As another remarkable year draws to a close, we look back with gratitude on all that we have achieved together. 2025 has been filled with inspiring performances, dedicated practice, and unforgettable musical moments that remind us why we love what we do.

Highlights and Heartfelt Congratulations

We are immensely proud of several outstanding accomplishments this year:

Mr. Lam’s New Orchestral Opera

Our Principal, Mr. Lam Siu Chong, premiered his latest composition (along with librettist Mr. Chin San Sooi), The Legend of Yap Ah Loy, on 13 December 2025. The orchestral opera was a resounding success, with three performances that saw tickets nearly sold out. This ambitious work showcased Mr. Lam’s extraordinary talent and brought great pride to our entire L & J community.

Our String Students in the Spotlight

Many of our talented string students, who form part of the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra, undertook an impressive concert marathon. Following a beautiful Christmas presentation at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, they performed in all three consecutive sessions of the orchestra for The Legend of Yap Ah Loy. Though exhausting, the experience was deeply rewarding and demonstrated their commitment, discipline, and artistry.

Youth & Young Adults Music Recital 2025

L & J had proudly hosted the Youth & Young Adults Music Recital, which proved to be another wonderful success. We were delighted to welcome so many enthusiastic young adult students of L & J who generously shared their time, skill, and passion through performances of both classical and contemporary pieces of their choice. A special thank you goes to all the parents and teachers whose unwavering support made this event possible—without you, none of this would have been achieved.

It is fine to learn a 2nd instrument

This year, I want to keep my address brief yet meaningful: it is absolutely fine...and often highly beneficial...to learn...a second instrument!

There is a common misconception that once a student begins piano, they should stick to it exclusively. In truth, many L & J students thrive by exploring a second instrument alongside piano, whether that be violin, cello, a woodwind, or even a brass instrument.

Piano truly is the king of instruments. It engages both hands independently, sharply stimulating the mind, cognitive abilities, and coordination. Yet it is primarily a solo instrument, offering fewer opportunities to play in ensembles. This is where string, woodwind, and brass instruments shine - they open the door to orchestral playing, where students learn to listen, blend, and grow together in a completely different and enriching musical experience.

Students with a strong piano foundation often find it remarkably easy to pick up a second instrument. Instead of reading two clefs simultaneously, they focus on a single line of music while developing the physical techniques unique to their new instrument.

A true success story from L & J illustrates the broader rewards: one of our students, proficient in both violin and cello, secured a generous tertiary education scholarship in the USA. The university, upon learning of her cello skills, invited her to join their orchestra and offered a significant tuition discount. L & J was proud to assist by filming her audition video, contributing to her successful application.

Never let your musical skills lie dormant. You never know what doors they may open alongside your other professional pursuits. Since 1981, L & J has nurtured students of all ages and backgrounds, helping them acquire a lifelong skill they can carry with them forever.

On behalf of the entire L & J family, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a joyful, music-filled New Year ahead.

Thank you and I’ll see you all next year!

Cordially,
Max Lam
Head of Operations