A Semester of High Notes
ISKL’s vibrant calendar of music concerts and dance shows reflects the Performance Arts program offered as part of its education, showcasing the incredible education to promote the talent and creativity of its diverse student body. Guided by each school division’s Music Department’s team, these annual events create an appreciation for in-house stage performances and concerts using the school’s state-of-the-art facilities. Ranging from classical musical recitals and choral repertoires to traditional and contemporary dance shows, ISKL opens up the world of music and dance to the community on a level that makes it possible for students to constantly raise the bar in what they are offered at school, beyond the academic platform.
ISKL is a school that opens the minds and worlds of its students and their families. With an international approach to teaching and co-curricular options, the culture of its host country, Malaysia, has an unsurpassable influence on how its internal culture is perceived beyond the boundaries of the classroom. The school’s Performance Arts program is one avenue that ensures this education envelopes cultural diversity and unity, elements that are threaded through and extend to all areas of life at ISKL.
A community ethos at ISKL is paramount, and what better way to express this than through a series of music and dance events that welcome everyone to enjoy the talent contained within our student population? These events are made possible by the support and involvement of our community, and we are grateful for their continued support. Performing Arts Director Tina Casey shares: “Our performing arts program at ISKL is an incredibly diverse mix of artistic initiatives that maximize the talents of all our students, along with ISKL’s teachers and creative directors. From Elementary School (ES) to High School (HS), the performing arts play a vital role in any child’s education.” Exploring music, dance, and drama has wide-reaching benefits for children, providing them the tools to think creatively, innovate, and appreciate diversity through those arts.
The 2024-2025 academic year is brimming with various performances, each retaining a sense of joy that epitomizes the ISKL stage. Kicking off Semester 1 in August 2024, the ISKL Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (IPYO) Camp offered musicians the opportunity to participate in an intensive workshop that encouraged leadership skills, afforded team building, and realized participants’ dreams through practical engagement and interactive learning.
As the semester progressed, September 2024 showcased the concert “The Sounds of Guzheng,” an enchanting performance on the guzheng by HS student Yinuo C. (‘25), in the Robert B. Gaw Theatre that captivated an audience who were treated to a blend of traditional with a modern flair. In the same month, ISKL’s close links with The International School of Bangkok (ISB) were harnessed as HS Band students auditioned to participate in the HS Bangkok International Band Fest and were privy to a weekend of dance workshops and performances. These opportunities fostered a sense of global connection, encouraging students from both schools to learn from each other, make new friends, and gain insightful cultural experiences.
Also in September, Frank Troyka, a longtime guest artist and friend of ISKL, joined HS music students to develop their leadership skills and become section leaders in their ensembles. This is just one example of the unique opportunities our program provides. Another highlight of the school performance arts calendar, the HS Talent Show, concluded the month’s events. The show raised funds for local charities by selling tickets to an eager audience of family and friends.
October 2024 saw a month-long series of events beginning with ‘Dancing in the Streets, ‘ featuring five Middle School (MS) student-led dance teams. They competed in an urban-themed showdown! This was followed by another opportunity for the IPYO to perform an evening of orchestral music of both classical and contemporary genres.
Our ES students were central to November 2024’s happenings, as Grade 4 shared their music learning and choreographed program with their appreciative parents. ES students also performed at an ASA Music Share, which struck a chord with everyone! From the Junior and Senior Choir, Intermediate Violin, Gamelan, and Latin Dance, each showcase celebrated creativity and confidence. It was more than just music – it was about sharing joy, building community, and inspiring one another.
The month culminated in an HS concert featuring band, choir, and string pieces learned throughout Semester 1. At the same time, MS students brought the colorful world of The SpongeBob Musical to life in a vibrant and energetic performance! Filled with catchy tunes, dazzling costumes, and an inspiring story about friendship and resilience, the musical showcased the immense talent and creativity of ISKL’s young performers.
The year-end month of December 2024 showcased the MS Strings, Choir Concert, and Band Concert. Parents, peers, and the ISKL community witnessed the musicianship and performance skills of these students’ ensembles as they performed in a fun and professional manner. The ES Grade 5 Music Concert also presented their semester’s learning. Each event celebrated all our student’s hard work and dedication throughout the year, affording an audience to experience the joy of live music.
For 2025, we look forward to more exciting performances and showcases. From cultural theater exchanges with SAS to stunning performances by students of all ages, our vibrant community thrives on creativity and collaboration. Highlights include IASAS showcases, the ES “Jungle Book” Musical, Jazz & Pops Night, the “Jam at ISKL” event, part of the school’s 60th anniversary celebrations, and the MS Arts Festival. These are just some exciting performances as our talented students share their passion for music, dance, drama, and more!