The P. J. Philharmonic Orchestra
Est. 1983
Founded in 1983, the P. J. Philharmonic Orchestra was established to cultivate exceptional young musicians into discerning classical performers.
Our Story
The P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra (registered as the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra Society) is a familiar name among classical music enthusiasts in the Klang Valley. Founded in 1983 by Mr. Lam Siu Chong, it began as a small, dedicated ensemble of young and talented musicians united by a deep passion for classical music.
Originally known as the P.J. Youth Chamber Orchestra (PJYCO) and later as the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra (PJPO), the ensemble has grown to approximately 70 active performing members. Each member contributes distinctive skills that uphold the orchestra’s high artistic standards.
Where talent from every walk of life - plays as one.
PJPO was established to offer a platform for both young and mature musicians from all walks of life who are proficient in at least one classical orchestral instrument. Rehearsals provide ongoing opportunities for musical growth beyond formal classroom study, while also serving as a meaningful after-work or after-school activity.
The orchestra maintains a broad and challenging repertoire that includes works by Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Brahms, Strauss, and notable Chinese composers. Through this diverse programming, members deepen their understanding and appreciation of music, refine their interpretive skills, and develop the discipline, patience, and focus required for successful performance.
Why Join the Orchestra
PJPO was founded with the intention of providing a platform for both young and mature musicians from all walks of life who are skilled in at least one classical orchestral instrument, enabling them to come together and perform as an ensemble. Members continuously expand their musical knowledge through every rehearsal, gaining valuable learning opportunities beyond formal classroom studies.
Technical Mastery
Weekly rehearsals with section leaders refine precision, tone, and ensemble cohesion.
Collaborative Discipline
Learning to listen across fifty instruments cultivates patience, empathy, and leadership.
Stage Performance
Tours and charity galas place members on Malaysia's most prestigious stages.
Leadership
Lam Siu Chong
Lam Siu Chong is the founder of the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra and Principal of the L & J Conservatory of Music. An established piano and cello instructor since 1981, he began composing original orchestral opera works in 2023 that portray significant events in Malaysian history.
- • Principal of L & J Conservatory of Music
- • Composer of "The Solace of Papan"
- • Composer of "The Kapitan"
Lily Woo Pui Lai
Lily Woo Pui Lai is a music educationist and former band drum major. She joined the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra in 1999 and has served as its active conductor since 2004, guiding the ensemble with dedication and contributing to its continued artistic growth.
Lee Ivy
Lee Ivy is a versatile artist and the concertmistress of the P.J. Philharmonic Orchestra. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours in Music, majoring in violin, piano, and music pedagogy. An accomplished composer and arranger, she also serves as a judge in various music competitions.
To Know More
For interested participants, do speak to the conductor directly to find out more.
What We Do
PJPO handles a vast repertoire of challenging pieces composed but not limited by Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Brahms, Strauss and some of the famous Chinese composers. This provides the members a gateway to extend their scope and understanding of music, to learn appreciation and unique interpretation of melody, needing much disciplined patience and focus that is required to perform successfully.
It is always a goal that PJPO to stimulate music interest and appreciation within the community and society, helping to extend its diverse musical knowledge. It does so by providing opportunity for music enthusiasts to showcase their talents individually and to provide an avenue for collaboration; a chance for performing art lovers to share the spotlight and stage their concerts together. Since the year of founding, PJPO has executed and performed music of diverse repertoire, be it of the west or the east; classical and modern; even movie and anime themes.
Joining Requirements
- Minimum Grade 4 equivalent skill proficiency in the instrument of choice.
- Children below 16 years of age must have parental consent.
- Available for weekly rehearsals.
Programmes / Works
- Western Traditional / Classical / Solo Concertos
- Eastern Traditional
- Moderm Contemporary & Secular Pop Culture Music
PJPO Recital Hall
73-1A, Jalan Taman Tan Yew Lai
Taman Tan Yew Lai, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Waze
Every Sunday
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Kuala Lumpur Time)
Come Join Us
We welcome dedicated musicians living in the Klang Valley who play any instrument found in a standard symphony orchestra. Ideal candidates are those who work well with others, remain humble in learning, and actively participate in group rehearsals.