
In Chee Jun Sian’s world, a life without music would B flat. Ethnic, folk and contemporary music continue to fascinate him. This budding talent had always aspired to
perform on grand stages, touch hearts through music and share his love for the
indisputable king of instruments: the cello. Play on to hear his music journey
as an OCBC NAFA Scholar!
As a graduate from Singapore Polytechnic with an Applied Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Science Diploma, his choice to pursue his passion in music raised the eyebrows of many and invoked the following questions:
1) Can you survive as a musician?
2) What about financial stability?
3) How are you going to pay for your university fees?
Challenges make you
grow
Refusing to succumb to
societal pressure or be deterred by the cost of studying music, this passionate
cellist took a leap of faith and followed his heart. Jun Sian explored unique
alternatives to help fund his family’s finances. At a tender age of 19, this aspiring musician began
teaching at Elite Music School and freelancing as a cello instructor, in hopes
of reducing the financial burden. Though his earnings from these jobs and
personal savings were still insufficient, Jun Sian remained determined to make
his music dream a reality.
Success occurs when
opportunity meets preparation
After earning a
well-deserved spot in NAFA to pursue a Bachelor of Music (Honours) and major in
cello, Jun Sian explored ways to fund his studies. From his seniors, he learnt
about the OCBC NAFA Scholarship, a one-of-a-kind local undergraduate
scholarship, awarded to financially needy students with stellar track record.
With relevant experiences as the cello principal for two prestigious
orchestras, paired with a sincere hope to create a more vibrant arts scene in
this Lion City, it comes as no surprise that he was shortlisted for an
interview with the OCBC Scholarship Panel.
Fearless. Focused.
Fantastic.
These are the three
words that best encapsulate Jun Sian’s music journey. Dotting the i's and crossing
the t's, the pressure to nail down the details in preparation for his interview
has never felt more real. His rock-solid courage to take the path less
travelled and staying resilient in face of adversities earned the respect of
the panel. He displayed a depth of maturity and unquestionable dedication,
leaving everyone in admiration of him.
Music to his ears
Waiting
in anticipation, Jun Sian checked his inbox daily and was elated when the good
news arrived. Fast forward to today, this OCBC NAFA Scholarship recipient is
now empowered, able to better focus on his studies and participate in
projects that increase his artistic capabilities. With the support from OCBC, Jun
Sian is indeed a step closer to his dreams. We look forward to his mesmerising cello
performances and coming milestones!