CCA Previews ‘25: Raffles Symphonic Band

By RSB EXCO ‘25

You will hear us before you see us: the blaring trumpets, the gusto of the tubas, the ringing piccolo, and the booming of the percussion that signal the arrival of the Raffles Symphonic Band. Established in 1962, Raffles Symphonic Band (RSB) has been mesmerising people with their music-making since its inception. 

Meet Raffles Symphonic Band, where passion meets perseverance. We are a family of musicians —woodwinds, brasses, and percussion—dedicated to performing music that resonates with our audience. Whether you are a seasoned musician or amateur, we offer a place for your talents to flourish.

On Wednesdays and Fridays, RSB members embark on a journey, trekking across from the Y56 campus to the Y14 campus for our CCA sessions. The hike across the campus may seem arduous, but we converge on a cosy band room where we chill and bond beyond just practising. 

Under the guidance of our esteemed conductor, Mr Lim Yean Hwee, we meticulously hone our skills. Each rehearsal transforms our individual efforts into a unified sound through rigorous practice and regular sectionals with our nurturing tutors. 

 We begin each rehearsal with fundamentals to polish our techniques, and then dive into a wide repertoire of pieces, with opportunities for each member to showcase the unique timbres of their respective instruments. We leave every rehearsal having gained something valuable, from sight-reading the most complex rhythms to discovering new musical genres. 

Our performances, whether A Tempo, Bandemonium, or SYF, are the culmination of countless hours of practising – the collective blood, sweat, and tears that we have poured into each and every note sounded. 

In June 2024, we had the opportunity to partake in an overseas exchange programme with various high schools in Japan. Interacting with their band members opened our eyes to a whole different band culture, one based on the quintessential Japanese values of perfection through practice.

If you have a love for music, a desire to improve, and a willingness to commit, Raffles Symphonic Band is the place for you. Do not worry if you barely have musical experience —just bring along your passion and a positive attitude, and you will find a supportive community eager to help you grow.

Getting into RSB is also easier than you think. Rest assured that the trials only serve to help you determine if you are passionate enough for RSB, rather than nitpicking for the best of the best. Everyone can meet the same standards with a little practice!

But we are not just all about music practice. We know when to unwind and let loose. We periodically organise bonding activities to foster a spirit of camaraderie among members, establishing a tight-knit community we proudly call RSB. 

Our journey with RSB extends well beyond graduation. We boast a vibrant alumni community including Raffles Winds and OBOG Wind Symphony, where our beloved ex-members return as performers, sharing their enriched experiences and continued passion for music.

Their lifelong involvement not only strengthens the bonds within our band community, but further enhances the shared spirit of RSB, creating a dynamic and interconnected network that celebrates both past achievements and future aspirations. 

Being part of RSB is more than just a co-curricular activity—it is a journey. It teaches discipline, teamwork, and the power of collective creativity. For us, the band is a second family, a place where every rehearsal is a memory, and every performance is a triumph. If you are looking for a fulfilling and enriching experience, RSB is calling your name.