & Time:
Saturday August 16th 2008, 8.30pm

Venue:
IndiCine, KLPac, Level 2, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan (off Jalan Ipoh) Kuala Lumpur

Tickets:
Admission by donation: RM35 minimum
Ticket Contact : 017-659 4583; tickets@thephil.org.my

Preview of 'Hey Mr Phil' at Metrojaya Mid Valley on June 28th

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:24:00 +0000

At the Preview of Hey Mr Phil! @Metrojaya Mid Valley, Saturday 28th June 2008 (photos taken by Kelly Teh)

Get your tickets to Hey Mr Phil! now!
(Fri July 4th 8.30pm / Sat July 5th 8.30pm / Sun July 6th 3pm)

Call/SMS (017) 659 4583 or email tickets@thephil.org.my

Rehearsal Shots

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:10:00 +0000

Hey Mr Phil! in the news

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:45:00 +0000

From http://www.star-ecentral.com/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/26/soundnstage/21632100&sec=soundnstage

Thursday June 26, 2008

Get your phil

By N. RAMA LOHAN

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor celebrates its 50th anniversary with ... what else but a whole lot of great music.

THE uninitiated may think that the nation’s classical music pursuits began with the formation of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in 1998. On the contrary, half a century ago, the Philharmonic Society of Selangor (The Phil) had already begun its sojourn of bringing enthusiasts of classical music and performing arts together, an initiative instigated by expatriates living in the country then.

The Phil is one of the oldest and most established performing arts societies in Malaysia. From its humble beginnings in 1958 as a group of music lovers who got together to put up shows, it now counts among its successes productions like The Sound of Music, The King and I and Guys and Dolls. Classical offerings from the organisation include Rutter’s Requiem, Haydn’s Creation and Orff’s Carmina Burana and contemporary treats such as Music from Movies and Musicals and In The Mood. Imagine this, it all began with eight men and three women, a dream and the then sum of RM179.44 in a bank account.

Conductor for the night, John March, leading the troupe through rehearsals (pic).

It’s not all about history lessons though as The Phil looks to celebrate its golden anniversary in style, according to Alain Boey, chairman of the movement. Hey, Mr Phil!, the first of The Phil’s upcoming productions in conjunction with its anniversary, kicks off the festivities from July 4 to 6.

“The songs are a collage of the productions over the last 50 years. It’s basically all the songs from the musicals. There’ll be some opera, excerpts from classical compositions and some modern music as well, all done in a medley sort of fashion,” Boey revealed.

“In August, we’ll have Phil It Up! – A Three Course Recital, which is basically a collage of a few genres ... classical, jazz and contemporary. This will be performed by the past members of The Phil, some of whom are very senior and returning just for the show. Over the past 50 years, the Phil has developed many talents ... like Maya Karin, Peter Williams, Adibah Noor, Doreen Tang and many more,” he continued.

Alain Boey (pic): ‘The songs are a collage of the productions over the last 50 years.’

This year looks to be a busy one for the Phil and it culminates in the staging of The Boy Friend (staged across the months of November and December and directed by Philip Chai), a particular favourite of Tan Sri Khoo Kay Peng, Group Chief Executive of the MUI Group, the main sponsor for the arts society. “For Boyfriend, which is set in the French Riviera, we’re bringing in new talents.”

While the settings for most of the productions have a more global touch to it, the Phil will be looking to giving it a feel that’s closer to home. “We’re trying to adapt some of the music into more local settings, for example, some of the medleys will be from Sound of Music, Guys and Dolls, Les Miserable and so on, but there’ll still be a local sense about it,” Boey explained.

While the Phil’s endeavours over the years have not gone unnoticed, retaining recognition hasn’t been all that simple. “In the earlier days, The Phil was the only society catering to performing arts but as the industry developed over the years, there have been many more foreign productions coming in and a lot of our talents have made it into various other productions as well. So in terms of awareness to our work, I would say it was stronger during the early years but in the 1990s, as Malaysia began bringing in more foreign productions, things have picked up.”

Naturally, this has affected the level of interest among potential members as well. “In terms of recruitment, all members have to go through a series of auditions. In terms of spectators, it’s hard to garner interest, but where singers are concerned, it is slightly challenging because there are a lot more productions these days, and too few singers to go around, especially with conflicting schedules.”

Hey Mr Phil! will be staged at Panggung Bandaraya, Kuala Lumpur, from July 4 to 6. For ticketing details, e-mail tickets@thephil.org.my or call 017-659 4583. For more information, visit www.thephil.org.my.

Tickets on sale now for The Phil's 50th Anniversary Shows!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:19:00 +0000

Book your tickets now for the following three shows in celebration of The Phil's 50th Anniversary!

Tickets:
SMS/Call 017-659 4583
Email tickets@thephil.org.my

......................................................................................................

Come with us on a trip down memory lane - Relive The Phil's past musical productions in this retrospective concert!

July 4 & 5, 2008, 8:30pm
July 6, 2008, 3:00pm
@ Panggung Bandaraya (Where it all began!)
Tickets: RM30, 50 , 70

A One Night Only concert showcasing The Phil's talented members past to present: The Penang Trio, Eddy Chin, Timothy Ooi, Zalina Lee, Janet Lee, Cris Yap and the Swinglow Singers

August 16, 2008, 8:30pm
@ Indicine, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC)
Tickets by donation (minimum donation RM35)

Laugh! Cry! Be enchanted by Sandy Wilson's classic tale of the Roaring 20's in the French Riviera

November 13-17, 2008
@ Panggung Bandaraya (Where tradition continues!)
Ticketing info will be available soon

GRAND FINALE: ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER

@ Corus hotel KL on December 14, 2008

Proudly supported by

View our poster on our website here!

The Phil's 50th Anniversary Celebrations will kick off soon!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Mon, 12 May 2008 03:36:00 +0000

The Phil’s programme for 2008 kicks off with “Hey Mr. Phil!” from 4 – 6 July at the Panggung Bandaraya under the baton of John March. Essentially a musical trip down memory lane, “Hey Mr. Phil!” will showcase excerpts from the musicals that have been produced by the society in the 50 years since its inception. This will be followed in August by “Phil It Up!” on August 16th, a one-night-only concert at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC) showcasing The Phil's talented members past to present - The Penang Trio, Eddy Chin, Timothy Ooi, Zalina Lee, Janet Lee, Cris Yap and the Swinglow Singers. The grand finale performance of the year will be Sandy Wilson’s “The Boy Friend”, produced and directed by Philip Chai to be staged from 10 – 17 November at the Panggung Bandaraya.

Do join us in our 50th annversary celebrations - watch this space for info on ticket sales!

Meanwhile, do sign up for the Pranayama Breathing Technique for Singers & Actors workshop with Dominique Lonchant on June 14 & 21!

About The Phil

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor, or “The Phil” as it is affectionately known, is one of the oldest and most established performing arts societies in Malaysia. From its humble beginnings in 1958 as a group of music lovers who got together to put up shows, The Phil now counts among its successes productions like The Sound of Music, The King and I and Guys and Dolls, as well as classical offerings such as Rutter’s Requiem, Haydn’s Creation and Orff’s Carmina Burana and contemporary treats including Music from Movies and Musicals and In The Mood. The Phil also organises regular workshops to provide education in the performing arts through its Theatre Education Programme. As it celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2008, The Phil aims to continue to provide accessible opportunities for learning, producing and presenting quality performances in the performing arts through fellowship, activities and education.

The Phil's objectives have always been to share the pleasure of singing and to support organisations in worthwhile community projects. Over the years, proceeds from The Phil’s productions have been donated to various charitable organisations such as the National Stroke Association of Malaysia, the National Cancer Society of Malaysia, the Malaysian Association for the Blind, Bethany Home and Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Kajang.

The Pranayama Breathing Technique for Singers & Actors - A Workshop with Dominique Lonchant

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:05:00 +0000

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor's Theatre Education Programme is organising a two-session workshop on the Pranayama breathing technique with 'breathing master' Dominique Lonchant. Those who have attended Dominique's sessions have observed marked improvement in singing and vocal projection and breath control (speak to anyone who was involved in Broken Bridges The Musical, Tunku The Musical... )

Do come explore the art of breathing well with Dominique Lonchant!

The workshop consists of 2 two‐hour sessions:
Session 1: Saturday June 14, 2008, 10.00am – 12.00pm
Session 2: Saturday June 21, 2008, 10.00am – 12.00pm

Venue (both sessions):
Studio 5, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC)

Workshop Fee: RM 180 per participant (for both two‐hour sessions)

Please email selangor.phil@gmail.com to register.

Please see below for information on the workshop facilitator, and the Pranayama technique.

About Dominique Lonchant:

Dominique Lonchant is the man behind the success of many entertainment personalities. Having acquired and mastered the Pranayama Yoga technique (the extension and control of the breath) in Pondicherry, South India almost three decades ago, Dominique has since been travelling around the World and has taught breathing techniques in five continents; India, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, USA, Brazil, Africa, Australia, and Europe.

A French native now based in Kuala Lumpur, Dominique is currently working with artistes in preparation for their plays, shows or musicals. Some of the world‐class celebrities Dominique has taught are Hugh Grant, Elizabeth Hurley, Karen Mulder, John Lone, Leslie Chung, Ursula Andress, Robert Redford and Jim Carrey.

Dominique’s distinctive and efficient style of teaching focuses mainly on the breathing techniques since he feels it is an important aspect that is being overlooked in most Yoga classes. He firmly believes in the immense power and real benefits proper breathing has on any individual of any profession.

“Any form of Yoga begins with the breath. And it is when we understand and master the Art of Breathing that we can achieve whatever we’ve decided to achieve. I have been teaching for more than 28 years and very early on I discovered the benefits of good breathing. Recently I discovered that by mastering these techniques, artistes and athletes (singers, musicians, actors and anyone practicing sport, whether intensively or not) were able to obtain very good results in their own art: tremendous effects on the voice, better practice on wind instruments, and better performance on running, diving, etc,” explains Dominique.

In Malaysia, Dominique has worked in Puteri Gunung Ledang – The Musical. That led him to work on another musical, Broken Bridges, directed by Joe Hasham and produced by Datuk Faridah Merican, in 2006. That resulted in more work with Faridah and the cast of the play Ah Steve, staged in Penang. He has also worked in The Magic Flute, staged at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre.

More on Dominique Lonchant:

Breathe Again – The Star, April 11, 2007:
http://thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2007/4/11/lifefocus/20070410171341&sec=lifefocus

In blogosphere ‐ Meeting Dominique Lonchant:
http://sushisalmon.blogspot.com/2006/07/meeting‐dominique‐lonchant.html

Launch of Dominique Lonchant’s Book Pranayama – The Art of Breathing Well:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KwkFi_wlew

Books by Dominique Lonchant:

1999 The Art of Breathing (Published in Thailand)
2001 L'Art de Respirer (Published in France)
2005 L'ABC de la Respiration (Published in France)
2007 The Art of Breathing Well (Published in Malaysia)

Information on Pranayama, the Art & Science of Breathing

Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that means control (yama) of the life force (prana). It is also commonly used to describe various yogic breathing exercises that help give the practitioner control of the life force, or Pranayama. It was originally expounded by Patanjali, an ancient Hindu philosopher and yogi, in his Yoga Sutras, a text on yoga philosophy and practices.

"Prana" is the life‐force that exists in everything around us in the air, in our food, in all creatures and plants, in absolutely everything. Our ancient ancestors knew about Prana, and they knew our bodies depend upon Prana for vitality in life, and that we receive most of our Prana from the air we breathe. They knew how to control intake and use of this life force by means of breathing control (called Pranayama), incorporating it into their daily life. The way we breathe dictates how much "Prana" we receive, and therefore how alive and vital we are.

Unfortunately, over thousands of years, most of humanity has forgotten this knowledge of how to consciously take in "Prana". The result is most people are shallow breathers, causing many of the negative conditions found in the human bodies today. Many of our physical disturbances, such as asthma, nervous disorders and various allergies are actually caused by some form of respiratory deficiency. The result is often the slow degeneration of bodily functions, according to ancient Indian knowledge, which has been scientifically proven.

When we breathe shallowly, the "Prana" doesn't reach special receptors deep within our lungs. Controlled deep breathing stimulates these inpiratory and expiratory receptors, causing feedback from the lungs to the respiratory centre of the brain. This centre governs not only the inhaling and exhaling of the breath, but the ability to hold the breath in and out. To gain control over this centre is a conscious art of "Pranayama Yoga", the art of breathing.

General Yoga ‐ Yoga is an ancient science of self‐knowledge and understanding. Through many different practices one can directly experience their own essence and goodness. The Tantric philosophy regards everything as sacred and all our experience as that of the Divine experiencing itself. In this way we are all Spirit showing itself in endless variation and beauty. The practice of yoga allows us to cultivate our connection to all the life around us and explore our own unique expression of this life. There is an array of different yoga methods out there, with names like Ananda, Jivamukti, and Kundalini ‐ from the sedentary and introspective to the strenuous, there's a style for everybody.

Breathing Control ‐ Breathing Control covers four major areas and each breathing exercise affects different vital functions:

Abdominal Breathing ‐ The Abdominal Breathing, if done incorrectly, can cause problems with the digestive system, kidneys, liver, piles and blood circulation.

Thoracic Breathing ‐ The thoracic breathing has to do with the cardiac system, and strengthening of the heart.

Clavicular Breathing ‐ The clavicular breathing clears the lymphatic channels under the armpits and helps to prevent breast cancer.

General Breathing ‐ The General Breathing coordinates the other three breathing techniques and allows one to achieve the "Yogic Respiration".

Being able to control one's breathing also results in the control of the emotional state, but for each person, the results will be different. Working with breath is very simple; after the workshop only five to ten minutes practise daily is all that is required. After two months completing all the sessions just once a week will be enough to be able to breathe "naturally". Everybody can do it.

Audition Call - Sandy Wilson's THE BOY FRIEND

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 08:56:00 +0000

AUDITION CALL

Sandy Wilson’s

The Boy Friend

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor will be reviving as part of its celebrations for its 50th Anniversary, the musical “The Boy Friend” first performed in London in 1953 and by the Phil in 1978. In 2006/2007, the musical was revived in an highly acclaimed production at the Open Air Theatre at Regent's Park, London .

Set in the carefree world of the English upper class in the French Riviera “The Boy Friend” is a parody of the personalities, fashion, behaviour, slang and lifestyle of the Roaring 20s. The musical contains some of the most memorable showtunes ever written like “I Could Be Happy With You”, “Room In Bloomsbury”and “Its Never Too Old to Fall in Love” and many dance sequences including the cheerful, rip roaring, “Won’t You Charleston With Me”, “The Riviera” and the title song “The Boy Friend” to the dance styles of the era such as the Charleston, the Shimmy and the Bunny Hug.

“The Boy Friend” to be staged by The Phil in November and December this year will be directed by Philip Chai and choreographed by Farah Sulaiman who was in the Phil’s production in 1978!! Both director and choreographer intend this production to be a showcase of the styles of the 20s and have carried out extensive research to recreate as best as possible the mood, styles and attitude of the flapper generation.

Date : 11th April 2008

Time : 7 pm

Place : 41 Jalan Utara, Petaling Jaya, 46200 Selangor

1. Present one song (to be sung from memory). PLS BRING ACCOMPANYING MINUS ONE TAPE OR SHEET MUSIC. (NO A CAPPELLAS PLS)

2. Perform a short dance routine in the style of the Charleston.
PLS BRING MUSIC IF AUDITION PIECE PREPARED; and

3. Read a role

Registration for auditions required. Please register by sending email to selangor.phil@gmail.com or SMS to 012-383 1654.

AUDITION CATEGORIES

PRINCIPAL (TEENS/YOUNG ADULTS (BELOW 30 YRS)

Polly Browne, Tony
- Romantic lead couple, 4 songs and ensemble

Maisie, Bobby
- Supporting lead couple, strong dance skills required, 7 songs include 3 solos

Dulcie
- Good dance skills; more than 7 songs including 1 solo with Lord Brockhurst

Fay, Nancy, Marcel, Alphonse, Pierre
- Good acting and dance skills; more than 7 songs

PRINCIPAL (ADULTS (30 YRS ON)

Mdm Dubonnet
- possess French flair and ability to speak English with a French accent convincingly, 3 solos

Percival Browne
- Polly’s father/Dubonnet’s ex lover, outwardly stuffy Englishman, 2 solos

Lord Brockhurst
- Aristocratic “dirty old” English man, 1 solo

Lady Brockhurst
- Wife of Lord Brockhurst

Hortense
- French maid, must possess French accent, 1 solo

SPECIALITY DANCERS

Pepe/Lolita
- Star performers of the Carnival Tango

CHORUS/MINOR PARTS

Gendarme

Waiter

4 teen/young adult couples

6 adult couples

Coming up this year...

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 09:20:00 +0000

Dear Members, Friends and Supporters of the Philharmonic Society of Selangor,

Greetings and Gong Xi Fa Cai!

2008 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Philharmonic Society of Selangor. The committee has lined up an interesting programme to celebrate the Society's 50th Anniversary. The program for 2008 is as follows:

April - May: Recitals @ KL Performing Arts Centre
July: The Selangor Phil's 50th Anniversary Retrospective @ Panggung Bandaraya
Oct: The Boyfriend @ Panggung Bandaraya
Nov: 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner @ Corus Hotel

50 years ago, the Society performed its first musical, The Mikado, at Panggung Bandaraya. This year, we have managed to secure some dates at Panggung Bandaraya where we will bring you down memory lane with the SPhil Retrospective. This will be followed later by a musical, The Boyfriend, which will be conducted by Mr Philip Chai.

We will be sending out more information on the 50th anniversary celebrations soon.

I look forward to all your assistance and support for this year. The Phil is one of the oldest and most established performing arts societies in Malaysia, and would not have gone this far without your support.

We are also seeking volunteers to come forward to assist in the Ticket Office, Gala Dinner, Backstage and General Administration.

May the Year of the Rat bring good health, abundant wealth, great prosperity and happiness to you and your family.

Regards,
Alain Boey
Chairman 2007/08

Yee Sang Dinner 2008!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 06:00:00 +0000

Our annual chopstick- (and roof-)raising makan fest is back!

The Phil's 2008 Annual Yee Sang Dinner will take place as follows. See you there!

Date:
Saturday 23 February 2008, 7.00pm

Venue:
Sri Melaka Restaurant, Taman Tun Dr Ismail
(No. 24, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur)

RM40 per head.

Please RSVP by this Thursday Feb 21st to Alain Boey 012.438.6248

Menu:
1) Norwegian Salmon Yee Sang
2) Three Combo Platter
3) Eight Treasures Sharksfin Soup (Vegetarian Sharksfin)
4) Salted Egg Prawns
5) Assorted Vegetables with Brocolli
6) Deep Fried Grouper in Superior Soya Sauce
7) Special Crispy Chicken
8) Iced Longan & Sea Coconut
- Chinese Tea OR Iced Lemon Tea
- Steamed Rice

Audition Notice - The Phil's 50th anniversary variety programme

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:49:00 +0000

AUDITION NOTICE:

THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF SELANGOR is auditioning for performers to take part in its 50th Anniversary variety programme that will showcase the past productions of the society. We are looking for singers (choral as well as solos) and dancers to bring to life excerpts from Musicals and Operettas such as The King & I, Sound of Music, The Mikado (just to name a few). For a full list of past productions, do visit http://www.thephil.org.my/prevprod.htm

Audition details:

Date: 18th, 25th Feb and 3rd March 2008
Time: 8 pm onwards.
Venue: KLET Studio 2-2 (2nd Flr),Jln 4/109E, Taman Desa Business Park, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Map: http://www.klensemble.com/contactus.html

Audition format:

Please prepare a piece from musicals for audition. A playback device will be provided if you wish to use recorded accompaniment. Please SMS to 012.383.1654 for an audition appointment with your name and type of audition (singing/dancing) and date preferred.

The Holly Jolly Christmas Party + Mini Concert

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 07:41:00 +0000

Join us at The Phil's Christmas Party/Mini Concert!

Date: Monday, December 17, 2007

Venue: Li Villas in PJ - Multi-Purpose Hall (See map below)

Time: 7:30 pm till 11:30 (next day working lah!)

Cost: RM 15 per head.

Gift Exchange... In the spirit of the season, we would like you to bring a gift (budget isRM20) for the Gift Exchange portion of the party...

Please RSVP by emailing selangor.phil+socials@gmail.com.

There will be a mini-concert and Carol Singalong session during the party.

And of course, lotsa food :)

See you there!

Committee 2007-2008

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 15:27:00 +0000

At the recent Annual General Meeting of the Society, members present had elected the following persons to be in the 2007/08 Committee:

Chairman: Alain Boey
Vice-Chairman: Ivy Winter
Hon. Secretary: Patricia Ngo
Hon. Treasurer: Cristina Yap

Committee Members:
Callista Chuah
Chan Wen Li
Susan Ho
Wong Wai Leng
Wong Wing Thim

Article on Circlesongs - The Star

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:37:00 +0000

Article in The Star on The Phil's preview of Circlesongs at The Annexe, Central Market
(From http://thestar.com.my/youth2/story.asp?file=/2007/10/17/youth2/19160766&sec=youth2)

Get Into The Groove
by SHARMILA NAIR

17 October 2007

Feel free to let loose as the audience is always welcome to be a part of Circlesong.

YOU do not always need expensive instruments and hours of lessons to create beautiful and entertaining music. Humans have been tapping their feet and clicking their tongue forever to make sounds, but we have never quite taken their musical potential seriously.

Bobby McFerrin did. The infamous Don’t Worry, Be Happy singer is the person behind the brainchild that is Circlesong – a musical performance that incorporates choral improvisations with body sounds to create the perfect blend of music.

Circlesong is a novel way of music making, combining oral sounds (such as singing, poetry recital, rap) and beats made by actions into a performance worthy of the stage. It is essentially a free-flow and free-style form of expression through music. Performers only need to hone their skills in making actions that produce sounds.

A typical Circlesong performance would have the performers standing or sitting in a circle. There is no script. Someone would start with a beat, and others would join in at their pace. The beat, rhythm and mood of the performance change according to the group dynamics, and the audience’s response.

In Malaysia, Circlesong groups are budding where people are willing to experiment with art and self expressions. Musician and actor Melvin Ho started a Circlesong group and recently led about 25 amateur singers to stage a performance.

“I’m not going to claim to be the first person to bring Circlesong into Malaysia. It’s been done here and there across the country and is slowly gaining popularity among its audience.

“This is quite experimental and the reason why I wanted to bring it here is to show Malaysians that there are various ways of expressing one’s self,” says Melvin, who is also Circlesong’s art director.
Melvin and his group of Circlesong performers have put up performances in Central Market and Bangsar Actor’s Studio to introduce a new form of music making to the Klang Valley audience.

The concept is gaining tentative acceptance from the public. The environment they perform in also affects Circlesong’s appeal. It works better when there is ample opportunity and encouragement for the audience to participate, or be part of the action.

The audience is always welcome to be part of the performance as Circlesong thrives on spontaneity, and the camaraderie formed as everyone gets into rhythm.

They jam without relying on any music scores, lyrics or even choreographed movements, for Circlesong doesn’t believe in restraining its performers' talents and capabilities.

“This is not a bunch of conventional singers following a set of notes on pieces of paper. These performers follow their mind and listen to their hearts while adjusting themselves to the tone of the group,” adds Melvin.

At their inaugural performance in Central Market, they drew a strong number of people who watched the performers with mixed emotions – some in awe and others in plain confusion.

Edmar Rashid who was there to witness Circlesong’s maiden performance was impressed by the group’s creativity and spontaneity.

“I’ve never seen anything like this before. At first I thought they were ‘not normal’ but later, I realised that this is how they express themselves,” says the 21-year-old Graphic Design student with a laugh.

Looking like a bunch of weirdoes is not a label that scares Circlesong member Mohd Fahazrul Mohd Hatta. The 23-year-old aspiring singer is happy to be part of a group that allows him to be spontaneous and create music through vocal exploration and improvisation. And to think that he almost didn’t make it into the group.

“I was one of the late participants. I auditioned at the last minute and thought that I blew my chance of performing in the Circlesong,” says the Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman Public Relations student.

After being accepted, Mohd Fahazrul didn’t take long time to show his vocal prowess, which he says also came late in his young life.

“I am a late bloomer. I only found out that I could sing when I was 17,” he says.

Aminda Faizura is also another good singer in Circlesong. She was invited to join the group by Melvin, her former choir coach, and she didn’t think twice before agreeing.

The 19-year-old A-Levels student easily captivated the audience when she stepped into the limelight, especially during the solo performances.

During the Circlesong performances, the audience is allowed to pinpoint and select a performer of their choice. The person who is picked has to come up with a spontaneous performance on the spot.

The receptive crowd was very encouraging especially when they joined in the fun and created harmonious music along with the Circlesong performers.

“I’m glad to have had this experience of singing in harmony with people I don’t know. This has taught me to be more receptive of my surrounding and also to be in-tune with myself,” says Mohd Fahazrul.

In Circular Motion

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 14:40:00 +0000

Shots taken at the Circlesongs jamming session at Central Market, Kuala Lumpur this afternoon. (Photos taken by Pang Khee Teik). Come and watch our show at The Actors Studio Bangsar, Oct 1 and Oct 2, 2007! More info on the show here. Call up our ticket contacts, or just turn up at Actors Studio by 8pm! More info about Circlesongs here.

More photos coming up soon. Members of the audience at Central Market - send us your photos! :)

More on Circlesongs

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 14:16:00 +0000

World-famous vocal innovator and improviser Bobby McFerrin created this concept to explore choral improvisations in his performances. Together with Voicestra, a group he founded with singers from classical, jazz and theatre backgrounds, he brings to the musical world a dynamic solo and group vocal explorations through Circlesongs.

The music is entirely improvised on the spot and captures everything in the performance: the day, the time, the theatre, the audience. Any spontaneous sound creation goes through a rhythmic repetition, thus springing songs of circular shape and chant-like structure. There are no words, since language limitations only create separation between listeners. McFerrin always felt that singing a song without words makes one song a thousand songs because the people who hear it can bring their own stories to it. The creation of Circlesongs grew out of his deeply held belief that “one of the simplest and most direct ways of praying and meditating is through singing, and singing in community is exceptionally powerful. You get people together in a room and get them singing, and you instantly knock down all the walls – creed, gender, age and race differences, everything. You’re all one at that point, lifting your voices”.

And so, universal sounds that express joy and gratitude, chants drawing inspirations from all religious traditions yet are strictly nondenominational, spontaneous musical stream of consciousness . . . allow us to share our spiritual connection (without being defined by any single spiritual path) with you and together we celebrate a communion of singing and music.

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor invites you to experience the nuances of Circlesongs in its latest production, in aid of the Independent Pet Rescuers Malaysia.

Adapted from Barbara Graham, Theodore Levin and Jonathan Goldman, programme writers for Bobby McFerrin’s Circlesongs album (Sony SK62734). For more information, do visit http://www.sony.com/ & http://www.bobbymcferrin.com/

About The Phil

Founded in 1958, The Philharmonic Society of Selangor, or The Phil as it is affectionately known, is one of the oldest and most established music societies in Malaysia. The Phil counts among its successes productions like The Sound of Music, The King & I and Guys & Dolls, as well as classical offerings such as Rutter’s Requiem, Haydn’s Creation and Orff’s Carmina Burana and contemporary treats including Music from Movies and Musicals and In The Mood. The society also organises regular workshops to provide education in the performing arts through its Theatre Education Programme. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2008, The Phil aims to continue to provide accessible opportunities for learning, producing and presenting quality performances in the performing arts through fellowship, fun activities and education.

About Independent Pet Rescuers Malaysia

Independent Pet Rescuers Malaysia (IPR) is a group of volunteers committed to the rescuing and re-homing of stray, abused and abandoned animals, and facilitating their adoption by foster volunteers. Its members also strive to educate the public on the need for compassion for stray, abused and abandoned animals to prevent them from being put down unnecessarily. In keeping with its strict ‘no-kill’ policy, it hopes to be able to build a halfway house for rescued animals as a temporary sanctuary before they are re-homed. IPR relies entirely on the goodwill of volunteers and the generosity of the public to run and fund its activities. The Phil’s proceeds from Circlesongs will be dedicated to the inspiring and noble work of IPR.

IPR operates an adoption booth at a corner in Plaza Damas, Kuala Lumpur (same row as Starbucks at Hartamas Shopping Centre, opposite BT Computers) every Saturday from 1pm to 6pm. Website: http://rescue2rehome.blogspot.com/

Circlesongs - Get Your Tickets Now!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 17:28:00 +0000

The Philharmonic Society of Selangor presents

CIRCLESONGS

Oct 1 & 2, 2007, 8:30 pm, The Actors Studio Bangsar

• Choral Improvisation • Dynamic Vocal Exploration • Rhythmic Energy • Universal Sounds • Musical Celebration of Spontaneity •

It's choral jamming without reliance on music scores, with no lyrics to remember, and with no rehearsed choreography to fumble about.

It's just us, a bunch of singing musicians, creating spontaneous musical moments through group vocal exploration and improvisation.

Come and share our tribute to an oral tradition of communal singing!

Artistic direction by Melvin Ho

In aid of Independent Pet Rescuers Malaysia

Admission by minimum donation of RM30 /
RM20 (students)

Tickets: Zalina Lee (012 320 8090) /
Melvin Ho (012 303 7184)

*There will be a free Circlesong jamming session at Central Market, Kuala Lumpur on Sat 22 Sept and Sat 29 Sept 2007, 12pm-1pm. Do drop by!*

http://www.thephil.org.my/

http://selangorphil.blogspot.com/

Drawing Circles

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 08:01:00 +0000

Snapshots of recent Circlesong rehearsals (more coming in the next post!)

The Warm-Up..

The Circle....

Melvin, In Whom We Shall Trust!

More photos in the next blogpost!

Circlesong will be performed at The Actors Studio Bangsar on Oct 1st and 2nd 2007.

Tickets will be available for sale soon. Watch this space!

What Is Circlesong?

A concept conceived by Bobby McFerrin, Circlesong is a free and spontaneous music making session that incorporates the human voice & body percussion. Anyone can participate, with or without musical training. Circlesong sessions aim to develop a higher awareness of listening to one's innate musical instinct, to be able to express spontaneous musical improvisations through the human body, and gives people the opportunity to sing in a choral environment without needing to know how to read music.

About Melvin Ho (Artistic Director)

Melvin Ho is a music graduate of the Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA), formerly known as Akademi Seni Kebangsaan (ASK). He has been a member of the Selangor Philharmonic Society Choir since 1997. He also sings and arranges music for Dhammaduta Youth (D2Y), a local Buddhist performing group that sings a cappella Buddhist hymns. In 2005, he completed a teaching certificate foundation course in Speech and Drama at the Crestar Learning Centre. Melvin appeared in Gardner and Wife's production of "Something Funny Happened On The Way To The Forum" (2002) and performed in Rhythm In Bronze's "Monkey Business" (2005) produced by Five Arts Centre, which earned him a nomination for Best Composition in the Boh Cameronian Arts Awards 2005. His last major performance was in Saidah Rastam's "M! The Opera" which premiered in Istana Budaya last year. He occasionally guest performs and arranges music for some local a cappella and choir groups. He currently works as a school choir coach and teaches music in Kinderland D'Shire, Kota Damansara. He has his own youth choir called Navaswara, that rehearses weekly at the Living Arts Studio.

SongFest 2007 postponed indefinitely; see you at Circlesong!

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 01:23:00 +0000

We regret to inform that SongFest 2007 will not be held this Sunday 19 Aug 2007 as announced earlier in this forum due to poor response from the public. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

HOWEVER, do come and catch us at The Actors Studio in Bangsar, KL when we put on Circle Song, led by Melvin Ho - on 1st and 2nd October 2007.

Singing Actors in Movement

noreply@blogger.com (The Phil) — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 07:48:00 +0000

The Phil's organised a 'Singing Actor in Movement' workshop with Michael Xavier Voon at KLPAC recently on musical theatre and movement. The workshop was designed for actors in the musical theatre, focusing on the coordination of acting, singing, dancing and body movements. This was our second workshop with Michael under the Society's Theatre Education Programme. Workshop participants worked their way through analysis of song and musical settings and various audience communication skills through voice and movement.

Now to the photos! :)

Janet's rendition of My Lord and Master...

Aaron tells of big tall terrible awesome scary wonderful giants in the sky..

Amelia's invitation to paint the town... and all that jazz...

Zal, Simon, Yaw Feng, Voon Wee and Hafiz in action...

Michael in his element...Alesia puts all other 14-year-olds to shame!

Mary Had A Little Lamb, as it would be told to a fictitious Singaporean audience. Wahlau-eh, did I just say that?

More Photos:

Photos from the recent Tap Jam: Now and Then on August 3rd which featured our Circlesong performers, can be viewed at the website of one of the Rhythm Tappers , here.

What's Next?

CircleSong will be happening on Oct 1st and 2nd at The Actors Studio Bangsar. Watch this space for info on tickets!

Find out more about The Philharmonic Society of Selangor and its activities on http://www.thephil.org.my/

CircleSong is coming! Mark your calendars!

noreply@blogger.com (adviser1) — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 09:32:00 +0000

An update on our upcoming CircleSong performance and special previews of our performance!

Date: October 1st & 2nd, 2007
Venue: The Actors Studio Bangsar

Watch this space. Tickets will be available for sale soon!

What Is Circlesong?
A concept conceived by Bobby McFerrin, Circlesong is a free and spontaneous music making session that incorporates the human voice & body percussion. Anyone can participate, with or without musical training. Circlesong sessions aim to develop a higher awareness of listening to one's innate musical instinct, to be able to express spontaneous musical improvisations through the human body, and gives people the opportunity to sing in a choral environment without needing to know how to read music.

**CircleSong Mania!**

CircleSong Preview @ SongFest 2007

Want a preview of Circlesong? Come to The Phil's SongFest Singing Competition 2007 on August 19th 2007 where you will be entertained with a preview of Circlesong!

CircleSong Grooves with the Rhythm Tappers @ Malaysia!

Circlesong performers will be performing to the thumping rhythm/grooves of the Rhythm Tappers @ Malaysia at their upcoming "TAP JAM: Now and Then!" Details of the Tap Jam are as follows:
Date: Friday, August 3, 2007, 8.00pm
Venue: Havana Estudio, 2nd Floor, 34B Persiaran Zaaba, TTDI
Admission: RM10
Contacts: Kong Eu (012.379.3779) / Shueh Miin (012.295.2890)