The Teng Company

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The Teng Company
Founded2004; 20 years ago (2004)
HeadquartersSingapore
WebsiteOfficial website Edit this at Wikidata

The TENG Company is a Singaporean non-profit arts company. The company comprises music educators, scholars, and instrumentalists and reinterprets music from Singapore's Chinese heritage. Established in 2004,[1] it became a charity in 2015 and an Institution of a Public Character in 2017.[2]

Etymology[edit]

The character 鼟, pronounced as 'tēng,' is one of the Chinese language’s most intricate characters. It symbolises the sound of a drum in ancient Chinese culture[3] and represents TENG's aim of 'uniting cultures and empowering future generations of musicians and audiences in Singapore and beyond.'[4]

History[edit]

After winning individual championship titles at the biennial National Chinese Music Competition that was organised by the National Arts Council, Samuel Wong and Yang Ji Wei could no longer compete individually in the competition. They then formed The TENG Chinese Chamber Ensemble with other soloists and competed in the Ensemble category in 2004 and came in first.[5] After the win, some members of the ensemble formed The TENG Company to create and develop projects related to Chinese instrumental music.[6] In 2009, The TENG Company formed its performing arm, The TENG Ensemble.[7]

In 2015, the company was registered as a charity,[8] and Temasek Holdings became its patron.[9] Between 2015 and 2017, it received National Arts Council's Seed Grant.[10] The company was mentioned during the 2015 Singapore National Day Rally by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for "creating a uniquely Singaporean sound by injecting new elements into traditional culture" during the segment on Singapore's bilingual policy.[11]

In 2016, The TENG Ensemble was invited by Sino Land to put on a show in Hong Kong and hosted two sold-out concerts at the Fringe Club.[12] The TENG Company staged a concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall titled "Stories from an Island City"[13] and released its second album of the same name. With support from Fullerton Heritage, The TENG Ensemble also began the annual "Where the River Always Flows" series in partnership with the Singapore Heritage Festival.[14] Their performance for the Star Awards, which was organised by Mediacorp was televised nationally.[15]

In 2017, the Chinese Music Instrumental Grading Examinations was also launched by The TENG Company in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at Nanyang Technological University.

In 2018, the TENG Gives Back series was started to contribute to the community through performances in hospices and homes.[16] TENG also launched an outreach-focused "Once Upon a"[17] concert series at VivoCity, aiming to bring music to local residents, with the backing of Mapletree Investments. The TENG Company was honoured with the CHT International Award.[18] The TENG Company became a recipient of the Major Grant Scheme from the National Arts Council.[19]

In 2019, the company published The TENG Guide To The Chinese Orchestra, a book that covers the various aspects of 13 sets of Chinese musical instruments and how they work.[20] The book also analysed 18 Chinese orchestral pieces to demonstrate how to combine various instruments in an orchestral piece.[20] It was written by Samuel Wong, Wang Chenwei and Chow Jun Yi.[20] The TENG Company showcased its first major fundraising concert titled "Mind The Music!" in collaboration with Caregivers Alliance.[21][22] Lastly, the "Heirlooms" concert, the culmination of the Forefathers' Project, was held at the Esplanade Concert Hall.[23]

In 2020, The TENG Company worked with an Indian musician,[24] Shabir, to release the "Triptych series" in response to the COVID-19 situation in Singapore.[25] The "Teng Goes Digital Campaign" was initiated, and the Teng Ensemble performed their first-ever digital concert with support from Fullerton Heritage.[26]

Held as a fundraising digital concert in 2021, The Gift of Music Gala was hosted for The TENG Company's social outreach initiatives.[27] They also launched the TENG Insider digital series,[28] featuring the Executive and Creative Directors hosting various local arts personalities to talk about their insights and industry stories. The TENG Backstage digital series was also introduced, offering educational content.[29] The "Where the River Always Flows VI" digital concert was presented in collaboration with Fullerton Hotels and Resorts.[30] The TENG Company released their first Extended Play Release, "天地人合 (Tian Di Ren He)," on major digital Streaming platforms.[31]

In 2022, The TENG Company presented its first physical performance since the COVID-19 pandemic, "Once Upon A Time 2022," at VivoCity's amphitheatre.[32] In that year, there was an official name change from "The TENG Ensemble" to "The TENG Company".[citation needed] Positive results from TENG x Singapore Institute of Technology's Health and Social Sciences Department research on Binaural Beats were published.[33] The Team TENG fundraising initiative was launched. The TENG Company hosted a fundraising concert, "More Than Music!",[34] which highlighted youth empowerment and artistic innovation.[35]

In 2023, The TENG Company released their Music for Mindfulness album on iTunes.

In 2024, as part of their 20th anniversary celebration, TENG launched The Singaporean Composers Series 起承转合 featuring 10 commissioned works from 20 local producers and composers.[36] They also launched TENG x SMRT Train Chimes, a series of chimes played at stations across the Circle Line, North-South Line, and East-West Line to assist the visually-impaired during their commute.[37] The TENG Company kickstarted their TENG Recital Series with 溯•筝 Transcendence, a Guzheng recital presented by The TENG Company and Mapletree Investments.[38]  

Structure[edit]

TENG pursues its mission through three main avenues: artistically innovative projects, social impact programs, and industry empowerment initiatives[1]

Artistic Innovation[edit]

The organisation cultivates a distinct Singaporean musical identity through The TENG Ensemble.[39] Since its establishment, the company has created numerous original and adapted works and projects, aiming to transform perceptions of Chinese music and expand the art form beyond its conventional boundaries.[40]

The TENG Ensemble[edit]

The TENG Ensemble is a Singaporean Chinese fusion music group that incorporates influences from the East, West, traditional, and contemporary genres.[41] Since 2009, the Ensemble's performances have received acclaim in the Singapore arts scene, among the public, and in various communities.[42]

Concerts[edit]

The TENG Company's concerts aim to broaden the accessibility of Chinese music to a diverse audience, catering to both music enthusiasts and those unfamiliar with concert hall experiences.[43] These programs feature popular repertoires and occasionally educational content for audiences.[44]

Social Impact[edit]

The TENG Company's social impact initiatives involve the creation and performance of music designed to facilitate healing, provide comfort, and accompany vulnerable individuals.[45] Since 2018, the company has collaborated with nursing homes, hospices, treatment centres, and specialised schools to connect with the elderly, the ill, as well as at-risk youths or those with special needs.[46] Additionally, The TENG Company researches and makes music specifically to promote mental wellness.

TENG Gives Back[edit]

TENG Gives Back seeks to pay forward the goodwill of TENG's supporters by collaborating with music therapists to deliver musical performances to vulnerable individuals.[47] Since 2018, it has impacted thousands of patients, caregivers, and staff in nursing homes, hospices, and treatment centres.[48] The programme is now in demand from beneficiaries who acknowledge its uplifting effects on spirits and comfort for the vulnerable and sick.

Music For Mindfulness[edit]

Music For Mindfulness, an initiative by The TENG Company, aims to enhance wellness and reduce stress and anxiety directly in people's homes.[49] Developed over two years in collaboration with the Singapore Institute of Technology's Health and Social Sciences Department, the project incorporates TENG's distinctive East-West sound.[50] It utilises Binaural Beats technology and integrates ancient Chinese philosophies of music therapy to create a convenient, contemporary, and easy-listening experience.[51]

In-School Programs for Targeted Students[edit]

In-School Programs for Targeted Students involve TENG collaborating with specialised institutions to create Chinese music programs for individuals with special needs and at-risk youths.[52] The programme focuses on building students' self-confidence and self-esteem, fostering cooperative skills and teamwork, and encouraging them to discover and develop their musical potential.[53]

TENG x COPE[edit]

TENG's collaboration with COPE as part of its latest Social Impact project, TENG x COPE, aims to prepare young children in Singapore and globally with essential survival skills during natural disasters.[54] By closely working with the COPE team to transform their existing book series into animated content with songs, this project aims to strengthen TENG's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what music can achieve in societal assistance.[55]

Industry Empowerment[edit]

The company's ambitions span from being the foremost accreditor of Chinese instrumental music in Singapore to publishing literature on Chinese music and providing training to Chinese orchestras in schools. The goal is to elevate the standards of music performance, creation, and appreciation across all age groups, irrespective of their circumstances. Learners are urged to further develop their skills by engaging with TENG's educational offerings, network, and performance platforms.

Mapletree–TENG Scholarship[edit]

The Mapletree–TENG Scholarship is a comprehensive program designed to cultivate the talents of individuals aged 21 and below who exhibit a passion for Chinese music. Established in 2018, it represents a collaboration between Mapletree Investments and The TENG Company.[56] The scholarship encompasses a rigorous training regimen involving continuous assessments, individual lessons conducted by professional instructors from TENG, and opportunities for performances.[57]

The TENG Guide to the Chinese Orchestra[edit]

The TENG Guide to the Chinese Orchestra is a comprehensive resource for composers, scholars, and enthusiasts. The book stands as a seminal work focusing on instrumentation and orchestration for Chinese orchestra instruments. It is the most up-to-date English publication of its kind.[58]

Chinese Instrumental Music Grading Examinations (CIMGE)[edit]

In collaboration with the Confucius Institute, Nanyang Technological University (CI-NTU) since 2017, TENG organises the Chinese Instrumental Music Grading Examinations (CIMGE).[59] This initiative aims to establish a platform for benchmarking Chinese music standards. The examination system involves musician-educators from Singapore and across Asia, with an all-encompassing list of 17 instruments catering to candidates receiving musical training from ensembles in local schools and Chinese orchestras.[60]

Chinese Orchestras in Schools[edit]

TENG contributes to the development of the next generation of Chinese musicians in schools through consultancy and training programs for Chinese orchestras. This is led by award-winning musician and orchestra conductor Yang Ji Wei, along with experienced music instructors. Chinese orchestras trained by TENG consistently achieve Distinctions at the Singapore Youth Festival Arts Presentation organised by the Ministry of Education.[61]

Discography[edit]

The Teng Ensemble[edit]

  • Eight (2013)
  • Stories from an Island City (2016)
  • Evolution of Disney Princesses (Single, 2017)
  • The Evolution of Teresa Teng (Single, 2017)
  • Canon in D (Single, 2018)
  • Heirlooms (Album 2019) - 8 tracks
  • The Evolution of Adele: 2007 - 2015 (Single, 2020)
  • The Themes from Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts (Single, 2020)
  • 光辉岁月 Live (Single, 2020)
  • Heaven, Earth, Mankind and Unity (EP, 2021)
  • Genshin Impact: Jade Moon Upon a Sea of Clouds Medley (Single, 2021)
  • Merry Christmans, Mr Lawrence (Single, 2021)
  • Birds and Bees (Single, 2021)
  • Ong ah Ong (Single, 2021)
  • Singai Naadu (Single, 2022)
  • The New Legendary Swordsman (Single, 2023)

Publications[edit]

  • Wong, Samuel (2005), 器 QI: An Instrumental Guide to the Chinese Orchestra. Teng. ISBN 981-05-4012-4
  • Wang Chenwei; Chow JunYi; Samuel Wong (2020). The TENG guide to the Chinese orchestra. Singapore: World Scientific. ISBN 978-981-323-364-5. OCLC 1008972714.

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "Profile: The Teng Ensemble". The A List Singapore. 2 August 2016. Archived from the original on 17 May 2018. Retrieved 12 March 2018.
  2. ^ "Organisation Profile". Charity Portal. Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. Archived from the original on 18 May 2018. Retrieved 17 May 2018.
  3. ^ ""鼟"字的解释 | 汉典". www.zdic.net (in Chinese (China)). Retrieved 29 April 2024.
  4. ^ Chin, Amos (29 March 2024). "Dr. Samuel Wong of The TENG Company on the power of music". Robb Report Singapore. Retrieved 29 April 2024.
  5. ^ "Winners of 2004 National Chinese Music Competition". NAC. National Arts Council. 15 December 2004. Archived from the original on 18 May 2018. Retrieved 17 May 2018.
  6. ^ "TENG Ensemble founders were mocked for playing "cheena" instruments while in ACS". mothership.sg. Archived from the original on 1 October 2022. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
  7. ^ "Chinese tunes mixed with Japanese anime music, electronica". AsiaOne. 14 September 2013. Archived from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 15 November 2023.
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  12. ^ "2581 - A Celebration of Singapore's Heritage Music in Hong Kong - The Teng Ensemble | Exhibition | The Fringe Club". www.hkfringeclub.com. Archived from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
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  24. ^ "A Tamil poem, a Kollywood music director, and a Chinese ensemble: Uniquely Singapore arts in COVID-19 times". www.connectedtoindia.com. Archived from the original on 14 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
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  29. ^ "TENG Backstage - YouTube". www.youtube.com. Archived from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
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  33. ^ Tay, Kay Chai Peter; Chia, Jia Lin Cherie; Lam, Yeow Hing Bradley; Ng, Soo Inn Fidessa; Pang, Chu Hui (1 January 2022). Effectiveness of Binaural Beats in Music from The TENG Ensemble in Relieving Stress in Singapore University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Report). Singapore Institute of Technology.
  34. ^ "More Than Music!" (PDF). Sqarespace. Archived (PDF) from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
  35. ^ Tay, Kay Chai Peter; Chia, Jia Lin Cherie; Lam, Yeow Hing Bradley; Ng, Soo Inn Fidessa; Pang, Chu Hui (1 January 2022). Effectiveness of Binaural Beats in Music from The TENG Ensemble in Relieving Stress in Singapore University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Report). Singapore Institute of Technology. Archived from the original on 3 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
  36. ^ "The Singaporean Composers Series | SINGAPO人". SINGAPO人 | Discovering Chinese Singaporean Culture. 18 March 2024. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  37. ^ "Here's how The TENG Company and SMRT's train chimes are making commuting in Singapore a more inclusive experience". Hear65. 27 February 2024. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  38. ^ "Mapletree - The TENG Company Presents Its New Recital Series to Showcase Budding Guzheng Musicians". www.mapletree.com.sg. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  39. ^ suusdesign (4 July 2023). "Bloomberg Philanthropies - Harnessing the Power of Arts and Culture". Li Foundation. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
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  44. ^ "Mapletree - The TENG Company Presents Its New Recital Series to Showcase Budding Guzheng Musicians". www.mapletree.com.sg. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
  45. ^ "The TENG Company Ltd". Giving.sg. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  46. ^ Chin, Amos (29 March 2024). "Dr. Samuel Wong of The TENG Company on the power of music". Robb Report Singapore. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  47. ^ Chin, Amos (29 March 2024). "Dr. Samuel Wong of The TENG Company on the power of music". Robb Report Singapore. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  48. ^ "Tunes for Transformation: How Ancient Chinese Music Inspires Positive Change". Values Exchange. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  49. ^ "Why music is the latest wellness and mental health trend". The Peak Magazine. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  50. ^ Tay, Kay Chai Peter; Chia, Jia Lin Cherie; Lam, Yeow Hing Bradley; Ng, Soo Inn Fidessa; Pang, Chu Hui (1 January 2022). Effectiveness of Binaural Beats in Music from The TENG Ensemble in Relieving Stress in Singapore University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Report). Singapore Institute of Technology.
  51. ^ "Tunes for Transformation: How Ancient Chinese Music Inspires Positive Change". Values Exchange. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  52. ^ "In-School Programmes for Targeted Students". The TENG Company. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  53. ^ "Tunes for Transformation: How Ancient Chinese Music Inspires Positive Change". Values Exchange. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  54. ^ Chin, Amos (29 March 2024). "Dr. Samuel Wong of The TENG Company on the power of music". Robb Report Singapore. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  55. ^ "TENG x COPE". The TENG Company. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  56. ^ Glenda Lim (13 December 2022). "The TENG Company and Mapletree Investments announce sixth Academy Scholarship — here's how you can apply". Hear65. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  57. ^ "Mapletree-Teng Academy Scholarship now open for applications". The Business Times. 3 January 2022. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  58. ^ "The TENG guide to the Chinese orchestra / Wang Chenwei, Chow Junyi & Samuel Wong". East Spring Secondary School OPAC. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  59. ^ Ho, Olivia (9 July 2019). "Teng Company launches new guide to Chinese orchestra instruments". The Straits Times. ISSN 0585-3923. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  60. ^ "Making Chinese music more accessible and engaging". www.mccy.gov.sg. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  61. ^ "Making Chinese music more accessible and engaging". www.mccy.gov.sg. Retrieved 26 April 2024.

External links[edit]

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