EVENTS
Bringing Voices Together
Two Community Choirs Join Hands For ‘Choral Bridges’
By The Philharmonic Society of Selangor
A celebration of connection, passion, and volunteer spirit through music
The Philharmonic Society of Selangor and The Penang Philharmonic Chorus share a stage for the very first time! This special collaboration features a mix of choral – ‘classics and contemporary gems, brought to life by two dynamic community choirs. An uplifting celebration of harmony and friendship.
Kuala Lumpur / Penang, 10 June 2025 – This July, around 150 volunteer singers from two of Malaysia’s most beloved community choirs, The Philharmonic Society of Selangor (The Phil) and the Penang Philharmonic Chorus (PPC), will join hands on stage in Choral Bridges.
This is the first time that both choirs are coming together to stage a concert, and this unique collaboration, the brainchild of The Phil’s Chairperson Brenda James and PPC Artistic Director Mak Chi Hoe, celebrates the shared passion, commitment, and spirit of volunteerism that keeps community music alive and thriving across the nation. Both choirs are made up of dedicated volunteers choristers who balance their everyday lives with the joy and discipline of singing. Choral Bridges honours their unwavering love for music and the powerful bonds it creates across communities, cultures, and states.
Mak Chi Hoe, Artistic Director & Conductor of the Penang Philharmonic Chorus, said:
“Our singers are everyday Malaysians who generously give their time, united by a deep love for music and connection. Bringing together around 150 volunteer voices from Penang and Kuala Lumpur is a testament to the power of community spirit and the joy that singing fosters. Musically, this concert challenges the choir to seamlessly blend diverse vocal techniques and styles – from rich, resonant classical tones to vibrant contemporary harmonies – showcasing the remarkable versatility and skill of our singers.”
Adding to this, Koh Tian Yi, Conductor of The Philharmonic Society of Selangor, shared:
“This collaboration is more than just music – it’s about the friendships and unity that flourish when people come together to create something meaningful. Musically, coordinating a large ensemble of volunteer singers demands precise vocal balance, dynamic control, and a shared understanding of phrasing to achieve a truly unified sound. Bringing these passionate voices together for the first time is a privilege, and guiding them through this intricate and rewarding musical journey is an experience to cherish.”
The 85 minute concert programme features a rich selection of global songs, uplifting anthems, and choral favourites – a vibrant celebration of diversity and harmony through music!
Event Details
Penang Concert Date: Sunday, 6 July 2025
Time: 3pm
Venue: St Xavier’s Institution, George Town, Penang
Tickets: RM60 (available via www.ticket2u.com.my)
Map to KLPAC St Xavier Institution, Penang.
Kuala Lumpur Workshop Date: Saturday, 12 July 2025
Time: 1pm-4pm
Venue: Pentas 1, KLPAC, Sentul Park, Kuala Lumpur
- Finding Your Voice: Tone, Placement & Style
by Koh Tian Yi, Choir Director, The Philharmonic Society of Selangor
- Come & Sing The World
by Mak Chi Hoe, Artistic Director & Conductor, Penang Philharmonic Chorus
Tickets: RM40 (available via www.cloudjoi.com)
Kuala Lumpur Concert Date: Sunday, 13 July 2025
Time: 3pm
Venue: Pentas 1, KLPAC, Sentul Park, Kuala Lumpur
Tickets: RM80 and RM120 (available via www.cloudjoi.com)
Map to KLPAC, Kuala Lumpur.
The Selangor Philharmonic Society.
About The Philharmonic Society of Selangor
Founded in 1958, The Philharmonic Society of Selangor is one of Malaysia’s oldest performing arts societies. Its choir, the Society’s most active arm, has staged at least one performance annually for the past 66 years, showcasing a repertoire that spans classical and contemporary works. What makes this choir truly special is its volunteer-driven spirit, bringing together people from all walks of life, united in their passion for music and a shared aspiration to build a community in harmony.
The Penang Philharmonic Chorus.
About The Penang Philharmonic Chorus
The Penang Philharmonic Chorus, the youngest ensemble within Penang Philharmonic, was founded in April 2019 under the artistic direction of Mak Chi Hoe. Comprised of dedicated volunteer singers, the chorus unites individuals who share a passion for choral music and a commitment to enriching communities across Penang and beyond.
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