NIESB: About Us

Nanyang Technological University, National lnstitute of Education
Visual & Performing Arts Academic Group (Music)

National Institute of Education Symphonic Band

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The NIE Symphonic Band has been an active organisation since its inception in 1975, holding regular performance and at various public venues around Singapore.

In 1976, the pioneering spirit of its members sparked off a series of annual concerts, which were named Opus. These have been subsequently held jointly with the then Division of Music (currently known as Visual & Performing Arts Academic Group) and the Institute's Choir. In 1990, the Band began another series of concerts christened Band-In-Concert during which it showcases a selection from among the best and most popular works for symphonic band. With this series, NIESB matured and found its identity amid the many voices of the local band scene.

The Band's current annual calendar includes their regular concert series, charity concerts, recording sessions and overseas tours. Band members meet at least once a week for rehearsals and the repertoire of the band includes pieces from the standard symphonic band music to local compositions and music from the ASEAN countries.

The NIESB and its conductor, A/P Ho Hwee Long, have embarked on a series of overseas tours to enable members to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the culture and music of other countries while promoting that of Singapore. Its members have been the most fortunate in forging friendships with many musicians and bands in places as diverse as East Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany and most recently, China.

In June 1995, the Band was awarded the First Prize with Distinction in the 3rd Division (Adult), at the 14th International Festival for Wind Music (Janitsjarfestivalen) in Hamar, Norway. And subsequently in 1999, the Band was awarded as one of the top five bands in the Yamaha European Open Hamar (YEOH) Competition at the 15th International Band Music Festival.