Progression 3

Experience an unforgettable afternoon of classical music with the MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra as they proudly present "Progression III." Join us on September 29, 2024, at 4:30 PM at the YST Conservatory of Music Concert Hall for a mesmerizing performance featuring:

• The Barber of Seville Overture by Rossini

• Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18 (performing by local talent, Clarence Lee)
• Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64 by Tchaikovsky

This enchanting program promises to captivate audiences with its blend of energetic overture, profound piano concerto, and beautiful symphony. Don't miss this chance to witness the MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra's artistry in an afternoon of musical excellence.

Clarence Lee, Soloist

Singaporean pianist Clarence Lee has been praised by the Straits Times as a “True master of sonorities.” His accolades include the distinction award at the 1st Hong Kong International Music Competition for Young Pianists (2014), 2nd Prize at the National Piano & Violin Competition (2011), and the Platinum award at the Singapore Performer’s Festival (2006). Clarence has performed as a concerto soloist with prominent orchestras such as the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. A graduate of the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music with first-class honors and a Master of Music degree, Clarence currently teaches at LASALLE College of the Arts and serves as an Adjunct Collaborative Pianist at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music.

MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra (MPPO)

The MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra (MPPO) is a vibrant community orchestra based in Singapore, under the auspices of the MacPherson Community Centre. Founded in 2017, MPPO aims to provide a platform for musicians to develop their talents, connect with the community, and promote the universal language of music.

Since its inception, MPPO has grown from 40 to 70 members, encompassing a diverse group of individuals ranging from students to educators and professional musicians. Despite their varied backgrounds and skill levels, members unite once or twice a week for rehearsals, driven by their shared passion for music.

As a young and dynamic orchestra, MPPO has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed organizations and venues, including The Istana, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore Melo Choir, and the Singapore-China International Business Organization. These opportunities have been made possible through the dedication and leadership of MPPO’s Music Director, Mr. Lester Kong, a distinguished conductor who won the Smoky Mountain Conducting Competition and the Pierre Monteux Prize in Conducting in 2017.

With its commitment to excellence and community engagement, MPPO continues to make significant strides in the local music scene, fostering a love for music and enriching the cultural landscape of Singapore.

Lester Kong

Lester Kong is the Founder and Music Director of the MacPherson Philharmonic Orchestra and a prominent figure in Singapore's music education scene. His major success as a conductor came when he won the Pierre Monteux 1st Prize at the 2017 Smoky Mountain International Conducting Competition. He currently conducts the Victoria Junior College String Ensemble, and has also worked with institutions such as Singapore Management University, CHIJ Toa Payoh, and CHIJ St Joseph.

Since 2012, Lester has participated in international masterclasses with renowned conductors including Markand Thakar, Larry Rachleff, Donald Schleicher, Atso Almila, Luke Dollman, Dwight Oltman, and Neeme Jarvi. He studied conducting with Associate Professor Wang Ya-Hui and earned a Master of Music degree from Yong Siew Toh Conservatory under Principal Conductor Jason Lai. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education with Psychology from Singapore University of Social Science. During his training, he worked with orchestras such as the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.