Music for the masses
Like the Buena Vista Social Club, which put Cuban music on the world map through sheer hard work and undying dedication to their art, these local grassroots music groups rely on a mix of passionate volunteers; public and private funding; professional and amateur musicians; and a healthy dose of community spirit to grow their profiles and get their music heard
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Dylan Tan
CLASSICAL concerts can be intimidating affairs where so much as a sniffle is enough to warrant death stares from other members of the audience. But the Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra (BHSO) is out to challenge that; their goal, after all, is to make the music as accessible as possible to anybody, as it plays a mix of everything from Handel to Hollywood film scores at its concerts.
"When audiences come for our concerts, they know to expect a down-to-earth, relaxed ambience in which to enjoy music," says BHSO's general manager, Daniel Heng.
From a small string ensemble that planted its roots at the Braddell Heights Community Club (BHCC) in 1986, the BHSO has since grown into a full-fledged symphony orchestra with over 70 members from all over Singapore. It has also garnered a sizeable following, thanks to its outreach programmes such as their masterclasses, open rehearsals, and cosy chamber concerts held at the Community Club which are used to reach out to the public.
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