GUANGYANG BANDD!

MUG HARD EVERYONE

2010-09-15T01:37:00.000-07:00

Once, again it's me!

HEY GUYS, EXAMS ARE COMING, REMEMBER TO STUDY STUDY STUDY!

Meanwhile, if you're bored of studying, then take a break and watch these videos!

It's all music related, but don't worry it's interesting!

I will survive by Igudesman and Joo

Alla Molto Turca by Igudesman and Joo

Super Mario on Violin

The two videos below are mainly for committee members (: BUT ALL OF YOU CAN WATCH TOO!

Remember the Variations of a theme from Paganini that Jasen talked about?

It'll be good if all the band members can listen to more music! (: It really helps you to listen better when we are having combine or sectionals, so you can spot mistakes easily, and understand the music that you're playing better.

If anyone is looking for The Merry Widow song, feel free to ask any of us for it! We'll send it through e-mail! :D

Ok, i'm stopping here.

-Yuting (:

Committee members, anyone who wants to update the blog can find us for the account and password.

A CCA Famous in Guangyang

2010-09-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hey band members, I am Yuting here!

So 2010 is ending in about 3-4 months time, and I realised we've gone through thick and thin together, experiencing many things, learning new things, and of course, getting to know everyone in the band!

From band practices, to band camps, to band outings. We've done many things together! Time does fly doesn't it?

BAND CAMP JUNE 2010

BAND CLAP! PERFORMANCE @ AMK CENTRAL STAGE

BBQ @ East Coast

Recruits! Now you know the band is not just about instruments and music,

WE DO HAVE FUN TOO!

CIP @ Raffles' Instituition

MR CHEN'S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

TEEHEE :)

All these fun and memorable times are created by you yourselves :) Of course, there are people who've put in lots of effort to give you the chance to have fun and you guys ought to thank all of them!

Firstly,

Mr Jasen How

Mdm Rashida

Mr Thomas Chen

Mr Chan

Mr Yee

and of course...

Your brand new committee, SLs & ASLs!

Anyways, please study hard all of you! (including myself) Try to come for the study group! Remember to practise your instruments! WORK HARD, PLAY HARD! Good luck guys!

Oh, remember to thank the wonderful photographers: Yu Wen, Sihui, Viandra, Xingqi

We come from a CCA famous in Guangyang
We come from the one and only Guangyang Band

We play for our glory,
Aim for our victory
We train with a spirity you've never seen before

Guangyang Band! Guangyang Band!
All the way
We like it here we like it here
We've found ourselves a home
A home, a home sweet home!

FOR HONOUR AND GLORY, HOORAH!

WELCOME TO THE NEW DECADE!!!

2010-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Guys!

It's 2010! I hope things have gone well for you so far!

Here are some of this year's learning objectives so please keep them in mind:

- Rhythm Abilities
- Range and Pitch
- Dynamics
- Playing In Tune
-Articulations

Here are some of the programs for this year:

-March Leadership Training Camp
-March Primary School Music Exchange
-June Outing
-June 5D4N Band Camp
-End of Year Concert

Many things installed for all of you. So keep up, mug hard, play hard. Enjoy the time you have left. =)

Love,
Jasen

Clap!

2009-06-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Helllo people! Good job yesterday! Clap clap to all the dancers, poppers! and of course the main band! ++helpers! Last but not least, the alumni, teachers-in-charge and our dearest Mr JASEN HOW!
Band will stand down now and will resume on the first tuesday of school! MUST FINISH ALL YOUR HOLIDAY HOMEWORK OKAYY! must be aim to be an all rounder! okayy! see you all soon!(((:

With loves!
Viandra

2009-05-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

HEY BAND!

exams are over,
i believe all of you are extremely free now!
there are a couple of new songs coming up
please spend time practising alright!
many of you may face difficulty,
but i hope EVERYONE of you will not give up!
please work hard for the performance in june!

waimin(:

SYF PIC!

2009-05-23T04:58:00.001-07:00

Silver

heyy people! our SYF picture is ready! And again, thankyou for all your hard work since last year till 1 April! please do check out the original recording of the new songs we will be playing for our performance 2 weeks from now! To all the sec 2's who are taking over now, all the best okayy! Never give up! The new songs may be challenging for you all but, we must improve one step at a time right! so now is your chance(:

Viandra

Songs!!!!

2009-05-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hey people!!!

Here's Ponyo's Video. Take a Listen!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K287ArocBaY&feature=related

If We Hold On Together: this version is not from the original singer Diana Ross. But it's cute. so...take a listen =)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsY6088PU-Y&feature=related

And Here we have...... DORAEMON!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_l-r7_f0CVs

click and listen!

Ok that's it!! practice and have fun!!

let's just enjoy!

2009-03-31T05:20:00.000-07:00

heyy people!
Tomorrow is SYF, time really does flies right! We've come a long long way! We've been practicing hard since the end of last year! Let's show it to the world allright! Show them just how much we are worth! Prove them that we, GYSB can excel!((:

Remember to open what Mr How had given us within the period of 9-10 allright! Then go to bed straight to SLEEP and REST WELL! Be in the band room by latest 6.30 tomorrow and set up your instrument+change into full band uniform by 7!

Must bring list!
-FULL BAND UNIFORM
-SCHOOL UNIFORM
-SOCKS
>guys-one palm above ankle
>girls-long white socks we gave you all (no extras so MUST BRING!)
-BOOTS
-HAIR PINS (for girls! MUST)
-INSTRUMENT (if you borrowed today)
-SCORES! (MUST bring!)
-YOURSELF!

Rest well tonight, put everything aside! Pack everything by tonight! Wake up early tomorrow! Don't be late! 10% of our marks will really be deducted if we are late! DON'T WASTE PEOPLE! I would really hope that you all will co-operate with the majors and section leaders tomorrow, stay focus and DO NOT WASTE TIME! Let's enjoy our performance tomorrow and get what we truly deserve!

We, the members of Guangyang Band,
Do hereby, solemnly and sincerely pledge that,
We will do our BEST, to bring the band,
PRIDE, HONOUR and SUCCESS!

For HONOUR and GLORY,
HOORAH!

Let's get our GOAL! GOLD GOLD GOLD!
Viandra((:

Our SYF on First April

2009-03-30T06:08:00.001-07:00

People,
you are all prepared. gather all your courage. Recognize your nervousness and fears and convert them into strength and courage. Share your strength with other bandsmen. Let them have your courage. Give one another the encouragement that they deserve. You ARE READY. So show the world what you have got!

I want you to know that you WILL get what you want, as long as all 62 of us FOCUS with 1 heart, LISTEN to 1 voice, and FOLLOW with 1 lead. So let's FEEL with 1 emotion, PLAY with 1 mind, and ENJOY that 1 moment!!!

WE ARE ONE BAND.

Let the music take flight. Let your notes come alive. Let your performance touch everyone, including yourselves.

Show me what you've got, GYSB. Because there's more in you that you have yet shown to everyone!

Prove to yourself what you can achieve.

If ALL OF YOU AIM WITH ONE HEART for what you want to achieve and WORK TOWARDS IT, YOU WILL ACHIEVE IT!

Let the music touch your heart!

For Honour and Glory, Hoorah!!

J.

WE CAN MAKE IT ;D

2009-03-30T05:52:00.000-07:00

Dearest people ! Just 2 more days .

The day that we were all waiting for , to show all our hard work since last yr .

You all work very hard , everyone knows .

BE CONFIDENT ya ! You all can de , believe in urself and the band too ;D

WE can de , just stay FOCUS for the 15 mins on stage that day .

Meanwhile , drink plenty of water ya ! 2 more days left ! ;D

And rest well , especially the guys , dont play ur games until so late uhs .

Lets go there and grab our GOLD !

believe that we can ! SMILES ;D

HUITING ;D

FOCUS, LISTEN, FOLLOW

2009-03-28T02:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Members,

This coming Wednesday marks the day we will be labelled for our efforts. There is still quite a number of things to do before getting our goal, but I want you to always remember the 3 things i have for you for this SYF:
FOCUS
LISTEN
FOLLOW

Do not lose focus. It will be very very costly to lose focus. And remember, your mind has to stay on the game. Do not wander off halfway thinking about wad's gonna happen if this this that that, or what you'll be doing after you go back to school. FOCUS on the game.

Always be prepared for impromptu incidents. Listen to what is going on as a band and remember the criterias we are being marked for. Keep them in check and do not over power your friends or over/under do your role in the music. LISTEN to one another all the time.

Follow the lead. Keep in check and breathe with one another, percussionists as well. Come in together. Follow the cue of one another and come in neatly together. Sense the entrances and exits of your friends and enter/leave together, not compromising your pitch/sound shapes and style. Be very careful all the time. Even when you are resting, STAY IN THE GAME! FOLLOW the flow of music and blend in without disrupting the flow.

Have confidence guys because you WILL make miracle. Get the pride we deserve. Do not let yourselves down. We have all put in alot, too much to lose it to laziness or Murphy. So GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME!

FOR HONOUR AND GLORY, HOORAH!!

Love,
J.

HELLO PEOPLE!

2009-03-27T01:42:00.000-07:00

we can do it people!

HELLO! This is my first and lovely post! hehe! heyy people, Viandra here(:
Well, the taggboard is back! so, please feel free to drop by and tagg people! Let's bring this blog back to life! Haha.

SYF is this coming wednesday, we are all nervous or perhaps, scared. But, just like what Mr. How said, the final results is the one matters! So, let's work hard to achieve our goal!(: Let's start by playing with feelings and try to connect with our conductor! Try to visualize what you are playing, try to listen to what the different sections are playing and learn when to give way. We got to maintain a balance in the band! Please stay focus for just a few more days!

BELIEVE in yourselves! && have CONFIDENCE! All of us can get our goal if we continue to put in effort! we are so so close to our goal! so why don't we just put in a little bit more effort to polish up and clear our careless mistakes! C'mon people! We can do it!(:

Lastly, i really really hope that you all take care of yourselves! Drink lots and lots and lots of water and rest early! We need to be fit to fight this battle right!

Take care!
Viandra(:

2008-10-24T03:12:00.000-07:00

HEY BAND!

HERE ARE THE LINKS TO SONGS THAT ARE RELATED TO BIG FUN IN THE SUN!
GO LISTEN!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwHPIcxErvM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZxAHwbU5mY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynoCrgl2gj0&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR98gRckjmY&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY9EXSDYd9o&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7c_5ikBamFY&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdblcuWtB9I

INVESTITURE 2008 SPEECH (Reprise)

2008-09-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

INVESTITURE 2008 SPEECH (Reprise)
Dear All,
- Thank you for being present for the Band Investiture.

- The band has come a long way since my first day with the band in 2005. To date, there have been a lot of changes and I am pretty sure that those who were here through the years would agree with me that the band has grown a lot, in terms of membership size, team spirit and commitment.

- I am very pleased to know that MOST of you present here do have a bit of memory with this band that you will, in time to come, treasure and look back upon, that will put a smile on your face.

- The outings we’ve had, the band camps, the performances, the laughter and joy, the sacrifices and hardships, the usual practices, the unusual events, the study groups, the dinners; this list goes on. We’ve all been through a lot. We’ve all been through a lot, and I believe most of you have nurtured a sense of belonging towards the band.

- This could not have not been possible without EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU. The teachers in charge, Mr Eugene Lim, Mr Caleb Yee, all your dedicated Alumni, Rebecca, Fadhil, Desmond, John, just to name a few, your instructors, and most importantly, all of you, band members, have contributed so much, in your different ways, to make this band, one of a kind, uniquely yours.

- All of us have done our part in our own roles, and many have gone beyond what is required to do more for this band simply because we regard ourselves as one big family.

- Mr. Lim and Mr. Yee have never had complaints coming back to accompany the band during your band practices and camps. They have sacrificed a lot of their time with their families and friends to be with everyone of us, even on school holidays and weekends.

- They have also been doing a lot behind the scenes to plan for outings, performances, hunt for workshops or events and keep a look out for benefits that will allow each and every one of you become a better musician, and have a chance to build a stronger friendship with one another.

- Your Alumni, instructors and myself have all been working closely with each of you, ensuring that you have a happy and safe environment to spend your teenhood in, and to engage in healthy yet fun activities with a relatively healthy social group. Not forgetting the extra events that we catered for all of you, particularly hosting study groups during the stand-down periods, and even providing extra tutoring outside school.

- You all have also made things possible by being very cooperative with activities organized and being RATHER diligent during practices.

- This is a young band. But this is also a growing band. Many young bands end up dying out or closing down because majority of the band members give up on themselves even before trying. You would all have known by now, that making music isn’t easy. But it is not impossible either. All we need is to be hardworking and really cooperative with one another, to do our part, and be able to do more.

- Our band will not die, not as long as we are here, fighting side by side together to make ourselves stronger than before, becoming better day by day. Yes, we have lost a few members along the way who were not strong enough to fight on together; some of them have, sadly, mixed with bad company. But I believe you and I have all tried to speak to them and encouraged them to return to our family. I sincerely appreciate those who have really done their part in encouraging one another to push on together. Thank you. The only thing we can do now is to stick together with what is left of us, encouraging one another and making sure that we can all stay together till the end.

- All these time, a group of members have been assisting the teachers and myself to ensure that the band practices, performances and activities have been carried out as smoothly as possible. Today, I will officially announce the appointment holders for the band for the work year of 2008/2009 and introduce them to those who have yet known of their existence.

- Let me remind all members that these people are responsible for the successful operation of the band within the work year. I demand every single one of you to cooperate fully with their instructions and assist them completely in bringing this band to a greater height.

- I will also like to remind all appointment holders that you are representatives of the band, and being a good role model to your fellow band members is very important.

- You are to make the right decisions to do the best things for the greater good of the band, and you are also reminded not to abuse your authority.

- Seek the best solution to all the problems that you will face and EARN the respect that you deserve.

- Work well with one another within the Committee and Section Leaders and give your professional cooperation to one another.

- Be just and equal to everyone. Do not mix personal issues with band matters.

- Tolerance and Patience are good virtues that you should adopt.

- Do the best of what is given to you. That will probably do you more good than to keep thinking of what you could have done if you were someone else.

- In times of doubt, seek help. Never be afraid to ask for help, sincerely. More often than not, you will get more help than you need.

- Show gratitude. Be thankful to those who have helped you and to those who have criticized you. Because it is those who care, that bothers to point out your flaws and make you better.

- Have confidence in what you do, because a group of people will depend on you. Never let obstacles get in your way. Stop and think. There’s always a way around every problem and crying and whining is definitely not on the list.

- Never give up when you are faced with challenges; keep on trying, and one day, you will be able to overcome them. On top of that, you will have gained a lot of experience and become stronger than you thought you could be.

- Love and care for this band, as much as you would love and care for your family and friends. Because everyone else here will be there for you in times of trouble.

- Be Righteous. Do not stir rumours or create trouble. Think before you speak or act.

- Open your minds to suggestions and be alert to situations. You will do just fine if you stick close to the right moral values.

- United, We Stand. Divided, We Fall. All of us wish to be respected. So let’s all work together and EARN the respect that we all deserve.

- We will not bring out the greatness as a band, if we do not forsake the greatness as an individual.

- Let us use our actions and teamwork to amaze everyone, including ourselves.

- Let us show everyone that we have pride in what we do, and we can achieve all that we aim for in life, as long as we all dare to try hard enough.

- We have moved so far from where we all started. Let’s not waste the first steps we all took. Let us move on together as One, hand in hand, heart to heart, reaching out to others when they fall, standing up again and moving forward.

- I, together with your teachers, instructors and alumni, can bring you all to where you want to be, but we cannot make you walk to the destination.

- Only you can move your legs, and encourage as many along the way. The band will not be complete without every single one of you.

- Let us all move on together to create yet another legacy for ourselves to look upon, years from now.

- Together, we will be strong.
- Together, we will achieve.
- Together, we will succeed.

Thank you.

Regards,

Jasen How

Term Three Events and Band Direction

2008-06-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Bandsmen,

It has been a long 1 month of holiday, with a tiring band camp and a concert performance which we barely pulled through. I’ve got not much to comment about the performance and it isn’t going to be fair for me to judge the performance from a professional point of view but I am satisfied to see that ALMOST EVERYONE did their best.

We all know that there’s bound to be a black sheep among a herd, so it is nearly impossible to make sure that everyone does their part to make the whole band completely great. It is possible ONLY if everyone cooperates and motivates one another along the way.

My main purpose for this letter is to fill you all in on the current programme and direction of the band for the next two terms.

We will be focusing on basic trainings, using technique books and also various repertoire that I will slowly bring in. The current grade of the songs that the band can barely struggle over is grade 2.5. We need to constantly improve ourselves in all aspects and achieve a reputation for the school, the band, and for ourselves. I will be working on a lot of techniques and moving on to the intermediate teaching of elements of music. A syllabus will be shown to you and it can serve as a checklist for you as a young musician to see what the various things you have NEVER known as a musician and have overlooked are. Knowing more about the things you do not know hopefully makes you more aware of the music you listen to and become more appreciative of them. Our main aim is to prepare ourselves for SYF 2009 Central Judging for Concert Bands. Please know that it is not early to start now. We need to be ready by December 2008.

Please also note that there will be 3 selections stages for the participation of the competition. You will all be accessed based on your progress for the next 6 months before we allow your participation for the SYF competition. It is not difficult to make it through the selection as long as you constantly improve yourself in your playing ability and you constantly display a positive learning attitude. On top of which, your academic results are important as well. If you are able to maintain/improve on your academic results, you have passed one of the selection criteria. We can open to a maximum of 80 students for the SYF next year, however, I am not going to maximize the number if I think that we do not have enough students who can REALLY CONTRIBUTE to making the band sound better and achieve the best results the band can get. I do not wish to exclude and deprive anyone of the chance from being a part of the SYF for next year because the pride of the band really depends heavily on the results next year but I think it would be fair that if some of us REALLY cannot play well enough and up to standard, I think it will also be a “contribution” if the less prepared players provide other form of help other than playing the Set Piece and Choice Piece on stage.

Bandsmen, on the whole, I seriously wish that you will continue to attend the practices for the next 2 terms, encourage your fellow band members to continue to improve on their music-making skills, study hard together, motivate one another to advance forward, practice hard as an individual at home, share the same positive attitude as the rest of the band, do not get affected by the black sheep of the band, and really put your heart into learning and enjoying the process of music making. Please know that the future pieces that will be introduced will slowly increase in difficulty. Do not give up. Instead, spend some time listening to more recordings of the songs on imeem, etc, and try to get the music and understand what the composer is trying to deliver.

I shall elaborate further and will prepare you all for the future public performances that will take place in 1 of the terms.

With Love,
Jasen How

April's Post

2008-04-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Members,

I do not know when you will see this post but i hope you'll get to see it one day.

We have gone through a lot over these couple of months. To be honest, it was not easy. Not without the help of the Alumni, the Teachers-in-charge and the instructors who helped. It was not easy to run 3 groups at the same time, and I am truly apologetic to those who have ever felt neglected or unattended.

The SYF will be over in about a week's time and the band practices will come to a halt. Some of you would have already known, a lot of us will miss all of you at the days where band practices end and you are given time to study for your mid-year exams. Over the months, the band room has become a house to most of you but to be honest, the Band has become a HOME to me. The room will just be a room without the laughters and tears from the times we spent together as a family. It has been a great pleasure being able to work with you all. I have learnt quite a lot from most of you. Patience, perseverance, love, concern, motivation and creativity are just a few of the things that I managed to learn from the time being with you all.

You will be given about a month's time to take a break and study for your mid-year examinations. Listen kids. I really hope you will put in your best effort to do your best in the exams. To those who really are keen to be able to come back for band practices and enjoy making music together and having fun together, PLEASE DO YOUR BEST IN STUDIES. Your results matter a lot. It matters a lot not just to you, but to me and to the band as well. Without a good set of results, some of your parents might start pointing fingers at your CCAs and other commitments for the cause of your poor results. Therefore, I sincerely urge all of you to set your priorities right for this next month or so and really put in the effort to KNOW WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW, especially the RODs for this year. I am not able to allow you to perform for the concert or drop by during band camp if you are unable to attain a substantially convincing result. For the rest of you, including the recruits, should your results be unsatisfactory, I might not be able to allow you to come for band practices. As in, you will not be sent home, but I might put you through tutelage while the others are merry-making with their instruments and music.

In order to make you have a chance for you to put your best foot forward to prove yourself academically, we, the alumni and myself, have proposed to open up the bandroom as usual to allow the band members a place to study. The teachers are in favour of the idea and have offered to help in any way they can. However, one can bring a thirsty bull to a lake but only the bull can quench his thirst. WE CAN GIVE YOU ALL THAT WE CAN GIVE TO ALLOW YOU TO LEARN, BUT ONLY YOU CAN MAKE YOURSELF LEARN AND DO WELL. You must have INITIATIVE. You need to know what's best for you, your family and most of all, your future. Please, for those Gamers out there, challenge your guts and game buddies to stop for a month or so to do well first so that you can play at ease in future without your parents/guardians screaming down the back of your neck telling you to study. Your parents cannot wait on you forever. You will have to look after them one day. Even if you're unfilial, you will have to look after YOURSELF one day, so make sure you have the capability to meet the needs. You will have to pay for your own food, your electricity bills for gaming all night long, your travelling expenses and other miscellaneous fees.

Spare some thought for yourself for once. You are not hopeless unless you give up on yourself even before trying. When you meet up with difficulties, do not give up. Press on. Professor Randy Pausch of Carnegie Mellon University always believed that "the brick walls are there in our life for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out, they are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. They are there to stop those who don't want it badly enough." Don't let obstacles get in your way. Prove to yourself that there are things that you can achieve. Be the greater few to overcome those obstacles. Don't join the rest who sit in front of the obstacles and watch others overcome them.

I sincerely hope that you will all be able to overcome something in life and studies these couple of months. I also wish you the best of luck in all that you do. I hope you have managed to learn something from me over the months and if you were unable to, i hope you will meet someone who will be able to make you learn.

Good Luck and God Bless.

Love,
Jasen How

FEBRUARY ESSAY

2008-02-26T07:26:00.000-08:00

Alright members, listen up.

Here's the deal. Regarding the essay about your ambition, forget it. I leave it optional. For those who want to spend time doing, if you submit to me, I'll read and write back. For those who are busy with other more important things, it's ok. You don't submit, I just don't get to read, that's all. No pressure on anyone anymore. Those who wish to hand it to me, deadline is ANYTIME. No house points deducted, no punishments will be given. And, if it's that much pressure for most of you, alright. I will not, in future, ask you guys to do anymore of such stuffs already.

That's all i have to say.

Please spread the word. The deadline for the February essay is being extended till ANYTIME.
So don't need to rush out and write things that are of no content. I don't want to read words. If finding words to make up 500 words is what you intend to do when you start penning this essay, then i suggest you spend your time better at studying, sleeping, or playing games. No need to submit anything to me. It's ok already. I know you all are having enough pressure. So forget about this whole thing. That's it. The last thing i want to do is to stress you all in your workload. And I don't want the leaders to go around forcing or punishing bandsmen for not handing in the essay or anything related to this matter. If i find out that any of the leaders or anyone doing so, I'll make sure I'll unleash horror.

Nevertheless, Good luck to all of you GYSB bandsmen. May you all study smart and get grades that you will not regret having.

Regards,
Jasen How

Feedback and February Assignment

2008-01-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Bandsmen,
I believe time really flies. Things have been progressing rather diversely for a while. But I hope this will not hinder the progress of the band, or cause the bonding to falter. Miss each other more and you all will be closer. =)

The new members are already here, though I do not know how many would survive the beginning phase, which, I’m sure you all would agree, is the most important phase of music. I would like to have feedback from you all, especially this year sec 2s who were there for the recruit training programme last year conducted by me, and Mr Goh. Which are the lessons that you think are important and that should be carried out and which are those that needs improvements? Please kindly gauge by considering the NECESSITY and not condemn the topic(s) just because it was boring. Especially for those who really paid attention and learnt, what are the topics or phases that you think was beneficial to you, or that you think would even benefit you now? Send your feedback to either

myeband@hotmail.com

or you can put it on the tagboard of the DISCUSSION ROOM. (only relevant dialogue please)

My main concern is, whether you think that having theory lessons concurrently with the practical lessons is beneficial?

Next, I’m pretty concerned at the stress level that each of you is beginning to have as the days go by. With increases in tests and more tests, plus so many other things to work your brains in band, I’m afraid some of you might break down, especially the EXCO and SLs. I’m sure it is not easy for you to cope. But it’s not impossible. Here’s something I want each of you to bear in mind:

“Everyone has the same amount of time. Humans tend to complain the lack of time. But time has always been in our hands. It’s how we plan to use the time and how much QUALITY TIME we make out of it that matters. STAY FOCUS. Concentrate to complete what you NEED to do first, before doing what you WANT to do. Focus on your aim for each task and try to give yourself a targeted completion time. FOCUS is very important when coming to such scenarios. If you chase to Rabbits, you’ll end up with nothing.”

Know the things that you do not know. You have to know that, some of you are intelligent. But you lack CURIOSITY. Being curious is a catalyst to a good future. Curiosity allows you to gain more knowledge into ALL KINDS of stuffs. Do not fear to ask questions, even if you think or feel that people might mock at you. It is what you gain from getting the answers that concerns you most. BE CURIOUS.

PRACTICE what you have learnt. Put your skills and knowledge into practice. Learn to try to apply what you learnt into everyday life, or in the examples that you will get to know.
UNDERSTAND what your purpose of learning is. However, it is ok if you cannot seem to see what your purpose is. You will, however, have to still try to memorize or remember it first cos there are things that you have to learn first and know that it exists, den in future, when you look back on what you learnt, you will understand better than before cos as you learn more things in future, it will help you understand the previous things better.

Ok…ALL OF YOU, PLEASE READ THIS..

I need you all to start thinking, whether you are Sec 1 or Sec 10, it’s time to think, before your O level results, even, before you sit for you O levels.. Dear babies, you must start to think what you wanna become in future. Yes, Your ambition. I’m not kidding. Take this year for example, so many never bothered to think what they wanna become in future, they din bother to think of what they liked to do, and when the results are out, they have a hard time choosing what courses they wanna take in poly, etc… People, start to think. And I’m gonna tell you another reason why you have to think now too.

Cos there are cases now that, they only started to think about what they wanna become after getting their results, and when they FOUND OUT what they wanna become le, as in, what they wanna work as, then they noticed that, their results are not good enough for the course they wanna take!!! So??? Dear bandsmen, please, please help me by helping yourselves, your future. I don’t wanna leave anyone behind. All of you are important to me. I care about your future as much as your parents care for you too. I really hope that you won’t have to worry about yourself when it comes to your time to choose courses and choose the next step in life for yourself. So, start now.. Start by thinking about what EXACTLY you wanna become. What you wanna work as. And, once you’ve done that, find out what are the relevant courses for that, and how are you going to go about reaching your goal. Okie? Please??? It’s really important to have an aim to work towards. Tell yourself where your end point is, so life won’t be an aimless journey through time. Okie?

Hmmm…I do have something for you all to do. For February. I’d like you all to write an essay of at least 500 words. (Assignment for ALL band members IN MAIN BAND Sec 2 and Above)
Title: My Ambition

Points you can include:
- The Reason you chose that ambition
- The Route to work to the Ambition
- A plan on what you are going to do in order to achieve your Ambition
- The Prospects that you will have for your future growth in this ambition
- What good does the Ambition have for the society
- What good does the Ambition have for you and/or your family
- What you think will happen to you and your future families if you worked towards this ambition
- What else would you want to do if the journey to this Ambition fails, meaning, your back up ambition
Can you guys spend time to work on this for me? It’s only 500 words. And I guarantee you’ll be able to write more than that if you spend a while on it. Okie? Deadline would be 28th February 2008.

I’ll remind you all as the days draw near.

Please, for your own sake, do spend a little more effort reflecting on your life and your future okie?

Loves,
J. How

House Score Update

2008-01-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

Hi people,

still there are very enthusiastic score-changers who likes to make the scoreboard active so here are the updates of the House Scoreboard as of 29th Jan 2008:

Gaia House: 545 points
Changes: - 10 points (2 people wishes to spend more time to write their reflection)
Latest Score: 535 points

Yoshi House: 480 points
Changes: - 5 points (1 person wished to spend more time to write their reflection)
Latest Score: 475 points

Squall House: 535 points
Changes: - 5 points (1 person wished to spend more time to write their reflection)
Latest Score: 530 points

Barachois: 515 points
Changes: no change
Latest Score: 515 points

The scores will be updated soon on the Scoreboard page. May the best House Win.

Loves,
Mr. J. How

SEEK HELP

2008-01-29T07:56:00.000-08:00

(: Hello dear all, Here's today's post

(: I just wanna tell you guys that if you all got any problems with your studies. Try to ask around for help ok? I'll be more than happy to help if i can. Im sorry to those that I cant help. But i'll definitely do my best to help out. Rmb, studies are as important as band

(: I can help in Science,geography and Chinese. If you all need any help for work,projects or even revision do approach me or other "old people". Im free on mondays,wednesdays and/or maybe even fridays. Just tell me during recess that you need help ok?

(: I'll be waiting for people to approach me. Benjamin has been asking me about school work and everything... And i hope that im of enough help

(: Jiayou (: I love you guys.

Love always,
Your DrumMajor,
SHARI CHONG

2008-01-26T00:12:00.000-08:00

HELLO!!! :DDD YOUR AWESOME DRUMMAJOR IS BACK IN ACTION AGAIN!!! I'll keep it short in case you all complain that Im very naggy >..< You are NOT suppose to talk, move about or do things that you are NOT suppose to do. You are to be in attention AT ALL TIMES and LOOK SMART when you fall in... THIS IS BASIC. And its to train you guys for any form of events or parade. This will ensure that you all will look smart. I hope that you all will listen and everything ok? I dont want to appear like a naggy woman. ))): And now, DEARs AND DARLINGs. Can you all please make an effort to post in our blog. Dont only concentrate on tagging lurhs... post also ok? (((: thank you! :DDDNow, study hard and jiayou for everything.I LOVE YOU ALL! AND YOU ALL KNOW IT!:DDD LOVES,YOUR AWESOME DRUMMAJOR!!! :DDDSHARI CHONG DING DONG.MUACKS

Band Members Etiquette

2008-01-25T22:19:00.001-08:00

Here are some Band Members Etiquette I found which I find it helpful to our band. 1. Be ready to practice at the scheduled starting time. This usually means arriving early enough to set up, warm up, and tune, before the start of the rehearsal or performance.

2. In order to make practices move smoothly, have your pieces ready as quickly as possible.

3. Pay close attention to the conductor and verbal directions of the person conducting the band. This includes not talking when the conductor or your section leader is trying to give directions.

4. Mark your scores. This saves a lot of rehearsal time. Come to rehearsal with your part prepared. There is little time between concerts to prepare music. Every part is important, whether 1st or 3rd.

5. Assist in concert/practices area set up and break down whenever possible.

6. Inform your section leader well in advance of a concert or practice when you will be absent. Excessive absences negatively impact the band.

7. Band members are encouraged to be supportive of each other. We are all here because we enjoy music and the people that are associated with the band.

8. Don't take musical criticism personally. If you have a personal problem with a member, please speak with that person. If this does not resolve the problem, discuss it with your section leader, the majors, and possibly to the teacher-in-charge of the band.

9. Please have your files at all band practices and performances, even if you are the only person on that part.

From,
Edwin

House Scoreboard Updates

2008-01-23T06:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Bandsmen,
below are the updates of the House Scores at the moment. I've listed the details of the breakdown of the scoring. The scores have been editted and changed. These changes are being made due to the participation of the reflections written about Kashiwa Concert, with the deadline 22/01/2008.

GAIA HOUSE
2 members failed to submit the reflections on time : 2 x 5pts deducted = 10 pts deducted
7 members awarded 5 pts each for the reflection: 7 x 5pts awarded = 35 pts awarded
(Poh Leong, Shimin, Li Hui, Ann, Hui Yi, Hwee Ling, Arrifah)
1 member awarded 10 pts for the reflection: 1 x 10pts awarded = 10pts awarded
(Swee Han)
1 member awarded 15 pts for the reflection: 1 x 15pts awarded = 15 pts awarded
(Pei Hsien)
Total Points Deducted: 10 points
Total Points Awarded: 60 points
Previous House Score: 495 points
Current House Score: 545 points

YOSHI HOUSE
5 members failed to submit the reflections on time : 5 x 5pts deducted = 25 pts deducted
4 members awarded 5 pts each for the reflection: 4 x 5pts awarded = 20 pts awarded
(Wai Min, Chen Dan, Wong Jiaxin, Yessica)
Total Points Deducted: 25 points
Total Points Awarded: 20 points
Previous House Score: 485 points
Current House Score: 480 points

SQUALL HOUSE
1 member failed to submit the reflections on time : 1 x 5pts deducted = 5 pts deducted
4 members awarded 5 pts each for the reflection: 4 x 5pts awarded = 20 pts awarded
(Jasmine, Xing Xia, Lynette, Angeline)
3 member awarded 10 pts for the reflection: 3 x 10pts awarded = 30pts awarded
(Edwin Koh, Li Ting, Louise)
Total Points Deducted: 5 points
Total Points Awarded: 50 points
Previous House Score: 490 points
Current House Score: 535 points

BARACHOIS HOUSE
3 members failed to submit the reflections on time : 3 x 5pts deducted = 15 pts deducted
6 members awarded 5 pts each for the reflection: 6 x 5pts awarded = 30 pts awarded
(Benjamin, Mingwei, Liew Jiaxin, Faith, Joletta, Siew Hwee)
1 member awarded 10 pts for the reflection: 1 x 10pts awarded = 10pts awarded
(Viandra)
Total Points Deducted: 15 points
Total Points Awarded: 40 points
Previous House Score: 490 points
Current House Score: 515 points

This is the final score updates as of 23rd Jan 08.
GAIA : 545
YOSHI : 480
SQUALL : 535
BARACHOIS : 515

You may read up some of the high scoring reflections in Share IT!

Congratulations. The scores will still be updated so keep a look out. MAY THE BEST HOUSE WIN.

Loves,
Paps!

Hello To All.

2008-01-20T07:33:00.000-08:00

HELLO TO MY DEAREST BABIES... (:

I am very sorry for not posting for one period of time. That is why I am here now to post (:And before I start the post, I would like to correct Eilene's previous post. It was Eilene who suggested the Exco-meeting but it was Rebecca whom ordered and paid for the meals. (: So ya, this is just to clarify arhs. Nothing much.

:DDD It has been weeks since school re-open. And there is quite a few event that occurred. Like the Kashiwa Municipal High School concert, GYSB Orientation, GYSB open house. (: I am very happy that everyone co-operated in those event and made it a successful one. For the open house yesterday... GYSB recruited 40 members!!! Our initial target was 35 members. (: Thanks to our dearest baby whom put in the effort to decorate the booths and promoting our band to the secondary ones... :DDD I hope that our secondary one members will stay with GYSB for the rest of their 4years in their secondary life. (: JIAYOU OH! You guys know that i love you all right. (((:

For the Kashiwa Municipal High School concert. Its really a very nice and worthy concert. Not to forget to thank our dearest Mr.How for treating us to the concert. You guys just need to write him a one page long essay about your reflections and be his good babies... (: Im sure he will be more than happy if you babies be happy,good and healthy always. The deadline for the essay is TUESDAY ( 22/1/2008 ). If you guys still haven complete your essay, here's a few points you all can consider.

The arrangements for all songs/selections of songs
Costumes/gimmicks
How did the band cue themselves in
How the rest of the band "give the spotlight" to the soloist

That was mainly what i wrote about and I hope that these might be some useful points for you guys (((: I will try to keep you guys inform of certain concerts and encourage you're to go. Like how we went for the Sparkwinds concert. Hope to see more people engaging in this kind of " recreation " activities. :D If you join our outings, you'll be happy and enjoy it (: THE MORE THE MERRIER BABIES! (:

Well, the next major event will be our SYF. As you guys know, we got a Certificate of Distinction the previous Outdoor assessment. I will work extremely hard for this year's Certificate. you all must JIayou too alright? (: great!

And this is a reminder to ALL babies. Please take note of your uniforms. Tuck in your shirts at all times. I understand that you all might not notice or know that your shirt is tucked out. But please check once in a while to ensure that your shirt is tucked in and you look smart al all times. (: It will not be nice if you constantly get caught by teachers/Mr.Goh.

Ok, DEAREST BABIES... I'll see you all on tuesday!!! (: LOVE YOU GUYS!!! :DDD

YOUR AWESOME DRUM MAJOR, SHARICHONG

p/s : Get all your exco-member's name correctly ok? (: They are great people who helped out in everything and anything that can make the band better. They love you equally much! (:

TUITION

2008-01-20T07:32:00.000-08:00

Hihi to all beloved GYSB babies,

How are you guys coping? Hope everything is well for all yea….Bless you guys! It’s a New Year 2008, have you guys thought about your New Year resolution(s)? Many a times, we tend to forget our aim in life, juggling so many things along the way….well, that’s the beauty of human’s life! Just sharing a piece of news with those interested babies regarding SMALL tuition groups. Fadhil and I would like to provide assistance to those who need help in their studies. We will try to arrange flexible timing that suits the group concerns. Till date we have approx. 5 beloved Sec 4s babies who are interested. You may form your own study group and just inform us if our help is needed (in advance). We are also looking into “stationing” ourselves in band room on our free weekdays where you guys can just go in and do self-revision or ask questions regarding your work. However, the “stationing” phase is still taken into consideration + snacks (mini-bar) will be free flow during study time in band room (just co-operate by keeping the band room clean after snacking k?). BUT for the small group tuition is already a go-ahead for us and commencing date will be announce soon yea!

A note to all: Please do not be shy to approach your peers/seniors for help. The more you ask, you will get your doubts cleared and understand better rather then forcing yourself to memorize till the cow comes home but nothing is absorbed.

Remember study SMART for a better future not for our parents BUT OURSELVES!

Gambateh all the way!!!!! All the best in your studies!!!!!

Till the next update, Rawk On!

Loves,
Rebecca.

DO NOT MIX US UP. ((:

2008-01-05T09:26:00.001-08:00

DO NOT MIX US UP!! ((:

Hello everyone! ((: we are here to CLEAR YOUR DOUBTS!
As you all know, siewhwee is the librarian and sweehan is the QM. AND.

Librarians are in charge of SCORES
Quarter Masters are in charge of INSTRUMENTS.
Siewhwee: So so so so..please do not ask me, "siewhwee can i borrow instrument?", "where are the valve oils?" or tell me, " i havent sign in instrument yet leh!" okok! hahaha!!

Swee Han: and and and, my name is SWEEhan NOT SIEWhan!!!!!!!
and its pronounced as, SIEWhwee and SWEEhan! =.=

MUAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAA..hoped we've cleared your doubts and DO NOT mix us up again!!!!! heeeeeheeees! XPPP

From: SIEWhwee and SWEEhan, thank you! =))) (*president wave+bows)

2008-01-04T08:34:00.000-08:00

Hey there! :D

heehes. Your next practice will be on tuesday instead of monday. Date is 8th January 2008 :D 2e4 will be excused for being late cause they have Life Science. The rest, no valid reasons for being late you all die arr...Muahahhas >:D okay, last but not least, EXCO MEETING CUM BRIEFING AT REBECCA'S PLACE THIS SUNDAY!! 11AM!!! URGENT!! BE THERE!! IF THE EXCOs DONT GO, U'LL MISS OUT ON ALOT OF THINGS!!! so...GO!! Lunch will be provided cause i suggested the meeting!! Muahahahahas okay. LOLS. Bye Bye. Take care, drink more water cause lots of people are falling sick now a days. Especially people with weak immune system like me =/ hahas..kkk. :D

SEE YA!

LOVES, eilene :D

A BRAND NEW YEAR, A BRAND NEW START

2008-01-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

A BRAND NEW YEAR, A BRAND NEW START

Dear Bandsmen,
Happy New Year to one and All. It’s a new chapter for the band and I hope that we will all put our best foot forward to pen a great story for this Chapter 2008. What I mean is for us to work together and make this 2008 as memorable as we can for one another. Yes there will be ups and downs, difficult times, huge obstacles. No big deal. Nothing in this world will take anyone of us down in ANY way as long as we stand together, side by side, giving each other as much of our helping hand as possible, backing one another up, all for one. Let’s help one another move ourselves, as bandsmen and as individuals, to a greater height; whether in musical abilities, in moral values, in academic achievements, give our best to help one another. A little help goes a long way, a little love makes a great difference.

Bandsmen, listen up. As you can see, the blog has been updated and renewed for the new year. Let me guide you through each link so we all understand one another and make this beautiful blog a homely place for all of us.

ANNOUNCEMENTS –
This is the link for you to click when you wanna see what the latest news or updates are. Of course, this won’t be the Primary place for announcements but more of a secondary place to record announcements. All the official announcements or updates will still be done manually by the Majors and SLs and everyone will be contacted, for the benefit of those who do not have internet access.

THE WORDS –
This link is where slightly more formal posts are being posted. News and updates and special announcements are mostly posted here so check out once in a while.

SHARE IT! –
This link is where everyone related to the band can share their comments and opinions or posts. Simply send your posts to myeband@hotmail.com (either type the post on the mail itself or use Microsoft Word and save your file and attach to the e-mail). Identify yourself and mail your post to the address and it will be posted on the blog as soon as possible. Your contributions and sincere opinions will be appreciated. Do feel free to say what you sincerely feel or wish to sound of, that you might not be able to find time or guts to say to the band in front of the band.

CHATterbox –
This is a tagboard for everyone to freely chat and crap about. Of course, ensuring that you do not be rude or pass nasty remarks as stated in the guide when you first enter the site, you are welcome to treat this place like IRC (Internet Relay Chat) and talk/crap with one another and get to talk to band members that you don’t normally talk to or do not have MSN to have private conversations with. This will be a good place to get to know your fellow bandsmen better. So make good use of it yeah?

DISCUSSION ROOM –
This link is where slightly more formal stuffs are being tagged. For instance, event updates, band project discussions, etc. Try to be more formal in this tagboard cos it’s mainly for serious discussions yeah? And it would help if you use your proper name here instead of your nicknames. Thank you for your cooperation.

SOTONG US –
OUR BLOG –
OUR ANGELS –
These three links basically are just some write ups and introductions about the band. Nothing much for anyone.

FIVE HOUSES –
This is where all the 5 Houses: Gaia, Yoshi, Squall, Barachois, and Alma, and the House members names are being located. As most of you would have known about the House system and House Scoreboard, this place will soon also include the updates of the House Scores from time to time. May the best house win. =)

THE EXCO (Executive Committee) –
This link will be the list of the appointment holders of the band so that you guys will know who to approach to for the respective issues you want to be attended to.

OUR ALBUM –
This link is where you will be able to check out the photos taken on various occasions that the band has attended or been involved in.

MUSIC –
This link is where various songs are being uploaded for your listening pleasure so you can check out some of the songs that are being uploaded. The songs will be updated so do keep a look out for new songs to listen to. Of course, most of you would already have had the auto-played songs when you first enter the page. The list of songs are located on the top right corner of the blog so you can select from there or stop the auto-play from there too.

I suppose that’s basically it for the walk thru. I hope that everyone gets a clearer picture and understanding of how to use the blog? Tag if you have comments or questions. I’ll do my best to get your questions answered. If you do not know whether your questions are serious enough to be tagged in the DISCUSSION ROOM, just tag it in CHATterbox. Yup. So here’s a new year and a new start. May all of you excel in your studies and learn to share help selflessly to one another. Let’s try our best to make each bandsmen become better and show others that we can be hardworking, smart, well-mannered, yet humble and ever-learning and ever-helpful. If any of you have problems managing your time and commitments, feel free to seek help before it’s too late okie? Do not hide problems away or push it aside, because it will grow, and in the end, you’ll suffer much worse. For your future, for the band’s future, be responsible to yourself. All the best people.

Love Always,
Jasen How

2008-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2008!!

To all band personnels and bandsmen!

MAY EVERYONE HAVE A FRUITFUL YEAR AHEAD! =DD

A Not Very Happy New Year

2007-12-31T12:23:00.000-08:00

Hey people. What an unglamorous way to start a new year. Nonetheless, here’s my message. I’m not sure which category this message has to be put but I just want this to be read so I’ll post on the main page at the "serious stuffs" place.

People, this blog was a good idea. And a great effort. Everything was alright, were people come in and show that they visit the site. Songs, clips, announcements, pictures and all. Nice design, and everything. My perception of this entire blog from the start was a place where everyone can not only know about announcements and stuffs, but also share their views and opinions about the things that happened to the band family. We will not know what one another in the family is thinking about if no one bothers to speak up and share their views freely. I didn’t know that the Primary aim was to only allow leaders to make announcements and or get names of participants or things like that. Well, yes this CAN be a mean of access to spreading or collecting of information but I don’t think this should be the sole or official way of making announcements, for a very simple reason, we will never know if the information reaches the desired recipients or not. Well, just like this post, I will not know if every single one in the band will be able to read this, or even, bother to read it. If I were to make an urgent and important announcement here, for example: “I will not be teaching in GYSB this year.” Or “ Those who are unable to go for Kashiwa Concert is supposed to send me an sms to state the reason.” And things like that, the whole band will not receive the information in the first place. What about people without internet access? Or people who do not bother about band stuffs? Well, yeah most of you will say, the leaders will call SLs to inform their members, etc etc.. First thing, you sure all the information will arrive to each person that’s being called up? Next, will everyone really be contactable?

Look kids, it’s not that I do not trust you guys or anything. But please be a little less rigid. I’m working hard here to make people feel at home with the band. And you guys start complaining to Rebecca about tagboard misuse, about people’s important posts being pushed downwards, and all these. Do you know that the “misuse” of the tagboard shows that this blog is active? Look at its state now? I mean, after complaints, when action is being taken, you see how people turn away? Now this blog doesn’t seem the way I thought it would seem. Well, maybe I was wrong from the start. Maybe that’s the initial purpose of the blog. A serious place for Holy messages and information to be announced and passed and publicized. Well, if it is really so, then my suggestion is, make your design less homely. The design is great, cartoons and colours, but if it’s suppose to match a serious business setting, it drives a wrong message across, cos I for once perceived this place as a fun place to get to members whose MSN accounts I do not have, or who barely talks to me alone on msn. Well, sorry then, it seems it’s my bad, for thinking that this is what I thought it is. I’m just me, Jasen How, Instructor of the band. Just like Mr Ong and Mr Goh. Simple as that. And Mr Lim and whoever else it may be, they are the teachers-in-charge. And like Rebecca, Fadhil, Desmond, Robin, Jaslyn, Teressa, Bjorn, Josiah, David, etc are the Alumni of the band. That’s it. And the rest of you, the members of the band. Why can’t everyone just focus more on getting things done than getting status and names? You don’t have to be a librarian to help out in the library. You don’t have to be an instructor to help to teach the members. You don’t have to be a Major to ask someone to stop from making further mistakes. We need to get things done. We need to help one another. Why doesn’t ANYONE get this message at all? I shall say it again. I HATE and I’m going to emphasize HATE, “H-A-T-E” politics and such things. This is a school, not a company. We TEACH one another, and we LEARN from one another. Not lecture or scold or complain or bitch or curse or swear. So listen up kids. If I’m too tough for any SINGLE one of you to handle, show it to me. So I will take my leave. And let you people do what you think best deserves the School. If this society continues to run the school as if it was a corporate company, I suggest you get your bags packing and migrate to somewhere else cos there will soon be no future for Singapore. People, STOP BITCHING, START TEACHING. It is only through teachings that people learn. Not complaining about stuffs to others behind people’s back. That’s called bitching. And I do not like people who bitch about others. You’ve got a problem, be brave enough to come up front and speak it out with your own mouth. Just like what Sweehan did to Chun Heng on the tagboard. That’s called settling a problem. The only flaw in this confrontation is that Sweehan’s main motive was not to solve a problem, but to challenge and vent frustration. People, start to learn that there are some things that will get us nowhere. Be more capable. Learn to SOLVE problems like what Rebecca does. Everytime there’s a problem, she thinks of ways to solve it. And not just, make a fuss out of it or find someone to point fingers at. You guys are still kids, and if you’re not going to learn how to handle small problems and SOLVE them now, you’ll become horrible when you grow older.

Every action comes a reaction. The blog was finally made known to the members. And yeah, some members enjoyed the new facility and probably did something that the facility owner didn’t intend or would prefer not to happen. Didn’t it occur to you that it was probably unintentional? I give you an example: Have you seen how fascinated some kids are when to go to a fast food restaurant and sees a little playground with slides and tunnels and all? What do they do? They start playing with it, and start running about, yelling and making noise and scream their excitement out. And some will even get so high, they might keep stomping on the slide as if there was a cockroach that never seemed to be able to die unless you stomp a hundred times. Hey, now, if these kids were around 4 to 6 years old, and a guy in a police uniform walks up to them as tells them “hey, get down and stop yelling and jumping or I’ll have to take you with me to the station.” As compared to a smiling lady of the restaurant going up to tell them “hi little boy, is it fun? Is it correct? I’m glad you enjoy yourself. But why not you try to make a little less noise so that the other uncles and aunties eating in the restaurant will not become angry.” Now tell me, considering that the child understands the intent, which will leave a scarier mark in his memory? Which approach will cause him to not want to go back to play EVER again?
TEACH. That’s the point I’m driving at. Some people take a longer time to learn, well, so be patient and teach again. Patience is what makes a teacher an Educator.

Everyone needs another person to be their mirror once in a while. Don’t be overly affected by what others comment about you, any of you. The most upfront comments would be the ones that best reflects the consequences of our actions. There are many reflections that each one of us will create. Different people will reflect to us different things. The point is to be able to be OPEN to criticisms that are constructive. There’s a difference when someone comes up to you and says “Hey, You Suck!” and “Hey, you Suck, because bla bla bla….” The first one, you can ignore. The second one is the one you think about. No one is perfect. If we are not able to admit to our mistakes, or if we do not know how to be humble and learn from others as well even when we’re not in the wrong, if we think that we’re the greatest and the best already and everyone else will not be able to come up with better suggestions, that’s the day we fall, rock bottom. No matter how great we are or will be, learn to listen to others’ opinions and suggestions and analyze from there. They might not always be right, but they will definitely have a point.

Hey, look. People, I’m here to make a statement, to drive some senses, to hopefully try me best to reflect on the situation now. If any of you can’t take the content of this post, or take this post the wrong way, there’s nothing I can do but to say sorry. Cos I meant well, and if you choose to take this the wrong way, I can’t help it. If all of us can’t work things out, we’ll simply have to end everything and flush all the efforts of every single one in building a stronger family down the drain. If there’s still a little love in you, if there’s still a little sense in you, if you think you are benevolent enough to step up and give way and work things out THE RIGHT WAY, and not show that you are pissed and doing unwillingly, then sort things back on track, before it’s too late.
The tagboard incident, in my opinion, there are people who are right and wrong. But I think some of you guys are still unable to openly face criticism and will be agitated and do stupid or childish things to show your disapproval, so I’m not going to set my opinion on that issue. I just hope things will work out. Don’t be such a princess anymore. The world doesn’t owe you guys anything. Work things out like a grown up and solve your problems professionally, not the kiddy way.

This will probably be my last post, since it seems that those who hide behind and keep out of the way are the ones that are out of trouble. Thank you Desmond, for trying to calm the fight between the people. Goodbye guys. Till we meet or speak again.

Regards,
Jasen

To My R.O.D. Personnel 2007

2007-12-28T02:14:00.000-08:00

Alright, so here goes. It’s a little late for me to post this now but I’ve had a great time this Christmas. Thanks for inviting me to the gathering. Here’s what I’d like to say. To be honest, I wasn’t entirely happy that day. I think I’ve already told some of you. But here’s where I’ll make it public.
It was a great outing; the games, the sun, the sand, the sea, the lost aero-ring, the dog-and-bone, the David Copperfield blooper, the broken rugby wing, the “wHOLE” incidents, etc. It was alright. It was fun and laughter. But I knew deep inside me, lurking somewhere, hides the truth that I already knew was coming, existed, and will eventually surface; It was going to be goodbye to another group of friends that I’ve made over the years in band. R.O.D.s, yes I know you guys will return when you guys are free, I know you will miss the band as much as the band misses most of you, but it will not be as often as before. And it probably wouldn’t last long too.

We all have to bid our goodbyes. Every beginning will come to an end. And every ending brings about a new beginning. My presence and role in GYSB stay on. But it’s your time to move on. I’m happy that all of you are moving on to the next stage of life, where you’ll meet new friends, have new things to do, a new chapter of your life begins. It’s just hard to say goodbye, especially when you’ve grown to love the school, or the band. But it will come to you the same way it comes to me every year. For the years that I’ve been teaching, this feeling has always been present every time at this period of the year, where a batch of students graduate and that each of them will lead different lives from here on, and will somehow lose some friends or even just, lose some strength in the bonds, cos it will be harder to meet up when each goes their separate ways, no matter how hard we try, it will not be the same as the days where all of you studied in the same school, share the same CCA, and walk out the same gate. You know that I will miss most of you. I’m not trying to be emo here or anything, but I just want you guys to know, all of you have been great students, great friends, and I truly respect you and sincerely wish that you will become somebody great in your own future. No need to be big, but just someone great, where people around you will respect and honour the things you do, and salute and commend your achievements. I sincerely give you all the salute. The contributions all of you have made, big or small, have made the band become what it is now, somehow or rather. Sometimes, you’ll never really know how much you mean to someone else. Sometimes you might think you’re just nobody, but to someone else, you ARE somebody, someone they look up to. And that’s the greatness I wish for all of you to be able to attain.

It was still inevitable for me to feel sad inside me, though it wasn’t shown on my face on that day. I know I shouldn’t feel negative or sad. And it’s a bit absurd to some. But you’ll soon understand what I mean. There are things I can’t blog here. All I can say is, the memories built with all of you R.O.D.s will forever stay within me. I’ve kept a place in my heart for all the great students that I will get to meet and make friends with and work with and grow to respect and love. This place is where you guys belong. Our memories will be kept there.

You guys will all be moving ahead, taking the next step forward in your lives. If any of you R.O.D.s 2007 ever get lost or feel insecure, you’ll know that the band will always be there ready to lend you a helping hand to give you the warmth you need.

I think it’s time to let you guys know this: There is a 5th House in the band. The house name, Alma, Spanish word for Soul, which is the 5th element that completes the planet, is represented by a Polar Bear. The House Colour will be RED, representing Love. The 5th Element, Soul, sometimes known as Heart, actually completes our band, where GREEN GAIA HOUSE represents “Earth”, YELLOW YOSHI HOUSE represents “Fire”, SILVER SQUALL HOUSE represents “Wind”, BLUE BARACHOIS HOUSE represents “Water”; the 4 other elements. I hope our band will stay together, complete, forever, no matter where we are on this planet, no matter what we will become in the future, we’ll always remember our Alma Mater, our friends, and our memories.

Guys, R.O.D.s, this will be the last time I’ll call you that, cos from 2008 onwards, you guys are considered Alumni of the band. Guys, my most sincere love and wishes go to EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU, wishing you the best that you can become. Your future shines ahead, so go forth and reach for it to the fullest. All the best to your future endeavours, and may music continue to share the journey of life with you.

Love Always,
Paps.

2007-12-23T08:07:00.000-08:00

Concert Etiquette Lesson

Hi GYSB cubs,
Thank you for your support in SparksWinds Concert. I hope you all will enjoy the concert as much as I enjoyed practicing for it. I can’t guarantee THE BEST of the concert but I can assure you OUR BEST in the performance and I hope to be able to move you all with the music as the music did for us.

Being the first concert for most of you, I would like to share with you some concert etiquettes. Meaning, the Do’s and Don’t’s as a concert audience. As you are all young musicians, it’s best that you learn concert manners so that people will know that you guys have courtesy to respect the performance and the rest of the audience. Just like not chewing loudly on popcorn during movies, there are things that are best not to do while watch band concerts.

1. Switch all beeping devices to silent mode. (this one needs no explanation)
2. Please refrain from clapping until the end of the song, even when soloists stand up to finish playing their solos in the middle of the song. Many do not know this, especially non-musicians, but it’s considered impolite. So reserve your emotions and applauses till the end of the music.
3. Erm.. the next one I don’t think it will happen but just in case (cos I’ve seen some people doing it) It’s a Band Concert, not Ah Mei’s concert or anything like that… So please be seated and refrain from jumping around your seats. Plus, no food allowed in the auditorium, so don’t go munching away on Chips or Popcorn. Thank You. =?
4. Try not to get over excited and cheer too loudly or overboard, especially those seating among the Circle Seats as VIPs and Guests are seated there as well. Those seated in the Circle Seats will be required to have a little more self-control. Remember, it’s not a Superstar Concert, it’s a Band Concert. (Don’t forget you guys are wearing something that shows where you are from. I think it’s best not to spoil/humiliate the name that we try so hard to build?) Thank You.

I think that is the main few. I suppose the rest of the basic stuffs are quite clear cut. And, for some, there are things you can do when you spend the $$$ to watch a concert. I hope you guys are not there to support anyone cos that would be a waste of money. My intention for recommending you all to go watch more band concerts is for you all to learn from the performers and performance from an audience point of view. Being young musicians, you should be able to appreciate the rights and wrongs of a concert. Good or bad things played/did by a band are also learning points for each individual one of you. How you feel as an audience will also probably be how your audience will feel in future. Paying attention to:
- how each section/instrument sounds
- the techniques that can be done on each instrument
- the level of teamwork within a section, being able to play as a section or not
- the general flow and expression and reaction of the band with the conductor and the music
- the music and how the music is written, how melodies are passed around, how each section gives way to one another or not, and how counter-melodies are being written, how phrases are expressed, etc.
There are just so much to learn from a performance. I really hope you will make your trip worthwhile by learning from the good things that are being displayed, and also learn from other people’s mistakes and note to see if you or your band makes similar mistakes as well. Nothing beats a live performance and witnessing it with your own ears and eyes life. Feel how the music reaches or does not reach the audience. Listen to the message and emotions that the music is trying to deliver to you. Bask in the beauty of the music that is written and being expressed. Listen as a constructive Critic as to what you think is nice and not nice and why you like or do not like certain parts. Let the music get into you and work its way around you and all. Good Luck. I’ve once seen a line and I quote: “Without Music, Life is a Journey Through the Desert.” I’ve walked out of the Desert and into the Beauty of Nature of Music, have you? I hope you’ll find the beauty that music can bring, and to be able to spread and share this beauty to the rest that are still caught up in the Desert. Music is the ONLY Common Language that brings Humanity together. There’s no Human Race that does not have the existence of Music. So speak the language of the World. (But don’t forget to study your own language as well.) =)

Some things above might be too absurd to most of you now, but you’ll understand one day. Enjoy and Take Care.

Loves,
Paps

2007-12-23T05:21:00.000-08:00

Specially dedicated to all dearest Babies of GYSB:

Hi Everybody! With a glance, 2007 is drawing to a close. This is probably my 2nd message to all babies yea! Pardon me for that. The followings are a few things I wish to address to all.

As far as I’m concern, it has broadened my perspective on the happenings in band this year. To be fair, I would only comment on the period after the investiture, as that is the time where I’m appointed as GYSB VAL. Needless to say I’ve learnt and understood the procedure of school bands / running the band management system etc as taught by MOE-CCAB during the appointment.

Year 2007 (2nd half year): Firstly, We have newly appointed EXCO for year 2008 and most importantly newly appointed main conductor Mr. Jasen How. As we can see changes are taking place in the band as managed by Mr. How and our Teachers I/c: Mr. Eugene Lim & Mr. Mark. Changes taking place started from EXCO departments/ positions. E.g. Majors, Library, Welfare, QM etc…(the rest is more on OJT=On-Job-Training) As these changes takes place so does the concern falls on the band such as attendance etc.

Honestly speaking, we should be glad to have even conductor being concern about members’ welfare and attendance beside teachers. I have seen many conductors in my band years since 1993 till today, I only seen conductors coming to conduct band practice/performance (be it the band strength falls to 13…worse that I can remember), collect $$$ and go. Even as a student in BWSS, my conductorssss come and go. Only till the merging and back in this year, its my only time I’ve seen a concerning conductor that is willing to spend his OWN time, “blood”, “sweat” and CASH to bring this lovely group of u- GYSB Babies to concerts, joining in outings, taking initiative to even provide FREE tuition, getting 3-4hrs of sleep during camp to prepare for day-to-day activities etc etc etc etc etc etc etc etc etc for his precious BABIES of GYSB. Sometime, it makes me wonder why does one have to sacrifice SOOOO MUCH and go to such extreme? Is it worth it? Was it because of the passion and love of the band? Was it because of $$$? If its $$$, there are many opportunities outside where one can just come and go also got $$$ to take…volunteering to provide support in ACADEMIC area, plan for camp, GOING THE EXTRA MILES etc is one that we won’t be able to thank enough.

***NOTE: THIS IS NOT TO FLATTER THE CONDUCTOR BUT FOR YOU ALL OUR DEAREST BABIES TO APPRECIATE WHO AND WHAT YOU HAVE NOW BEFORE YOU REGRET (if anything happens) WHEN ITS TOO LATE. I ENVY ALL OF YOU FOR ALL THE TEACHERS AND CONDUCTORS U HAVE…THINKING OF THE DISASTER TIME I WENT THROUGH IN THE PAST…. PLEASE HEED MY ADVICE AND I DON’T WISH ANYONE OF YOU TO BE IN MY “SHOE!”

Secondly, the recent camp from 10-14Dec. A big thank you to all babies for braving through this camp be it rain or shine. I have received lots of thanks be it I’m told to pass to Mr. How, Fadhil and myself. I need all of you to know and understand, the camp is EVERYONE’S EFFORT…not just the 3 of R.O.D, teachers and us. Without all of your cooperation, do you think we can follow as plan? The camp has indeed been successful (excluding the few negative happenings). Some of you maybe aware of the happenings in camp, but nevertheless it has been resolved and please leave the past behind and MOVE ON. I’m sure Fadhil, myself and Mr. How will be with you guys as much as you all need us in band and academic area. Please, please, please study hard and band will be a place to relax and LETS BUILD THE BAND ROOM INTO A COMFORT AND COSY PLACE FOR STUDY AND FREETIME since u all the FORTUNATE babies have DVD player and games personally bought by Mr. How (more like MindsCafe…. a place in Clarke Quay for games relaxation etc) In this note, I would like to say thank you on behalf to Justin Ong, Koh Jia Wei, Wong Zhi Jun, Louise, Ming Wei, BP, Majorettes for their endless cooperation and effort in their duties and sportsmanship to spur their peers on (as observed by teachers as well). For our dearest sick babies in camp, I’m glad that you all endured throughout the camp and some even cried having to be asked to go home. We understand your feeling and love at that moment to be with the band, but please understand the situation should the higher authorities need to face the circumstances should your sickness get worse. Happy to see all sick babies returning on the last day of camp to be with all for the graduation party.

Lastly, thank you to our R.O.D for their attendance and help throughout the camp. All your presence has made the atmosphere a joyous and memorable one filled with laughters!!!!! Of course not forgetting our dearest R.O.D for kidnapping my POOH on a fateful night…they know who they are…HOHOHO…

My heartfelt gratitude to the following personnels for their endless love and contribution made to the band in every aspect till today.

· Teachers i/c: Mr. Eugene Lim, Mr. Mark & Ms Irene Ng
· Main Conductor: Mr. Jasen How
· Assistant Conductors: Mr. Wilson Ong & Mr. Goh Kim Seng
· Alumni / Gimmick Master: Fadhil
· R.O.D
· GYSB Babies for cooperation
· Bryan, Brandon, Joshua and all alumni of GYSB for their support during their return and
· All who made this year a wonder 2007 in GYSB!

For the year 2008, I wish EVERYONE from GYSB a fruitful year ahead and let’s strive together for the BEST in everything. Study Hard Babies and may all your future shines ahead. IMPT GOAL: SYF 2008!!!!!!!!! ALL THE BEST, DEAREST BABIES. You guys Rawks!!!!!!

A note for all:

SUCCESS is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which one has overcome while trying to SUCCEED!

Loves & Hugs
Rebecca

2007-12-21T21:31:00.000-08:00

MESSAGE TO THE FAMILY

To: My Precious Band Babies

Hi all. It’s been a tiring band camp last week. 5 days and soooo many things happened. Good or Bad, we learn from each incident. I’m extremely contented this time cos more than 90% of you were cooperating very closely throughout the camp; participating in all the events planned for you. I’m sorry for some logistic issues like, the food and safety throughout the camp. I did my best to make sure it was best for you all. The food issue is entirely my bad. I gave the trust and did not double check that all was going as planned. Do forgive me.

The objectives of the band camp were:
to introduce all the new systems and procedures into the band
to build better understanding and teamwork between members
to train members to a higher level or competency
to teach basic drills and displays
to prepare for SYF Assessment 2008 and Sec.1 Orientation 2008
to make sure everyone enjoys themselves

Looking at the objectives and the feedbacks, I believe the Alumni, Teachers and Instructors have did their best to meet all the objectives as best as possible, failing only for a few members. As the feedback suggests, some found that bonding was not being nurtured for them throughout this camp, some found a few of the trainings a waste of time. Nevertheless, a majority have benefited from this camp. Close friends got closer, strangers became friends. I would like to commend the efforts of a few members and I think many of you would agree to my compliments. There are a few people I would like to highlight for their efforts throughout this term that has contributed selflessly to the band. I’m very touched by the love and sacrifice these people have given to the band and I think they ought to be mentioned. I’ve noticed that more and more have joined in to learn to give, and that’s a very good sign. To give without seeking any rewards in return is the highest level of true love, and in this case, the love for the family, for OUR family.

- The Majorettes, Eilene, Shari and Angeline, have been receiving all the lectures and punishments on behalf of the band and the committee for the past months and they’ve never complaint. On top of which, they still love all the members and protect everyone as best as they can, never failing to motivate those that are demoralized and thinking of more things to contribute to make life in band and thru the camp easier for everyone.

- The Library Department, for doing their best to get the messy Library back in place and with as little complaint as they could every give. Trust me, the library was in a much worse state than it is now. They’ve done a lot and are still doing more to get the mess in order.

- Swee Han, for setting up the wonderful blog where she had to keep improving and altering to meet superior standards and to make it a much more fun place to be. Apparently many of the bandsmen has made the tagboard as though it was MSN. She’s never voiced any complaints and has been doing her best to get everything in place for the convenience of everyone.

- Ming Wei, for his never-ending help in sustaining the Welfare Department. Keeping everything in place in the cupboards and making sure that everyone’s welfare is taken care of throughout the band practices and during the camp. I’ve never seen a more pro-active person than him in my years of teaching. I salute his endless care and concern for the welfare of the members.

- Louise, for her selfless nursing of the members throughout the band camp. I believe everyone, sick or healthy, would agree with me that she’s been a very respectable nurse during the camp. Being the assistant welfare officer, she’s done more than I’ve expected her to do and she deserves my most sincere salute as well. This year, I personally feel that the Welfare Department has done a lot of contribution to the members of the band. Good Job!

- The EXCO (Executive Committee) and the SLs (Section Leaders) for spreading the care and love to the juniors and the fellow members of the GYSB family. Without your cooperation, the camp would not have been as fun as it was.

- The R.O.D. (Release Of Duties) Personnel for helping me out in running the camp and being my extended self. You guys have all the respect I can give, for sharing your love and giving your cooperation to run this camp. Loves.

- And of course, the members, for being actively participating in the activities planned for you. In particular, I’m glad and thankful towards Justin Ong, Wong Zhi Jun, and Koh Jia Wei, for being a great sport in this camp than you guys usually were, and for your cooperation in the camp. Particularly to Zhi Jun’s contribution in the B.P. (Breakfast Party). I’m impressed.

- Last but not least, Rebecca and Fadhil, for ALL the help and tolerance in planning, organizing and running this camp, from DAY 1 of planning back in October, till the last day of camp. And also for the motivation and encouragement you gave me along the way. Thank you.

- Not to forget, the teachers, Mr Lim, Mr Mark and Ms Irene Ng, for sacrificing their time with their family to be with us throughout the 5 days camp, making it such an enjoyable one for all the band members who were present. I believe that if they know how much the members enjoyed the band camp and how many missed the camp and wished for similar camps, they would know that their efforts and sacrifices for the GYSB family have not gone to waste.

- And of course, to Mr Goh Kim Seng and Mr Wilson Ong, for taking time off their schedules to be at the camp to provide assistance in the training and allowing the members to be able to take their playing abilities to a higher level.

That should be pretty much it. I hope I didn’t leave out anyone.
The next year approaches and it’ll be a new beginning for everyone. I hope you’ll continue to spread the love and care that we built up throughout the years in band, and even when you graduate. The new members will come in and will need as much motivation and encouragement as they can get when they first handle the instruments. I hope that there will be less dropping out rate next year and we’ll all be able to come as a team and graduate as the team. We try our best to LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND. Do try to encourage one another at times. And what we can first help is, to help one another in the academic studies. We can guide one another to help improve in our studies so there will be less complains from parents to ask for their child to quit band because of their results. And to you, my dear students, Studying and Participating in a CCA are 2 tasks that you are required to undertake and MANAGE. This is a learning process for you to pick up time management skills. Because in future, you will have to manage your Family, and Your Career, and some of you might also have to handle your Investments and Hobbies. That’s 4 things against 2 things now. And on top of which, your Parents will also be part of your concern as they grow old. If you choose to give up on your CCA because you can’t handle your studies, does it mean that you will give up your career if you can’t handle your Family in future? Or would you end up even giving up on looking after your family so that you can spend more time on your work? We have all got to learn to face obstacles and not give up on them. Besides, to be honest, it’s not about the QUANTITY of time you have to study that determines your results. It’s the QUALITY of each second you spend studying. Meaning, it’s not how much time you spend sitting by your books but what you REALLY do when you are sitting by your books. I can spend 1 hour sitting with a book and dream away, but i will still learn nothing as compared to someone who spends 1 minute really focusing on the topic. Learn to focus more on QUALITY TIME. That will help you manage your tasks better. I’m pretty sure that if you do not know how to achieve QUALITY TIME, even if I were to give you 24 hours more each day to study, you will have no difference as before. Be responsible to yourself. It’s your own future that you’re studying for. Your parents work hard to give you a good life, you have to try your best to take over from them and not focus 100% of your life on having fun. Suffer abit now for the 10 to 14 years of education and have a better life for the rest of your 50 to 70 years. Do you intend to enjoy now and suffer longer in future?? Think about it.

I hope to see that the band will grow in the coming years, not just in terms of band playing standard, but also your academic results. I wish to give out as many academic awards as possible to commend your good efforts. Feel free to come to anyone in the band family for help. Rebecca, Fadhil and I will do our best to help you academically as we can. And I believe your fellow band members can help you out if you approach them. We are a family, let’s help one another become better. Let’s build a healthy family name for others to envy. Okie?

Take Care, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and may you spread the love you have to your family and loved ones. Cheers!

Loves,
Stick Waver.