East Spring Military Band

SYF' 2011

2011-03-13T22:32:00.004+08:00

OKay band. It's been a month since there's a post.
SYF is exactly 23 days ahead from today. Let's not slack alright?!
Many sections have been coming back for sectionals. And that is awesome.
But what I wanna emphasize is that, we need some band spirit here! For this upcoming band camp, Hanif will only be joining us on the last day, Thursday.
I really need everyone's cooperation for the three days. It's gonna be tough, real tough.
Especially for the sec4s. Motivational talk + ASP and more ASP.

To my juniors :
The sec4s will not be with you guys for the whole of 1st day morning and afternoon. Please, do not be afraid. Mr Ng will be strict but use this time to show him how well you can play!

To sec4s :
Motivational talk in the morning and sound check in the night. Nope, it's not easy. But we're all in this together! Complains and burning midnight oil for SPA and the homeworks.. We went through 3years. What is 3days? We're the batch that went through 2 SYF, we're the batch that has competition every year, we're the batch that holds half our band size and we're the batch who's gonna bring our band to great heights!

I'm not good in expressing myself, but I hope you guys get what I mean. 3 weeks only. 3 more weeks! WE, as A BAND, WILL GET THE RESULT WE WANT FOR SYF! LET'S NOT REGRET!

"Band number 40, East Spring Symphonic Band, ________ (Bronze? Silver? Gold? or even Gold with honour?)" You guys decide. I know a lot of us wanna get GOLD. So let's work hard for it because there is no way it's gonna just fall from the sky alright? (:

Love,
Denise. Band Major

2011-02-14T15:16:00.002+08:00

Dear all,
For Total Defence Day tomorrow (15 Feb 2011), please wear BAND UNIFORM to school.

2011-01-26T10:54:00.001+08:00

Dear all ex band members,

I am collating the names of students who are / will be coming back occasionally to help out in band practices / band camps / band activities. I will need your

1) Full Name,
2) email address,
3) hp no.
4) home no.
5) year graduated from ESSS.

Please send me your particulars via sms / email (tan_huaying_maybelline@moe.edu.sg / private message on facebook. I will need the information by this Friday 28 Jan 2011.

Ms Tan

2010-11-20T12:59:00.001+08:00

Item List

4-5 t-shirts (ESSS or Band T-shirt)
4-5 shorts/slacks (PE shorts or plain dark blue)
1 full set of toiletries (shampoo, shower foam, comb.. etc)
Bath towel/face towel
4 sets of undergarment
2 pairs of socks ( NO ankle socks)
1 pair of track shoes
1 torch light with extra working batteries
1 mug
1 empty 1.5 l Ice Mountain bottle
Writing materials
A pair of slippers
1 sleeping bag
Sweater/jacket

Optional items:
Medicine (if necessary)
Plastic bags for wet clothings
Insect repellent

ATTENTION:
Make sure all your belongings have your name on it.
No electronic devices.
No contact lenses
No valuables

2010-11-03T14:23:00.002+08:00

Dear all,
Its been sometime since I last posted.

To all the alumni, not sure if you've been told, Ms Cloven Ong has left teaching so is no longer with us in the band. We have a new teacher in charge, Mr Evan Lau since June 2010 =)

What has gone on this year:
1) All the school based performance as usual.
2) NBC -- silver award
3) Charity concert at Victoria JC (thanks to all who came down to support.

There is also a facebook account, but not very very active.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=lf#!/pages/esmb/59865067557?v=info

Anyway, this is the season when the preparation for SYF begins. Set piece will be coming in on 15 November. Some song about the Singapore Flyer or Friendship.

Choice piece is the one we have performed during NBC, but more improvements to be made.

In 2009, our silver came from a lot of factors. Efforts from the entire band, support from the alumni and Mr Ng.

In 2011, we want to and have to aim for a silver / gold. The band has been one of the CCAs selected to achieve the Sustained Achievement Award in 2011, therefore, we need to sustain the silver.

All alumni, do come down during the various practices to lend your support if you can =)

All current band members, full attendance is appreciated (unless there is valid reason)

There will be a band camp on 23 Nov - 26 Nov 2010 (yes, 4d3n) run by the current sec 3 committee.. they have been eagerly meeting up to plan for the camp. Come down and join us.

We'll also be having a Band Exchange with Yuying Secondary School on 23 Nov afternoon.

I do hope to see all of you soon. Take care and keep in touch =)

Love,
Ms Maybelline Tan (soon to be known as Mrs Maybelline Low)

2010-07-31T12:01:00.001+08:00

hey people!!
good job for yesterday's exchange with Huayi!!
continue to work hard and play better :)

2010-07-03T12:40:00.001+08:00

Hey for those ppl who wants to go for NBC, the tickets are with ME!!(michelle)

2010-06-16T16:02:00.001+08:00

ONE MORE PRACTICE! 25/06 FRIDAY!

REPORT AT 7.30AM. DO NOT BE LATE.

2010-06-04T23:17:00.002+08:00

hey ppl..the attendance for the past few practices have been bad..like what the previous post said, NBC is round the corner..it will be around the second week of july..work hard and encourage your friends who usually 'pon' band to come for every practice.as everyone plays a big part.although mr ng will be like scolding and expecting too much from you guys, but try to out yourself in his shoes..if he doesn't maintain the results, he may be fired..
you guys may think that the one that he's scolding is not me.but i tell you, your seniors and i or should i say the ppl who take part in SYF in 2009 got it worse than you guys now..we had a band camp before SYF and what we do during the camp is practice and practice and practice till our lips tear..i'm not scaring you guys, but this will not happen to you all.
i spoke to mr ng over the phone a few weeks ago, he ask me what do i think the band could get for SYF..i seriously can't answer him..then i told him, why not train the band like how we did during the SYF 2009 but start earlier this time so it may be possible to achieve a gold..but he said that he did not want ppl to start quitting..
i've to admit and so do some of your seniors that mr ng is one of the best conductors around..he cooks for us during band camps and BBQs..i don't think there's any other conductors who do the same..so cherish the time you have in band and not absent yourself..
goodluck ppl for NBC and SYF..all the best!!

Michelle

2010-06-03T16:04:00.003+08:00

Okay band, I don't know if you guys know but NBC is round the corner. We have LESS THAN 10 PRACTICES to it! I know some of the sec 1s are doing well but I hope that everyone will do their best. Mr Ng may be a little harsh but he meant well for us. I don't wish to see anymore absentees during practices. Some of your excuses are just not valid enough to be absent. Just do your best for this last few practices only. Please, I really hope everyone will be present for the rest of the practice unless you are really sick OR you're going overseas. ESPECIALLY THE SEC 3s! Please make it for the practices.

June Holiday Practice

2010-05-28T20:10:00.005+08:00

HELLO!! Here are the dates for the holiday practices.

2nd June (wednesday) : 1pm - 5pm (REPORT AT 12.30 PM)

4th June (friday) : 8am - 12pm (REPORT AT 7.3o AM) *

7th June (monday) : 8am - 12pm (REPORT AT 7.30 AM) *

9th June (wednesday) : 1pm - 5pm (REPORT AT 12.30 PM)

11th June (friday) : 8am - 12pm (REPORT AT 7.30 AM) *

This are the dates for this holiday practice. Please DO NOT be LATE!!

PS : Comm members, SL and ASL, please come back to school on Thursday (3rd June) and report at 9am. ONLY comm members, SL and ASL.

If there is anything you want to verify, please ask your section leaders or contact me.

**Denise**

2010-04-15T20:45:00.003+08:00

Hi Band!!This might be the last time im going to post anymore. Tmr speech day remember to be at the class room at 2 and be on ur best behavior.It will be the last performance for the sec 4s.Do your best tomorrow.all the best band members (: byes!!^^

JIASHENG.DM XD

2010-03-14T00:24:00.003+08:00

Hey people!!
This is the schedule for the holiday practices:)
Wednesday:
- 8.30am to 12noon (practice)
- 12noon to 3pm (games)
- half uniform (school bottom and any school shirt)

Friday:
- 8.30am to 12noon (practice)
- half uniform

Have fun during the holidays:)

Michelle

2010-01-28T21:56:00.002+08:00

Hello ESSB/ESMB !!
January is going to end and next month the Sec 1s are coming in(if I'm not wrong). The Sec 2s will no longer be the "babies" in the band. They have grown to be seniors like everyone of us, they will have to teach their juniors now. I know that it feels weird at first but you will get used to it. For the Sec 3s, you guys will be the next batch of majors and the batch to take over our duties as we, Sec 4s are stepping down in like another 4 or 3 months time. For those Sec 4s that just joined the band, although they are not able to play the instruments, please try to make them feel a sense of belonging to band:) Hope you will enjoy being part of this band and make the others feel the same way too:)

Love
Michelle

CCA attachment

2010-01-17T01:23:00.002+08:00

hello!!
as all of you knows that wednesday will be your CCA attachment.Each and everyone of you plays a part.Not a normal one,but a very IMPORTANT one.hope that all of you will do your best and make the sec1's be interested in band.The number of sec1's coming in depends on each and everyone of you.a big band or a small band also depends on YOU!!every small things YOU do for the band would make a big difference.So hope that everyone of you will make the effort to be on their best on wednesday.Thanks

JIASHENG!XD

2010-01-03T02:12:00.003+08:00

HAPPY 2010!!
Lets talk about what we hope to achieve this year:)
hmm...jia sheng and i talked about it and we hope that the band and committee members will work hard to achieve those goals..haha
okay..1.a bigger band
2.a better sound
3.be more united
this are the 3 main things:)
work hard:)see you guys on wed:)

In case you all forgot about the reporting time...let me remind you!!haha.
Day: Wednesday and Friday
Time: 2.30pm
Reporting time: 2.15pm

Make sure you get ready before Mr Ng comes in:)

2009-12-20T14:17:00.007+08:00

Hey there will be concert on the 27 December 2009:
Details below...

Venue: Victoria Concert Hall
Time: 3pm
Date: 27 December 2009
Day: Sunday
Ticket Price: $10/ticket

Repertoire:
Blue Sky and Sunshine March - Toshihiro Fujishiro
A Huntingdon Celebration - Philip Sparke
Loch Lomond - Frank Ticheli
Second Suite for Band - Alfred Reed
To Be a Vivid Star - Satoshi Yagisawa
Battleship Yamato - Hiroshi Miyagawa
Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (Flute Solo) - Toshio Mashima

Please inform me whether you are going or not so I can tell Mr Ng:)

Michelle

2009-12-04T20:02:00.003+08:00

Hi people!!
Glad to see and hear that many of you enjoyed the band camp:)
It is indeed a successful one. Thanks to all the committee members for the planning and thanks to the rest of the band members for your participation:)Last but not least, I have to thank some of the alumni who helped out.
THANK YOU!!

Michelle

Band Camp

2009-11-18T00:15:00.004+08:00

Hey Dear Band mates and Alumni!!
This are the things that you need to bring for band camp:)

To Bring(no harm bringing more):
- 4 ESSS T-shirts
- 4 shorts
- 1 towel
- 4 sets or more undergarments
- 2 pair of socks
- 1 pair of track shoes
- 1 torch light
- 1 mug
- 1 1.5 litre bottle
- writing materials
- SLEEPING BAG!!
- MONEY!!
- plastic bags for wet clothes

Optional:
- Medicine (if necessary)
- insect repellent

Optional BUT AT YOUR OWN RISK:
- contact lens
- electronic devices

ATTENTION:
- Make sure your belongings have your name on it.
- Food will not be provided during breakfast, lunch and dinner, you will be allowed to go to Tampines Mart to eat. Make sure that the amount that you bring is enough to fill your empty stomachs throughout the camp.
- If you are not feeling well, please report to either one of the seniors. This is to ensure that the camp is an enjoyable one:)

Have fun packing:)

Michelle

2009-11-09T19:57:00.002+08:00

Hello ppl!!There are 2 concerts which you can go...

Band Playing:
Singapore Wind Symphony West Winds

Date/Day:
15th Nov 2009 (Sunday)

Time:
5 pm

Venue:
Esplanade

Admission Fee:
Free

For the concert on 15th NOV 2009 (SUNDAY), please inform me whether you can go by 11th NOV 2009 (WEDNESDAY).

Band Playing:
Temasek Polytechnic

Date/Day:
20th Nov 2009 (Friday)

Time:
7.30pm

Venue:
Victoria Concert Hall

Admission Fee:
$10/ticket

For the concert on 20th NOV 2009 (FRIDAY), please inform me whether you can go by 16th NOV 2009 (MONDAY).

Michelle

2009-11-08T15:28:00.002+08:00

Hello Everyone! :D

It's been a looooong looooooooooooooooooooooooooong time since I posted something up here and reading all the posts kinda disheartens me a little. I thought I forgot the password to the blog but apparently, esmb has grown to be a part of me and i still figured what the username and password was. Hee.

I dont think I'd want to bore you people with the big motivation speech and everything. So I guess I'll just keep it relatively simple. Or at least I'll try.

My apologies for not being able to be there for you guys very often. School has taken up my life away and the only time i can come around is when i have holidays or when i finish early. and most of the time, it's such a hassle to get into esss now -_- but anyway. I know how sucky you people feel. I know how demoralising it is. long story short, I know what you guys are feeling. Cos well, I've been there.

To those who wanna quit, well, i think people will hate me for saying this. but if you wanna quit. QUIT. Go to Miss Tan or Miss Ong and tell them "I QUIT" what's stopping you? Hesitating to quit? Wanna know why? Cos deep down you still wanna be part of this team. People dont hesitate unless they're still emotionally attached to that something. In this case, band. If you really have no interest, you can go ahead and quit. But do you? I dont think so. You consult your friends. You consult yourselves. Ask yourself- "should i, or should i not? Ahhh I dunno" But lemme tell you, a CCA is just a CCA. Can you imagine a job? People criticsise you for doing yr work the wrong way. You dont like it. You quit. So what? how many jobs are you gonna quit before settling for your FINAL job?

And for those of you who are certain that you wanna quit. Goodbye. Why? Cos only weaklings QUIT. If you fail to make Mr Ng happy, you're not a failure. But if you let Mr Ng get to you and QUIT, then you're a failure. And to the foundation of the band who still remain strong despite the hardships, never ever give up. You gotta show others what you're made of. With or without the few who want to quit. keep fighting. and never back down.

You people accomplished sooooo much thus far. Dont waste it all away.

I love you people. I learnt loads of stuff in my sec sch life. I learnt alot of stuff in band. I learnt alot of stuff working with people in band and that includes Mr Ng. yes, as harsh as he is sometimes, he's only doing that cos he knows there's something in us that is worth his time.

One day. You people will be in my shoes and look back and smile cos lemme tell you. sec sch is the best years of your life. all the drama and the politics. you'll miss it after you graduate.
make the moment count.

xoxo,
tiara

2009-10-19T14:07:00.002+08:00

oops..i'm sorry for not including the time in the previous post..
the timings are the same for the usual practices..
in case you guys forget..
Wednesday:
2.30pm start so get ready by then..
Friday:
same as wed unless there is any changes..

Michelle

2009-10-18T23:33:00.001+08:00

hello people!!
phew..it's finally after exams and it is now back to band practices!!lol..guess i'm being to hyper here..
but just to inform you guys..

BAND IS GONNA RESUME ON 23 OCT 09(FRIDAY)

hope to see you guys soon!!

Love,
Michelle

2009-09-06T21:48:00.002+08:00

THINGS TO BRING FOR GAMES DAY:

1. Extra set of dark coloured clothes and undergarments (gonna get wet!!)
2. Slippers/extra pair of shoes (wear shoes to school, slippers are only meant for
changing after the games)
3. Money for lunch

Michelle

2009-09-06T21:35:00.004+08:00

Hello bandmates!!

The holiday band practices are as follows:

Thursday
Time: PRACTICE-7.30am to 12 noon (report at 7am sharp)
LUNCH-12 noon to 1pm
GAMES-start at 1.15pm
Attire: Half-Uniform

Friday
Time: PRACTICE-8.30am to 12 noon (report at 8am sharp)
SHORT BREAK-12 noon to 12.40pm
MAINTAINENCE-start at 12.45pm
Attire: Any school attire

Michelle:)

2009-09-06T09:02:00.002+08:00

Hi band,

I believe this is the first time I’m posting something up on the band blog. I’m not someone who’s into blogging, but I thought I should share some of my thoughts about what has been going on lately.

We have been hearing news of our members wanting to quit band, one by one. And the reasons are the same – (i) Mr Ng, (ii) Long hours, (iii) Band is boring.

It is very very sad, and frustrating in fact, to know that our fellow band members are losing interest and giving up on something that has taken many years to establish. And I believe I speak on behalf of Ms Tan and the seniors too.

Coming from band myself, I’ve always enjoyed playing the trumpet and playing music with the band. I joined band many years back, when I was in Primary 2. And band became my only CCA for over 10 years.

Throughout my years in band, I was pretty much like all of you; I got bored at times and skipped band; I hated my instructor and called him the nastiest nicknames behind his back; I screwed up in many performances and ended up in tears.

Yet now, I see my days in band as one of the most memorable and treasured times in my school life.

I hope those of you who are thinking of quitting will reconsider your decision and choose wisely. Do not harp on the unpleasant memories (e.g. Mr Ng’s scoldings, etc). But think about the fun times in band, your section mates, your friends, and most importantly, the joy of playing music together.

And trust me, in time to come, you’ll look back and think of band days as one of your fondest memories in school.

Love,
Miss Ong

**

Reminder:
Band pracs during Sep hols will be on Thursday and Friday. Please report at 8am. Seniors, if you're coming, please be properly attired (school top), proper shoes, and no dyed hair.

2009-09-03T09:55:00.003+08:00

Please Update your details on the contact list. include all the necessary details. I need these information. Do so before the 2SE examinations. Save the file when you are done.

Click on this link Contact List

Love,
Miss Tan

2009-09-02T07:38:00.003+08:00

Just 2 weeks when I'm not around, so many things happened. This is where I have to step in.

Before that, Let me share with you somethings you may or may not have known about the band and how I feel towards it.

A story about ESMB, a story about Choices and Resilience
The band was formed just about the time when the school was formed. Should be in 1999. Before that, we had a wonderful instructor, Mr Samuel Tan. He's nice, friendly and a very fatherly figure. However, things were taken for granted. In fact, many of them.

Students started off fine, enthusiastic, wanting to learn. However, they became complacent. Because the teachers in charge then were always changing, Mr Tan don't scold them, they start to well, become less hardworking. Many chances to perform in school and in public, chances to do take part in SYF, competitions. They had games day and day camps during the school holidays as well. Why were we called the East Spring Military Band? I'm not sure. But I feel it was because of the former school Principal, who was very very supportive of the Band and hoped that one day, we can truly become a Military Band

SYF comes around. For 2001, 2003, 2005, each time, the East Spring Military Band was given a Certificate of Participation (COP). No Bronze, Silver, Gold. Just a simple "Thank you for your participation".

By this time, yes, many many people have become demoralised. They made choices - Quit band, don't come, or stayed on.

I came into East Spring in 2006, about the same time Mr Ng was hired. I saw the way he worked. He was a slave driver -- he made sure students come, students played and practiced. He yelled, screamed, punished and used certain remarks, some of which I may not approve of.

But have you ever wondered "Why"? Think about it before you read on.

I came across a quote, "If people are screaming at you to get things done, be glad about it. When they don't, it meant that they have given up on you."

In a nutshell, Mr Ng has very very high expectations of himself, of the band. He saw potential, un-cut gems. He saw things that many people would not have seen it. But then, he also saw that there were many who well, didn't quite work hard enough, practiced enough. Many of these people were the GEMS. So he did what he had to -- scream at them when they didn't play well.

What do these people do?
They had choices. 1) Avoid which means quitting. 2) Press on, grit their teeth, bear with it.

Those who chose (1), some of them actually came up to me and asked "Can I still join Band?", some regretted the choice they made and others, well, have not seen the consequences yet.

Those who chose (2). They were the lot who became more resilient. They were the lot who worked really hard in band, and used the same kind of peseverance and determination in their studies, in their life. They became high-achievers. And of course some of them became a little "over passionate".

At this point, I would never fail to give comments to these students. How they have contributed to the band, to the achievements of the band. How through their dedication they had became role models to the band members and the juniors.

1 thing that you may not know. For this year, most of the students in Sec 4 and 5, they had long long comments about their contributions for the band, and they had A1 and A2 for their CCA points. If you don't believe, ask them. Ask those in Sec 4s and 5s especially those who may not have any major leadership roles in band.

In 2007, we had the 1st annual band camp during the Dec holidays. The current batch of students who are graduating this year were the exact same few people who had neary chose to quit band. Some cited Mr Ng as reasons, others said it had become too boring, too monotonous. I'm glad many of them stayed. Why did it become monotonous? 1) we have very much exhausted the funds for the SYF. 2) after the SYF, the focus is again on building up the skills and foundations of the Sec 1 - 3 students. 3) not many opportunities to perform in public. But we had our public performance at the Bird Park that year after the camp.

In 2008, Band has participated in the National Band Competition, we had our annual Band Camp in Dec, in between, we had a couple of games day.

And in 2009, you know the details. For the first time, Sec 1s were involved in the Speech Day, although well, not all of them were involved and they weren't exactly playing instruments. They were involved.

And the rest, you all already know.

As much as I could, and Miss Ong could, we spent time thinking about band and when possible, joined in or observed the band practices. But many times, it's not that we don't want to, we really couldn't.

And I think many would know by now, I was never in band when I was in Sec school. I was given Band to be in-charge of because I had some music background (the piano). And I chose to work with it, work with what I have and tried my best to keep the band together. Till now, though sometimes I tried, I am still unsuccessful when trying my hands on the brasses or the woodwinds. The only one that was able to make the sound most easily was the percussion. Miss Ong joined in 2007 and both of us have been here till now.

Ask the seniors, especially those who have already graduated. How many teachers-in-charge they had over the years? How much activities they had then other than band practices? How many pieces of songs they were able to play?

My current worry is that there are many band members now who are taking things for granted. Who become less resilient, who are giving up easily because they have not seen any other problems that is harder or more difficult than band practices and Mr Ng.

I worry for these students who quit, but they made the choice to avoid the problem.

But my area of concern is to make sure that the ones remaining in band continue to grow. That's why, every year, all of you will have at least a chance to try in organising, being in charge of events like games day, orientations etc. It's for you to work together, for me and Miss Ong to see who are the potential leaders, your strengths and weaknesses and how you could contribute to the leading of the band.

I firmly believe, when you are thrown in a situation, given many roles to play, take the lead and work together, you learn a whole lot more. I am speaking from experience. That's why I let the band maj, drum maj and the committee members to take the lead while Miss Ong and I watched. Of course, these were the peoeple who came up to us to share about their problems. These were the people who grew a lot more compared to those who chose to quit.

I am proud of the achievements of the band. I am proud of the students who graduated when I'm in charge. I am proud of their achievements till now. I'm sure Miss Ong shares the same sentiments.

For the current band students, I want to see you grow, to become the most resilient batch of students I've ever seen. I want the band to be able to achieve a gold award in SYF 2011. In order to do that, grit your teeth, bear with it. Share your problems with Me and Miss Ong. (We don't bite but we may nag. no guarantees)

For the overseas trip, like many other overseas trip, because of the H1N1, we have to cancel. But we are going to have a 3 Day 2 N Band Camp in school and I want you to take the lead in suggesting activities.

The choice is always yours. So make the best choice for yourself, for your development, for your future. Many people make choices for instant satisfaction. What does it mean? think about it.

Love,
Miss Tan

(PS: can someone who is more blog savy make this writing space a little wider? =) it's annoying to see some of the words cut at the edges!)

ESMB~!

2009-08-29T22:36:00.001+08:00

HELLO EVERYONE ^^ THIS ISH ENRICA.YOUR QUATER MISTRESS AND I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY :D.

first of all, i have heard of many people wanting to quit band. I really really wanna know why yew guys wanna quit band. Is it because of mr ng? or is it cos yew guys dont get to play awesome songs? or is it yew find it just plain boring? or yew find it hard to play an instrument. LET ME STATE MY POINT CLEARLY. IF yew HAVE any PROBLEMS about band. I AM REALLY SERIOUS. PLS PLS PLS tell one of us. michelle, jiasheng, me or whoever. Even the teachers! WE WILL NOT SCOLD YEW. we will not scold yew without a reason as, i believe that everyone in band plays a very important part. one gone. the whole band collapses. So whut? if we're weak now? we're new. especially the new CUTE LITTLE SEC 1s!! :D people dont just pick up an instrument and starts playing all the running notes~! if that someone does it. PLS TELL ME. TY. x.x I'LL CALL HIM A GENIUS. Mr Ng? if he doesnt even scold yew. will your playing even improve? will you ever get to play better in your instrument? i know he's harsh when it comes to scolding. BUT SERIOUSLY, take it as an advice. i know yew guys dont like getting scolded and all. but pls try your best to learn the music well. Its not about the notes. Its about the story in that score. its the feelings. Everything. a person who plays with feelings will play better than someone who just simply read the scores. Why did joo choose band? a BAND ish a group of people coming together with one simple goal. TO PLAY MUSIC. thats whut it is. Thats why yew chose band. everything takes time, like i said. yew think all the professional players learn how to play within a year? they take up alot of time to practice and stuff. thats all i have to say.
SECONDLY, i saw the tagboard of our blog. people think we're a recreational CCA? let them think whut they want. I BELIEVE that our band ish good. why would we win a silver? after all the hard work and practices. and i was REALLY HURT when i saw this coming from the seniors. I saw it and i started tearing. i felt a sense of sadness cos i couldnt believe that the seniors are saying these things. I love all my seniors. all of them ^^ and i will continue to do so. and i really hope yew guys will give our current ESMB your support. I LOVE ESMB and i hope we will continue to strive on. if yew guys have any problems, pls tell me, michelle or jiasheng or anyone in the commitee, or even the teachers. I REPEAT THIS AGAIN. WE WILL NOT HATE YEW WE WILL NOT SCOLD YEW. <333 ESMB!

XOXO,
Enrica, quarter mistress :D
<33333333333333333333

quit quit quit!!

2009-08-29T16:28:00.000+08:00

ESMB!!!!!
okok i have been hearing that many members from band wants to quit band.but you have to look for the teacher incharge before quitting band.No point telling Michelle or I when u wants to quit.You cant just leave as and when you want.And Band is one of your choices when choosing your CCA.There must be a reason why you wants to quit.So you could look for teachers in charge for help.Im sure they will help you very willingly.

For some people who just come as and when you like,I want to say that band is a CCA.REAL CCA!!Band is not a hobby where you can come when you feel like coming.Its not like today you feel like coming then come.Dont feel like coming dont come.Like that i dont think Band is your CCA in East Spring anymore.It is more like a hobby you like to do in East Spring.

And for the seniors!!!!please stop all the negative comments anymore.It will not bring the band any better but making the band worst indtead.Its like now the band is very badly hurt and you are there making the band even worst instead of helping.So i really wish you seniors could tag or post somethings sweet or encouraging to the band.Every word from you will make a difference to the band.When you see your juniors you could also talk to them and make them more interested in band.Instead of everyday saying 2 words"BAND DIE!!" AFTER HEARING THIS WHO THE HELL WOULD WANT TO GO TO BAND ANYMORE!!!!!!So seniors i really wish to hear positive comments from you.remember!!every comments makes a difference!!!!

And to those people who want to quit i really think you should think about it.Quit just because you get scolded by Mr Ng??Then what about our school's netball,basketball and the uniform groups members??They also get many scoldings from their CCA leaders.But they still continue to go for their CCA right?I beleive each and everyone of you are strong people.All of you can perservere.Is only you want or you dont want.Whatever things you do in life,you need to perservere to get the results.I beleive everone of you pass your PSLE right??But how you do it??It is just that you perservere from primary 1-6,work very hard and being able to pass your PSLE.This goes same to band.

So i really hope you people will think about it and make a difference.

JIASHENG!!!!

ESMB all the way.

2009-08-29T06:59:00.000+08:00

Alright alright. Enough of all those things at the tagboard. And Ken, don't die so soon. :P
I've been hearing things that are rather dissapointing to the alumnis. But hey, I am sure those who wanted to quit have their own relevant reasons right? (oh please do)
Look, we've all built up the band together to achieving that Silver in NBC and also Silver in SYF. It was not made possible without the cooperation and the teamwork that all of you have put in. We shared so much love and friendship that I felt ESMB was part of me. (It still is) In this coming 4 years, I've seen how ESMB has grown. We face much hardships but we managed to pull it through, slowly but surely. Now, look at where we stand. We're a silver band. Eventhough Gold might be a much more desirable name we could get, but for now, it is enough for us to know that we've improved alot. And that is because of the tireless effort and the time you guys spent on ESMB. Each and everyone of you. I mean, look. We've come so so far, and looking at how the situation now might not be a good example to the juniors. Maybe, some of you face difficulties in band and this results you in wanting to quit. But before that, let us know what is the problem. I am sure that there are solutions to it that all of us can compromise so that ESMB will be a CCA that the members can find comfort in.

To those who want to quit, please spare some moments to really think and come to a really good decision.
Because EVERY OF YOU makes ESMB. And if one is gone, it'll never be the same.
It'll really never be the same..

Rest assured, your alumnis are always ready to be a listening ear to any one of you.
Do not hesitate to approach us if any of you require some help. Although we might be a bit busy, I'm a sure a few minutes or so we are able to sacrifice for all of you.

I really hope ESMB will stay strong, because this is where I feel I most belong in ESSS.

With much love,
Farah.

what is ESMB without the smile on each and everyone's face?
what is ESMB without the compassion and love to be shared?
what is ESMB without its loving and amazing members?

2009-08-22T22:08:00.002+08:00

Dear Bandmates,

i know some of you guys face problems in band and that is the reason why you did not come for band. Some of you find that band is getting more boring, it is because it is after SYF and we have to teach the Sec 1s. If not they will feel very left out and then next quit..I'm sure you do not want that to happen right, so do I and for those who don't come for band because of certain people or any reason, feel free to tell jia sheng or myself:)

Michelle

2009-08-02T01:04:00.003+08:00

Michelle

Band resume

2009-07-15T20:13:00.002+08:00

URGENT!!!!
please take note that band practice will resume on wednesday(22nd july 2009) and friday(24th july 2009).Practices will start from 2:30-5.Wednesday is for brasses and percussion.Friday's practice will only be for wood winds.So please take note of the practices and this is COMPULSARY!!ATTENDENCE WILL BE TAKEN!!

JIASHENG

2009-07-09T22:47:00.003+08:00

Hey, senior drum major here. Not senior senior drum major. Just senior drum major. So go figure out.

Anyway, i need nice and hardworking photos. Those photos with meanings. Showing our talent, hardwork and dedication. I need them, as much as you guys can get so that we can fill up ONE WHOLE PAGE IN OUR SCHOOL END OF TERM I THINK MAGAZINE/BULLETIN!!! Isnt that great??!!
We have the whole page to ourselves!

Any shots taken using our new uniform while falling in or doing marching or whatever military drills, that would be of greater help.

If you do have any, just email it to me at Fird_93@hotmail.com.

Thank you. Take care.

2009-07-02T20:59:00.004+08:00

hey people!!thae SYF photo is out!!
link: http://www.syfphotography.com/previews/eastspringsec/eastspringsec.html
Super 6R [15 cm x 22 cm] = $ 12
Super 8R [20 cm x 30 cm] = $ 15
Super 12R [30 cm x 45 cm] = $ 60
Super 16R [40 cm x 60 cm] = $180
if you want to order, please inform miss tan:)

2009-06-24T15:21:00.003+08:00

Latest Info from Miss Ong...

THERE WILL BE NO BAND PRACTICES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

MICHELLE:)

2009-06-22T22:09:00.002+08:00

Hi Band

Really sorry about what had happen today.no one wishes something like that to happen): i really appreciate those people who made an effort to come today,especially those with their instruments.Please take note that there will not be any band practice on wednesday and on friday.so please do not go to school on wednesday and friday for band.Band practice will resume on normal school days.So i expect to see full attendence on the day with band practice.Thank you

JIASHENG!!!

2009-06-21T00:24:00.003+08:00

My dear bandmates, in order not to get scolded so badly because of not playing for 2 weeks, and to help the sec 1s keep up with the main band. So jia sheng and i decided to have band practices on monday(22/6/09), wednesday(24/6/09) and friday(26/6/09).

Details:
Time: 9am to 1pm(for all 3 days)
Venue: Music Room (take your temp. at the foyer before proceeding to the music room)
Attire: any pants with a SCHOOL SHIRT and NO SLIPPERS ALLOWED!!

if there is any queries, sms/call me or your SLs:)hope to see everyone.

MICHELLE stay happy:)

2009-06-21T00:19:00.002+08:00

hi band..
i'm so glad that some of you find the band bbq fun and awesome.me too!!haha..the turn out was not what i expected.i was quite surprised with the number of sec 1s that turn out.hope to have more band events and by the next event, i hope to see everyone there!!:)haha..

love,
michelle

2009-06-13T01:04:00.002+08:00

Details for the BBQ:
Date: 14 June 09, Sunday
Venue: Changi Beach, Pit 7
Time and venue to meet: 1pm at Tampines Interchange the MacDonalds (those who are meeting, sms Michelle)
Starting Time for BBQ: 5pm
Amt. to pay: $3

Things to bring:
1. Money (for those who haven pay)
2. Extra set of clothes

Michelle:)

2009-06-06T00:45:00.003+08:00

hi band..
for the practice on tues please bring along your pe shirt because there will be drills!!haha.so band practice will end later than usual so please inform your parents.and please report at 8.attendance will be taken at 8.those who are late.make sure you have a valid reason.:)and tell me whether you are going to the bbq by tues..please spread this around.thanks.

MICHELLE

band bbq

2009-05-29T22:40:00.003+08:00

HI BAND MATES!!!
are all of you excited about the bbq? it will be most probably be on the 14th june (to be comfirmed) . please give Michelle a reply on wheather u can make it for the band bbq or not during band practice on Tuesday. i won't be present on Tuesday, so please do not give Michelle, the commitee members and section leaders troubles and co-operate with them. Hope you all enjoy band pratice on tuesday!!

JIASHENG!!xD

2009-05-28T22:45:00.006+08:00

The Fairest of the Fair

2009-05-28T22:28:00.002+08:00

Hi band!!!
There is a slight change in the holiday's band practice. Instead of Wednesday and Friday, practice will change to Tuesday and Friday. As for Wednesdays, you can come back for sectionals.

Tuesday
Time: 9am to 12noon (report by 8.30am)
Venue: Music Room (most likely)

Friday
Time: 9am to 12noon (report by 8.30am)
Venue: Music Room (most likely)

Mr Ng will be here for both practices. So do not be late!!:)

-Michelle

2009-05-23T20:43:00.002+08:00

hello!!!!
exams are over!!do remember that there is practice this wednesday.like what jiasheng say, report by 2.25pm and get everthing ready by 2.40pm.please don't make things hard for us..haha!!see you guys soon...

Michelle

resuming of band practice!!

2009-05-23T19:52:00.003+08:00

YOOOOOO!!!

hey band members!!after such a long break from band and finally wednesday is our practice already.remember be there by 2.25pm and get ready.please do not be late and make things difficult for me!=D and also alumniesssssss please come if you are free too!! we will not forget you in band!!I really wish that you can join us with the band.=DD

ps:this is my 3rd time posting in my life so it may suck!sorry!xD

JIASHENG!!

2009-05-09T11:26:00.000+08:00

Farewell, My Friends, Adieu

I hate to say good-bye
Yet we have to say farewell
For we shall meet again
That I can foretell

The future is unpredictable
Tomorrow is uncertain
Keep our laughs and memoirs
But I wish you have no burden

We shall keep on learning
Remain as students and become as mentors
Face the unknown with confident yearning
Pursue our life endeavors

Farewell, my friends, adieu
I utter it with pain
Farewell, my friends, adieu
In sunshine or in rain

Farewell, my friends, adieu
This day would come, we knew
Our dreams we shall pursue
For now, my friends, adieu

Dhainee Pfafflin

Farah (:

2009-04-26T15:56:00.002+08:00

A random picture I know but I just want to share it :D

SOOOOOO CUUUUUUUUUTTTTTEEEEEEEEEEE!

Okay. That's enough, back to some important things that I should share rather than a picture of some cute lovely kittens in mugs, with innocent eyes saying, "Aren't I'm a cute little furry ball?"

Okay Farah. For real, stop it. (:

SPEECH DAY IS COMING! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? REHEARSALS YEAY!

We have two rehearsals coming up.

1) 29th April, Wednesday

*be at Music Room/AVA room (We'll see which one on that day itself.most prolly, AVA room) by 2.15pm.

by 2.30pm everyone must be seated!

2)4th May, Monday

*time and venue to be confirmed.

Both are FULL DRESS REHEARSALS.

I repeat, FULL DRESS REHEARSALS.

So, bring along your Band Uniforms and DO NOT BE LATE! DO NOT BE LATE!

ATTENDANCE IS COMPULSORY!

These are the songs that you should find and put it in your file :

1)Sundancing (must have!)

2) Shrek Dance Party (must have!)

3) Ponyo (must have!)

4) Overture No. 1(must have!)

5) Air Force One

6) Sock Hop Tonight!

7) Oteywarkani

8) In The Winter of 1730

9) First Love

10) King Across The Water

11) Spanish Fire

12) Guantanamera

13) March Together

14) Ai Pia Jia Eh Yah (however it is spelt but i'm sure you know the song)

SLs, by wednesday make sure all of it are in your files already. BY WEDNESDAY! that means, monday and tuesday go and find it all!

So yeah, two more weeks to Speech Day. Also, two more weeks to stepping down for the seniors.

I hope this Speech Day performance will be a very good one. Let's make it memorable.

Take care of the Sec Ones after we're gone. Keep improving, dear bandmates. Make us proud.

And oh, examinations are coming. Do not neglect your revisions okay?

I love you all (:

I love you all just the way you are (:

-BM Farah (:

There's never a right time to say goodbye

2009-04-25T17:18:00.003+08:00

Hello fellow band members,

I'm sure you guys are satisfied with the achievements we accumulated after all the years we've been through together. I'm sad to say we seniors are going to step down soon. Very soon.

You guys have been great companions to work with. The times we sacrificed for practice. To excel for the best. To find out how far we are able to stretch our limits. Now that you discovered many things that was long unexpected, this is the time for you to get ready, and pass down your strengths to the next group of wonderful and committed musicians-to-be. Not to forget, weaknesses helps to improve your strengths. Never remake mistakes. Further change our history where ESMB would write fingerings on scores and would be oblivious to mistakes made.

Help sustain the silver sitting on our shelf of glory. I've been smelling success ever since coming into ESMB. I hope the smell will still be there when we're gone.

I'm not here to scare you about how tough it would be or to make you feel dismayed. On the contrary, im here to tell you that you guys have potential in doing the best, in fact better than us. To lead ESMB to where band has never been to.

Much loves,
Drum Major
Firdaus:D

Achievement for Band

2009-04-07T14:13:00.002+08:00

Dear all,
We have all been delighted at the Silver award and I think as the first performing arts group to kick off the SYF this year, we have, in one way or another, inspired and motivated the other performing arts group. That is a good news.

Many teachers sent their congratulatory wishes to all of us. We'ver received email from Mrs Sng as well, congratulating us for the stellar performance.

To this note, I'd just like to add thoughts.

Through all the gruelling hours practices, the punishments, scoldings (especially by Mr Ng, myself and Miss Ong), all of you, without a doubt have become resilient. You didn't give up just because the piece was difficult, because Mr Ng was too harsh, because the hours were too long, because it was, well, too tiring.

You guys just did not give up.

You continued to work harder as a team, as a band, as East Spring Military Band.

Because of that, the result showed. Even without the results, the quality of performance showed. People who heard us years ago and compared to now comment on the tremendous improvements.

(Of course, new look, new style helped a little)

Take this as a learning point back in your life. When you meet obstacles and challenges, think about how you "survived" in band. If you can achieve such results in band, with the right attitude and mindset, in your lives, you'll definitely go far.

And yes, Miss Ong and I are really proud of you. So is Mr Ng. (Yes, Mr Ng..)

Let's put up another fantastic, bombastic, hair-raising performance for the speech day! We'll show them how the band have a good time, alright?

Love,
Miss Tan

PS: practice resume tomorrow. Those who need to change/alter the size of the uniform, please bring it over the next 2 practices to the uniform lady who will send the uniforms for alterations.
=)

2009-03-31T11:26:00.002+08:00

CONGRATULATIONS ESMB!
WE'RE A SILVER BAND!
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE EFFORT AND HARDWORK YOU'VE PUT IN.
i love you all.
and I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the our teachers-in-charge, Ms Maybeline Tan and Miss Cloven Ong, our tutors and of course our conductor, Mr Ng Kok Hin for all the support and help. On behalf of the band, we really appreciate it from the bottom of our hearts. THANKYOU THANKYOU THANKYOU!:D

next on the list, Speech Day. let's give our bestest performance.
cheers for ESMB (:

with love,
BM Farah.

ESMB love

2009-03-29T22:51:00.003+08:00

SO WE ARE LEFT WITH LESSER THAN 24 HOURS TO GET READY FOR THE FREAKIN SYF!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Okay guys, where are we now? RIGGHT ON TOP BAYBEH, right on top. SO please, we've gone so far, too far to be labeled losers again. We aint no loser yo. All those practices, all those time we had together. It brings me downdown to think how the effort we made and put up all go to waste. Tears and sweat, frowns and smiles. These things make up ESMB. I am proud to be in this wonderful family. Wah im so speechless! You know, i never quit on you guys because deep inside, i know we can show our true qualities. Show awareness to the whole school about BAND. All these years, BAND never got acknowedged for. Why? NO SUPPORT. But towards this year, towards our aim to achieve our target, i am happy with people complimenting on us. It really softens my heart to be hearing nice comments. For me as a Drum Major for you guys, was hard as hell. And to see you guys smile and laugh, and to see others so proud of us, made me so satisfied. But i know, more can be seen from each and everyone of you. Only time can tell. So don't wait for you're true colours to shine, but have that innitiative to make it shine! I hope im not talking crap here haha. It's okay if people are not reading this right now or before tomorrow, because its already late. All i can say is, DO YOUR VERY BEST!

THIS APPLIES TO EVERY BAND PRACTICES.

BUT, THIS GOES ESPECIALLY FOR TOMORROW
ESMB ALL THE WAY!!

DM- Muhd Firdaus

2009-03-29T18:09:00.002+08:00

THIS IS IT!
The MOMENT that we've been waiting for.
SINGAPORE YOUTH FESTIVAL 2009!
TOMORROW!
I hope you guys are ever ready for tomorrow's competition. We've come so far, we've went through the toughest of the tough, the roughest of the rough. It's time we show the result of our hardwork and sweat. Our determination and our perseverance. Our unity and our strength. Now we are at the peak. The peak of the mountain that we have long climbed. Will we successfully place our flag at the summit or will we slip and roll down the mountain? The answer is in your hands. All I'm asking from you guys is to just give your bestest tomorrow. Give your FULLEST focus, energy, confidence and HEART. PLAY MUSIC, NOT NOTES. During your playing, I want you to feel the music. ENJOY IT, that's the most important key to playing music.

I would like to thank you all for giving your co-operation all this while when preparing for this competition. I know that there were times that we've been on the downs, there were times where we felt hopeless but NO, my fellow bandmates. I believe that WE CAN DO IT. The medal doesn't really matter, what matters the most is how we've improved from square 1 to where we are now. I am really happy with the progress we've made and I am really proud of you guys.

Tomorrow is the day, guys. Let's give our bestest best bestie best best best best BEST! Rest well, and I will see you guys tomorrow.

For the record,
I Really Love Each and Everyone of YOU!

-BM Farah (:

2009-03-21T21:54:00.002+08:00

PROGRAM FOR MONDAY, 23RD MARCH 2009
SOUNDCHECK @ SINGAPORE CONFERENCE HALL.

attire: School Uniform
time : 1130am-1230am

By 9.15am, the third period, leave class,(inform your subject teacher and your form teacher before hand) go to the band store. Take your instruments. Further instructions will be given there. You will be given time for a quick lunch. By 1030am, we must be ready and up on the bus.

Soundcheck will last for one hour. Please co-operate with Mr Ng and respond quickly if he were to give any instructions. I expect full attendance and 100% alertness from all. This one hour is precious. Use it well.

Back to school, there will be band practice. Mr Ng can only stay for half an hour after that, we continue practice on our own. For those who have tests and all that, we'll see how it goes. For that, we have to refer to Ms Tan.

One more week to SYF guys. One more week to that final day. I hope you guys are already being serious. No more absentism PLEASE!

I would like to encourage each section to have own sectionals. If possible, everyday at least 2 hours so you guys won't lose your embouchure. If not, bring your instrument home.

Files : each person must have their own file. Make sure the two important scores are inside, along with your Harmony Training. By Monday, everything must be ready. I WILL SPOTCHECK!

Instruments : check your instruments whether they are in a tip top condition. oil those valves. shine them. make sure everything is working well. DO NOT do anything wicked to your instrument. DO NOT take the risks. If there's any problem, quickly report to me or Firdaus.

Health : DO take care of your health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables for those vitamins and all that good stuff. If possible, refrain yourselves from playing CATCHING or any activities that will risk injuries. EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU IS PRECIOUS TO ME! We need you all badly for SYF. ALL OF YOU! So please, take care.

LASTLY : JIA YOU ALL THE WAY! WE CAN DO IT FOR SYF! I BELIEVE WE CAN!

one more week, people. just one more week.

-LOVE, BAND MAJOR FARAH :D

Camp camp camp camp

2009-03-13T22:54:00.002+08:00

Alright guys. Camp time! Oooo i love packing up!
Item List

3 T-shirts (ESSS or Band T-shirt)
3/2 shorts/long pants (PE shorts or plain dark blue)
1 full set of toiletries (shampoo, shower foam, comb.. etc)
Bath towel/face towel
3/4 sets of undergarment
1 pair of socks (NO ankle socks)
1 pair of track shoes
1 torch light with extra working batteries
1 mug
1 empty 1.5 bottle
writing materials
A pair of slippers
1 sleeping bag (please bring!)Pleasepleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease.
sweater/jacket(it's gonna be really cold okay, trust your Drum Major.
Money (around $15 to $20)
Pampers.....no laaa! haha kidding.

optional items:

medicine (if necessary)
Plastic bags for wet clothings
insect repellent

ATTENTION:

make sure all your belongings have your name on it.
No electronic devices.
No contact lenses
No valuables

TAKE NOTE: food will not be provided. during lunch and dinner, you will be allowed to go out to Tampines Mart and buy your food. Make sure the amount you bring is enough to fill your empty stomachs throughout the camp.
Please, this is for your own safety. If you are not feeling well, please report.

I really hope this camp will benefit us to achieve what we aimed for SYF!
We'll go through hell, but slowly and surely, finally through heaven.
Please take good care of your instrument and health!
We cannot afford to have anyone missing during our crucial limited practices.
Our conductor may be ******* at times haha! But he have his reasons for everything.
Sometimes im pissed, but to think of it, both party needs to work together.
Please work hard and do your part with full commitment and confidence. Take pride in your ability and talent. Be proud, but don't brag. Take care.

Firdaus, DM.

2009-03-09T19:59:00.002+08:00

OH OH!
20 MORE DAYS TO SYF '09!
That number keep decreasing while the intensiveness of the band practices keep increasing.
That's good!Wooh!
Alright! As you guys know, Band Camp is next Monday! (I can't wait!)
I will post the schedule here so you guys will roughly know the idea of what's going to happen during the camp.

DAY 1

0800-0830 Bunk Allocation
0830-1200 Band Practice
1200-1315 Lunch
1330-1700 Band Practice
1700-1900 Games
1900-2015 Dinner
2030-2300 Band Practice
2300-0000 Supper & Lights Out

DAY 2

0630-0700 Rise and Shine, Morning Exercise
0700-0800 Breakfast
0800-1330 Band Practice
1330-1430 Lunch
1430-1630 Band Practice
1630-1830 Games
1830 Home Sweet Home

As you can see, Band Practice everywhere! But hey, I promise you it's going to be fun. Think positively. Do not dread about it. If you find it very sian, that's a no no. See it in a positive manner. Come on guys, SYF's really around the corner. This camp is very important. What matters the most is that we enjoy ourselves.

Number One rule for the camp :
ENJOY EVERY SINGLE BIT OF IT AND ALWAYS BE HAPPY!
KEEP THE SMILE AND LOVE GOING ALWAYS!

alright. that's about it.
I Love You ESMBians(:

-Band Major Farah :D

2009-03-03T20:31:00.003+08:00

THE DATE IS OUT!
SYF '09 :
30th March, 3pm
Band No. 13
Singapore Conference Hall.

26 more days!
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!
(JIA YOU ALL!)

- Band Major(:

2009-03-02T23:04:00.002+08:00

WE DID IT!
ESMB ROCKS!
NEXT IS SYF '09!
!SYF SYF SYF SYF SYF SYF SYF SYF SYF!
DON'TGIVEUP.
oh ya, our soundcheck is 20 days more.
be sure to be ready for it.
remember,
Saturday, 7 March : Band Exchange at Nan Chiau Secondary.
let's give ur bestest aites.
love you people(:

-band major(:

2009-03-01T22:29:00.003+08:00

Let's give our bestest shot for tomorrow's assembly!

Think of GOLD, play of GOLD!

ESMB ALL THE WAY!:D

GOODNIGHT!

with <3,>

Farah:D

2009-02-27T22:00:00.002+08:00

Right now, i'm in my room, thinking about what happened today.
Although it's time for me to rest for now, i still couldn't let band off my mind.
Why? because i believe that we are much much better than what we were today.
Why? because i believe that each and everyone of you guys are strong and will hold till the very last bitter bit.
Why? Because, i simply love ESMB and i care super lot.
I know that today didn't go well.
Many of you were tired, even me.
Please have a good rest.
There are so many things that i want to say, but this is for now.
ESMB, please.. A few days more. Hold on.
Let's get through this together.
We can do it.
We really can do it.

with love,
FARAH.

2009-02-14T23:45:00.002+08:00

36 MORE DAYS TO SYF!
wow. it's going to be tough.
sometimes I have sleepless nights just thinking about band.

guys, we are left with one month.
just one month to determine the results of our hard work, our sweat, blood and tears.
remember the first time we got the scores right in front of our eyes?
it took us time to really understand what was going on, how should the parts be played, how should the dynamics be.
we've gone through alot, we've seen alot.
band camp, band exchanges, holiday practices.
we've been through alot of shoutings, pumpings, and lip-cracking moments.
the intensive practices, the hardships that came by.
the frustration and tension that some felt.
that was the rocky part of our journey.
it was just the beginning then.
we still had a long way to go to climb that mountain.
then came the second part.
we practised and practised till we could even memorise the notes.
we sounded better, we were united.
we had fun, full of laughter and euphoria.
we shared happiness across the band and school.
we managed to reach out to our listeners, they enjoyed what we presented.
the marching video, we did it.
the recording, after the second try, it was awesome.
it was smooth sailing, the road was much more straighter.
and right now, we're left with the mountain.
it is right in front of us and we are left with a month to finish it to the summit.
yes, a month. just close your eyes, fellow bandmates.
imagine this situation and tell yourself this.
"I've put so much effort. I've used up my time for this. I've
given everything i could. This is it. I'm near, I'm near."
guys, we ARE near. let's climb up to the top shall we?
let's push ourselves just a few miles more.
let's give every little strength, power and spirit we are left within this short time.
let's be godfairies and grant our own wish.
LET'S REACH THAT GOAL WE ALL HAVE BEEN WANTING SINCE THE BEGINNING!
we have no time to waste. we have no time to look back.
let's finish this and gain our victory that we deserve!
LET'S DO IT!!

from your very own Band Major,
FARAH.

2009-02-12T17:00:00.002+08:00

Dear all,
Just to update/remind you of the various activities.

Tomorrow (13/2) Tailor coming in to take measurements. She'll show us the sample when she's done.

21 Feb Band exchange

7 Mar Band Exchange

Mar Holidays (Mon and Tue) Band camp. Sec 3s to plan the games. The rest of the programme is basically prac, prac and more prac!

23 Mar Sound check at SCH (Singapore Concert Hall)

30 mar to 3 apr, 6-9 apr (one of the days. To be confirmed)

8 May speech day (1st display performance by ESMB, in new uniform and all!)

30 Apr SA1 EL and CL paper 1

12 May rest of the papers.

Basically, we have A LOT of work to do..

Let's really put up a good show for everyone to see, and wow(positively) the audience (including SYF judges)

Regards,
Miss Tan

2009-01-28T16:59:00.002+08:00

Dear Band,
First of all, Happy Chinese New Year.
It is coming to the end of January and we have less than 3 months to prepare for the SYF. I know it has been difficult and trying for everyone, especially when you have to cope with your school work, balancing your time between practises, family and friends.

Both Miss Ong and myself may not be physically present most of the time but we are concerned about all of you. And I can tell you, when we heard how you played during the past few performances in school for the Sec 1 Orientation concert as well as the Chinese New Year concert, we felt so proud of you. You played wonderfully, albiet the small mistakes here and there. You have shown to the rest of the school how the band has improved and evolved in this short period of time. This is evidence of how much effort all of you have put into the practices, sectionals, performances and band exchanges. Even the teachers were full of compliments about how the band has grown.

I felt that as the band grew, all of you as individuals grew as well. You've learnt to take ownership of problems, mistakes and tasks given to you and you have done it well. Extremely well.

Though you have progressed, please make sure that you don't let regression step in. It will when you become too complacent. It has happened before and it will happen if you allow it to. Do continue to strive hard, work hard in both band and your school work! Both Miss Ong and myself feel proud when teachers tell us how well the band students behave in their classes.

Press on for the last stretch of this race! Instead of aiming for a Silver, aim to achieve the first GOLD for the band, for the school. Show everyone that you have made something that was seemingly impossible, possible!

Love,
Miss Maybelline Tan

2009-01-21T15:18:00.001+08:00

miss tan

2009-01-07T21:36:00.002+08:00

i would like to share all of you the videos of the 34th NCO Passing Out Parade that me and firdaus attended last year. it was a really nice experience.
this is the band major's performance.
you couldn't see me cause i was at the third row and yeah, i'm short. pfft.
playing with the other BMs was really a very cool and nice experience. we all sight read the minute we got the pieces and they played the songs like they've played for 1 year already.
you can hear how good they are.

this is the drum major's performance.
if you're lucky you get to spot firdaus but i dont know where is he in the video.
when the band majors was playing the song for the DMs to march, i looked around for firdaus and yeah i saw him.

i just wish each of you would get the opportunity to attend such camps.
i encourage you guys to attend concerts and such to familiarise yourselves with diff bands and how they sound like. guys, SYF is coming. real real soon. give your bestest please.
all the best.

with love,
farah

2008-12-30T00:35:00.000+08:00

alright guys.
we are going to perform for sec one orientation on 9th January, 2pm in the hall
and the songs that we are going to play are the comp pieces and Sock Hop Tonight.
i hope you guys will practice more.

2008-12-28T22:50:00.002+08:00

Hi guys..i am here to update about the nakamura band's performance. Its was the best performance i ever seen. The band can like win all the JC band in SG. Btw the nakamura band is all girl and there is a flute soloist that is F**Kin pro. there are many solos.Its so sad that our band only farah eugene and me went for the concert. All of you miss the BIG show. They can even do singing as in choir type. better than secondary schoold choir. Multi talents. I hope i can join their band but sad la i am a guy.LOL. okay if farah got take any picts or wad will ask her update thats all.

kenneth

2008-12-14T09:13:00.000+08:00

i would like to share you guys something. to those who had watched Lord Of The Rings, this may be familiar to you(i'm a fan!:D). the soundtrack used in the movies really touches and moves me. the way it reflects the scenes and all, Howard Shore (the composer) did really an impressive job. in these three songs i've posted below, it is my most favourite themes because it makes me think about my life and the things that i love. and one of them, is ESMB.

This first song is called 'The Fellowship'. Fellowship means companionship of persons on equal and friendly terms,
the condition of sharing similar interests, ideals, or experiences, as by reason of profession, religion, or nationality. we all share the same interest, and that makes us a fellowship. listen to it, and you'll know what i'm trying to reach out to you.

The second song is 'Shire'. The Shire, in the movie, is actually a really happy place where everyone is friendly and the environment is ever so lovely, it's really evergreen. eventhough we may be facing the most difficult times during band, i want you guys to stay happy and positive always. listening to this song makes me smile. with it's light and heart warming melodies, it makes me think of the most wonderful things in life. i know, things may be tough for some of you but we'll make it as a band.whatever the result is, it's actually the love and friendship within us that really matter the most. okay, i shall move on. i wanna cry..

This last song is called Rohan. from this song, it makes me have this "don't worry, i know it's tough but hold on there. you can do it" thinking. it's like you've faced alot, you've had alot of hardships but now, it's time to rise. there's still a way, there's still a will. i obtained this keep-on-trying attitude. i really hope you guys would never ever feel like giving up.

this is one of the best thing i could do for all of you. band, it's really time to stand up. we've been through alot. we've had so many practices during this holiday, and oh ya. i really want to give credit to those who has been constantly coming for sectionals. i hope when school reopens i see a change. SYF is coming fast, i won't tell you exactly how many more practices we are left, because thinking of it gives me the shivers cause i don't think we are really ready yet. i really hope from this post, it gives you some inspiration through the songs. and can you hear how beautiful they played? they're so in tune and they follow the dynamics and they have phrasings. i know you guys might be saying, "come on Farah, they're older than us! for us it's impossible!". but hey, look at pei xin primary. i think if they were to play this kind of song, they can make it. when i watched pei xin's concert yesterday, i was asking myself. why can they do that? why not me? why not us? as what quoted by Adidas, nothing is impossible. we can, we can be as good as them but it's up to you because YOU are responsible for the song. YOU are responsible for the good playing. YOU are responsible for making the song alive. open your eyes, open your heart. and this has been reiterately reminded, FEEL THE MUSIC. if you won't let the music enter your soul, how are you going to play it nicely with phrasing and all? close your eyes, and just enjoy while you play. do not concentrate too much on attempting to follow line by line. try this and nothing goes wrong. believe me, really trust me.

alright. this is such a long post. but i appreciate it alot if you actually read it from the first word to my last. i shall see you guys soon, and and on wednesday, please come for sectionals everyone.

with love,

farah (:

2008-12-12T20:42:00.000+08:00

Hi evryone. reminder tmr is the peixin concert.ALL PLS BE ON TIME REACH TMART MAC 6PM SHARP. WE WILL NOT WAIT FOR LATE COMERS. THANKS =) after the concert we go hav dinner together.

2008-12-10T21:46:00.000+08:00

HEY GUYS.its extreme fun today.LOLS and we won 403 tickets to get 14 PRECIOUS pens.
Okay the peixin concert info now (Ticket = Free) (Venue:500 Yishun Ring Road, Peixin primary hall) (Time: 7.30pm to 10pm) (Date: 13 Dec 08) there will be 27 tickets for ESMB members. and evryone pls wear BAND T go the peixin concert.free advertising our band.
IMPORTANT : ( all those goin peixin concert meet 6pm SHARP at tmart MAC.)
enjoy practising at home. xD

by: kenneth

2008-12-07T23:34:00.000+08:00

HEY GUYS! For the coming wednesday everybody PLS WEAR BAND TSHIRT. After the sectionals evrybody will go for bowling together( if you want to join) . AND FOR 13th THE PEIXIN CONCERT.PLS ALSO WEAR BAND TSHIRT.we will go together as a band.( time and destination will be confirmed on the next post )

by:kenneth yanwei desmond

2008-12-05T20:15:00.000+08:00

After watching Maha Bodhi's practice, it inspires the seniors to get GOLD for 2009 SYF.
Miss Wee ,a percussion tutor from MBS told us that " Air is the main thing for perfect tone.If the amount of air is not enough , resulting in BAD tone and it does not balance the sound quality. Everything lies onto the player itself. Everyone needs to put in emotion to play and imagine the whole story of the music."

By the way , from the exchanges we have been through , we can see that our band are improving slowly , day by day . But the speed of improving are NOT tremendous enough to get a silver YET. We must put in more effort in playing , and commiting ourselves from coming to band practice . we must be RESPONSIBLE with our OWN actions . I know it may sounds hard to get a gold in SYF for our situation right now , but it is possible to strive for it if we pratice oftenly , and staying back just 2 hours for each day if you can.

What the band lacks now is to picture yourself how you want to express your feelings and thoughts into your SUN DANCING and OVERTURE. Playing a music isn't to play just physically but mentally. ONE good example is HUA YI band, they have good sound BUT lack of emotions in their music.

YOU CAN'T DOUBT, IF YOU DOUBT, THEN THAT'S IT. TRUST YOURSELF and YOUR BAND. ESMB! GOLD!

by kenneth, yanwei, desmond.

2008-11-28T21:47:00.000+08:00

yea i agree with tiara.i hope all the bandmates are clear and understand what she said.I am happy that all of you the spirit is high abit. Can increase to the maximum till SYF and achieve the target we want. During this holiday, we can hav more practice.i hope u all come for more sectionals.BEST is evryday go to school for minimum of 2hour for sectionals and i can gurantee tat ervyone will see a big big improvement. By nxt year april we may even get some GOLD medal ? yea so WORK HARD STRIVE HARD!!! I BELIEVE IN ALL AND U ALL MUST BELIEVE IN URSLF.

kenneth..god bless all

2008-11-27T18:24:00.000+08:00

Hello all! Tiara here. I havent posted anything in the new blog yet, so i figured I should do so now (:
I have not seen you practice yet, and I know I only came for the movie. Hehe.
But anyway, after hearing comments by Desmond, Kenneth (percussion), Glenn and some other seniors, it seems like all of you are at the brink of giving up.

Well, dont.
I wanted to speak to you guys before i left, but everything seemed so exciting... The night walk and all, that i didnt want to spoil your mood. So here goes.
I understand the frustration you guys get whenever Mr Ng nags and shouts at you.
He says stuff that are mean and really hurtful. And whenever he does that, this is what goes through your mind-

"What the hell? He doesnt have hope for us! He says we suck! The way he talks is like he doesnt even believe in us! He is completely oblivious to people's feelings!"

And when your marching didnt look like marching at all, you got screamed into your ears by seniors and your band and drum major, it didnt look as if it got into you guys. It looked as if your ears were made out of stone. Probably because you're tired. And you think that it's pointless for you to even try so hard to do well, when it looks hopeless and its all going downhill.

Let me tell you. You guys are wrong. To achieve something, you must give your 150%. To achieve something, it takes your blood, sweat and tears. Though it always makes you feel like you should give up, DONT. Remember, that silver that all of you want, IS RIGHT THERE WAITING FOR YOU TO CLAIM IT. But to get to it, you must prove that you deserve it. I'm serious. That silver medal, IS RIGHT THERE. RIGHT SMACK IN YOUR FACE. But if you dont give your all, it doesnt prove that you deserve it.

Ever heard of reverse psychology? That's the tactic that Mr Ng is using so that you guys can get better. The problem is, many of you take it the wrong way. For example, when he says "Why your sound like that? You dunno how to play ah?" His aim is to get you to feel like this "But I knw how to play what! I am gonna show him that I can play my instrument and I'm gonna make a very good sound until it blows him away!"
HOWEVER, most of you guys take it this way- "Why is he always picking on me?! I've tried my best and i still cant do it!"
If that's the case, then I'd have to say your best is not enough. Put in another 20% more effort to what you're giving now, I bet yall will be fine. Never take Mr Ng's scolding wrongly. He doesnt like scolding you guys. He wants yall to like him as a conductor and as a friend. He got you your Silver in NBC. he got you your bronze, YOUR FIRST BRONZE EVER, for SYF. You think it'll be impossible for you to get a silver? I dont think so. With the passion and the drive, I'm sure you guys can make it. With the best teachers in charge who will always cheer you on, it's not impossible to get your silver next year. And not forgetting, the team of leaders to keep pushing you and reminding you that you're almost there, reaching the peak.

Think about it guys, it's November, Push yourself harder and harder and hold that for just a couple of months. You'll see. The sacrifices you've made, and the tiring days of drills and sectionals and scoldings, will all pay off. When you work hard, and you get your goal, you actually feel the pleasure of earning something with your cold hard work. When you hear what you've earned after it's being announced, you'll deserve every moment of joy and happiness because you worked hard for it. Toughen up guys! Every one of the seniors have confidence in you. Most importantly, you must have confidence in yourselves. Dont let whatever scoldings you get break you. Instead, let it make you; let it make you a better player.

Remember guys, the band doesnt work alone. every single person in the band is significant. If you think someone sitting beside you is lagging, wake them up. You're a team. Everyone has their role. I dont doubt any of you guys. So dont ever doubt and underestimate yourselves. When you feel like you cant do it, scrap that thoughts aside because YOU CAN. You guys are blessed with the best teachers in charge and the best group of comm members to work with. Dont step over their authority. Really, when you've graduated, like the other seniors and i, you'll miss the feeling of being in a team. Crying together, laughing together, and sharing a victory together. Embrace every moment you got as a team and put it into good use.

Come on guys, dont fall weak now! Just months away from the real competition. Do your best, never give up. When you fall, you dont just lay there. You get up, and start over.

Thats all i have to say. Good luck, stay strong, and give it your best shot. The feeling when you achieve that goal, is something you'll never forget. Trust me, i've felt it (: enjoy playing the music, and bring home that silver! Wooo!

Xoxo
tiara (:

2008-11-27T11:00:00.000+08:00

hey hey ppl of EAST SPRING MILITARY BAND!!! hope uu guys enjoyed the camp and hope uu learn something from it...good job comm members..uu ppl really work hard!!! and good job band members!!! uu guys proved to me that uu are a group of tough teenagers!!! even thought MR NG screamed and shouted at us during combine and when MISS TAN and MISS ONG and the BAND and DRUM MAJOR and MYSELF shouted at uu ppl during drills and the march...but uu ppl pulled through it all!!! so proud!!! this should be the way...now our goal is SYF!!!ii dreamt last night..that we got a silver for SYF!!! isnt it cool!!! hahahahahaha...lols!!! LETS ALL WORK HARD TOGETHER AS A BAND AND FACE THIS CHALLENGE AS A BAND!!! ONE BAND ONE SOUND!!! ELEVEN SECTIONS ONE HEART BEAT!!! AND THAT IS TO GET A SILVER FOR THE UPCOMING SINGAPORE YOUTH FESTIVAL...TO PROVE TO THE WHOLE SCHOOL...THE P MR NG AND THE TESCHERS THAT EAST SPRING MILITARY BAND CAN DO IT!!! WE HAVE ALREADY DONE IT IN THE PREVIOUS SYF AND THE SEC ONES HAVE DONE IT IN NBC!!! AND WITH THE COOPERATION OF EVERY ONE, II AM SURE WE WILL DO IT IN THE UPCOMING SYF AND GET THE SILVER WE WANT!!! BUT WE CAN ONLY DO THIS IF UU PPL COME FOR PRACTICE REGULARLY DO NOT SKIP PRACTICE...HAVE SECTIONALS AND TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY!! AND THE SILVER WILL FIND ITS WAY TO US!!! AND DUN BECOS OF A LITTLE SCOLDING FROM UR SENIORS AND THE BAND MAJOR OR DDRUM MAJOR OR THE TEACHERS IN CHARGE OR FROM MR NG UU PPL QUIT BAND!!!! THE SEC 3s AND THE SENIORS HAVE WENT THROUGH THIS BUT WE ARE STILL HERE...REMEMBER...THERE IS ALWAYS A CALM AFTER EVERY STORM!!! SPEAK TO THE TEACHERS THE SENIORS OR ENEV THE SEC 3 PPL IF UU NEED HELP!!!
let me encourage uu with this...ii use this to encourage myself when ii wasnt allowed to play with the band...IF MUSIC IS UR PASSION LET NO CRITICISM TAKE THAT PASSION AWAY BUT THREAT IT AS A LEARNING EXPERIENCE!!!

loves..glennyboii...hahas

2008-11-26T21:58:00.000+08:00

today, we've just ended our band camp.
i know all of you are really, really tired so have a really good rest aites?
during the band camp,
i've seen how you guys have improved.
despite the tiring drills, march and play, the scoldings and punishments,
you guys have proved me that you really can do it.
today,
you all played well although most were sleeping during practice and i did too.(LOLS)
and i am sure you guys realised the change in Mr Ng.
yesterday, when he was marinating the chickens, we had a chat.
he said that if possible, he really dont want to scold you guys.
but he had to, cause he wants us to improve.
he got to do it in order to make you really play well.
he told me, he'll try his best to control and relax.
it is understood why he scolded us.
if he had been reminding us about what to do and we didnt do it up to his expectations,
of course he would be angry.
like the marching drills we had.
Ms Tan had already asked all to shout,
but no one did.
i was angry because the instruction was simple yet no one was doing it.
we really have to understand him, he said it was neither's fault.
he even treated us the chickens and help marinate them.
to think back, he had done a lot for us.
don't you think it's now our part to repay him?
Ms Tan and Ms Ong also had put alot of effort for us.
it's time for us to do the best for them.
give it all for them and for us.

Me, Firdaus and Kenneth have this plan of making Mondays during school day as an extra practice.
it'll be short, only 2 hours of sectionals and done.
i think that an extra 2 hours wont hurt and of course, it will benefit us alot.
SYF is getting nearer.
let's put extra effort and make it happen.

we can do it.
really, we can.

drink lots of water.

-farah((:

=)

2008-11-26T13:35:00.000+08:00

Hi bandmates.thank you for partiipating in the band camp and go for the exchange during the 3days 2nights. I hope evryone work hard for the next exchange on 3rd dec and do good job.Good Luck to All of You xD

2008-11-22T21:43:00.000+08:00

alright,
since not all of you got the items list of what to bring for camp next week,
your caring Band Major(LOLS) will just post it here for the easy access of all of you.

Item List

4 T-shirts (ESSS or Band T-shirt)
4 shorts/long pants (PE shorts or plain dark blue)
1 full set of toiletries (shampoo, shower foam, comb.. etc)
Bath tpwel/face towel
4 sets of undergarment
1 pair of socks (NO ankle socks)
1 pair of track shoes
1 torch light with extra working batteries
1 mug
1 empty 1.5 bottle
writing materials
A pair of slippers
1 sleeping bag (please bring!)
sweater/jacket
Money (around $15 to $20)

optional items:

medicine (if necessary)
Plastic bags for wet clothings
insect repellent

ATTENTION:

make sure all your belongings have your name on it.
No electronic devices.
No contact lenses
No valuables

BANDMATES.SOME SPEECH I WANTED TO SAY.

2008-11-20T23:40:00.000+08:00

Hi ,this is ken from percussion section. I am glad that the band is improving and i hope everyone can take some initiative to come and do more practices. I am sorry that i am not a good leader in the past. My attitude is not perfect too. I dunno how to talk in a way to motivate u all. You guys are lucky to have Ms Tan and Ms Ong. They help out alot and now we are able to change our band U. In my heart i feel that we can really do well next year for the SYF and get maybe a GOLD. BUT..i need all you band mates to come regularly and really work hard on those pieces. In no time we will be able to perform at many places and even travel if we get achievement next year. I also want to apologise to those seniors, juniors that maybe i shouted at or even argued with. Hope you all dont hate me cause i dont hate you all. All is because i wanted you all to do well only. Now my heart inside is lighted with a fire and i hope that fire wont fade away. I believe in all of you and you all must believe in yourselves. AIM HIGH GET HIGH. btw soon we will be forming alumni's band. so that in future if there is any concert or any performances we get to join in and have fun with all of you. * Practice makes perfect * thats all i can say.
I WISH ALL OF YOU THE BEST AND ACHIEVE WAD ALL OF US WANTED TO ACHIEVE!
GAMBATTE YO xD

2008-11-08T20:57:00.000+08:00

at last,
the band blog is updated.
haha.
just ended the NCO camp yesterday.
thanks to those who came and supported.
really appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.
the NCO camp had benefited me a lot.
a lot of skills and knowledge were taught and shared.
don't worry, it's my turn now to spread it to my band.
i'll give my utmost effort to serve ESMB,
cause next year i want to leave with a light heart.
i'm only left with how many months with ESMB if you guys don't realise that.
next year,
speech day will be the last performance for the current sec 3s.
but for now,
there are things ahead of us that we must focus on.
band camp,
2 band exchanges,
SYF etc.
dear members,
although some people might call us band geeks,
they don't realise that being in a band
is way better than any other things.
here are some evidences.

The scores of elementary instrumental music students on standardized math tests increased with each year they participated in the instrumental program.
- "Music Training Helps Underachievers," Nature, May 26, 1996

In a 2000 survey, 73 percent of respondents agree that teens who play instrument are less likely to have discipline problems.
- American Love Making Music - And Value Music Education More Than Highly Than Ever, American Music

so guys,
who says band is a waste of time.
you're actually benefiting something you couldn't see.
aren't you glad to be the priviledged one?
i hope to see better attendance in the upcoming band practices.
do attend those practices cause each one of them is really precious.
if you can't come,
do inform the teachers-in-charge or the BM/DM.
and for those who wants to cabot or run away,
i'll chase(:
peace.

with quavers and crotchets,
your BM.

2008-10-08T22:57:00.000+08:00

OOOOOKKKKAAAAAAYYYYYYY!!
it's been really long since anyone updated.
well, what to do.EXAMSSS.
hehs.
okay okay.
as you know, dear bandmates
when exams are done,
what's next?
it's BAND!
yes.
your dear band major is here to inform you
that band will resume as per normal
starting from next wednesday,
15 October 2008.
in case you forget about what time to report,
it is 2.15PM and everything (wash mouthpiece, set up stands etc.) must be done by 2.30PM.
those who cannot make it,
please do inform your BM,DM,Ms Tan or Miss Ong before hand.
and guys,
make sure i hear a good sound on wednesday.
i believe that you have been practising on your instruments.
so yeah,
don't let Mr Ng shout at us anymore aites?
let's start on a new beginning.
something to note,
one of the next major project is SYF.
silver is what Mr Ng wants.
let's give him a real silver this time.
wooh!
see ya!

band major,
FARAH((:

2008-07-21T14:31:00.000+08:00

For those going to republic polytechnic this wednesday, here's how to go.

Take 168 from Tampines Interchange to Woodlands interchange. This journey takes 45 min to 50 min.

From Woodlands interchange, take bus 169 or 911. Ask the bus driver for where to alight. Below is the website on where to alight.

http://www.rp.edu.sg/location.asp

Regards,Miss Tan

projects

2008-07-14T15:20:00.000+08:00

Dear all,
In case anyone forgets about some projects we were talking about cos of all the hype and everything, here's a more detailed information about the upcoming projects

1) Change of uniform design
After 1 persuasion from the admin lady who watched the performance, yes, we are changing the uniform.

and you guys are going to be in-charge of the design.

Things that i require:
1) blazer
2) a shirt / blouse that will be worn under the blazer
3) skirt/pants suitable for marching and smart looking for concerts.

Of these 3 things, I need

1 part that has the colour of the school uniform. Main reason is for recognition. Anyone who sees the colour will be able to identify that it is the school's band uniform.
blazer will have to have school logo. This will be recycled. so only S, M, L sizes. end the extra large/small sizes
the shirt/blouse and skirt/pants should be comfortable enough to wear for marching and still look smart on its own for public performances so that it's not too hot to wear.

Aside from the uniform, there's going to be a band T-shirt/polo-shirt. This shirt also needs to be designed and the band can wear it for casual performances like band exchange, performance at birdpark, band camp etc.

Just note that we need to keep prices minimal. Rather than loaning of uniforms, the uniforms will be purchased by students. Then i won't have too much problems in chasing after the uniforms and you can keep them when you graduate!

Hope these will get everyone hyped up. Designs to be in by september.

Love,

Miss Tan

detailed results

2008-07-14T15:14:00.001+08:00

dear all, here's the results for the NBC, as in with the scores and comparison with other schools.

this would more or less be an indication of how much more we need to work on before SYF :)

Love,

Miss Tan

2008-07-13T13:11:00.000+08:00

WE DID IT!

yes, we did it.
we managed to get what we want,
and i must say
i'm really proud of ESMB.

it's been hard for us.
the scoldings,
intensive trainings.
but,
all of those are certainly worth it.

if it's not for you guys
who had worked so hard,
being punctual for every practice,
having the patience throughout the practices,
we wouldn't have get what we got.

Mr Ng called me,
he congratulated all of you.
he said some things but i cant quite remember.
he was talking so fast!
haha.
but from the tone of his voice,
i can infer that
he's really happy.
and,
i can say that,
he actually do love ESMB.
it's just that
his temper take control of him easily.

i would also want to thank our teachers-in-charge,
Ms Tan and Miss Ong,
for always being there for us,
for giving us support,
and not giving up on us.
on behalf of ESMB,
we really appreciate what both of you had done for us.
it's been a great journey
throughout these months of training for NBC
with you.
but,
our journey won't stop,
we still got more to go.
and do remember,
we love you(:

from me to my beloved band members,
i'm really proud of you.
let's keep improving alright?
do not stop where we are now.
there are still more mountains to climb,
more oceans to swim through.
keep the spirits up,
and we'll make it through.
get ready for more adventures(:
drills!

and with that,
i shall end this post.

with love,
farah(:

a website for reference

2008-07-12T18:35:00.000+08:00

National Band Competition 2008: Order of Appearance for Bands

12th July 2008 (Saturday)
3rd Division

1
Chua Chu Kang Secondary School -- Gold (D)

Yishun Town Secondary School -- Silver

Cedar Girls' Secondary School -- Gold (D)

Zhonghua Secondary School -- Silver

Ngee Ann Secondary School -- Silver

Hai Sing Catholic School -- Gold

East Spring Secondary School -- Silver

Yishun Secondary School --Silver

New Town Secondary School -- Silver

Peirce Secondary School -- Gold

Ahmad Ibrahim Secondary School -- Silver

Evergreen Secondary School -- Gold

Hwa Chong Instituition -- Gold

Yuan Ching Secondary School --Gold

Fuchun Secondary School -- Silver

Junyuan Secondary School -- Silver

Woodlands Secondary School -- Silver

Loyang Secondary School -- Silver

Kuo Chuan Presbyterian Secondary School -- Silver

Balestier Hill Secondary School --Silver

Sembawang Secondary School --Silver

you can go to this website to find out more http://sgbandfusion.com/

regards,
Miss Tan

NBC!

2008-07-12T17:35:00.000+08:00

Dear all,
I am very very pleased to announce that East Spring recieved a silver award (75.8%) at the National Band Competition!

Congratulations!

Miss Ong and I are very proud of each and everyone of you for all your hard work! Well done!

Let's look forward to more achievements in the coming future!

Once again, congratulations!

Love,
Miss Tan

2008-07-08T17:50:00.000+08:00

OH MY!
NBC's around the corner!
in case you guys don't remember
(i know you do cause if you don't,better do something bout yourself!),
it is this coming SATURDAY!
woohooo!(it's more of a nervous cheer)

so let me ask.
ARE YOU GUYS READY?
i'm ready!promotion!

we have worked so hard for NBC
and i can really see the improvement from our band.
i cannot deny the fact that i'm proud of you guys.
but,
this doesn't mean we are totally prepared for NBC.
there are still some more areas for us to improve on.
so keep practising till our very last practice
which is friday.

let's not put our and mr ng's effort to waste.
we've come this far,
and let's give it all we've got.
those scoldings and hardships we've been through together,
i'm sure will be worth it
when we manage to reach our goal.
A SILVER.

never give up my fellow bandmates.
for those who give up will never be able to satisfy themselves
with the achievements and joy that is waiting for them ahead,
cause they don't try.
have faith in yourselves,
as how i have faith in you.

but,
no matter what the outcome is,
i just wanted to let you know,
i'm really proud of the big improvements that we made.
from not being able to play the notes properly,
to being able to play without looking at the scores.

and my dear secondary ones,
i love you bunch.

let's make glory,
let's make name.
come ESMB,
let's play the game.

weeeehoooooooooo!

with lots and lots of love,
your band major :D

2008-06-21T22:27:00.001+08:00

this one's for the section leaders.

section leaders,
these are the requirements that are needed
during band.
so do take note.
jot it down if you need to.

a pencil (and eraser, optional) should always be with you every band practice
no chatting when mr ng is talking, only if it's neccessary.

and i would need each of you to prepare a book,

don't need it to be too big nor must it be too small.

you can decorate it whichever way you want,

but it must consist of these important things.

rules and regulations page(one page):

write out the rules and regulations of ESMB,

you should know what they are.

members page(one page):

draw out a table,

include this,

your section members names,

contact numbers (both parents' and their own, ask me if you don't know),

class,

serial number of their instruments.

absentees page (no. of pages, up to you):

write the names who didn't come for that particular day,

do write in the date.

when they are back,

ask them their reason

and write it down.

latecomers page (number of pages, up to you to decide):

those who are late,

write down their names,

and write in the time they come in.

misbehaving page (number of pages, up to you to decide):

write down the names those

who has not been behaving well,

example,

he/she did not listen to you,

he/she chats during practice,

use handphone etc.

you may have the freedom to include any other pages

that you think is relevant.

me and firdaus will be checking the book frequently.

prepare the book by this wednesday,

25th June.

i will be checking at the end of band pratice.

spread to the other section leaders too.

thank you.

farah,

band major.

2008-06-18T15:32:00.000+08:00

today,
i wasn't able to come for band practice,
as i had to attend this science practical lesson.
when i was busy working out the experiments,
i overheard the brasses playing
and oh,
how surprised i was to hear such an improvement in their playing.

for trumpeters,
a really good job.
you guys are improving,
and i can really see the effort put in.
i know it's hard to play
without the guidance from seniors.
but yeah,
when i was in sec 2,
only left me and firdaus in french horn.
we had to learn and infer
on how to play and read the notes
cause we're new to french horn.
basically,
it's like playing a guessing game.
i never knew how to read the flats, naturals and the sharps.
i didn't know when to play the flats and all that.
but as the time went by,
it all started to show up,
and you can really see the pattern.
so yeah,
do not give up although it might be hard for you guys,
especially without any seniors being able to guide as you play.
if you guys do have anything doubts or enquiries,
just approach me or firdaus or ms tan or miss ong okay.

for the rest of the band,
i heard that mr ng did a lot of scolding today.
and of course,
i'm sad to hear that.
for whatever that he said,
be it harsh or hurtful,
put that all away.
throw it away.
take in the advices that he gave,
for it,
i'm sure,
will be able to help you a lot in your playing.
he didn't scold us for nothing.
if he scolds you,
it doesn't mean that he hates you or so.
it's just that,
he wants you to make effort,
he wants the best out of you.
well,
afterall,
it's because of him that we managed to clinch bronze in the
previous SYF,
after how many years of COP.

we have the support from our seniors,
teachers and even mr ng.
let's not dissappoint them.

we can do it guys.
i know we can(:

2008-06-17T20:45:00.000+08:00

lookay peeps.
it's time to get more serious in band.
NBC's just around the corner
and i'm absolutely sure each and everyone of us
are expecting a good outcome out of it right?

bronze?
silver?
or gold?

it's really up to us,
to make that decision.

we have two choices.
to give the best of us,
or just run away and hide.
i choose to give it all.

i know,
and really really know,
that some of you do not have the confidence
that we will make it for the NBC.
i have to admit,
i did too.
but after much thinking,
why run away when we've already
used up our time for the holiday practices?
why run away when we've already put so much effort
in playing the songs over and over again?
why run away when we've already worked hard
correcting our mistakes and all?

dear sec ones,
i know mr ng has been quite harsh to you guys.
well, believe me,
he was worst during my batch.
i got scolded countless times too.
i was on the edge of giving up,
on the edge of quitting band,
but something stopped me.
the bonds that i built
and the love for ESMB,
got me thinking,
how stupid it is
to quit band just because of one person,
while there are more than one
who needs me to be there.
it would be so childish of me
to quit something that i love,
and leaving behind others
who's putting so much effort
despite all the hard moments
that they have to face.

i know how you guys felt,
cause i was in your shoes.
but look at where i stand now.

do not give up guys,
for those quitters are weak.
but you are not.

this bunch of sec ones,
are by far,
the most strongest and the most determined bunch i've met,
despite the limited practices that they have.
they bring their instruments home nearly every week,
and stayed back to do sectionals with their seniors.
i salute them for that.
continue that,
and i'm sure you'll guys be somewhere on top.

okay,
enough of yaddida yadda.
hehs.

this is what some of your section leaders
came up with to help you in your playing.

HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOURSELF

Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone does mistakes
Never give up, strive hard for everything.
Always TRY, do not sit there waiting for a miracle to happen.
Believe in yourself, if others can do it, why not you?
during band practice, do this, QUIETLY."i can do it, i can do it, i can do it!"

FEEL THE MUSIC

it's not just about playing note to note from the score, it's about being able to feel the music. Close your eyes and picture the story the song is trying to potray.
Follow the dynamics, for it will make effect on the feel of the music.
Try to swell (mostly for melodies)
More AIR for good sound.

RECOGNISE THE SONG

Bring home your file, switch on your computer, search for the songs that we are playing, listen to it countless times
If you bring your instruments home, try playing with the song.
During your free time, hum to the tune of the song.

let's not waste any of our precious practices and prove to mr ng wrong that we are no COP band.

NBC is near,

let's show them what's ESMB is all about.

with lots and lots of love,

farah amirah, band major.

Blog Revamp

2008-05-29T00:55:00.000+08:00

I took the liberty of revamping the blog but there are some glitches with the tagboard. Can anyone help? =p

In any case, figured it's easier to see if there's any new posts in this blog though Azryl did a good job with the old template. I kept a copy of it in case you guys prefer the old blog style..

I am pleasantly surprised at the recent posts.. Haven't came onto this blog in a while. Perhaps it would be a good idea to put the website of this blog on the notice board? :)

Well done to the Games Day!
One of the first few events organised by the committee members this year and definitely not the last. The next thing that you can look forward to (aside from the National Band Competition) will be the band camp at the end of the year.

I do understand that many people have some complaints aganst the conductor. This is something that I've said before and I don't believe that I'm wrong.

Mr Ng does have his style of teaching and conducting. Yes, he does scold but think about it. How was your standard of playing during the band practice? Was there any improvement? If not, why? If yes, what went wrong? If you haven't been practising and the way you play consisted of repeated mistakes despite many trials, don't you think it would irritate anyone, not just him?

I don't side or favour any one. Mr Ng does have his flaws and I know he means well. If not, he would not have caused our band to be able to achieve Bronze at the SYF after so many years with Certificate of Participation (aka, thank you for participating but sorry, you're not good enough for a bronze). In fact, sometimes when I watch the behaviour of some of the students during the practices, it does guarantee a scolding from myself or Miss Ong as well.

When someone scolds you, take it as he is testing you, to see if you can prove him right or not. If you just complain and run away, it only proves him right that you are unable to do well. If you face it, work on your mistakes and well, show tremendous improvement, you'll be able to see a (hopefully) nicer side of Mr Ng. :) if not, you'll see a nicer side of the teachers-in-charge.

NBC is just one month away. So ensure that you work hard and meet Mr Ng's expectations, as well as mine, Miss Ong and the senior's expectations.

So the next time you think of leaving or complaining because of Mr Ng, you have to answer to me first!

As for the seniors, whenever you can, do drop by to help, especially the sectionals. :) You're always welcomed..

Love,
Miss Tan

PS: do give me some time (loads of it) to upload the photos taken during speech day :)

my experiences.

2008-05-24T20:56:00.000+08:00

hey everyone,

i had never post anything on this blog.
all these while, i saw lots of comments from our very own band members.
i kept quiet and just listened to each and every post.
it's quite interesting, listening to people's views about east spring military band.

now, its my turn to talk.
ive been in the band since i was sec one.
at first, i thought that i could choose the instrument i wanted.
so, i immediately chose band as my first choice of cca.
i loved the drums so much.
when i was a kid, i only air-drummed, imagined a drum set in front of me, and hit using my pen and pencils.
when i came to the first band session, i was very happy.
trying the real drumset and becoming a good drummer was what i wished for.
when i knew that i was placed in the trumpet section, i broke down.

i planned to quit band, but my love for music was too strong.
so i continued, learning the trumpet and coming for band practices.
i became more committed to band.
band is like my second family.
i have brothers and sisters, mothers but no fathers. hehe.
i had great seniors, willing to lend a helping hand.
i grew with new knowledge of music.

as time goes by, it was the june holidays.
i was transferred to the f.horn section. oh my god.
i felt like all my talent had gone to waste. i thought i had to redo all over again.
but eventually, it was actually easier then i thought it would. i could apply the things i learned when i was a trumpeter.
so, to my dear juniors, don't give up when you are transferred to other sections.
maybe it can make you a better player.

i had new seniors.
wen hui,
she was so helpful to me and farah.
i admired the way she made us a better player.
i learned alot from her.

abdillah,
even though you were not so good in playing, but you sure did make me laugh all the time.
the stuffs we went through.
slacking during sectionals.
using hp during band.
buying drinks when we were not allowed to.
(dont follow these things, juniors.)
missed those times.

when i was in early sec two,
i started to skip band pracs.
i friends persuaded me to skip, and loiter instead.
i also felt like band pracs are disturbing my freedom.
i didn't attend band pracs, and led me to nearly quit.
somehow during that stage, i missed band so much.
farah needs me when the seniors are gonna step down.
the band needs me when im gone.
like i said, my love for music was too strong.
so i came back.
(so juniors, dont let anybody stop you from being a member of our family.)

another person i admired.
Fuad, the drum major two years ago.
the best drum major i had ever met.
i admired him so much.
how he looked after the band.
maintaining the discipline in all of us.
uniting us.
encouraging us.
everytime he gave me push-ups, i learned my mistakes.
he gave me punishments that made me a better person.
i reflected on what i had done, mend it, and never did what i had done again.
i wanna thank him for that.

as a band, we practiced like so hard.
played our very best.
to please mr ng, and to show the others, including the principal, that we can make it.
we got a bronze for syf!!
i was totally satisfied, all out hard work finally paid off.
and we shut the principal up.

now, as a leader of the band, i promise to do my very best.
leading all of you to success.
i'll try to make everyone proud.
i'll never, ever let all of you down.
but it takes two hand to clap.
ill do my part, but i expect all of you to do yours too.
i know all of you are counting on me.
im counting on each and everyone of you too.
being a leader to all of you is very hard.
but ill always keep on trying.

for the upcoming NBC,
i hope all of you will do your best.
never mind about mr g's hurtful words.
he may be very strict and all.
i saw how friendly he can be, and how strict he can be.
after all, he's the one whom will help us achieve our goals.
so, don't let him get in our way to stay with esmb all the way.
i survived, why can't you?

lastly,
at the end of the day, we grow as one.
when one falls, everybody falls.
when one gets up, everybody gets up.

never, ever, ever, ever give up.
i have trust in everyone of you.
dont let me down. please.

from your very own drum major,
muhd firdaus.

2008-05-24T19:57:00.000+08:00

for all comm members and section leaders,
regarding the preparation for band's Games Day.

Monday, 26th May
task: buying of things
groupings
allocate station masters.. etc.

time: 10am.
venue: Tampines Mart MacDonalds

Tuesday, 27th May
task: testing out games

time: 1pm
venue: school foyer
attire: PE shirt with shorts/skirts/jeans (just any pants will do)

*make sure your attire is comfortable enough for you
as we are going to do a lot of running(:

got a question?
contact Farah at 92401734
do not call me,
sms me and i'll call you back.

2008-05-21T20:16:00.000+08:00

band practices during June Holidays:

28th May <9am-4pm> (practice plus games day)
30th May <9am-1pm>
2nd June <9am-1pm>
4th June <9am-1pm>
6th June <9am-1pm>
18th June <9am-1pm>
20th June <9am-1pm>

note:
those who could not come for any of the days,
do inform Ms Tan/Miss Ong/Band Major/Drum Major/Section Leader
before hand.
ATTENDANCE IS COMPULSORY.
those who do not have valid reasons for their absence
will have to bear the consequences.

ATTIRE:

half uni-P.E shirt with skirt/shorts/pants.
track shoes/school shoes/anything that covers your whole foot.
no crocs/no slippers/no sandals (exception for those who injure their foot -.-"

for 28th May Games Day:

bring extra t-shirt (for girls, bring black shirt)
water bottle (for drinking.LOL)
slippers
towel (nah,we're not going swimming)
bring extra money (for lunch)

sectionals on thursdays:

time- 9am-12noon

venue- music room

2008-05-11T22:06:00.000+08:00

dear fellow band members,
please be reminded that band practice
will resume on 14th may, wednesday.
attendance is compulsory.
if you are not coming(with a valid reason),
do inform ms tan or miss ong
or the band or drum major before hand.
thank you.
see you guys then.

farah(:

2008-05-10T21:30:00.000+08:00

esmb performing on speech day'07

In the winter of 1730

bet the seniors miss this song

smile people =)

2008-04-19T14:17:00.000+08:00

Alright. I guess I ought to make the speech here since I did not have the time yesterday (and I wasn't really prepared as I'm not as talented as Tiara who can make an impromptu speech) LOL.

To my dearest juniors,
I would like to thank of all of you for staying on with the band. The 2-3 years I have been with you guys shows the never-ending spirit in ALL OF YOU. Continue to persevere to excel, be it in your playing or in your studies. Now that the seniors have finally stepped down, we are stepping aside for you guys, giving you guys a chance to SHINE. Prove to everyone out there that you guys can be the great people like you guys are. Show them your true capabilities. Make their jaw drop. Don't be sad that we've stepped down, but be glad that you have went through alot with us. I will come to visit all of you whenever I'm free, this I promise you. However, right now, I have to make preparations for the upcoming examinations. GOOD LUCK FOR YOU NBC and SYF 2009! (:

To my Euphonium juniors,
Enrica, continue playing well, work hard and make Mr Ng and the band proud. You have the most experience in band, so do assist Nabilah in her Section Leader duties aite?
Nabilah, now that you are the section leader, make sure you take good care of your juniors and NEVER give up. Set a good example to them. Don't be absent from band or you'll fall prey to Mr Ng's hatred.

To my ex-trumpeters (currently the French and Horny kids)
Farah, the best French Horn player I have met in my 4 years with band. Now that you have attained the role of a Band Major, you have alot of responsibility in your hands. But don't take it alone. Disseminate your job to your other committee members so you won't get too stressed.
Firdaus, cheyyyyy...DM siolll. Hahas. Be proud of it already! Haaah. Continue being good in your French Horn as well as the drums so that if there is a lack in percussionists, you can take over. LOL!

That's all I have to say. Good luck everyone for your future participations!

Azryl Ali.
ex-Section Leader (Euphonium).

2008-04-19T11:31:00.000+08:00

this post,
is specially typed for our lovely seniors.

this is what i observed from our seniors
for the past 2 years plus i've been with ESMB.
they have the
spirit,
commitment,
genuine love,
never ending peserverance,
real passion,
for ESMB.

they are a bunch of seniors
with great leadership qualities.
each and every of them
has their own.

i thought of making a speech yesterday
but due to limited time
and my nose being red from all the crying
i decided not to.

so here, i'll make my speech.

to my dearest seniors:
you guys have contributed a lot to ESMB.
really a lot.
be it playing the songs,
planning for the camp,
it was certainly a fun ride with you guys.
a bunch of fun-to-be-with,
whacky,
full of smiles and laughter,
making-the-world-go-round-and-round peeps.
although the horn section did not
have any sec 4 seniors,
i still feel a great loss
when you guys stepped down.
do not worry about us,
i am sure the new recruited commitee
will ensure the best for our band.
we will take care of band with the very utmost care,
like a very valuable piece of glass,
ensuring not a single thing would
cause a crack to our precious ESMB.
we take your
words of encouragement,
advice,
examples,
as a guide in leading ESMB
to the very glory,
that we will soon make.
on behalf of the members of ESMB,
who loves you to every bit,
good luck on your O's and N's,
do come back when you guys are free,
for we are always looking forward
to seeing our beloved seniors' faces once more.
we won't dissapoint you,
in every little thing we do
and that is our promise.
thank you for your guidance,
thank you for the smiles that you've shared every practice,
thank you for making us what we are now,
thank you for everything that you've done.
do remember,
we love you(:

with love,
farah amirah
band major.