About
Having an extensive coaching experience, Thomas has been engaged by various Singapore schools as their Double Bass Coach. Most of which are awarded distinctions in Singapore Youth Festivals.
Over the years, he has had the opportunities to work with a wide variety of music ensembles such as Singapore Chinese Orchestra, Ding Yi Music Company, The TENG Ensemble, Singapore National Youth Orchestra, and The Philharmonic Orchestra, that has taken him to Vienna, Salzburg, China and Taiwan.
During his National Service from 2005 to 2007, Thomas served as a Double Bass Musician under Singapore Armed Forces Music & Drama Company where he explored more musical forms like jazz, classic rock and Shanghai opera, further honing his ensemble performance skills through a wide spectrum of instrumental combinations with different ensemble settings.
Thomas was appointed by TENG Academy as their Editor (Double Bass) for the exam syllabus in 2018.
In recognition of his teaching, Thomas was presented a CCA Coach Award in 2020 by Ngee Ann Polytechnic.
Si Pei's musical journey has been a testament to her dedication and passion for the art of double bass performance. Under the mentorship of esteemed instructors, she embarked on her formal music education at the the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, where she honed her skills under the guidance of Thomas Martin and Tony Alcock. Her pursuit of excellence continued at Royal Northern College of Music, where she studied under the tutelage of Jiří Hudec.
In 2019, Si Pei achieved a significant milestone by graduating with a Master of Instrumental Performance (Double Bass), showcasing not only her talent but also her commitment to her craft. Her exceptional achievements extended to the following year when she completed an Advanced Postgraduate Diploma program with Distinctions, further solidifying her status as a standout musician.
Si Pei's musical prowess found early expression during her tenure with the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO) from 2008 to 2016. As a dedicated member, she contributed to the orchestra's international acclaim, participating in tours to prestigious venues such as Aberdeen, the Young Euro Classics in Berlin, and Malaysia. Under the tutelage of Karen Yeo Li-Min, a double bassist from the Singapore Symphony Orchestra during her SNYO days, Si Pei cultivated a strong foundation that would shape her future in the world of classical music.
Her journey has been marked by notable collaborations and enriching experiences. Si Pei had the privilege of performing alongside the Hallé Orchestra, a testament to her proficiency and versatility as a double bassist. Complementing her practical training, she took part in masterclasses with distinguished figures in the field, including Božo Paradžik, Giuseppe Ettore, Artem Chirkov, Tim Cobb, and Janne Saksala.
Beyond the realm of music, Si Pei finds joy and inspiration in the simple pleasures of life. She appreciates a thought-provoking book and enjoys connecting with nature. She also enjoys the serenity of a good cup of tea.