In such a cosmopolitan world like Singapore, there are people who come from all parts of the world who reside here in Singapore. There are many communities that practise their music here (e.g Swiss Alpine Brass Band), and have formed cultural institutes and associations that help maintain their cultural interests. Some of their music would stay within the community, whilst others are being shared with the general public, with performances being held for the masses (e.g Italian Opera by the Italian Cultural Institute). Today, we will just touch on a few communities from the minority group in Singapore.
The Javanese Gamelan
The Gamelan Melayu had not spread further down into Singapore, as it had never been introduced as a form of court music here.
Eurasian Music
The Kristang language, which involves the use of a Malaccan-Portugese dialect in poems and songs, as wells as European folkdances like the Samba are some of the musical examples from this group. The Branyo is another danceform of Portugese origin that is specific to Singapore and Malaysia.
The founding of the Eurasian Association in 1919 has helped to preserve the Eurasian heritage in Singapore.
The Angklung is one instrument that is very popular as a CCA in schools, since it allows for many students to participate to play the instruments. Above is a video of a performance by the Angklung ensemble in National Junior College.
Peranakan Music
The Dondang Sayang is one of type of music made from this group. It involves the use of a four line poem (the pantun) that is sang in accompaniment of the Malay drum, violin and gong. Much of its culture remains preserved with the establishment of the Peranakan Museum, and the Gunong Sayang Association (who stages Peranakan plays for the public). Cotemporary music has been composed based on this culture (Bunga Sayang from Dick Lee's play Kampung Amber), and this song is now also often used during the National Day Parade, despite being a one of the minority groups here.
The Dondang Sayang is one of type of music made from this group. It involves the use of a four line poem (the pantun) that is sang in accompaniment of the Malay drum, violin and gong.