St Joseph's Institution Military Band - From Our Humble Beginnings

Lesson

2010-04-17T17:46:00.000+08:00

After the previous parade on tuesday, i believe everyone has much to learn. What was said should not be forgotten, but rather remembered and cherished. Many a times, we have taken Mr Tan for granted, assuming that he will always be here for every parade. We assume he will always be there to correct the mistakes we have made and do so every single parade. It is with this mentality that we never attempt to correct our own mistakes, for we think that during the next parade and the one after, Mr Tan will help us correct it. Or even worse, we do not see the need to make the effort in correcting our wrongs. "Why do so, why waste time upon such minor things when I have homework and games to attend to?" Well, the reason for change is simple.Regardless of whether you are going to change, the world is going to change. Other people, other bands are going to change. They are not going to wait and watch us learn and change. No they will constantly imporve themselves. Without changing, we are left behind. Far bahind. Without changing, we are simply going to remain stagnant and it is a great achievement if we even get a silver next year. So please take in what has been pointed out by Mr Tan, and from there try to improve yourselves. No one is demanding you to make the improvement immediately. As long as there is the effort to do so, there is hope.

If you had heard Mr Tan's words on Tuesday, you would be wreched at the words he used. There is no need to repeat the words. The few simple words are etched deep into everybody's minds. Never has anyone figured he would say it. Everyone troubled themselves with whether the bandsmen had this mentality but never has anyone thought so for him. It is a depressing thought. If you feel the pain, then take action. We have taken him for granted, but now is the time to take things seriously. As the Renaissance approaches, we have to bear this in mind and soldier on. Let's convinve Mr Tan once more of our capabilities as a band and make him believe in us. Let's just change and work hard. For the upcoming Renaissance, let's just push hard and work on our flaws.
CAS '10

Just Some Thoughts

2010-02-21T22:48:00.000+08:00

It is the post-Chinese New Year period and many are still in the fastive mood. Hard as it is to say, we have to get back to studies. Common Test is coming very soon and sadly we have to start the mugging. I am sure many just detest this period, where we have no holiday to look forward to and can only focus on school work. Even I hate the fact that waves after waves of work just carshes onto my desk. Sigh...
Nevertheless, we have to buck up for this crucial common test.
But fortunately, right after the examination period, we have... BAND CAMP. This time, the March Band Camp will be overnight and there are a plethora of activities planned. Hopefully, all you bandsmen will greatly enjoy this camp and form new bonds. For Sec 2s, this will be your first overnight band camp with the whole band. You will finally get the feel of a full camp and I am sure you will have a everlasting, memorable time.
So, as you head into common tests, maybe the thought of band camp the week after will boost you forward. Swallow this bitter pill, and just brave on.
CAS '10

Chinese O'level results released to 2010 sec4 students

2010-01-11T19:13:00.003+08:00

The o'level results for the Higher MT guys have been released, some will be super happy because they attained an A1, which I hope is usless( if you get what i mean).

Those who did not get A need not to fret:
1. You will definately be better than me in MT
2. B3 for chinese at sec 3 is not too bad
3. You still have a chance to try and pass HMT
4. MT is usless in L1B5 if you can get straight As, it just beautify your cert.
5. There's still band, not as if the school will bar you from the bandroom.

So much for now!
CL'10

Some Pictures Taken from Last Year's activities

2010-01-10T21:47:00.000+08:00

Band Camp '09
Band Chalet BBQ
Eating by the 'road side'
Saxophone Section
SYF Saxophone section

Sec 4'2010 outing

Section Blogs

2010-01-10T11:13:00.002+08:00

Hello bandsmen,

If your section are to have a section blog, please tag on the tagboard with the link so the Tops can link it up for you. I have deleted some section blog links cause they're kind of dead. Section leaders, or anybody in the section, youre strongly encouraged to create section blogs and those dead ones, please relive yours. Thank you. Hope to see 11 section blog links in the band blog (:

QM'10

The Year in a Post

2010-01-02T00:19:00.000+08:00

SJIMB, welcome to the new year of 2010, welcome to the new decade of this century. This new beginning must surely signify much for each of you. However, what your personal goals are, I have no intentions of finding out, much less disccussing. Really the aim of my current post is to briefly summarise what this year would mean to you as a bandsmen. For those of you who are still unsure of what is installed for you this year, this could be helpful guide to lead you.

Firstly, the Secondary 4s. One very obvious significance of this year is the approaching 'O'-levels. Let's never be daunted by this uphill task; let's own the previous batches and score an average msg of 9. And just within our batch, let's have 100% passes for all subjects and a msg of no more than 3 for all subjects. Do not assume this task impossible, or only suited for those in the higher classes. It all come down to a individual drive. But before this year leaves us good and gone, let's lead this band to what it can be. BUT, most importantly is to enjoy our final moments together. We are our best friends.

Next, Secondary 3s. I am sure all are aware of the nearing task of taking over the band. Not the least is leading the band for SYF 2011. So not only do all of you have to buckle up, all of you have to also buckle up so well your waist hurts; you have to able to lead this band to glory. Putting leadership aside, all of you also have the imminent duty to burden yourself with Os so enjoy while possible.

Third, Secondary 2s. Although this year may seem bleak and uneventful to you, fret not you can busy yourself with things. Well for one, you could learn more about the band and music. This would undoubtedly help you next year. But crucially, you can work towards a tigther batch.

Well, that would be all for now. So til next time, bye.
CAS '10

New Year

2010-01-01T21:00:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year, bandsmen!
As we enter 2010, lets hope for a good and memorable year ahead. A new year almost means a fresh start. Lets get ourselves prepared mentally and physically for the parades this year. May we also have a different attitude towards band. One that is positive, willing to contribute and taking the initiative in band (Band From Within).

Lets start the decade on a right note, not just as a student, but also a bandsmen. Lets all strive to achieve success in the band, and improve ourselves, be it our character, music skill, drills etc, as a ONE band.

QM'10

Band camp pics

2009-12-11T23:14:00.054+08:00

Here are the pics

Enjoy

Band Camp '09

2009-12-11T22:13:00.000+08:00

2009 ended on a high note after the passing down parade held at the parade square and the investiture of the new leaders for 2010 the day before. The items we received from our seniors came in odd shapes and sizes (not to exclude colour and smell), and I hope we can "absorb" their well wishes and allow this band to thrive. Don’t worry, a little bit of pressure is good.

Good job bandsmen, for being such good bandsmen, capable of adapting well to the changes in our school so far. We may have to strike a good balance between drills and music and I think that we are doing a great job. Despite 2009 bandcamp indeed being a day camp, I must suggest that bandsmen should not be too disappointed, we have a meaningful year ahead and 2010 sec3s should prepare for your instructor's course. Preparations have to start now, in terms of drills, music, fitness and initiative. We should not only start preparing when we are sec3s, we should start when we are sec1s, to get the foundation right.

Looking back at bandcamp, we started it off the same old usual way, beratur after the fall in call played by the THEN trumpet ASL. Due to the "lightning alert system", we had to fall in at the parade square, since that there isn’t a flashing light there. Focusing on the fact that the drizzle is getting a bit heavier, we went to the foyer to settle the usual stuff. Yep, although I am an admin guy, I find admin work a bore but the money is much needed.

After each barracks are assigned barracks (obvious again), barracks had to set up their (I know…) barracks, sorting out the tables and chairs, decorating the whiteboard and cleaning the floor. It was stand-by-bed after that. The Tops were appalled by the numerous mistakes but upon realising that it's the first time sec1s are coming for bandcamp(being sec ones, it’s a bit obvious again). I know I may be posting on such useless stuff but I enjoy stand-by-bed as both a junior and senior bandsman.

The motive of the first stand-by -bed was to make sure bandsmen, especially sec1s (although sec1s were forgiven), know how to set up their barracks correctly with precision. Numbers of push ups given per mistakes were not so obscene, as we expected bandsmen to do it properly. Quite saddening, Echo cheated, but still, great to see them having fun, and having an improvement in their arrangement of items.

I have to apologize to all bandsmen for the shifting of barracks before lunch as the school wardens needed to clean up the sec3 block. They are not required to tell us way beforehand.

Nothing much to say about drills and invest practise, except that we are doing reasonably well.
SJIMB will be continuing our current theme, “Band from Within”. Those who missed the talk, check the post.

Sad to go break camp at 6, but wait.... the then Atops could stay till 9!
Preparing the next day's stuff, of course, and waiting for the ridiculously slow sec2buglers to polish. Not the slowest I know of, but I guess you all have the potential to be faster. Lots of thanks to MS Tan, who stayed back to help us polish the bugles.

Morning PT the next day was as most of the activities in the circuits was new. Never good to stick too much to the old stuff. Some of the activities were quite taxing; hope the bandsmen can train up to execute them.
There’s music afterwards. Too bad that the time for music was extended or else we would have a second round of fun stand-by-bed after lunch. Dang, had a original idea/trick up my sleeve.

Games Games Games

After games, wet weather invest training would be a nice “warm” welcome to air-con lovers.

Had a ceremonial check afterwards, not particularly pleased with the standards. Can be better.

On the third day, we had our final prep for the Investiture and POP concert which is sandwiched by lunch. Yum Yum. There was a recap on the plans of wet weather, just in case some bandsmen left it at home. We showered before changing into ceremonials, so friends and relatives can be rest reassured.

Invest went quite smoothly, better than expected and there wasn’t a miss pitch by the incoming Trumpet section leader, although he let his tone suffer a little bit. After prayer, the outgoing BS, Pin Ren, marched in and gave the band masuk baris. Immediately after that command was executed, the incoming drum SL gave a tap and the percussion started their 78th (a drum solo), with the band marching as the magnificent brasses playing the trademark fanfare familiar to all former bandsmen. We executed almost the same commands, the “Parting of the Red Sea”. Prize winners were presented their letter of appointment and promotion. The letters were awarded by the Guest of Honour of the parade, Sir Peter Low. Before the Top 3 received their letters of appointment, the Trumpet SL(already promoted to SL) had to play a different bugle call for each of the Top 3 post holder. The letter of appointment would then be distributed by the outgoing DM. The ’10 DM took the ceremonial mace from our outgoing DM with style. By reciting the pledge, a few tears broke loose from some of the audiences. The newly appointed DM then led the band for a march past with the outgoing sec4s wishing the band all the best with their final salute. Have some photos to share, courtesy to some of my friends. Not going to tell the whole world. And oya, I’m not going to disclose what we as a band did behind the scenes after we fell out.

Company mess was also a success, with the junior band (Sec 1s and 2s of 2009) performing really well, both musically and visually. The junior band presented Beyond the Highlands followed by Twist and Shout. The sec3 band performed Blue Ridge Saga, to thank all the Sec4s who were instrumental to our success in the SYF Central Judging Competition. Let’s wish them all the best in their O’s (I’m sure some will get perfect score) and their future endeavours.

This is also a good opportunity to thank our THE conductor and THE assistant conductor/sec 1instructor, Mr Tan and Mrs Chua, respectively.
Before our last dinner together of the year, the exDM and the DM led the band in the band toast, won’t go into details.

After the Company Mess we had to move everything back to the bandroom. It’s quite a terrifying ordeal, taking into consideration of the torturing day endured by the bandsmen.

After lights out, we had section talk, YAY!! :D*

On the last day, we had to settle lots of admin stuff like clean ups (boring), and it’s the last time we would have Woon Ern in our band, so the ROs organized a sec1 music room cleanup so Woon Ern and his batch would have a one and only chance to do a music room cleanup together.
Some of the make-up artists displayed their skills during the passing over parade.

More pics following this

CL’10 TDT – dunno why Zuriel gave me this nick.

Schedule for parades in 2009 holidays

2009-10-30T21:36:00.004+08:00

Its finally the end of year and the holidays are right in front of us. The prospect it brings is very enticing and yet we cannot really relax now. The holidays is fully packed with parades to gear us up towards whats coming up next year, and it is absolutely vital you attend every parade. Failure to do so is often, if not always, dealt with severely. On a lighter note, for those who have conveniently lost the schedule, below is one:

29 Oct, Thu 0830-1330 (junior band)

31 Oct, Sat 0800-1300 (full band)

5 Nov, Thu 0800-1200 (junior band)

1300-1700 (full band)

7 Nov, Sat 0800-1300 (full band)

19 Nov, Thu 0800-1700 (full band)

23-26 Nov, Mon-Thu (band camp)

17 Dec, Thu 0800-1700 (full band)

21 Dec, Mon 0800-1700 (full band)

Though it may look too packed, always try to cope and if anyone face any trouble or problems, the ATOPs are always here for you. Ok, that is all for today.

signing out ACS

New Skin

2009-10-27T21:37:00.001+08:00

Hello bandsmen,

I, on behalf of the Atops, bring to you the new skin of the blog! If you have any comments, please do not hesitate to address it to anyone of us. Thank you.

AQM

Getting ready for Bandcamp 2009

2009-10-27T20:22:00.003+08:00

Good day to all, ACL here, if you have been enjoying band so far good. If not, is it because band is too tiring?

If your answer to either questions is either yes or no (still....), this is what you have to read through and DO!!

The Acting Top would not disclose how "shiong" bandcamp will be and the activities the band will be doing. So, it is my advice, and the Acting Top's advice to our fellow bandsmen, to beef up for bandcamp. How to prepare? Wait for the sky to fall to tone your muscles.

Defination of training( the Atop's defination):
40 push ups
40 sit ups
Total of 60 seconds of leg raisers
Hentak

Per Day.
can do more if you like...

And.................................
Remember about your legs too
Good to run after sectionals (to Asls)

To those who are poor in stoning at sedia and senang diri in the platoon, go and train up. No SJAB will attend to you (like in AP), but we guess you will still be taken care off ...

If any bandsmen are still blur, bandcamp is on the 23rd to the 26th( mon to thurs), so make sure each and every bandsmen are free on thoses dates. Holiday as an excuse to skip bandcamp would not be accepted as the week of bandcamp is already in the school diary.

The Atops hopes that bandcamp would not be so tiring even though we trash out tiring activities, hence SJIMB can have a fun and successful bandcamp for the year of 2009.

Work hard to enjoy bandcamp!!

ACL

PS :
We will be informing you about:
Things to bring
Cost
shortly

Reporting in...

2009-08-31T21:30:00.000+08:00

Hi, ACAS here. Just reporting of my taking over of this blog from the previous batch. Well they should be well into their mugging for O-levels so this rather dead blog is left to the Acting TOPs. Do check this blog regulerly for stuff related to band, albiet its rather stale status.
Currently, we do not have any event to work towards. Nevertheless, we should not lose fire and work towards perfecting our skills, so that future performances and parades will be of a better quality.
Anyway, goodnite to all.
ACS signing. ciaossu

h1n1 crisis

2009-07-16T15:07:00.002+08:00

I have a pretty bad news for us. No more botanic garden performance because of one stupid virus-h1n1.
I know most of you guys will be =(... like me... but still, take care of your own personal hygiene and keep the flu bug away.

CAS'09
(i was supposed to stand down)

Anniversary Parade!

2009-07-11T22:52:00.000+08:00

Hello! Ap has finally ended and was a success! Dm successfully caught the mace with style. I, RO Cin, is finally making a first and last post with the help of CS WJ. On behalf of the Band, we would like to thank all the bandsmen who participated in this event and made it such a big success, and the alumni, who came despite all the trouble, and making the band toast an awesome one. The tops hope that u guys will continue to strive harder and work together with ur acting tops.

After the Ap, a few bandmen went to K(Ap), where we had a late dinner. Since it has been a long day, with even longer rehearsals to prepare for this, we hope that everyone gets a good rest. Also, people who have the photos should try to upload asap, so that everyone can view them.

In the coming weeks, we will be preparing for the Shell Moe Band Fiesta, we hope that everyone puts in their best, and give a jaw dropping performance. Parade will be on Thursdays and Saturdays, as usual. We hope that, despite focusing on more on music, people will not forget about drills.

Ps. We would like to thank Welfare Officer Daniel Lim, for providing the snacks.

RO Cin, Standing Down, Signing Off

157th Annual Parade - Preparations

2009-07-11T12:10:00.002+08:00

It is the final AP for sec 4s already... Time really flies....
Today is the day where the sec4s pass out and concentrate on their studies, while the new sec3 leaders take over the band.
Attention all alumnis, do not attend this parade because the school has ordered that no one other than participants, teachers and invited students are allowed into the school today. You guys can sit and have a picnic at malcom park, with your binoculars, as suggested by some teachers.
More details of the AP will be put up after the parade. stay tuned.

Do your best today, bandsmen!

From CAS

26th June 2009 Parade

2009-06-23T20:25:00.004+08:00

Attention all SJIMBandsmen:

Due to recent rise of H1N1 cases in singapore, it has been decided that there would not be any parade on 26th June. However, check the blog frequently for more information. Lastly, take care of yourselves and try not to fall ill. Take care!

CAS'09

Clarinet Section

2009-06-18T22:26:00.003+08:00

ATTN: All Clarinetist (Sec 1 - 4)

When school re-opens next term, do not bring home your instruments until further notice. I will be doing some major re-arrangements of all your instruments because there are many clarinets that have different parts in different cases.

Clarinet SL or ASL, please remind your section mates about this information. To those who know about this, do spread the message to either Desmond or Wen Jian. Thanks.

With regards,
Wen Quan

Friday Parade (26/06/09)

2009-06-18T22:20:00.002+08:00

Attn: All Bandsmen

For those who did not attend today's parade, please be noted that there might not be parade next friday in view with the H1N1 flu virus. Sectionals will be cancelled through this whole june holidays and the bandroom will not be opened at all.

Another thing to note is that next friday's parade is still KIV(keep in view). CHECK the blog regularly in case of any updates to the parade schedules.

With regards,
Wen Quan
CQMS '09

Sectionals

2009-05-19T20:07:00.003+08:00

To: ALL SLs

Its already a few days after the exams and all SLs please resume your weekly sectionals by next week. Please also include all your basic exercises, like scales, long notes and tonguing exercises etc., into all your sectionals. Most importantly, it is to adjust your lips to your instrument after the long break.

After Exams....

2009-05-18T15:53:00.002+08:00

Alright bandsmen, its the end of our MYE but its not slack time yet.
After hearing yourselves today, i hope that you guys will practise harder and not disappoint Mr Tan in the next few parades.
Keep your standard up and help the juniors too!

CAS'09

Exams are almost over.

2009-05-14T13:00:00.002+08:00

Alright, a few more days left.
Just to take note, there is NO PARADE this saturday because the sec 4s have MT mock exams.

Revision For Mid-Years

2009-04-26T19:18:00.003+08:00

For the next few days, I'll be opening the music room, bandsmen who wanna revise or do homework can feel free to do it there. Anyone who have any comments call me.

Ps: This is a request specially made to bandsmen who are particularly good in any subjects: try to come down to help the others and also juniors.

Thanks.

Supreme Court (For selected students) UPDATED

2009-04-15T19:18:00.006+08:00

Date: 24th April 2009

Reporting Time: 12pm
*Early Release Form will be given in due course

Attire: Report in your school uniform first; Lower Secondary Students are to bring long pants along; Bring your blazers, black shoes/socks and long-sleeved shirt

Dismissal Time (Band-room): 5.00pm
*No one is to leave straight from Supreme Court

Songs: Hawaii Five-O, Spanish Fever, Sock hop tonight, When you wish upon a star, Thank You for the Music
*Section librarians go and prepare these 5 songs

Bring: Instruments, Accessories, Scores, Mutes, Music Stands (Allowed to bring camera phones not camera)

*Please do not bring sharp objects and camera (Will be locked up by the police upon entry)

*Please be at your best behaviour at all times

*Schedule will be told to your on Thursday (23rd April 2009)

*Please be reminded that the security is very tight. Everything that you bring to Supreme Court will be checked, including instruments and bags)

*Group 1: Clarinet, Flute, Alto Sax, Oboe, Bassoon, Bass Clarinet, Cornet, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax, Horn, Euphonium, Trombone

*Group 2: Tuba, Double Bass, Percussion

*Upon arrival, split yourself into Group 1 & 2

SJI-OBA Homecoming Dinner (For selected bandsmen) UPDATED

2009-04-15T18:58:00.006+08:00

Date: 18th April 2009
Reporting time: 4.30pm
Wear: Long-Sleeved T-shirt, Long pants, Black Shoes, Black Socks, Badge
Bring: Blazer (Prefects are to bring your own prefect tie)
Dismissal Time: 9.00pm

Songs: Hawaii Five-O, Thank You for the Music, Spanish Fever

*Section Librarians please prepare these scores before hand. (Not playing St. Joseph's Call and School Rally)

*Drummers, when the whole band goes to the gallery, proceed to the beurel to set up your instruments, then put at the back stage. Proceed to the gallery after that.

*Please be reminded that some bandsmen are needed by Ms Anita Sebastian when we are resting at the gallery (Further notice will be provided on that day itself)

*These bandsmen are to meet Ms Anita Sebastian before 6.00pm (Get your section mates to hold on your instruments until your duty is over, then proceed to gallery, lvl 2, founder's hall)
- Samuel Tan
- Thaddaeus Tan
- Daniel Farhan
- Richard Kwek

Cheers,
Wen Quan (QM)

Forgot something,...

2009-04-02T20:16:00.000+08:00

Other than thanking all the teachers who supported us, we owe our achievement also to the support of the alumnis! Especially those who skipped school to watch our performance =)

SYF pictures

2009-04-02T18:29:00.001+08:00

Hey guys, CS here.
Heres the link to syf pictures taken by professional photographers
www.syfphotography.com

But i don't think our pictures are there yet....but no harm checking!

GWH!

GOLD WITH HONOURS

2009-04-02T15:26:00.005+08:00

omg, it's surreal isn't it. never in my life have i ever dreamed that we'd end up getting the gold with honours. well done everyone. i guess waking up at 2.30am was worth it. spending over 30 bucks buying macdonalds for my section today was worth it. coming to school at such an ungodly hour was SO worth it. why? because we've succeeded way past our own expectations.

for all those who weren't there with us, here's how the day went:
i came to school at 4.45am after buying macdonalds for my section. when DM and Benedick arrived they'd discovered that the bandroom was locked and that the keys were with the office. so we all ended up waiting in the canteen with Mr Tan, talking about how we needed to relax later to play well. the morning was spent mainly on tuning, a problem most of us probably have all the time. so this was good. warmups were helpful too, with the long low notes, don't know about you guys, but my lips were definitely warmed up. gathering outside the stalls in the canteen, a lot of people came to wish us good luck. some sounded sincere in wishing, some of course were cynical, others mocking. but nonetheless, good luck anyways. on the bus there, though we were told not to talk much, a lot of us just ended up talking away anyways. getting off the bus at SCH. everyone was silent to get into the mood of the competition. though i personally felt that by being silent, everyone would become more tense. but ah well.

we were the first band today. so before we entered the hall, CM led us in a short prayer. entering into the hall, there weren't many people. thank you all the people who ponned school just to watch us perform. Namely, Ian Chai, Xueyu[Shaun.], Melvin Ng and Zhi Xiong. and a haha to Zhibin who was smsing me during his lecture and half listening to his lecturer. haha. must've taken a lot out of you eh? haha. anyways, we played. and for me, i was personally very surprised at how we FINALLY managed to keep timing throughout the songs. THANK GOD FOR THAT. for me, the playing was a very weird experience. i actually had a thigh cramp in the middle of jericho. so weird. thigh cramp whilst sitting? lols. i think everyone did a really great job. everyone played the part they needed to play very well. and best of all, we were all together. i felt really comfortable playing and i really enjoyed the breaks where i could just get lost in the music the rest of you were making. excellent job guys. excellent job.

i'm sure the sec 2's and sec 3's went off in great anticipation of the results. the sec 4's remained behind to listen to the other bands. and boy were we scared. simply because the bands today were really good. [which explains the other GWH and 4 Golds]. so we were really afraid of losing the Gold. Melvin Ng heard SCGS and siad we may have just lost our Gold with Honours. in the end, we got it. CM, who had told everyone not to shout or cheer but just to clap, jumped across the seat into my seat that was 4 seats away.

i think as CS has mentioned in the previous post. we need to be thankful for all the people who've supported us all the way. even the people who've insulted us before. we need to thank these peole for giving all of us the motivation to do and strive for much better. without which, i don't think we would've improved as much as we did.

and we did it. SJIMB has finally achieved it's first ever Gold with Honours Award. don't believe me? take a look at band fusion:

GOLD with HONOURS.

We did it!

2009-04-02T15:16:00.003+08:00

Bandsmen, we did it.
After 8 years of not getting what we wanted, we finally got it.
Yes, its way above our expectation, Gold With Honours! =)
We have many people to thanks so let me start listing them:
1) We must thank our conductor, Mr Tan, for his never-ending support and guidance.
2) Mrs Chua, Miss Adeline Tan, Mr Ng Shuh Lit, Mr Sirhan, our principals and school teachers for their support during our perfomance and through our long, tough and satisfying rehearsals.
3) Many thanks to our section instructors for their help and guidance!

Well Done Bandsmen, very Well done
Sui ya.

Get Ready Guys

2009-04-01T17:08:00.003+08:00

Time passes very fast....
Syf is just tomorrow.
Be mentally prepared!
We can do it.
Remember, heal the souls of the audience, dont think about the award while playing.
Feel the flow and follow it.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, cherish the moment with your bandsmen and conductor and let these happy memories stay with us forever!

Ready?
I think we are.

Getting nearer...

2009-03-31T17:33:00.002+08:00

Yes Bandsmen, its getting closer and closer, the day we all have been waiting for. SYF!
2 more days. 40--- Hours more to go.
We can do it! Flow with the music!

countdown

2009-03-24T14:01:00.001+08:00

hey guys. not to stress you or anything but,
9 MORE DAYS
give it all you've got.

Time to soar!

2009-03-23T22:17:00.002+08:00

Hey guys, its less than 2 weeks before our syf.
Don't get too stressed up though, but keep in mind this: Do not slack!
Those who still has problems at parts of the song(i dun think anyone should have any problem by now), better clear those obstacles!

Its our time to shine ever brightly like stars,
its our chance.
It will be our best.
And strive for what we want.

We can do it!

YES WE CAN!

Signing off,
CAS'2009

11 more days

2009-03-22T08:42:00.001+08:00

countdown time.

11days to SYF 2009

it's really the last leg now.

2009-03-03T19:51:00.002+08:00

Guys, we are lucky to be the first band performing on the 4th day of SYF, 2 April 2009.

2009-02-20T23:14:00.001+08:00

Seize every opportunity to play well till SYF,
work hard guys.
ENDURE.

2009-02-18T16:30:00.003+08:00

Hmm most of the time for SYF rehearsals,
we often lack expression in our music.
Being expressive is extremely important for music.
It brings out the 'feeling' of the particular piece.

Without expression, it's not called playing a piece, it's called playing the notes.

There are only two ways to be expressive.
1) Get involved and concentrate while playing.
2) Be familiar with the piece, so you can concentrate and be expressive without looking at your score.

Maybe you'd want to know

2009-02-16T19:48:00.008+08:00

There are 149 Participating Secondary schools for SYF. according to the number from the 2007 SYF.
in SYF 2007, there were:
6 Participations
57 Bronze
67 Silvers
16 Gold
3 Gold With Honours

i can't believe i'm so free to bother to count that. -.-
okay, it's not to scare you guys or anything. But it's just to tell you what are your odds. so guys, work as hard as you can. the Gold's right there waiting for us to just reach out and grab it. so GRAB IT AND NEVER LET GO!

another thing. i got this off the Montfort Band Blog. the judging criteria for SYF:

50% - Technique
Articulation
Dynamics
Intonation
Rhythm
Tone

50% - Musicianship
Balance
Blend
Expression
Interpretation
Phrasing
Style

AWARDS

Gold (with Honors): 85% and above

Gold :Above 80%

Silver :70% to 79%

Bronze :60% to 69%

Certificate of Participation: 59% and below

---
take a look at this imeem site. it has recordings of a few schools from the 2007 SYF. including Jericho played by Nanyang Girls[GOLD][something you might wanna see is that even though their tempo is super fast, the entire band is still very much, TOGETHER. something we need to learn. they also scream at J. haha.] and Commonwealth[GOLD], and it's even got Marsiling's songs inside too. go take a listen.
GOLD AND GWH BANDS

and also. there's also the recording of SJIMB's performance at SYF 2007. listen to how our sound has improved so much. keep working guys.
SJIMB SYF2007

I'm procrastinating. oh well

2009-02-15T20:34:00.006+08:00

Hey, Glen here again. keeping the band blog alive as much as I can whilst everyone's chionging through their homework for the weekend. I am procrastinating. A quality of myself i am obviously not very proud of. haha.

Well, as we all know, today's SCH rehearsal did not turn out as spectacularly as we would've wished it to be. and it was extremely heartening for all of us to see that everyone was still so cheery despite the not-as-good-as-we-hoped[gah, i can't think of a word for it] performance in the concert hall.

I guess today calls for us to think yeah? It's a clear sign to say that even though we think we are already good, it does not mean that there could be things to set us back. the acoustics of the SCH was one of those setbacks. so what's the lesson here? DON'T BE FOOLED BY HOW YOU SOUND IN THE BANDROOM. which leads me to think. THE BANDROOM'S BEEN LYING TO US! [tears]

but on a more serious note, it's exactly, 43 days to the start of SYF. for the Sec 4's, this SYF is gonna mean a lot to us. this is our last year in SJI and we surely want to leave some kind of legacy. for the sec 3's, this is your first and your last SYF in SJI. please cherish the opportunity of a lifetime. sec 2's, even though you'll have another chance at SYF GOLD, it doesn't mean you can slack off this time yeah? all the sec 2's involved, i hope you'll push yourself all the same and get back the GOLD for SJIMB.

maybe this would be a good time for me to tell you guys the story of SYF 2007...
I was sec 2 [OH LIKE DUHHHH] and it was just about 4 months after Mrs Chua told me a story about the ricebowl, which by the way, i will always remember. Like the story she told us on Saturday, it told the message of needing to rely on yourself. that the conductors can't always be feeding us with solutions to our problems. okay, i just strayed. hang on, new paragraph.

OKAY! now, SYF 2007 day was a very big day for all of us. It was Mr Tan's 2nd? year with us and the tone of the Band had definitely changed a lot since the last SYF SJIMB went for. We were all very confident that we had a chance of getting back that coveted GOLD award for SYF. our exchanges had allowed us to realise our mistakes and we pushed ourselves so much that a few of us broke down too [though Mr Tan and Mrs Chua didn't really know]. so when our day finally came, the anxiety was definitely high. Getting on stage, performing and then going off stage, we all had felt that we had performed really well. It wasn't our best, but it was the first time we played where the message we wanted to convey through "Overture Jubiloso" was pushed across. our set piece "Sunrise" wasn't too bad either. so we were all very confident about getting that GOLD. however, this year was risky, because they had just changed the system for the judgings and judges were now from overseas. so though we were confident, there was that distinct sense of uncertainty as well. I asked Mr Tan how we did and he said we did really well too, though he knew we made many mistakes and slipups

the Sec 4's [Ian Chai's batch] went into the Hall to watch the last few performances for the morning shift and to await the results to be announced before the judges went for their lunch break. your current RO Tze Cin's phone was connected to Ian Chai's phone. and my batch was eagerly standing by the phone, which was on loudspeaker, trying to hear our results. and then they announced it, "St. Joseph's Institution. Ssifjsijcnasfgjn" Ian had cut off the line before we could hear it. considering that he refused to answer any more calls was a clear indication of bad news. and when they walked down the stairs, NO ONE from their batch said anything. i went to go ask Zhibin about the results, and he broke the news. we got a silver.

of course, everyone was extremely demoralised. and as we made our way back to school, no one said a word. and i was thinking to myself "silver's not too bad what". well, obviously i was pretty stupid back then. Ian made an attempt to cheer up the band, which didn't really work. the next time we saw Mr Tan, he reviewed our performance. at that point i was recalling the huge scolding Mr Tan had given to us before the competition. of how the chance was right there and we weren't taking it. Now he was telling us where we went wrong. But that wasn't the main thing that fueled my batch to work as hard as we did.

but how does this relate to you? actually, i'm not too sure either. But you need to know that there are people out there who believe that we can never make it. so now i'm posing these questions to you.
DO YOU THINK WE CAN DO IT? because i do believe we can.
ARE YOU GOING TO ALLOW THESE PEOPLE TO CONTINUE LOOKING DOWN ON US? I think NOT.

let's work our butt off for these few more weeks. just that bit more, and we may be able to give every single band in singapore a run for their money.

let's show everyone what's we're made of.

let's be the dawn of a new era of SJIMB

let's shock the band scene in Singapore

let's persevere

let's perform our best

let's leave our legacy

let's shut the mouths of those who utter rubbish

let's claim our revenge

let's get that gold.

and let's get it together.

signing off,
GLEN.

p.s. wow. it's a really long post. and i'm not even sure if you get my point. but well, i hope you'll bother to read it anyways.

Psst... illegal posting

2009-02-10T23:38:00.002+08:00

Hey everyone who's actually reading this blog, well actually, if you're a bandsmen in the SJIMB, you should be checking this blog pretty regularly.
By the way, i'm posting kinda, illegally. i don't think any of the Tops know i can actually post here too. Maybe Hao Teng, but that's another matter.
anyways, i was just looking around and then i just realised that the "next parade" section is already backdated! and i can edit the template sadly, only post. so let's announce here!

"next parade is thursday, 12th February."
sadly, i never really know what's the time to go to the bandroom, i just go straight after school so i don't have to worry. you all should too. after all, if you hear stories from the alumni, they never used to have time to eat on days with Band parades. Now you eat so you have energy to survive the parade. haha.

and also relating to BS' post about the band jackets. here's what's said on the batchof2010 blog:

Heyz guys!!!! Erm. Tmr right, can the D.R, F.Horn, Flute, Saxophone and T.Bone section come down to the band rm aft sch tmr to collect ur band jacket. Other sections wait first. Cos these sections easier to settle. Bring along 30 bucks for payment. It doesnt cost 30 but jus bring to be safe. Hopefully you can remember your sizes. Tell the rest of ur sectionmates. Cheers:):)

it's a little late to be telling this, but hey, for all i know, you people may still be awake and just as crazy as i am.
have a fun 2009, let's work for that Gold and CHIONG FOR TA1 PEOPLE! 2 WEEKS TIME!!

signing off,
G. [try guessing who, it's not hard]

2009-02-10T21:28:00.001+08:00

According to the 2010 blog, jackets are available tomorrow for some sections.
Refer to it for more details,
cause I know nothing, don't ask me,
can't remember too.

And....

I'M HERE TO KEEP THIS BLOG ALIVE!

Regards,

BS =D

Chinese New Year Celebration in SJI

2009-01-23T19:57:00.004+08:00

The Band (Sec2,Sec3 and some of the Sec4) played for the school today in the Founder's Hall. We played two songs, one of which has no link at all with CNY, Sock Hop Tonight. Another song we played was the most popular chinese new year song.

2009-01-22T22:03:00.008+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year to

everyone, especially to

all of the bandsmen. This an early

greeting and i hope all of your

will have a fun year ahead.

From
Wen Quan

SJIMB Yearly Updates

2009-01-02T20:54:00.002+08:00

To: All Bandsmen

Below are the updates for the year. Please take special note.

Reeds:

From next week onwards, all reed players will only have 4 reeds to last for this whole year. This serves as a reminder to all of your that you would need to take extra care of your reeds and make sure each reed sees you through for 1 term only.

Instrument Loan:

If any bandsmens needs to loan instruments out of the country or for external special events unrelated to school events will have to sought permission from me and Ms Tan/Mr Ng. You have to declare you are loaning out the instrument first. Secondly, after returning the instruments, do approach me to sign in your instrument again to ensure that it is in working condition.

Incident Report:

Any cases of damage instruments due to mishandling etc. have to be reported to me as soon as possible. Make sure you fill in the incident report before sending it for repair. This is to account for why the instrument has been damaged or what so ever.

Official Stock Checks:

Before the stock checks which takes place termly, all bandsmen are required to not bring their instruments home until further notice. SLs take note that you would have to be present during the stock checks and this might take quite some time as this year's one would be a more compact and detailed stock check.

Blog/Notice Board:

Lastly, remember to check the blog and notice board daily for updates or special events. This is very, very important.

This may sound repetitive, but this has to be enforced to every bandsmen so as to ensure a systematic order for the administrative matters. Also, i would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to work well with all the admin people (particularly, me, CS, CL, BS). Thank You.

Happy New Year (..although its kinda late)
Wen Quan
QM '09

2009-01-01T02:17:00.000+08:00

Happy 2009!
We shall get our gold this year!

BS.

2008-12-25T07:17:00.000+08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Regards,
BS

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-20T11:14:00.003+08:00

Hey Bandsmen,

Christmas is coming in a few more days, so is the first day of school. Get your homework done and enjoy the last few days of happiness and relaxation. Of course, do not forget to play your instrument because Mr Tan is going to audit. during the first week of school. If you want to get into the SJI Wind Band, then better start working if you have not. Good luck and have fun! See you on 2nd January, in the bandroom! Bye!

Signing off, CAS

Bandroom Affairs

2008-12-16T19:35:00.003+08:00

Hey people, on the 22nd and 29th, I'll be opening the bandroom, those who want to come down feel free to do so. The next thing, Sec 1s, please practise your Majulah Singapura and School Rally together with the hall songs that we'll be playing next year for Inaugural Service. Ask your SLs what songs there are. Sls please go through these songs with your section especially the Sec 1s. Make sure they learn it before Inaugural Service. Enjoy the rest of your holidays. Ps: to the horn section, please come down either of the days specified above, its compulsory.

2008-12-13T22:57:00.001+08:00

To whom it may concern,

Band Chalet

16/12/2008 - 18/12/2008

Time : ?.??am - ?.??pm?

BS.

Notice To Those Coming On Saturday

2008-12-04T23:31:00.002+08:00

Hey guys, for those that are coming to Bukit Panjang this Saturday, please take note. Firstly, the whole thing starts at 1000, and the buses that are in the vicinity are 171, 187, 190, 920, 960, 963 and 966. Next, for those living in the Choa Chu Kang area, take 190 to the stop before SJI, which is before it enters the expressway(BKE). Bukit Panjang: take the LRT to Bangkit Station. Clementi: take 184 towards Bukit Panjang and stop at Bukit Panjang CC. Toa Payoh, Bishan, and other places that aren't in the west: Meet up at Tanglin CC by 0930 with the others first, then cross the overhead bridge to Raffles Town Club and take either 190 or 960. Stop at the next stop right after the expresssway(BKE). Those who have reached, please give a call. You guys can bring showering materials if you want to bathe. More importantly, be it badminton, table tennis or tennis, please bring your own bats, or rackets. Lastly, those who still have queries can call my handphone no. 81829030, or tag at the SJIMB blog, or mine, http://nostalgia-and-reminiscence.blogspot.com.

Band Camp Housekeeping Matters

2008-11-18T16:21:00.002+08:00

To all:

Below are the items that are prohibited, items that should NOT be brought to the camp.

Prohibited Items
*No sharp objects
*No electronic devices (Hand phones will be surrendered to the Tops)
*No devices capable of transmitting light
*No food and drinks allowed

From AQM

Sec 1 Music Test

2008-11-17T18:25:00.002+08:00

The next music test will be held on 22 November, so get all your components for the tests ready by then. Good luck.

2008-11-15T20:36:00.001+08:00

Sec 1s,

Sorry for not being able to give you guys the buttons today.
Please come to the bandroom on monday morning to collect your buttons.
It is advisable to get on monday as I'm not free on tuesday and the ceremonial check is on wednesday.

ABS.

Venues for US Marine Band Masterclasses

2008-11-14T18:11:00.002+08:00

To whom it may concern:

Below are the venues of where you should report. Those who are going please REMEMBER where you are suppose to go.

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 3, Recital Hall - Clarinet Masterclass
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 3, Lee Foundation Theatre - Percussion Masterclass
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 1, Seminar Room - Lower Brass Masterclass
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 1, B2-03 - Flute Masterclass
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 1, B2-04 - Trumpet Masterclass
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Campus 1, B2-05 - Horn Masterclass

AQM

To All Sec 1s

2008-11-13T23:29:00.006+08:00

Please get ready your ceremonials by Wednesday, its very important, unless you guys don't wanna wear it for investiture go ahead. As long as 1 person doesn't bring or is not up to standard, the whole batch will wear concert attire. Hope that I made myself very clear, any problems just ask me, ARO Tze Cin, or any of your seniors. Good luck and all the best!

US Marine Band Masterclass

2008-11-13T21:31:00.002+08:00

To whom it may concern:

Those bandsmen who were selected to go for this masterclass this saturday (15/11/08), you are expected to be in your band-tee and shorts and report to the band room first. At about 8.30, we will make our way to the NAYANG ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS, located at bencoolen street. The masterclass starts at 9.30am and will end about 12.30am. Once the masterclass ends, you need not go back to school. Your can go home straight from there. Instruments are not required, but please go there with an open mind and have a fun time over there!

Flutes: Ng Yeow Ee Clement
Clarinet: Tan Wen Jian
French Horn: Kuoh Hao Teng
Trumpet: Tan Wen Quan
Lower Brass: Ow Yong Tze Cin
Percussion: Zhang Pin Ren

With regards,
AQM

Bandroom Affairs

2008-11-05T19:00:00.001+08:00

As of 6/11/2008, the bandroom will be open almost everyday. Further notice on when it will not be open will be posted soon.

With regards,
AQM

Boston Brass is coming to Singapore

2008-10-23T17:39:00.004+08:00

To: All brass players (if you are a woodwind or percussion player, ignore this)

Boston Brass is coming to Singapore next week. As a result, they will be putting up master classes and concerts for everyone in Singapore. Everything here is FREE and we highly recommend all brass players to attend either the master classes or concerts. One of the events, is called the "Master Class 2" and it is held on the 30 October 2008, Thursday. It will start at 7:30pm in the ensemble room 2, Conservatory Building (Yong Siew Toh).

Brass ensembles from the Singapore community participate in this opportunity to work with the world-reknowned Boston Brass Quintet but application is on a first-come-first-served basis.

In this masterclass, all who are attending are required to bring their own instruments as we will be performing in the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. This is the criteria. We need either a QUARTET or a QUINTET from our band to perform over there. Me and ARO (Tze Cin) are going for the performance, so if any of your are interested, please tell me by 24/10/2008. We have two to three vacancies available. The choice of music is up to us, so to all who knows any good quartet or quitet scores, please tell me by 24/10/2008 as well. Thank You.

The address is as follows: Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music National University of Singapore (3 Estate Office Drive) (Singapore 117485).

Further details of other concerts will be posted tomorrow. So, please check the blog regularly.

With regards,
AQM '08

Bandroom Affairs

2008-10-11T16:01:00.001+08:00

The bandroom will be opened as per normal from this monday (13/10/08) onwards.

Cheers,
AQM '08

Thursday (2 October 2008) Parade (EDITED)

2008-09-26T16:17:00.005+08:00

To: Sec 2s and 3s bandsmen

There will be a parade on the 2nd of october 2008 for the sec 4 farewell assembly. Only sec 2s and 3s are required to report. From 9.30am to 10.00am, go and have your recess. After that, report back to the bandroom BEFORE 10.00am.

Section librarian take note, please prepare these 3 songs: We are lasallian, Ireland's call, 125th anniversary song. On top of that, we will also be playing majulah, followed by the school rally.

From: AQM '08

Bandroom Affairs

2008-09-19T17:19:00.003+08:00

For the whole of next week, the bandroom would not be open. So, go and plan your time properly and try to make full use of next week to study.

For the sec 2s, i wish you all a successful streaming year and for the rest of the bandsmen, work hard for your end of year exams. See ya soon.

From: AQM '08

Revision in the Bandroom

2008-09-17T21:06:00.003+08:00

How are all of your studies coming along? Going well, i hope, back to the point, for thursday and friday, the music room will be open for studying from 1430-1830. Those who feel that they can't study at home, and would rather study in school, or you want some help or want to help out, just come down to the music room after school. Hope to see some people there helping out too!

From: ARO HT '08

Instrument Administration

2008-09-17T17:01:00.002+08:00

To: All bandsmen

For the 2 weeks after the examinations, please do not bring home your instruments. If you need, you can come down to the bandroom to practice because i need settle some instrument admin matters.

ASLs take note, that i will be re-allocating instruments to be kept in the cupboards. I will also tell your which cupboards you can place your instruments in. If anyone have any queries, feel free to call me. Thank You.

From: AQM '08

Amendments to 'Bandroom Affairs'

2008-09-11T23:08:00.003+08:00

To: All Bandsmen

This is an amendment to my previous post. The bandroom will be opened on thurday and friday only. Due to certain restrictions, I cannot open the bandroom too many times. The timings are still the same and as usual, if you need help you can approach any of us. A kind reminder that the bandroom is opened for studying only, not for music purpose. Thank You, god bless.

With regards,
AQM '08

Bandroom Affairs

2008-09-10T21:41:00.004+08:00

To: All Bandsmen

To add on what AQM said, I'll also be coming down on the same days to help out. Sec 1s and 2s, it is also open to you people, so feel free to ask anything if you have any queries. Finally, wish all you the best for your Final Years and study hard so that there is no room for regret after receiving your results. Good luck to everyone!

From: ARO HT'08

Bandroom Affairs

2008-09-10T18:19:00.002+08:00

To: All Bandsmen

How is your studying coming along? I hope all of your have at least started to study. Anyway that's not the point. The bandroom will NOT be opened every day after school next week. It will only be opened on Monday, Thursday and Friday. Those who want to study can study in the bandroom on these days. The bandroom is opened strictly for studying. Opening hours are from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Use this time to really revise your work thorough. Those who need help in their studies can come down on this 3 days. I will be there to help your, wherever possible. This is the last and final obstacle, so put in your utmost effort to get a good grade. Happy studying, bye.

From: AQM '08

Muster Parade ( Friday )

2008-09-09T15:52:00.005+08:00

To: All bandsmen

Take note, there is no parade this week except for muster parade, which is on friday. Get your ceremonials ready and polished. We do not want to see any unpolished brass parts and make sure you all do not forget to polish your boots and starch your tunic. Remember to bring every part of your ceremonials (expecially long pants, sec 1s and 2s). We will not tolerate anyone who forgets to polish and bring his ceremonials. Your ceremonials must be in tip-top condition. Sec 1s are to wear concert attire, long-sleeve shirt and long pants, and wear your black boots instead of black shoes. Sec 1s prize winners are to wear ceremonials.

Monday Morning Assembly 08/09/2008

2008-09-08T21:01:00.003+08:00

Today's morning parade was quite impromptu I must say. In fact, there was a communication break down between the prefects and us , so after the first dismissal, you all had to come back. The leaders are very apologetic about this matter, but we all felt that the music in the morning was up to our expectations. We are all very pleased with you all and glad that most of you (3/4) took the initiative to come back. Well done bandsmen, keep up the good work and may you all continue to improve and play good music.

With regards,
Acting Top '08

Teacher's Day Dedication

2008-08-29T18:20:00.003+08:00

Its Teacher's Day!

Since it is Teacher's Day, i would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the bandsmen, to thank all the instructors and teacher-in-charge of SJIMB. They have done many things for us and helped us improve as a band.

We would like to thank Mr Tan Thiam Hee and Mrs Chua/Mdm Yue Ai Chuan for their never-ending and ever-lasting support. Mr Tan inspired every bandsmen in SJIMB to spur on to work on his music and thus gained respect of the bandsmen. Mrs Chua's warm and amiable personality as well as her motherly figure has made her one of the bandsmen's much loved mentors. Agreeable yet firm, she has won the hearts of the bandsmen.

We hope all the bandsmen will work harder and get a GOLD for SYF next year for the above 2 mentors. =)

We also would like to show our appreciation by thanking the following Teachers-in-charge for their continuous support and guidance: Mr Colin Lai, Mr Terrence Fong aka Rain,Mr Ng, Miss Tan Sia Hui, Mr Sirhan Ahmadiah and Bro. Jason Blaikie.

Hail to all Teachers!

Thursday's parade, 28/8/08

2008-08-27T04:46:00.001+08:00

Guys,

do remember to bring $2 and report for band at 1.30pm.
The parade will end at 5pm

ABS

September holidays

2008-08-26T17:50:00.005+08:00

To:All Bandsmen

The Bandrm would be open from 9am in the morning to 12pm in the afternoon everyday (except weekends). There will only be one parade during holidays and that is on THURSDAY (4/09/2008) from 8am to 4pm. There is NO parade on saturday (6/09/2008) of the holidays. However, do take this time during the holidays to organise more sectionals and come down for your own individual practice as well, as you all know SYF is around the corner.

Just a kind reminder, parades this week will be as usual, which is on thursday (28/09/2008) and saturday (30/09/2008). NO ONE is to miss any of these parades without a valid reason.

From: AQM

Do Not Forget To study too!
From: ACS

Thursday Parade (28082008)

2008-08-25T20:57:00.004+08:00

Guys,

it is a must to come back for parade after your PTM on thursday.
If your PTM timing falls in between the parade you may leave halfway through and come back after that.

ABS.

Instruments pending for repair and condemning

2008-08-25T16:50:00.003+08:00

To: ASLs

This is the final call for instruments needed to be sent for repair and instruments that you are condemning. If any, see me as soon as possible latest by this saturday. If you are not sure if there is any, check with your men first.

From: AQM

Exams Are Finally Over...not

2008-08-16T20:41:00.002+08:00

Finally, term 3 common tests have ended!!!! Hope all of you get good results... =)

Anyway, the EOY examinations will come very soon.... about 2 months....so balance your time well! Dont slack and play to much games...

GoodLuck=)=)
CAS'09
Tan Wen Jian

Outward Bound School (Singapore)

2008-08-16T15:23:00.004+08:00

Omg..OBS is approaching soon. Wonder if life would be "good" there. But one thing good is that woot..most of the students in my group is those whom i noe. You might say i am lucky...however we are bound to suffer there. It is another ACE camp, but of course worser than that. Anyway, for those who have lost the packing list here it is.

ITEMS TO PACK:
-Identity Card / Photocopy of Birth Certificate
-1 pair Shoes for water activities (Sandals are NOT allowed)
-Sun protection: Hat, Long sleeved T-shirt, Sun Block (min. SPF 30), Sunglasses, Lip gloss
-Pen(s) for writing
-Reusable Plastic Bags (for water proofing) [3]
-T-shirts [4]
-Long Sleeved T-shirts/blouse [3]
-Sports shorts [3]
-Undergarments [4]
-Long pants-tight jeans not recommended/Army uniforms not allowed [3]
-Swim wear [1]
-Towels (bath/face) [2]
-Socks [2]
-Running Shoes [1]
-Sandals [1]
-Slippers [Optional]
-Plasters, personal medication and ointment for bites [Sufficient supply]
-Mosquito repellent (ozone friendly) [1]
-Torchlight and spare batteries [1]
-Matches or 1 lighter [1 box]
-Solid fuel tablets (available at leading outdoor equipment shops) [1/2 box]
-String: Cotton Twine (available at leading general stationery shops)
-Personal effects (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, body powder, mug, shaving kit, scissors, nail clippers, pocket knife, candles, notebook, spectacles (spare) and spectacles band/hook,)[Sufficient supply]
-Cash (for purchase of souvenirs, damages, etc.) [$50]
-Postage stamps / letter pad / envelopes (for 21 Day course). Camera, film. [Optional]

*Words in green are important and COMPULSORY !

Good luck for OBS, fellow bandsmen. See you there!
QM'09
Tan Wen Quan

Anniversary Parade 2008

2008-08-15T21:38:00.016+08:00

Lets recall a bit..AP has just passed. But surely, it has left unforgettable memories to some of us. I hope AP was a fun time for all of you. So, lets reminiscence it. Below are some pictures. Enjoy! Special Thanks to Melvin Ng (SL of Saxophone Section'07) for some of the pictures.

Josephians Celebrate National Day!

2008-08-08T12:05:00.004+08:00

Happy National Day to Singapore!!!

Today probably every school in Singapore celebrates Singapore's 43rd National Day. Usually during such events, SJIMB have to play at the side of the hall. For this year, we played 76 Trombones, National Anthem, School Rally and Alma Mater.

We were in the bandroom at about 7.15am and we started the rehearsal... 76 Trombones sounded quite acceptable and for the other songs, i have got nothing to say coz we have been playing those songs for years years and years....

We brought all our chairs and stand down to the hall at 8.30am. ADM gave the band 8 mins to bring everything down but the band took 15 mins... 15 MINUTES! Bandsmen was taking their own SWEET time to move everything down.... disappointing.....

Anyway, after that, we wore our band ties and had a final rehearsal at the hall. ACM conducted us and well, it was ok...

Now for the real thing.... not really nervous coz theres nothing to be afraid off.... there's only Students, Teachers and Senior citizens from Kwong Wai Shu Hospital....

We played 76 Trombones when the crowd starts to enter the hall. Everyone settled down and the ceremony began. We played school rally as a way to welcome the people from Kwong Wai Shu Hospital. ACM conducted in a faster tempo and everyone was like rapping the song.... lolz

Then it was the time for the new Flag Bearers to enter the hall. Goh Wei Jia from the Euphonium Section was our new Flag Bearer. We then played the National Anthem and the school sang to our tune. ACM somewhat conducted that a little too fast and probably he was too tense and this was his first time conducting in front of the school.

We sang 3 national day songs.( i apparently forgot the names but i know these songs are freaking old). The Chinese, Indian and Malay language society performed a number of items for the school. I thought it was Racial Harmony Day =p

After a youngest student in our school and the oldest senior citizen present at this ceremony cut the national day cake, it signals the ending of the ceremony. We played Alma Mater as the school cheer it out. Mr Chan asked the school to do the kallang wave, or should i say, the SJI wave.

Finally the finale.... we played 76 Trombones again as everyone slowly left the hall. ADM again ordered the band to bring eveything up in 8 minutes and yet again they took MORE THAN 15 Minutes!!!

What the!!!!!!! After that, ABS decided to do something about it and i would not go on futher into the details.....40......

Before dismissal, we sang a birthday song for Thaddaeus Tan. It was his birthday....maybe not today, i think is either during the weekends or whatever.... ATops gave presents to him (i gave him an unopened mineral water bottle).

That was what happen today! Pictures will be place soon..... sry for the inconvenience...

TERM 3 Common Test!!!!

2008-08-04T21:23:00.001+08:00

TA3 CT is coming soon!!! In about a Week's time, we will face the terror of EXAMINATIONS!!!!
BANDSMEN! , study hard for this term's test!
DONT FORGET TO practise playing your instrument even though it is the exam period...i do not want anybody to screw up during music rehearsals....

Anyway, Good Luck!
Sincerely from your CAS'09

Better start work now!

The Day of Esplanade Performance

2008-08-04T21:13:00.011+08:00

Yesterday the performance was quite good, or should i quote from the SSO conductor, Mr.Yang? He said,"Bravo!".

Taken after rehearsal
Most of us were VERY VERY nervous during our show. The first song we played with the violin sololist RACHEL CHUA was quite acceptable. As for the next song, i think the whole orchestra screwed up. Some people suppose to play but no sound leh.... *cough**Glen**Cough* while some others screwed up big time.... but on the whole, this concert was memorable. We all got a small token of appreciation and we got to take group pictures with Rachel Chua, suggested by ARO Tze cin =)
A few hours before our performance, most of us went to Marina Square to have our lunch. Me, PinRen, Leonard Khoo and Thaddaeus went to macs while Tze Cin and Hao Teng went to SAKAE SUSHI!!! Rich mah....... haha joking....
Most of the time we were loitering around the backstage and in our rooms, waiting for our performance. Some of us were playing PSP and Nin.Ds while others are getting warmed up. In one more special case, a guy called THADDAEUS TAN was doing his homework.... smart boy... We also sneaked in to the concert hall to take pictures....=)
The real performance starts at about 7.30pm and here are some pictures taked by Mr Lai during the concert.The finale

Music Euphoria By Young Talents Concert

2008-08-02T17:35:00.002+08:00

Well, tomorrow is the concert and the selected bandsmen is going to perform as Guest Performers.
We will be playing Rhapsody on a theme of Panganini, Op.43 and Violin Concerto in D, Op.35 with Hwa Chong String Orchestra and with SSo Conductor, Mr Yang
Its at the Esplande Concert hall and it will be a great experience for some of us!
Good luck to the performers:
Clarinet -Tan Wen Jian, Brian Ng
French Horn - Glen Koh, Thaddaeus Tan, Kuoh Hao Teng
Percussion - Leonard Khoo, Zhang Pin Ren
Trombone - Tze Cin, Si Wai, Nicholas yeo
Tuba - Ji Yang

Opening of the SJIMB new blog!

2008-08-02T17:04:00.000+08:00

Well, this is the new sjimb blog that me(CAS'09) has just created.

I will put up as many events that happen (concerts, etc), including the dates and details of these events. This is to aid bandsmen in sji to complete and finish their NYAA without much difficulty.

Thanks =)
Anyway, this is the first blog i have ever created and i would appreciate bandsmen to help me make this blog nicer.... =)

St Joseph's Institution Military Band - From Our Humble Beginnings

Lesson

Just Some Thoughts

Chinese O'level results released to 2010 sec4 students

Some Pictures Taken from Last Year's activities

Section Blogs

The Year in a Post

New Year

Band camp pics

Band Camp '09

Schedule for parades in 2009 holidays

New Skin

Getting ready for Bandcamp 2009

Reporting in...

h1n1 crisis

Anniversary Parade!

157th Annual Parade - Preparations

26th June 2009 Parade

Clarinet Section

Friday Parade (26/06/09)

Sectionals

After Exams....

Exams are almost over.

Revision For Mid-Years

Supreme Court (For selected students) *UPDATED*

SJI-OBA Homecoming Dinner (For selected bandsmen) *UPDATED*

Forgot something,...

SYF pictures

GOLD WITH HONOURS

We did it!

Get Ready Guys

Getting nearer...

countdown

Time to soar!

11 more days

Maybe you'd want to know

I'm procrastinating. oh well

Psst... illegal posting

Chinese New Year Celebration in SJI

SJIMB Yearly Updates

Merry Christmas!

Bandroom Affairs

Notice To Those Coming On Saturday

Band Camp Housekeeping Matters

Sec 1 Music Test

Venues for US Marine Band Masterclasses

To All Sec 1s

US Marine Band Masterclass

Bandroom Affairs

Boston Brass is coming to Singapore

Bandroom Affairs

Thursday (2 October 2008) Parade (EDITED)

Bandroom Affairs

Revision in the Bandroom

Instrument Administration

Amendments to 'Bandroom Affairs'

Bandroom Affairs

Bandroom Affairs

Muster Parade ( Friday )

Monday Morning Assembly 08/09/2008

Teacher's Day Dedication

Thursday's parade, 28/8/08

September holidays

Thursday Parade (28082008)

Instruments pending for repair and condemning

Exams Are Finally Over...not

Outward Bound School (Singapore)

Anniversary Parade 2008

Josephians Celebrate National Day!

TERM 3 Common Test!!!!

The Day of Esplanade Performance

Music Euphoria By Young Talents Concert

Opening of the SJIMB new blog!

Supreme Court (For selected students) UPDATED

SJI-OBA Homecoming Dinner (For selected bandsmen) UPDATED