Much of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s history is attributed to its founding patron — Dr Goh Keng Swee.
Over 40 years ago, Dr Goh understood the value of amassing cultural wealth and gave impetus to the formation of a professional symphony orchestra in Singapore. Driven by his vision and determination, he saw the SSO’s inception far into the future and supported it to become an integral part of the nation’s artistic identity.
Today, the SSO continues to make waves locally and internationally, with accolades such as clinching third place in the Orchestra of the Year Award at the 2021 Gramophone Classical Music Awards, and being named one of the best orchestras in the world by BBC Music Magazine.
As a tribute to Dr Goh, Paul Lewis Plays Mozart Piano Concerto 25 held on 16 and 17 February was dedicated to him. Our musicians took the stage to deliver a performance reflective of what our founding patron envisioned for a formidable orchestra in Singapore. The concert was also given a glowing review by The Straits Times.
Headlined by English pianist Paul Lewis and under the baton of American conductor Robert Spano, the jubilant performance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25, which many would agree to be one of the composer’s greatest masterpieces in the concerto genre, proved to be a real treat for the concertgoers.
The closing piece had the American conductor leading the SSO in Schumann’s triumphant Rhenish Symphony, which was received with great cheer at its Düsseldorf premiere in 1851.
We express our gratitude to the SSO Council whose role has been key in heading the initiative to dedicate one concert each year in memory of Dr Goh.
