Asia and Pacific Band Director’s Association Gala Concert

On 26 August 2025, at the Asia and Pacific Band Director’s Association (APBDA) Gala Concert, the SAF Central Band and the National Youth Winds took the stage together under the batons of renowned composer Yasuhide Ito and Senior Director of Music Military Expert 6 (ME6) Philip Tng.

That evening featured the world premiere of Dr Kelly Tang’s “Concerto for Wind Band,” commissioned by the SAF Central Band and supported by the National Arts Council Cultural Medallion Fund. The audience was also treated to celebrated wind band works composed by Mr Ito himself.

#InHarmony

The first half of the concert showcased the National Youth Winds, comprising Singapore’s outstanding youth musicians, performing alongside musician mentors from the SAF Central Band.

The combined band led by Mr Ito performed several of his enduring classics such as “Festal Ballade" and the Singapore premiere of “Arietta for Wind Ensemble.”

NYW trumpeters Tan Theng Hong Joshua and Nur Imaan Binte Zulkiffli in performance.

The SAF Central Band and the NYW had the privilege of welcoming to the concert our Guest of Honour, Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Manpower (fifth from left).