'Mystery act' at start of SPH special concert

Singapore Press Holdings (SPH), which turns 30 this year, will kick off its anniversary celebrations on Saturday by hosting a special concert by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO).

Conductor Joshua Tan and his orchestra will share the stage with the Singapore Symphony Children's Choir, performing works ranging from classical pieces to movie themes.

The concert starts at 3pm at Paragon Shopping Centre and there will also be a "mystery opening act".

It will launch SPH Gift of Music 2014, a free concert series for the community which has been sponsored by SPH since 2005.

There will be 24 concerts this year, including one by the SSO at the newly refurbished Victoria Concert Hall in August; Pesta Raya, a Malay festival of arts featuring local and regional Malay artists in August; and a Getai Night in November showcasing some of Singapore's popular getai singers who will perform hits from the 1970s and 1980s.

Ding Yi Music Company will make its debut in the series, staging two concerts.

The group of award-winning musicians is known for its wide-ranging repertoire, from traditional Chinese music to modern interpretations of classical pieces.

Returning to the Gift of Music series will be Singapore Lyric Opera's Opera in the Park, the SCO Community Concerts by Singapore Chinese Orchestra, The Philharmonic Winds and the Singapore Wind Symphony, and Kaala Utsavam, the Indian festival of arts at the Esplanade.

SPH has also lined up other events to mark its 30th anniversary, including the SPH Lucky 30 Draw in March, special subscription deals in July, and anniversary offers for readers in August.

Visit www.sph.com.sg/sph-gift-of-music/ for the list of concerts this year.

laurang@sph.com.sg

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