Receiving the chance to perform with an orchestra is definitely a
memory engraved into my heart. As a budding musician, to have the chance
to share our music with a larger audience is always a humbling
experience. It was also especially fun as I performed alongside my
friends who provided endless support. Special thanks to Ms Angel Lee,
the Euroasia team, Mr Eugene Pook and the Selangor Symphony Orchestra
for providing me with a platform to share my love for music. Last but
definitely not least, a huge thank you and to my family, friends and
teacher, Ms Ming Goh, for giving me their undying support and guidance.
Leading
up towards the big day was filled with purposeful, tedious days of
practising with an attentive and open mind. I would say that the most
challenging part about perfecting a piece is definitely the last ninety
per cent. Polishing up intonation, sound quality and difficult passages
always prove to be a struggle to me. However, familiarising myself with
the orchestration of the piece by listening to recordings definitely
increased my confidence during the rehearsal and performance.
I
remember being pretty nervous for the first rehearsal as I didn’t really
know what to expect. To my surprise, the conductor, Mr Eugene, and the
orchestra were all so accepting and it didn’t take long for me to feel
comfortable with the orchestra. I learnt how to communicate and lead
more for entrances especially since my piece had many mini cadenzas that
needed much coordination with the orchestra. As we had insufficient
time for rehearsals, I strived to be as clear as possible in my musical
intentions in hopes that the orchestra could follow me easily.
Being
on stage that day felt extremely surreal. Never would I have thought
that I would be able to live my dream of performing with an orchestra.
Although I didn’t feel as anxious as I thought I would be, I was
definitely unsteady. For years, I had always been the type of person who
would feel extremely nervous before the performance. Memory slips and
undesired shaking bows were my best friends, so, to come from clammy,
hand trembling times before going on stage to just feeling
uncomfortable, is definitely a huge improvement in terms of controlling
my emotions. Participating in the Euroasia competition has undoubtedly
increased my confidence and made me more comfortable on stage. It was
the first competition that really motivated me to work harder and to
improve as much as I can while learning new repertoire. It provided me
with a great stage to express my love for music. Eye-opening and
inspiring, it pushed me to step up my game, to refine and reform myself
throughout my journey of music. I learned how to manage my stress and
stage fright and taught myself to be patient and grateful despite the
outcome of any performance.
Even though I wasn’t fully satisfied with my performance because of a
few mishaps in intonation and coordination with the orchestra, I’m
proud of the progress and diligence that has brought me here. It has
been an incredible journey from when I first started performing but
there is still infinite room for amelioration. It was such an enjoyable
experience to perform and I am glad that I was able to give my all.
Once
again, thank you to everyone who has supported me and I am eternally
grateful to the opportunities and guidance that has been given to me.
Please look forward to my future endeavours!
Hoi Khai-weing
