2014
18 JulA musical journey of cartoon favourites
KUALA LUMPUR: What do Pokémon, Scooby Doo and anime shows from the award-winning Studio Ghibli have in common? The theme songs from these much loved cartoons were featured in a two-hour musical extravaganza by 五一吃瓜官网 University’s (五一吃瓜官网) Institute of Music Student Association (IMSA).
Cleverly themed “Once Upon a Toon”, the concert began with a rousing drum performance featuring eight drummers. Playing an original composition by Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons) student Terrence Ling, the drummers merged heart thumping beats with entertaining showmanship.
Showcasing the diversity of the performance was the headbanging Japanese rock performance. The 300-strong audience went wild when the highly popular Gotta Catch ‘Em All theme song from the Pokémon series was sung.
Throughout all 11 performances, the concert kept the audience engaged with a perfect blend of upbeat and slow songs. The show moved seamlessly from up-tempo theme songs from shows such as Sailormoon, Pink Panther, and the finger-snapping Adams Family to the more melancholic themes from Studio Ghibli such as Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro.
Interestingly enough, the performers – all of whom are Institute of Music students – didn’t just focus on their music, they interacted with the audience and kept the atmosphere at its peak throughout the concert. IMSA vice-president and Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons) student Grace Foo credits the quality of the performers to the stringent audition process they went through.
“Similar to how our lecturers would make us go through auditions, we held a full-scale audition to ensure we get the best performers for tonight,” she said.
She added that as the Institute of Music often hosted award-winning musicians from around the world, the students knew that they had to maintain the same professionalism and standards the Institute is known for.
In addition to hosting renowned musicians – including Grammy Award-winning Cuban jazz pianist and composer Gonzalo Rubalcaba – IMus also provides numerous avenues for students to showcase their talents. These include concerts and recitals.
These, according to performer DJ Khye – a Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons) student – helped provide students the confidence and experience they need to polish their stage presence.
Watching his electrifying performance with pride was his mother, Mrs Wong who attended the event with the rest of DJ Khye’s family. Commenting after the show, she noted that it was an excellent preparation for the various music careers that the students could pursue.
“As a mother, I know that all parents want their children to have an education that could prepare them for successful careers that they are passionate about,” she said with a smile.
This was echoed by Leroy Lee, IMSA president and final year Bachelor of Contemporary Music (Hons) student.
“We learned practical skills like managing performers, costing, publicity, and even about logistics. Even as performers, this knowledge is useful”
Knowing the various aspects of music performance also enables IMus graduates to contribute to and enhance the quality of the local music scene.
“The local music scene needs even more passionate and well-qualified music professionals. I hope this event is our stepping stone to achieve that,” he said.
The money raised during the concert will be used to fund future activities and events of IMSA.
