“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” - Plato’s words still echo through time - and never more so than in our vibrant new music spaces at the Junior Arts Centre. Purpose-built, inviting, and brimming with possibility, these new facilities have already begun to redefine what music means for our Junior students: a place not just for playing notes, but for finding voice, sharing stories, and building confidence, one beat at a time.

This Music Spotlight Week was a joyful celebration of these new spaces, and what a rich and resonant week it has been! With daily performances, expert masterclasses, and dynamic workshops, children across the Junior School immersed themselves in the world of sound, rhythm and creativity. Thanks to the generous support of the Tanglin Trust School Foundation, our students experienced music not only as performers but also as inspired listeners and enthusiastic collaborators.

Every day this week, the J: Hub came alive with energy during our Open Mic sessions, where children from each year group were invited to share their musical talents with their peers. From piano solos to choreographed pop songs performed by aspiring pop groups, the performances were as diverse as they were inspiring. It was a true celebration of individuality, expression and joy.

On Monday, Yao Cong Tan, ABRSM examiner and Regional Development Executive, led a masterclass for the children preparing for the upcoming recitals. With thoughtful feedback and insightful tips, the session gave students a clearer understanding of how to bring depth and musicality to their performances. It was a valuable and encouraging experience for all participants.

Another highlight of the week was the arrival of internationally renowned vocal coach Dylan Foster from Total Vocal, who delivered a series of brilliant and engaging workshops, A Cappella Loops, to every student in the Junior School. Using only his voice and a vocal loop station, Dylan demonstrated how singers can recreate the sounds of drums, bass, and brass, building a full musical arrangement live in real time. Children were amazed by how a single voice could be transformed into an entire ensemble, and had the chance to join in—performing, layering, and learning as part of a live vocal creation. It was fun, fresh, and utterly unforgettable.

Midweek brought a series of stunning Lunchtime Recitals that showcased the depth of musical talent across the Junior School. On Tuesday, our Year 3 and 4 children took to the stage, performing on instruments as varied as the violin, electric guitar, and voice. Their confidence and poise were matched only by the joy they brought to their music.

Wednesday’s Lunchtime Recital featured our Year 5 and 6 musicians, who delivered accomplished performances across a wide range of instruments—from flute and piano to vocals and strings. The audience was treated to everything from classical pieces to contemporary favourites, all performed with skill and enthusiasm.

And on Friday, we were thrilled to welcome several of our Senior School Music Scholars, who performed for our Year 5 and 6 students in a special lunchtime concert. Their talent, passion and polish gave our younger students a glimpse of what’s possible with dedication and love for music—and served as powerful role models for the musical journeys still to come.

As the final notes of the week rang out, it became clear that the new music spaces in the Junior Arts Centre are far more than just rehearsal rooms—they are creative hubs where imagination flourishes, confidence grows, and community is built through shared experience.

From open mics to masterclasses, vocal loops to lunchtime recitals, this week has been a powerful reminder of how music brings us together—and just how much talent lies within our Junior School. We are very grateful to Dylan Foster, Yao Cong Tan, parents and students for their dedication and support. We can’t wait to hear what comes next.