On 6 September 2026, the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) held its 30th anniversary dinner and concert at the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. It was a grand and glitzy affair befitting this historical landmark. The SCO was formed in 1996, with humble origins as the People's Association Chinese Orchestra. Today, it is acknowledged as one of the world's leading ensembles of Chinese traditional instruments.
The guest-of-honour was its founding patron Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong was also in attendance. It was a rare occasion outside of National Day Parades and People's Action Party events that two living Singapore former prime ministers were present to attend. SCO has been fortunate to receive their unwavering support over the decades.
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| Members of SCO perform to herald the entrance of the honoured guests. |
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| All hail to the chief |
The SCO was also at full-strength to perform a concert led by its principal conductor Quek Ling Kiong. The full programme can be found below:
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| SCO Chairman Ng Siew Quan addresses the audience and salutes the musicians. |
Here are photos of the seven-course Chinese dinner that was served, interspersed by the musical performances.
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| SCO performs Wang Chenwei's Lion City Rhapsody, while the composer films soloists playing on his rare huqins. |
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| The SCO 30th birthday cake in the shape of a dagu (big drum). |
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| The main courses, you only get to eat one. |
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| SM Lee is presented the anniversary gift, a gong, which he strikes with gusto. |
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| Everyone sings Happy Birthday to SCO and the cake is cut by SM Lee. |
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| Take It Step By Step relives some of SCO's musical triumphs, including its 2019 Berlin debut. |
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| There's something Freudian about these big, juicy and succulent kiwi mochis. Befitting the final work Hua Hao Yue Yuan (Full Moon Blossoms). |
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