HIGHER MUSIC EDUCATION AND SOUTHEAST ASIA-REFLECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE

Abstract

Since gaining independence, Singaporeís economic transformation has drawn much attention globally and has been an important stakeholder in the Southeast Asian region. Singaporeís cultural landscape as a young nation has also undergone much development, of which music plays an integral role in shaping the cultural and national identity of Singapore. Moreover, Singaporeís cultural development not only has local but also regional implications on Southeast Asia. By tracing the development of arts, culture, and higher music education in Singapore, and reflecting on its regional impact and future possibilities, these reflections aim to deepen our appreciation that higher music education must meet the regionís unique contexts and geographies, and to affirm our responsibility as stewards to develop it in ways that uplift and benefit society. This paper thus investigates the trajectory of Higher Music Education in Singapore and towards the region in three views: its origin in national development, its contributions to Southeast Asia, and future possibilities. As a musician from Singapore, I hope to use this to reflect on my duties to Singapore, to the region, and to the world.