Dr Koo enchanting the students with his performance of a composition by a notable Chinese musician in the early 20th century

Kuala Lumpur, 24 February, 2011 - UCSI University’s School of Music recently held a lecture recital with Dr Koo Siaw Sing, acclaimed pianist, at the South Wing of the Kuala Lumpur campus. The lecture recital themed, “East Meets West” discussed the evolution of Chinese piano music beginning from the early 20th century to present day and its relationship with Western piano music. The differing styles and sounds of the music scores were also taught to the students and guests present. 

According to Dr Koo, the concepts and styles of piano music among the Chinese are directly related to the historical, social and political events of their community. Thus, he said, Chinese piano music incorporates folk elements such as sounds from traditional Chinese instruments that differentiate it from the Western composers who dominated the music scene of previous centuries. He said, however, that Western music still influenced Chinese musical pieces.

Going through the most notable composers such as, He Lu-Ding, Du Ming-Xin and Wang Li-Shan, Dr Koo also enchanted the students with his performance skills of each piece. 

Students who attended the event said they found both the lecture and the performance enlightening.

“I have learnt a lot about Chinese music this evening and how it has developed over the years, which has further ignited my interest to perform some of the pieces played by Dr Koo,” said Alex Chan, a second year music student at UCSI University, majoring in classical piano.

Foundation student, Fiona Wee, who is majoring in Contemporary Piano at the University, said she would like to study more of the history of Chinese piano music and perhaps discover more of its styles and methods.

Dr Koo, a native of Penang, received his performer’s diploma, Licentiate (L.T.C.L.) from Trinity College of Music. In 1990, he was awarded a piano scholarship to study at the Cleveland Institute of Music where he received his Bachelor of Music degree. It was then he says, he realised that many musicians were not aware of these Chinese composers and their traditional styles of composing Piano Music.

For future musicians, Dr Koo said students should be patient.

“Music is a journey of accumulating experiences and every musician will get their opportunity to shine when the time is right,” said Dr Koo when asked about his research on Chinese music and imparting his knowledge to future musicians.

“Every musician needs preparation to hone their skills in order to heighten their opportunities and they should get the support of their instructors towards their first steps into the industry,” he added.

Dr Koo has since continued his studies and earned his Master of Music degree and Performer's Certificate from Northern Illinois University, and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Oregon. He is in high demand as a concert pianist, a lecturer at national conferences, and an adjudicator for piano competitions.