3 Fingers

Bryan Chen, who was under Mrs Seet's charge in music lessons and the choir, writes:

Dearest Mrs Seet,

As I bade you goodbye last night, I realised again an important lesson in our journey here on Earth. It is that nothing is permanent and that God, in His wisdom, balanced impermanence with memories of those whom we hold close to our hearts.

Anyone who attended your music lessons and choir sessions will remember the musical “kung fu” that you imparted to us. The power of breathing deep into our diaphragm and sing it out from our mouths wide open with at least 3 fingers wide! Till now, I am sure many, if not all, will share this fond memory forever. You taught me to appreciate music, abit of side-reading and started my love for singing. While I may not be the next Singapore Idol, I have learnt enough to serenade some girls in my life with a couple of songs. J

I also remember how you chided us for attending your lessons; all smelling not-so-pleasant after recess and you will whip out an orange, peeled it to release the orange zest to freshen up the music room.

I will always be grateful to you for the opportunity (and convincing my parents to allow me) to join the boys choir and later on, the main FMSS choir. You will always beam with pride when you see us dance the waltz and sing our hearts out during the performances at Victoria Concert Hall. And together, we all enjoyed sweet victory, emerging top at the Youth Choir Competition.

Even though you were just a music teacher to me, the biggest lesson you taught me is to be a gentleman. To be presentable and smell pleasant when you meet a lady, to be chivalrous in leading a dance with a girl and to romance a love one with proper singing skills!

At the end of it all, I want you to know that you counted for something in my life. For that, I will always be grateful.

Sincerely Yours,
Bryan Chen