Chinese Orchestra

Join YICO to learn traditional Chinese instruments, perform at key events, and grow as a musician through ensemble work, exchanges, and the Singapore Youth Festival.

Last updated 16 July 2026

The Yusof Ishak Chinese Orchestra (YICO) provides students with a comprehensive platform to learn, perform, and appreciate Chinese orchestral music. Through guided instruction and regular rehearsals, members gain exposure to a wide range of traditional Chinese instruments and repertoire, developing strong technical skills and musical understanding.

Alongside classical works, the orchestra also performs contemporary and Western pop pieces adapted for Chinese instruments, allowing students to experience a broad spectrum of musical styles. As part of their learning journey, YICO members attend live performances by other Chinese orchestras. These experiences enable students to observe different interpretations and performance practices, deepening their understanding of Chinese music and encouraging thoughtful reflection on their own musicianship.

Through ensemble work and performances, members cultivate teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills while building lasting friendships in a supportive environment. With a commitment to cultural appreciation and community engagement, the orchestra regularly performs at key school events and represents the school at external platforms including exchange programmes and the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF).

Key Programmes

(a) Inter-School Chinese Orchestra Music Exchange

YICO participated in the 8th Inter-School Chinese Orchestra Music Exchange, organized by the Keat Hong Chinese Orchestra. The event aimed to deepen youths’ appreciation of Chinese music and provided a platform for Chinese Orchestras from 11 schools across Singapore to learn from one another, refine their skills, and showcase their musical talents.

A man presents a certificate to a young girl in front of a large student orchestra in a school hall.

Large group of students in maroon uniforms posing together in a school hall with red curtains behind them.

(b) Singapore Youth Festival Arts Presentation

YICO participated in the Singapore Youth Festival Arts Presentation after months of focused preparation. Under the guidance of conductor Mr. Goh Wei Hong, members presented two selected works that highlighted their technical competence, musical sensitivity, and ensemble unity. The experience offered valuable performance exposure, reinforced discipline and teamwork, and reflected the orchestra’s ongoing commitment to high artistic standards and continual growth.

A large youth orchestra in red outfits performs Chinese instruments including erhu and pipa on a concert stage.

Large orchestra performing on a wooden stage, musicians in red and black attire with a conductor at center.

(c) School Events and Concerts

YICO also takes part in a wide range of school performances, including Speech Day, Chinese New Year celebrations, and Performing Arts concert. Through these platforms, members apply the skills developed during rehearsals, learning to perform confidently before an audience, work closely as an ensemble, and adapt to different performance settings. These experiences help students develop stage presence, musical discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Large group of students in matching dark red shirts and navy bottoms posing outdoors under a covered area.

A conductor leads a large Chinese orchestra, musicians in red tops playing traditional instruments indoors.

CCA Training Information

Every Wednesday: 3.30 – 5.30PM

Every Friday: 2.30 – 5.30PM