NUSS-YST Concert raises over S$400,000

The National University of Singapore Society (NUSS) and the NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YST) have raised more than S$400,000 to date with matching grant from the Tote Board, to help needy NUS students.

The amount which was raised as part of a fundraising concert with YST, exceeded the initial target of S$250,000.

The eighth instalment of Beyond The Score: “Simple Gifts and Springs of Transcendence”, was webcast on NUSS YouTube channel on 25 November 2021, 7pm to NUSS members and guests for the fundraiser. Presented by YST students and faculty members Vice Dean Associate Professor Brett Stemple and Principal Conductor Jason Lai, the concert featured an hour-long programme of music by American composer Aaron Copland. A guided listening experience, the concert took guests on a journey across Copland’s songs as well as his ballet-score masterpiece Appalachian Spring, exploring the musical context as well as video excerpts from Martha Graham’s original ballet choreography. Amid global challenges, the concert sought to provide music of solace, celebration and reflection. The amount raised will be channelled towards the NUS Alumni Bursary Endowed Fund, NUSS Golf Section Bursary Endowed Fund and other funds for needy students in NUS.

Said NUSS President Mr Edward S Tay, “We are pleased to serve our alma mater in cultivating the spirit of giving and especially to support needy students. We wish to thank our members and friends of NUSS for their generosity in contributing to this worthy cause.”

Assoc Prof Ho Chee Kong, Interim Dean of YST said, “It has been our pleasure working with NUSS on the Beyond the Score series and sharing music through our curated interactive programmes. In this year’s event, we are especially delighted to give further support to NUS students, as we continue to give music greater resonance in the community.”