THE Business Times Budding Artists Fund (BT BAF) was recognised by Dazhong Primary School at its 85th anniversary for providing support to its Junior Orchestra.

BT BAF will be giving the orchestra up to S$30,000 per year for up to five years. The amount will assist in covering its yearly expenses, including the training of the students.

The collaborative effort aims to support underserved students at the school through music. The Junior Orchestra consists of students under the school’s financial assistance scheme.

Dazhong Primary School principal Rina Yap said: “This initiative will enable us to further nurture our talented young musicians, empower them through the transformative power of music, and instil a deeper sense of community spirit.”

TRCL, a not-for-profit arts organisation that manages the BT BAF, will also feature the Junior Orchestra in BT BAF’s annual celebrations to showcase the students’ talents. This is in line with its belief that no child should be denied the opportunity to pursue the arts, regardless of personal circumstances.

Mirza Putra Naim Ahmad Najib, 11, said he has become more focused and confident in class after joining the Junior Orchestra, and has even led his class in singing and camp performances.

A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU

Friday, 2 pm

Lifestyle

Our picks of the latest dining, travel and leisure options to treat yourself.

Sign Up

Sum Waiying, head of partnership development at TRCL, highlighted the reasons for the partnership: “We continually seek out exceptional talent and innovative programmes that align with BT BAF’s mission of empowering young artists from underserved backgrounds. Dazhong’s Junior Orchestra stood out as an exemplary model of music education, (with) its commitment to ensemble experience, frequent performances and community outreach. We are excited to collaborate with (the students) and provide the necessary resources to further their artistic growth.”

Amendment note: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that Mirza Putra Naim Ahmad Najib is a girl. He is a boy. The article has been amended to reflect this change.