Singaporeans with special needs take part in local orchestra

SINGAPORE — It is an 83-strong orchestra that not only plays Western and Asian instruments, but is also music to the ears of those calling out for a more inclusive society. The Purple Symphony, which took centre stage at the Singapore Conference Hall today (July 31), is said to be the first orchestra in the country to bring together Singaporeans with and without special needs.

The orchestra, which held its first performance after just four combined rehearsals, played five songs to an audience comprising their family members and other guests.

Of its 83 members, 67 have special needs ranging from physical and intellectual disabilities, to visual or hearing impairment. Most of the members, aged between four and 58, have no musical background.

Ms Denise Phua, mayor of Central Singapore Community Development Council, which was behind the orchestra’s creation, said: “It demonstrates the grit and abilities of our friends from the special-needs community ... I know that everyone will be touched by their music.”

Conducted by artistic director Quek Ling Kiong, the orchestra played a range of Asian and Western instruments in five musical sections: Chinese orchestra, strings, Chinese wind instruments, percussion, and choir.

Mr Quek said one of the challenges the orchestra faced was that its members could not adjust to changes if too many were made.

However, he added: “The good thing about them is that once they get used to it, they are very focused.”

The orchestra’s 19-year-old erhu soloist Stephanie Ow, who is visually impaired, said: “I find it special that people with special needs can come together to form an orchestra, and we can also get to know other people.”

The orchestra is slated to perform for the Purple Parade, an annual event at Hong Lim Park to celebrate and raise awareness of people with special needs, on Oct 31, and the ASEAN Paralympic Games in December.