Ian Chow - The Journey (www.ianchow.info)

Malaysian Girls goes to Penang!

2012-01-09T10:57:00.002+08:00

If you miss the KL run, come to Penang to catch it! If you are in Penang, this is a musical you shouldn't miss.

Date: 10th - 15th Jan 2012
Venue: Stage 1, Performing Arts Centre of Penang (penangpac), Straits Quay, Tanjung Tokong
Ticket price: RM30 to RM60

Malaysian Girls

2011-12-03T20:30:00.004+08:00

Come! Come! Come! I dare to say that this is the first full fledge Malaysian musical which see theatre personalities collaborated extensively with local singer-songwriters in coming out with the compositions. It will definitely offer you an experience that you can never get anywhere anytime soon.

I personally have written 2 new numbers specially for it "Take One Good Look at You" and "Shouting Out My Name". Together with Ariff, I have also written one more, "How Ugly Can It Get". With 5 of us (Minz, Wani Ardy and Khai - the other 3) who contributed close to 15 original numbers which is then rearranged to fit the musical theme / mood, you must not miss this glamourous, stunning and dazzling musical.

The musical will also feature a re-arranged version of "One Day".

For more info, please click http://www.klpac.org/?p=4313

Disclaimer: Just because one can compose and possibly sing, that doesn't term you as singer-songwriter. By definition (quoted from wikipedia), "Singer-songwriters are musicians who write, compose and sing their own musical material including lyrics and melodies. As opposed to contemporary popular music singers who write their own songs, the term singer-songwriter describes a distinct form of artistry, closely associated with the folk-acoustic tradition. Singer-songwriters often provide the sole accompaniment to an entire composition or song, typically using a guitar or piano"

Malaysian Girls Sypnosis:
The year’s most glamorous musical is set to explode on the KL stage. Product of an an award-winning team led by esteemed director Joe Hasham OAM along with producer and theatre doyenne Dato' Faridah Merican, MALAYSIAN GIRLS will premiere at klpac followed by a tour to Penang.

MALAYSIAN GIRLS lures you into the exciting world of a beauty pageant. The heady mix of glamour and talent is enticing in itself. Throw in the drama that unfolds when there is such a coveted title to be won and such differing notions of beauty together with Mark Beau de Silva’s humorous writing, you are in for an absolute treat.

The musical pits two camps against each other. On one side you have Serenity Billion – the person who started the Malaysian Girls pageant to seek and define a uniquely Malaysian ideal of beauty. On the other side you have the flashy Ray Sanjay and the go-getting Jasmin Hibiscus. They have bigger and bolder ideas, one which includes an ‘international’ view of beauty. Just how ugly can it get?

MALAYSIAN GIRLS is a show in every sense from its catchy songs and explosive dance moves to the glitzy costumes and high energy performance. The music is a bold fusion of iconic chart-topping hits and equally captivating numbers composed by singer-songwriters specially for this production.

Come and experience the glitzy world of a beauty pageant told in song, dance and drama… all on six-inch heels!

Young KL Singers' Together As One

2011-11-10T11:09:00.002+08:00

With such a hectic schedule for these two months and penangpac opening around the corner, I totally forgot to post this up. :( So here goes, the Young KL Singers show which I am producing. We opened with a full house yesterday night and tickets are going extremely fast!

Life Sdn Bhd 7: Refugee

2011-10-14T19:23:00.000+08:00

Life Sdn Bhd 7: REFUGEES, produced by The Actors Studio in collaboration with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), features seven courageous men and women from Myanmar, Somalia and Sri Lanka. They will share, on stage, the honest and compelling stories of their lives as refugees in Malaysia.

Brainchild of Dato’ Faridah Merican, the popular Life Sdn Bhd series has grown from strength to strength since its first staging in 2004. Once again, Dato’ Faridah brings to the centre of public discourse, an issue which is often left in the peripheries of society.

Deborah Henry, Miss Universe Malaysia 2011 and refugee rights advocate and singer-songwriters Ariff Akhir and Ian Chow will be joining the refugees on stage.

Life Sdn Bhd 7: REFUGEES puts a human face to the refugee issue, that behind the numbers and statistics are real people with real stories, and real dreams and desires for a life of safety.

The production will staged from 26 Oct – 30 Oct 2011 at The Actors Studio@Lot 10.

For tickets purchase, 03-2142 2009 / 2143 2009

T4YP presents Much Ado About Nothing

2011-09-15T15:45:00.003+08:00

Contributing 2 composition for this production. The lyrics are based on the play text hence you can say that the music is very me but the text is so not me. I have not seen the final product yet but very much looking forward to it.

The T4YP 2011 ensemble presents its last performance for the season this September. Paying tribute to The Bard, they will be staging Much Ado About Nothing.

Benedick and Beatrice, and Claudio and Hero are deeply in love. Beatrice and Benedick are deeply in denial. All is well. Then Claudio humiliates Hero. Hero has a fainting attack and pretends to die. And Beatrice and Benedick join forces with a vengeance.

Christopher Ling directs the T4YP Ensemble in Shakespeare’s sharp, smart comedy about men and women and what it takes to make love happen

Date & Time:
22nd – 24th September 2011 (Thurs – Sat) @ 8.30pm
24th – 25th September 2011 (Sat-Sun) @ 3pm

Venue: The Actors Studio@Lot10

Ticket Price: RM23 & RM13 (Students & the disabled & TAS Card)

Box office:
Call or Walk-in to: klpac @ Sentul Park (+603-40479000)
Call or Walk-in to: The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 (+603-21422009 / 21432009)
Walk-in to: ILasso Tickets @ A606, Block A, Phileo Damansara II, Petaling Jaya (+603-79576088 – enquiry line only)

GameOn.com.my

2011-08-09T23:43:00.004+08:00

You may not have known it, very recently, I have became the proud co-owner of GameOn.com.my. I only own a tiny little share in this company but this will be my first step into the business world.

Do check us out at www.gameon.com.my or our Facebook page www.facebook.com/gameon.com.my

Strictly no piracy! Hopefully to see you on my customer list.

Gravy Baby Seksyen 13 Shah Alam

2011-08-02T00:28:00.003+08:00

Congrats to Wani Ardy and Her Husband for the opening of the new Gravy Baby at Seksyen 13, Shah Alam. Pretty cool place. You should check it out.

The performers on last Saturday night (30th July 2011) - from left to right: Dave Sattout, Rina S, Wani Ardy, Zalila Lee and myself

Note: Dave is a singer-songwriter from Sdyney who just stopped by for a day at Malaysia while on this way back from a month tour in Europe. He arrived in the morning and leaving the same night after the gig to Oz. Do check him out at www.davesattout.com

My Hepatitis Day 2011

2011-07-05T16:33:00.005+08:00

Photo courtesy of MY Hepatitis Day 2011

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizing Viral Hepatitis as a critical health issue that requires worldwide attention has assigned 28 July as World Hepatitis Day. In Malaysia, a committee chaired by Professor Rosmawati, hepatologist of the University of Malaya Medical Centre is organizing a number of events to mark the day and draw public attention to the dreaded disease.

This is the first nationwide campaign of its type; 21 participating sites across the country will be taking part in this campaign. The main focus of the campaign will be to raise awareness of hepatitis and to drive initiatives to improve prevention, diagnosis as well as treatment for hepatitis B and C.

For more info, please feel free to visit www.myhepatitisday2011.com or http://www.facebook.com/myhepatitisday2011

Note: The photos above will be featured as part of their awareness campaign / exhibition....my little contribution towards the cause. :)

FUSED June 2011

2011-06-07T17:41:00.000+08:00

Live at The Actors Studio: Singer Songwriters

2011-05-17T00:14:00.001+08:00

Gravy Baby!

2011-04-26T23:48:00.006+08:00

It's been a while since I performed outside from TAS or klpac and it's a great feeling to be able to do so (even though I am not feeling that well)....a totally new environment with complete strangers and best of all, it is not organized by me hence i am on a foreign ground. But it was a great experience. I appeared alongside with Rina S. and Ashraf Ishak on last Saturday night @ Gravy Baby. This series and venue is helmed by my singer-songwriter friend Wani Ardy and her husband Shafeeq.

Gravy Baby is actually a music cafe and the food / drinks there I would say is very affordable and value for money. It is located at Seri Kembangan. It can be a slight pain to find the place if you are not familiar with that area but you should try to make a trip down there especially on Saturday night to catch local indie acts. You will be surprised with what you are able to discover there.

B.H.S.

2011-04-08T19:18:00.005+08:00

B.H.S

Verse: (E C# A B E ) Could this be real, could this be true, I ask myself if I’m in love with you, Couldn’t help myself, I’ve tried so hard, Wondering if there’ll be a start.

Is it me? Or is this just a dream? I ask myself is this what people call love, Couldn’t help myself or so it seems, I’m still wondering if there’ll be a start.

Chorus: (F#m Asus E A F#m Asus D A) I’m losing ground, I’m losing control, Over my heart, my body and soul, I’m losing myself, I’m losing hope, When the world stop spinning, My heart will stop burning.

Verse: (E C# A B E) Writing down my every emotion, Acting as my consolation, Feels like poetry in motion, Coming to my own realisation.

Chorus: (F#m Asus E A F#m Asus D A) I’m losing ground, I’m losing control, Over my heart, my body and soul, I’m losing myself, I’m losing hope, In this world, I don’t think I can cope, It’s plain to see if I’m crazy, Wondering what’s going on deep inside of me, I can’t stop thinking about you all the time, When the world stop spinning, My heart will stop burning.

Instrumental break: (E A E A)

Bridge: (F#sus G#sus G#?? G#??) If you care, If you dare, Could we be? Are we meant to be? Do you see me? Do you have me?

This is the closest song to a love song in this entire album. Actually, there is no problem in hearing this as a love song as the original poem by Edmund is about his feeling towards someone. But when I took over, I have based it more on the theme of “obsession”. This song also saw Julian Chan lending me his talent on saxophone. He recorded about 5 different tracks which we then mix and mash to the best sounding tune.

FUSED March 2011

2011-03-11T15:51:00.002+08:00

My crib

2011-03-03T14:59:00.005+08:00

This has nothing to do with my performing arts life but just thinking of sharing. This appears in Game Master March 2011 issue.

Meanwhile, Life Sdn Bhd 6: Abuse has just finished and god! It was a powerful performance. Lots of encouraging feedback received on the specially composed song, Lullaby too. At the moment, exploring on the possibility of me performing at Singapore with Timbre Group (with a few singer-songwriters there).

If you are free or want to check out the theatre scene in KL, klpac and TAS haves lots to offer in the coming month. Currently running This Cannot, That Cannot (directed by David Lim with great casts) and soon the Directors' Season is gonna start. Head on to http://www.klpac.org/ or http://www.theactorsstudio.com.my/ for more info

P.S: If you buy my album now, you can get the single released specially for Life Sdn Bhd 6 packaged in (while stock last)!

Life Sdn Bhd 6: Abuse

2011-02-10T10:21:00.003+08:00

This is what I am busy with at the current moment: Another life transforming (eye opener) piece of theatre focusing on the theme of abuse this time round......real person with real life story with a hint of dance and song element to lighten things up a little. Grab your ticket now!

klpac's Open Day

2011-01-21T10:50:00.003+08:00

Come come come! 12 different performance locations with 80 over activities in 7 hours back to back, non stop in all different genres from music to theare to dance to film and many more!

Holiday

2010-12-20T16:10:00.000+08:00

Holiday
Lyrics by Sesha and Ian Chow
Composed by Ian Chow

Verse:
G A F#m G
Its 6 in the morning,
It always comes without warning,
The sound of my alarm clock ringing,
Telling me another day is beginning,

It’s so hard at times,
Cause I just can’t open my eyes,
There’s so much to be done in a day,
Otherwise I won’t get my pay (and) that’s not ok!

Chorus:
Em G D A
I wanna run far, far away,Cause I need a holiday,
I need to get away,I just need to find a new place,
Give myself a new face,So I won’t be in daze.

Verse:
G A F#m G
At my desk the work starts piling,
All the phones just keep on ringing,
That’s when people started yelling,
Then the rain started pouring,
Then I feel like I am floating,
As if I am day dreaming,
Maybe I am contemplating,
Why am I not running?

Bridge:
D Em F#m G
Don’t care for what they have to say,
Don’t care if they take all of my pay,
All I want is my holiday,
All I need is to hide away.

Tuning: DADAAE

In this album, there are 2 songs which have full band arrangement but minus the bass guitar. Holiday is one of it and the other is What If which both was release as the “single of this album”. This was also the first time where I experiment with the sound of timpani. In the recording, the song is played using a different tuning but usually during live performance, I tend to play it on the normal tuning because it is just too troublesome to be tuning my guitar before and after. The lyrics are pretty straight forward except for the second part of the second verse which is little bit abstract. Like I always said in the gig, this is a song that you may want to play for your boss….but you may end up losing your job too.

The album launch: ISSUE #01

2010-11-22T17:05:00.004+08:00

My album launch that was done ala talk show format. It was a dual album launch together with Azmyl Yunor's H.I.D.U.P. presented by The Actors Studio @ Lot 10. My guests on that day include Ariff Akhir, Tony Leo and Jayson Cheah. Azmyl also brought another guest harmonica player.

For details on how to get the album, just scroll down to the previous post.

For the next few postings, I will be sharing more on the song insights. Stay tune.

It's Out!

2010-11-13T13:22:00.006+08:00

The album is officially launched! You may get it directly from me (just e-mail me or leave a note on this blog). Or, you may also buy it straight from the shelve at:

a). The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre, Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan off Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur

b). The Actors Studio @ Lot 10, Rooftop, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur

The price is at RM25 per CD.

We had a pretty good show, for both the album launch as well as RE:Play. Both has relatively small house but with a very supportive bunch of audience. The album launch was done in ala talk show format which make it easier for new audience to know us and enjoy our music better. Re:Play had a very good mix and strong performers. The chemistry and songs were great. The audience even shouted for "encore".

Back to the audience number, it is slightly disheartening for me. Not to say that we didn't try to promote both the show. We even have media write up, excessive "mail spamming" to our friends, word of mouths, online portals etc. Could it be the day, time of the month, concept, location, performers, traffic......hmm....I don't know. Sometimes, it does crossed my mind, "is it worth pursuing and continuing the effort to promote home made indie talent?"

Having said that, it is also the little little encouragement that we get from the people that attended the show and the performers that are being featured that keeps me going most of the time. A member of the audience (Su Ling) left me a note yesterday night (which is very rare). In the note, she was saying how much she enjoyed the show and for us to keep up the good work. Hmm...perhaps, this is what keep the fire burning.

Album launch @ The Actors Studio, Lot 10 (11th Nov 2010)

2010-10-22T16:49:00.004+08:00

PRESENTED BY the actors studio
HOSTED BY ashraf zain & rosheen
GUEST ARTIST ariff akhir and also appearance by Tony leo Selvaraj and Jayson Cheah

11 November, 8.30pm
The Actors Studio @ Lot 10
entry by min. donation of RM10

Azmyl Yunor and Ian Chow, two familiar names in the local singer-songwriter scene, will be releasing their respective solo albums in a joint gig at The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 soon!

But it’s not just another boring old album launch, folks! Styled like a live talk show, actor Ashraf Zain and Rosheen will be playing hosts for the night upping the entertainment value, firing some surprise questions at the two singer-songwriters along the way. Fellow singer-songwriter Ariff Akhir will also be jumping in to share the fun with an appearance during the gig.

Although their styles are quite different – Azmyl being more folk while Ian leaning towards alternative pop / rock – they both share a penchant of teeling stories through their music…

Azmyl’s H.I.D.U.P. (recorded live in ONE TAKE!) features seven songs including solo acoustic versions of songs from his upcoming album Azmyl Yunor & the Sigarettes including crowd favourites ‘Anak Dara’, ‘Makan Gaji’, ‘Harmonica’ and ‘Freo’.

Ian’s 11-track album entitled Issue#01 takes a look at all the social issues that surround us today from child prostitution to suicide to discrimination.

See you at the launch!

Enquiries?
Call 03 2142 2009 / 2143 2009

Visit
www.theactorsstudio.com.my

Album launch / Short + Sweet Dance Week 2

2010-10-13T09:51:00.004+08:00

A quick note, the official album launch is dated 11th November at The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 together with Azmyl Yunor's Warga album unlaunched. Be prepared for some good entertainment that night. More info to follow.
*The album will be available for pre-sale from 27th October onwards.

Come and watch Short + Sweet Dance Week 2 starting today (13/10/10) til Saturday (16/10/10) at 8.30pm. Watch out for the piece choreographed by Bilqis Hijjas which uses the song that was composed by Lee Kwang and myself for Caecar Chong, who passed away earlier this year from cancer. This is my tribute to Caecar.

RE:PLAY

2010-09-28T14:19:00.001+08:00

REview.

REnew.

REfresh.

Join local talents - Devon Chew, Ian Chow, Joel Wong, Priscilla Xavier & Tony Leo Selvaraj - as they entertain you with their covers of hit songs from well-known artistes such as Jason Mraz, Eric Clapton, Beatles, Bonnie Raitt, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Michael Jackson. This is what you get when a bunch of singer-songwriters are "tired" of singing their original compositions.

Date & Time 2 October @ 8.30pmVenue

The Actors Studio @ Lot 10Admission

Min. donation of RM10 (no advanced booking)

Enquiries? Call 03 2142 2009 / 2143 2009

Scars (a song against child prostitution) - updated

2010-09-15T13:48:00.002+08:00

The song is up! Please feel free to download, pirate it and spread the word around. STOP CHILD PROSTITUTION!
www.reverbnation.com/ianchow
www.myspace.com/ianchow

Also logged onto http://www.ecpat.net to know more about this issue. Together we can make a difference!

Scars (a song against child prostitution)

2010-09-11T15:18:00.002+08:00

Last year, I came across an article with regards to child prostitution and decided that I need to do something about it, even if it just by raising awareness among Malaysian. (more info about this on my 4th October 2009 posting).

10 months later, the song that I record for this purpose is finally done and will be put for free download by next week.

But first, here is the credit listing for those who has helped me out voluntarily on this song:

Scars
Lyrics by:- Ian Chow, May Yee
Composed by:- Ian Chow, Ariff Akhir
Recorded and engineered by: Ariff Akhir
Mastered by: Michael Thomas
Vocal ensemble recording by Shafie Hisham Milai
Child soprano vocal by Jayson Cheah
Ensemble vocal by Annette Christie, Adrian Tan, Adriel Tan, Chin Khin Yeow, Jane
Jeevamoney, Joanne Low, Joanne Timbuong, Kathleen Roshene, Lee Yee Lien, Nicklaus Au
Ryonn Leong, Samantha Lee, Tan May Yee, Wong Kok Thong

Part 1: This is not my choice

Verse 1:
I went across the border, step by step I walked through the turnstile,
I saw helpless officers smiling at me,
I wish they could do something to hold me back,
Or anything they could think of, to save this wretched life of mine.

Chorus 1:
What you don’t see, doesn’t mean it don’t exist,
What you can’t feel, doesn’t mean I’m not hurting,
Laying in bed, 8 times a day, 56 painful scars a week,
You tell me that’s my life,
Look Mister! This is not my choice!

Verse 2:
I look out of the window, wonder’ng what is left of me,
Imagining what it’ll be like if I am free,
I wanna cry but there’re no tears left in me,
Most (of the) times I forget who i am,
Everything seems hazy, I can’t (even) recall my name.

Chorus 1

Break

Part 2: If I had the choice

Bridge:
If I had the choice, I would never have crossed that border,
If i had the choice, I’ll not be living this dreaded life,
If i had the choice, i want to take charge of who i am,
If i had the choice, i will break free!

Chorus (to fade):
If you are me, what will you do?
Can you imagine being in my shoe?
Feel my misery, sense my agony,
When will i ever find my way home?

Issue#01 Tracklist

2010-08-15T10:43:00.004+08:00

The recording is finished and 1st draft of mix is also done for most of the songs. Going through the mix now for fine tuning and tweaking. So, here goes, the track listing for the album and fellow musicians / singer-songwriters who have helped me out on the songs. (all songs co-produced by Ariff Akhir)

01. I Miss You
02. Holiday
03. B.H.S (with Julian Chan)
04. Lie (with Wani Ardy)
05. Wake Up! Wake Up! Wake Up! (with Tony Leo)
06. God (with Shanon Shah)
07. What If
08. Point of No Return
09. Scars (with Jayson Cheah)
10. Tiada Lagi (with Azmyl Yunor)
11. One Day Part 1 (with Goh Lee Kwang) + Part 2 (with Kenneth Law)

You may also preview "Holiday" and "What If" to give you a hint on the album's direction. But you can be sure that this is not another love album from me. www.reverbnation.com/ianchow

Life Sdn Bhd 5: I'm Positive goes to JB

2010-08-03T11:43:00.005+08:00

We are heading to JB this weekend for a rerun of Life Sdn Bhd 5: I'm Positive. However, Jeffrey, Peter Ong and Ariff Akhir won't be joining us this time round due to another commitment. I will be singing Ariff's song, Take Me Home. We also have 2 new participants, Rafi and Idham who will be doing an original number, Benarkah.

Yati is also back (she missed the last installment at the very last minute - during the opening night in fact due to her husband getting very sick). If you have seen the last one, you may want to catch this too as the show progression definitely changed a bit due to performers list.

Like I said in the last post, Life is a piece of life-transforming theatre for me with the issue confronting you there and then, right smack in your face. 10 individuals - all with different background and different story but one thing in common, trying their very best to raise the awareness on the issue of HIV.

Trivia: Johor is the state that has the highest statistic of HIV cases.

World Choir Games

2010-07-13T11:45:00.002+08:00

72 hours more, the Young KL Singers team will be heading to Shaoxing, China for the World Choir Games. The only thing that I am not looking forward to in this trip is the flight….5 hours per way on Air Asia. I am always terrified with travelling by air – constant anxiety attack and cold sweating especially during turbulence. And hopefully, my percussion especially the rebana will be able to survive the journey.

We will be missing the opening ceremony though due to our flight schedule. In this competition, we will be joining the Open Category (folklore). We will be singing 3 songs with choreography namely Irama Borneo (arranged by Geneviene Wong), Pekan Zapin (also arranged by Geneviene) and Wau Bulan…..very irama Malaysia type of song. Lex once again helped us with the choreography and this time round, he will be singing and dancing with us too. Joe was also roped in to become our third eye with the artistic direction.

For more info on the World Choir Games, feel free to visit www.interkultur.com/world-choir-games

After the competition, a few of us will be extending our stay too at Shanghai and Hangzhou. Hopefully, this can be the best part of the trip.

FUSED June 2010

2010-06-11T16:23:00.002+08:00

Based on the feedbacks that we collect from the past 2 FUSED, an experiemental series presented by The Actors Studio (co-produced by yours truly) below are some of the findings. FUSED is a bi-monthly series focused in promoting mostly new acts and new works in various genre and multi lingual.

Admission Fee Reasonable? (entry by minimum donation of RM10)
78% - Yes
15% - No
7% - Not answered (probably these group is the freeloaders who came in for free)

First time to FUSED?
22% - Yes
62% - No
16% - Not answered (freeloaders?)

Will you come back for FUSED?
80% - Yes
20% - Not answered (once again, probably these are the freeloaders or they are just so confused and undecided after watching the show)

Gender:
47% - Male
53% - Female

Marital Status:
85% - Single
11% - Married
4% - Not answered (probably these are the “It’s Complicated” category, just like on Facebook)

To sum it up, if you are single, male and have certain budget allocated for performing arts, then this show is surely for you. Don’t miss the next one coming up at the end of June. (click on the above image to find out more details)

My new toy

2010-05-03T16:14:00.001+08:00

Not too long ago, I bought a PS3 just for the game Final Fantasy XIII. Most of my friend (my wife included) thinks that I am crazy to get a PS3 just for a game especially when I already have Xbox 360. But, I am a big fan of FF. I even bought the limited edition guide for the game. So, I am currently having a good time with my new console (now also eagerly awaiting for FF XIV)

Moreover, the album production is currently on halt because Ariff Akhir was chased out from his studio by his monstrous landlord who accused him of stealing electricity and doing illegal thing in the studio. What a ridiculous accusation! He has found a new place and currently settling in. So, most probably, my project will only continue a week or two from now. Luckily too I have released a single at the meantime, so I can afford a later release date for the album. For those who hasn’t gotten the single yet, I am only left with less than 15 copies. E-mail me if you are interested.

Also check out Azmyl Yunor's latest album, Warga. http://www.myspace.com/azmylyunor

What If / Holiday ~single~

2010-04-04T11:50:00.000+08:00

The lead up single to the upcoming album, Issue#01 (to be released 3rd quarter of 2010) is now LAUNCHED! It is selling at RM10 (excluding delivery)

To get a copy, e-mail me at chi_43@hotmail.com or me@ianchow.info

Caecar Chong

2010-03-08T14:35:00.000+08:00

I never would have expected that it was so much harder than I thought to put up my one song performance at Caecar Chong’s Memorial on last Saturday (6/3/10) at the Annexe Central Market; especially the moment I look face to face, into Caecar’s parent eyes. The lines that I have rehearsed inside my head for countless times and the song that I have been singing since months ago was a stranger to me due to the emotion rush.

I get to know Caecar in 2005 when I joined klpac. He (together with the Nyoba Kan team) will never say no to me whenever I needed help in getting them to perform (especially those with lower or no budget production). Money is always not a question as they are ever willing to do it voluntarily from the passion they had.

As a set designer, his work is always very clever and unconventional. The one that I like the most was The Lost & The Ecliptic staged by Pentas Project where via optical illusion, he made Pentas 2 two times bigger than it is. Incidentally, Pentas Project is staging that again in April 2010 and klpac will be supporting this production with the venue sponsorship in memory of Caecar.

The last time I saw Caecar was during the The Actors Studio test run back in September 09 where he once again with the Nyoba Kan team helped me out to organize and run a short show. During then, I really can’t tell that Caecar was actually ill. So, Kok Man’s message to me about Caecar passing on the 5th day of Chinese New Year was really shocking to me. I even say to Yue May that maybe this is a sick CNY joke. I was on my way to Langkawi then and I missed his funeral.

I know I didn’t manage to give a good show at his memorial yesterday. But I am still glad to be able to be there and share with those who came. And like Joe said to me, Caecar will definitely know it too.

R.I.P.

Life Sdn Bhd 5: I'm Positive

2010-02-23T14:23:00.001+08:00

I first watched Life Sdn Bhd 1 in 2004. The slightly stylized monologue of real life stories by famous personalities in Malaysia was pretty intriguing and back then, it was really refreshing to see a theatre piece that is being presented in a different style. I have been a fan of the series ever since.

Life 4 took quite a huge turn featuring mostly non-theatre cast and it was quite an emotional one, aiming to raise awareness on breast cancer. I went with Yeow and May Yee (who was still my girlfriend at that time) and they were really touched by the stories. I was teary-eyed too.

Life 5 will follow the same foot step of part 4 and I am very honoured to be able to perform one of my songs from my upcoming album (Issue#01). Life 5, a collaboration with the Malaysian AIDS Foundation will be focused on AIDS / HIV as the main topic. I went for the first rehearsal two weeks back where I previewed my song to the rest of the cast. I’ve never felt such strong emotions like I did when I performed my song during that rehearsal. By the time the first rehearsal ended and after listening to the stories of all the cast members and two other singers (Ariff Akhir / Peter Ong), I am very confident that this will be another powerful production in the Life series.

On top of that, to be able to experience the direction of Dato’ Faridah Merican and the artistic eye of Joe Hasham is certainly another valuable experience for me.

*Life Sdn Bhd 5: I’m Positive will be running at The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 from the 24th to 30th March 2010. Ticket priced at RM30 / RM20. 03-2144 2009

Break

2010-02-03T19:12:00.005+08:00

Nothing much happening lately. Album recording is done and now waiting for Ariff to pass me the first mix. Still contemplating between making it for online sales (song download basis) or album printing (physical CD sales). It will cost me around Rm2,500 to print the album and i was thinking that I could make better use with the money by donating it to a charity organization. Meanwhile, for online, setup cost is minimal and probably wider exposure.

Jammed with Lee Kwang yesterday to see what chemistry we can spark. I must say i learnt quite a fair bit of electronic music from him. It was quite an exhausting jamming (creatively) but i think it is heading towards the right direction. Hopefully in time to come, we can perform together.

Also will be involving with Life Sdn Bhd 5 in a small way (directed by Dato' Faridah Merican). Rehearsal is starting this Saturday. Show will be end of March. More details to come later.

FUSED with infected wisdom tooth

2010-01-23T11:42:00.002+08:00

It was really quite an experience to be playing a gig with swelling gum and infected wisdom tooth. But thanks to the painkiller, it makes thing slightly easier. Was meant to go for the surgery on Thursday until the dentist said he doesn't want to do it and refered me to a specialist. Apparently, the tooth is too deep in and too near to the nerve.

Overall, it was a pretty enjoyable and easy going show. The audience size was pretty small but we have a lot of new faces coming for the gig which mean new audience and exposure for us (great!). We played 10 songs, with Michael Chen + Anrie Too opening up the show and myself with Alex on clarinet closing up. Joel Wong was my vocal stand-in, roped in 2 days back when the swelling got real bad. I sang one song though, I Miss You, a new track which most probably will also be the opening track in the upcoming album releasing in May.

Talking about the album, the recording process just finished on last wekeend. We are now into the mixing stage. What I can tell you now is this album will be way much darker than the first one….no more mushy mushy lovey dovey stuff (for a change). More about the album in the next post.

FUSED

2010-01-16T13:46:00.002+08:00

Besides coordinating, I will be performing in FUSED on Friday night, "Strumming to a Different Tune". I will be performing alongside Michael Chen + Anrie. For my slot, I will also be featuring a clarinettist, Alex Tsok.

Do make a date to come and hear the different flavour to my songs with this addition of clarinet:
Date: 22nd Jan 2010
Time: 8.30pm
Venue: TAS @ Lot 10
Entry by donation of RM10

More info on FUSED as below.

FUSED

2010-01-12T10:13:00.000+08:00

A fusion of artists, ideas and performances... Come 2010, The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 will be celebrating the arts with a brand new bi-monthly experimental series called FUSED. Expect fresh talent, new acts, intriguing experiments… expect the unexpected. Feast on something different every night of the week as we promise an array of performances as well as workshops. Come for one night or five in a row – each night offers you an alternative genre of the arts. Sit back, relax or just join in the fun. Nothing too heavy, we promise you, but it will be a fascinating experience and a great time at the theatre is certain!

FUSED hopes to bring audiences to the theatre more often and open up opportunities for upcoming artists and talents to perform. It also gives a chance for us to learn from some of the old timers with the constructive workshops.

Join us at the first installment of FUSED which will take place from the 20 to the 24 January 2010 at The Actors Studio @ Lot 10!

If you would like a slot at the next FUSED from 31 March to 4 April, please send details of your proposed act to ayunni@theactorsstudio.com.my.

Performance Details

Presented by: The Actors Studio

Admission: Entry by minimum donation of RM10 (at the door)

Venue: The Actors Studio @ Lot 10
Roof Top, Level 8A, Lot 10 Shopping Centre
50, Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur.

Enquiries: 03 2142 2009 / 2143 2009

Website: www.theactorsstudio.com.my
January Line-up

20th Jan 2010 @ 8.30pm: At the IndieMovies!
Move over – predictable, big screen movies! Michael Chen will be bringing to you the undiscovered talents of the indie film industry in Malaysia. Get a taste of what the local film industry has to offer and the various talented filmmakers and actors out there with the sampling that Michael has lined up.

21st Jan 2010 @ 8.30pm: Comedy Hour (preceded by a Tickle Me Workshop @ 6pm)
The hilarious duo, Monti & Logi, will be sharing some of the tricks of their trade in a stand up comedy workshop. After the workshop, all those who wish to test the waters with their material can take to the stage. For those who can’t make it for the workshop but would like to try their hand at stand up comedy can also sign up for an open-mic slot. Of course, the duo themselves will also be showing what they’ve got by presenting a couple of comic skits that they have become known for.

For those interested to register for the Tickle Me Workshop and / or the open-mic slot for Comedy Hour, please e-mail Ayunni at ayunni@theactorsstudio.com.my.

22nd Jan 2010 @ 8.30pm: Strumming to a Different Tune
Ian Chow takes experimentation to another level where acoustic singer-song writers will try their hand at collaborating with other music genres. Come on down to the The Actors Studio @ Lot 10 to listen to strums of a different tune. For interested singer-songwriters looking for a chance to showcase your act, e-mail Ayunni at ayunni@theactorsstudio.com.my.

23rd Jan 2010 @ 8.30pm: Moves & Sorts
After their line up performed to a full house during The Actors Studio @ Lot 10’s opening week, MyDance Alliance is back again. This time round, they will be presenting products of a series of clever collaborations between veteran and new choreographers, established and up-an-coming dancers as well as dancers and non-dancers.

24th Jan 2010 @ 1pm (with a 3pm presentation): Finding A Dancing Heart with Michael Voon
Michael Voon, choreographer of Diaries ’09 (winner of the Audience Choice Award, Short+Sweet Dance 2009), will be happy to welcome you on stage for a 2-hour workshop that will help you understand your body and how it can move. You don’t have to be a dancer to take part in the workshop, just come ready to shake your booty! The workshop will culminate in a brief dance presentation.

12 String Guitar

2009-12-22T11:05:00.008+08:00

After 3 months of delay, finally my 12 strings guitar has arrived. Pheew. This is a buatan Malaysia made by Luthier Edward Hiew who is a very talented young man who also made Roger Wang’s marvellous harp guitar.

Just like my 6 string, initially, I was contemplating between an Asian hand made guitar vs a Norman brand, factory made guitar. My first good guitar was made by a Singaporean (only available at Sinamex, Berjaya Times Square) and the guitar was named after his son, “Timothy”.
Here is my thought about this new guitar:

Look and finishing – the overall look is good but I do have a big problem with the finishing. It is minor items but it is frustrating especially when you pay a fortune for it. If you examine it closely, you know it is a rush job despite the delay. For example, inside the sound hole, there are still chips of wood which were not taken out. Then the joints were also not touch up as well as little areas of paint work that was not done properly.

I was expecting the MOP to be at the headstock but it was at the 12 fret instead. Hmm…perhaps I didn’t make it clear to him.

I would only give this 5 out of 10.

Font design is by Sesha.

Sound – One of the most important criteria for me. Edward did a good job on this. The sound is just like my Timothy but with a 12 string. I would describe my Timothy sound something in between a Norman B18 and B20 which strikes quite a good balance.

I would give it 8 out of 10.

Pick up – He gave me a LR Baggs pick-up Element Hybrid which is quite sufficient for what I need and the sound I want. It has the basic treble, bass and mid.

I would give it 7 out of 10.

Service – This was my most frustrating point of all. Remember that I mentioned to you about the delay? Edward basically over promised and deadline was pushed and pushed without any solid reason or explanation. Even towards the end when I lost my patience, he still didn’t tell me the real reason and there was no sense of honesty as well. If only I have not made full payment (stupid of me!), I would have gave up and grab one guitar from the shelf.

I would give it 2 out of 10.

Material used vs value for money - Material wise, as I didn't opt for full custome made hence, I can't choose the exact type of wood that I want. He uses the "default" material but it is pretty solid and able to produce the sound that I want. So, a 7 out of 10 perhaps?

If you would like to know more, feel free to visit http://www.freemanguitars.com/

Overall: I am torn between "ok" and "not ok". There are things that I am not happy with but there are also things that I am happy with. But, it does give me the feel good feeling that I am playing a malaysian made guitar. (At first, I didn't know a guitar maker is known as luthier and I don't even know that they exist in Malaysia...how naive of me)

Holiday Single Launch

2009-11-17T10:20:00.004+08:00

It's out! Feel free to download and share the song with your friend.

reverbnation.com/ianchow

Watch out for the MTV in a week time.

Young KL Singers in Rhythmic Roots

2009-11-13T10:30:00.004+08:00

The production that I am currently involved in, going back to our roots by singing ethnic / folk song from Asia region. The regions that we chose are those that have direct influence in what makes today’s Malaysia ethnic / folk music.

I will be playing basic percussion instrument. I was suppose to sing with the choir at first but then Susanna, Music Director decided that I better not due to the position that I am seated at. The side audience will be hearing solo voice coming from me. Moreover, not to say I am holding the melody line which is pleasant to the ear. I am holding the harmony line which some harmony does sound weird on its own.

But if you are someone who like harmony, you should come and check this concert out because most of the song has very distinctive and unique harmony.

Date: 12th – 15th November 2009
Venue: The Actors Studio @ Lot 10
Price: RM38 and RM43 (inclusive of RM3 ticket handling fee)

4 x 4 lyrics (as requested by "Guest")

2009-11-05T20:04:00.002+08:00

4x4
Lyrics by: Annette Soo, Ian Chow
Composed by: Ian Chow
Arranged by: Ian Chow
(P) & (C) 2008 Ian Chow

Sitting in my 4x4,
Wishing for a real adventure,
Can’t get my gears to shift,
I am still stuck in the first,
No leather seats for me,
No fancy blinking lights,
As I watch the world goes by,
I’m wasting my day away.

Just me in my 4x4,
7 days a week all dull and grey,
Everything appears in black and white,
Losing hold of myself,
Trying to get a grip,
I’m searching for a sign of life,Cause it’s another 4x4 day.

No life beyond the line,
No signals to show the way,
My ignition still won’t start,
How exciting can my day be,
No trade in value,
No tire tracks to leave,
Nothing more than this,
Just room enough for me to breath.

It’s a harsh harsh world,
Of harsh harsh people,
In a desperate situation,
With screwed up imagination,
Blurry and hazy at times,
It’s a tiny space,
It is a gloomy day,
Why does the sun rarely shine on me?!

Record Hopeful

2009-10-24T18:42:00.003+08:00

KLUE Oct 2009 (Page 87)

It's done

2009-10-19T17:21:00.005+08:00

The only 2 good photos that I have for the past 2 gig at the new TAS @ Lot 10. First gig I was appearing alongside Tony Leo and Jasvin (a Punjabi singer-songwriter who sing in his native language) while the second one was together with Tony Leo (once again...hehe), Ariff Akhir and Azmyl Yunor

Meanwhile, completed on last Saturday the ensemble recording for Scars, the song I am writing to raise awareness on the issue of child prostitution. Thanks to everyone below for helping out and making their time for this project:

Annette Christie, Jane Jeevamoney, Joanne Low, Joanne Timbuong, Kathleen Roshene, Lee Yee Lien, Samantha Lee, Tan May Yee, Adrian Tan, Adriel Tan, Chin Khin Yeow, Nicklaus Au, Ryonn Leong, Wong Kok Thong, Shafie Hisham Milai (the choral recording engineer, Ariff Akhir ( my co-writer and co-producer)

The shooting of my very first video, Holiday was also completed then. The video is directed by Derrik Yaw, Joel Wong and Ashraf Zain and targeting to launch it on the 21st Nov.

TAS @ Lot 10 Opening Performances

2009-10-10T11:13:00.001+08:00

We are back on top! And with a bang for sure! We are celebrating the birth of a theatre with quite a line up to flourish the space with the wholesome arts and culture.It's just a few days before the curtains raise at The Actors Studio@ Lot 10.

We hope you will be there to join us celebrate the occasion. We hope all will be in place so we can show off to the guests that we are ready to rock n' roll! FREE PERFORMANCES in conjunction with our opening:

11 October, 3.00pm: Mixed Bill Featuring klpac String Ensemble, Sutra Dance Theatre, Douglas Lim, Young KL Singers, Adiwijaya's Allah and Michael Voon's Diaries '09.

13 October, 8.30pm: Side by Side by Side by Side musical recital Featuring Joel Wong, Tracy Wong, Idzam Othman & Geneviene Wong

14 October, 8.30pm: All-male singer-songwriter Featuring Azmyl Yunor, Ariff Akhir, Ian Chow, Tony Leo

15 October, 8.30pm: Contemporary dance Choreography by Gan Chih Pei & Judimar Hernandez, Bilqis Hijjas, Teresa Chian, Mew Chang Tsing, Leng Poh Gee, Ming Low & Choo Tee KuangCurated by by MyDance Alliance

16 October, 8.30pm: Double bill - Allah & Mangli Featuring Qahar Aqilah & Redza Minhat in Allah & Ashraf Zain & Tuan Faisal in MangliDirected by Megat SharizalWritten by Adiwijaya

17 October, 8.30pm: Classical and classical pop concert Featuring klpac String Ensemble

18 October, 8.30pm: T4YP Sweatshop - six original 10-min plays all written, casted, rehearsed and performed within 24 hours.Featuring klpac's T4YP EnsembleDirected by Christopher Ling

NO TICKETS NEEDED - JUST WALK IN (SEATS ON FIRST-COME-FIRST-SERVED)

2 weeks done, 2 weeks more

2009-10-04T13:51:00.003+08:00

The TAS @ Lot 10 two weeks test run programme finished today, We had altogether 10 different shows in 10 different genre. Very exicting but very tiring....not much time for my XBox360 too. Now need to prepare for the Gala Opening on the 10th Oct and the subsequent week programme before we closed for maintenance.

Beside preparing for the production with Young KL Singers in November, also busy with the song that i am writing about child prostitution. Yeap, you heard me right, this is the course which I have identified that I would like to raise more awareness among Malaysian public. When I first read an article about it, naively, i was going, "Really? It happens in Malaysia?" Hmm...believe it or not, it does. Children of pre-pubescent age are offered as a "dessert" in some hotels and restaurants. As sick as it sounds, it is something that happens here in our country (Malaysia).

Part of the song will involved a small section of choir and a child soprano. Kinda exciting and do not know what to expect because I have never work with this group in a recording environment. But, I am sure it will be another learning experience for me.

TAS @ Lot 10 Venue Test Run

2009-09-22T14:26:00.003+08:00

Me, hanging onto the acoustic feature on the wall

It is pretty exciting with the new TAS @ Lot 10 now. Still not completely ready yet. In the touching up stage at the moment and day by day, you can see the transformation. It reminds me of the first few months when i first joined klpac back in 2005: the hectic schedule, the teething problem with the venue, challenges with the contractor etc but slowly, it will all be there.

Can’t believe that tomorrow is already the starting of the venue test run. I still remember the day when Joe and Faridah first talk about the project late last year and roped me in. I was so excited....new venue, new challenges, new career development (but no monetary gain lah). Now, it is as if, all has just materialized in a blink of an eye.

Check out ww.taslot10.wordpress.com

If you feel like checking out the venue before anyone does, join us at the venue test run show (just note that the venue will not be officially open yet until 10th Oct):

23rd Sept : Recital by Joel Wong, Tracy Wong, Idzam Othman, Geneveine Wong
24th Sept: Acoustic showcase by Ian Chow and Tony Leo
25th Sept: Electronic Music by Goh Lee Kwang
26th Sept: T4YP: Hamlet (excerpt) (Directed by Chris Ling)
27th Sept: Stand-up Comedy by YCOM

30th Sept: Indie Shorts Film (Curated by Juliane Block)
1st Oct: Mangli by Ashraf / Tapai (Directed by Megat Shahrizal)
2nd Oct: klpac’s String Ensemble
3rd Oct: Contemporary Dance (Coordinated by Bilqis Hijjas)
4th Oct: Butoh Butoh by Nyoba Kan

Rhythmic Roots publicity shot

2009-09-12T12:29:00.003+08:00

This is production that i am working towards (beside my LP), "Rhythmic Roots" together with the Young KL Singers to be staged in November 2009 at the new The Actors Studio @ Lot 10. This will also be Joe Hasham first production at this new space as a Director.

MTV

2009-08-08T12:44:00.002+08:00

Planning for a music video right now for “Holiday” (taken from my upcoming album releasing next year, in case you do not know). For this video, I will be working with Derrick Yaw, Joel Wong and Ashraf Zain on the direction and conceptualization. Had our first meeting today between everyone and judging from the discussion, it’s gonna be cool. Can’t reveal out yet what we will be doing exactly. But the song recording (co-produced by Ariff Akhir) is done.

I really hope this time round the project will take off as previous video project for “He Says / She Says” wasn’t able to be carried out due to numerous reasons. Keeping my finger cross now.

Unfair, kan

2009-07-28T16:48:00.002+08:00

Guess this year feng shui is really not that good with the demise of various talented people around the world. The recent passing of Yasmin Ahmad is definitely a huge loss to the country. My only encounter with Kak Yasmin was during the shoot of Here In My Home back in 2008 at klpac (spearheaded by our multi-talented Pete Teo who is also a good friend of Kak Yasmin).

She definitely leaves a very good and long lasting first impression to me back then. The way she handled her cast and crew was very down to earth and despite the celebrity status that she has, never can you sense the diva aura around her. In fact, after the initial location recce trip, she even asked me to join her for a dim sum breakfast at MO. Best still, she said she will chauffer me to the place and sends me back later. I humbly rejected her offer because me being me, shy lah and I am just not so much a sociable person.

Few days before her passing, Yue May and I was talking about her condition and we were very certain then that she will brave through this. Unfortunately, few days later, I received a sms at 1am about her passing.

Hmm......unfair, kan. Yang patut pergi tak pergi, tapi yang tak patut pulak yang kena pergi.

www.ianchow.info

2009-07-03T22:01:00.003+08:00

Finally, gotten a website for myself http://www.ianchow.info/ Nothing much there yet, just a one-liner announcement on my upcoming album.

At the moment, i am 1/3 through the recording. Planning to do up a music video in Sept and probably release it out together with the first new downloadable track from the album sometime in October.

Gather The Energy: A Ritual Theatre Performance

2009-06-11T10:32:00.001+08:00

The blurb on the production that I am involved in as a guest percussionist.

Gather The Energy: A Ritual Theatre Performance

Gather the Energy is a semi-interactive ritual theater performance to celebrate the Summer Solstice. Participation is not required but it is definitely encouraged. In fact, by entry to the performance space you will already be participating! Gather the Energy is something that must be seen to fully understand.

Ritual Theatrics lie outside the written word, where knowledge beyond the word is conveyed. By using ancient ritual performance symbology and combining that with cross cultural themes, a contemporary statement is made which has relevance to the audience in their daily lives.

Date: June 19-21
Time: 8:30pm on 19th and 20th, 3:00pm on 21st
Contact: yoga.dance.life@gmail.com
Entry by donation of RM15

No gig but other projects

2009-05-23T12:00:00.003+08:00

Acoustic gig wise, it's been a little bit quiet on my end. Have not been gigging since Tony's Apartment series.

However, a little update on other performing arts projects that I am currently involved in:
a). From 19th June to 21st June, going to be involved in a small way in an experiemental Ritual Theatre by Nanci Traynor. I will be playing percussion with some of klpac staff. There will be a lot of improvisation in this piece of theatre. If you are free, please do come and support. Entry is by donation of RM10 at Indicine, klpac.

b). On 28th June, together with a group of volunteer, I am helping to organize Choralthon under Voices of Hope (which I co-founded) where it will be a full day of choral singing, fundraising for under priviledged children.

c). Also went back into studio for recording. At first, I was only planning to record 2 to 3 songs and then post it up on the net for free download, for promo purpose. As my idea grew, the project also grow along. The idea has now transformed into releasing an online album which will be free for download. So, there won't be physical copy but everything will be available for download including the album artwork and sleeves. More detail to follow.

NBT / Apartment

2009-04-27T16:01:00.004+08:00

The two recent gigs that I did. The first photo is from Time Out: On the Up in March 09. (thanks to Brian Kwan that I finally had the chance to play at No Black Tie). I appeared together with Tracy Wong. This is only the second appearance where we appeared together as a duo after our album launched early last year. The rest of the time, I usually perform alone.
The second photo is taken from the gig organized by Tony Leo at Apartment KLCC in April 09 which I appeared as his guest. After this, I won't be doing much acoustic gigs anymore unless I am invited to. I won't purposely go and search for it like what happened last year as I would like to concentrate back more on the choral stuff.

Having said, the recording project with Ariff is still happening and still in progress. We are really taking our own sweet time doing this.

Tony Leo Selvaraj & Friend

2009-04-22T10:22:00.003+08:00

The gig which I am appearing as a guest happening on 25/4/09 at Apartment KLCC....thanks to Tony Leo.

The Young KL Singers team whom I performed with last week at Pentas 1: klpac Orchestra In Style of Down Under

In Style of Down Under

2009-04-08T10:14:00.004+08:00

Gonna be performing with the klpac Orchestra and Young KL Singers for this show. Come and support if you are available. I will be singing in the Tenor section. More details as below.

http://www.klpac.org/Welcome.asp?c=whatsontheatreview&theatreID=290&theatrecatID=6

Beside this concert, there are also a whole host of other performances happening in the month of April at klpac in conjunction with The Australian Month.

Also went back to the studio with Ariff to do embark in an experimental project. This song that I am writing is what I called "progressive collaborative writing". The rough process:

- i will come out with a verse-chorus chord progression
- Ariff will then do a loop programming as to how he interpret the progression (something towards electronica type of feel – standard 4/4 timing with 110 bps)
- with this structure, I will then come out with the lyrics and rhythm based on my interpretation towards his programming
- vocal recording will start after followed by the instrument layering; all depending on what we come out with til this stage

So, as you can see, this song does not have a fix xtructure until the very end and anything can happen to it while it is still in progress. For some, it may be a syok sendiri type of project. But for me, it is more of a learning experience especially in the music genre itself….can you imagine Ian Chow doing electronica. This is like Ian Chow turning into Jerome Kugan.

Earth Hour @ klpac

2009-03-26T10:46:00.002+08:00

klpac will be participating in Earth Hour 2009 by switching off or dimming unutilised / non-essential lights including those at the lobby, walkway and car park on the 28th of March from 8.30pm to 9.30pm.

They will also be drumming in the moonlight that night. The klpac crew will be organising a really fun Drum Circle and anyone can take part. Feel free to bring any objects from your home (empty Pringles can, pepper shaker, Jacobs tin etc) and join the fun.

Earth Hour is a WWF initiative that began in Sydney two years ago and has since rolled out to other countries. This year, Malaysia will join the international community for the first time by targeting 5 million individuals and corporations to switch off their lights for one hour at the pre-determined date and time.1,672 cities, towns and municipalities in 80 countries have already committed to VOTE EARTH for Earth Hour 2009.

It will be part of the world's first global election between Earth and global warming. Read more about it on www.earthhour.org. Pledge your commitment as Malaysians by logging on to www.earthhour.org.my.

Time Out On The Up March 2009

2009-03-13T12:58:00.002+08:00

Time Out On The Up
Date: Wed Mar 18, 2009
Time: 8.30pm
Address: No Black Tie, 17 Jalan Mesui, Off Jalan Nagasari, Off Jalan Raja Chulan, KL.
Tel: 03 2142 3737, call after 5pm
Entry Fees:
RM20. RM10 with the Time Out KL voucher

This time round, I will be performing with Tracy Wong singing songs from He Says / She Says album as well as 2 new tunes. We will also be appearing alongside with 3 other talented acts, Tashya’s Ink, Zalila Lee and Bite Me Butterfly.

Come to think of it, ever since the album was launched, this is only the second time where Tracy and I are performing as a duo (first one being KL Sing Song 2008). So, don't miss this rare opportunity.

Young Choral Academy Chamber Choir: Buatan Malaysia

2009-03-10T12:05:00.000+08:00

The Young Choral Academy (YCA) Chamber Choir, the result of the merger between the YCA Youth Chamber Choir and the Young KL Singers’ (YKLS) Chamber Choir, will be announcing their arrival in the Malaysian music scene with their debut production, ‘Buatan Malaysia’ featuring arrangements of Malaysian choral music.

Through this production, the YCA Chamber Choir strives to show the audience that any genre of Malaysian music, be it pop, folksongs or even – yes – patriotic songs can be a pleasure to listen to and perform. For the members, Saw states that this production is to help the performers learn and understand their own country’s music better, and through this develop a love for it.

This production features purely local arrangers, such as Geneviene Wong, Juliette Lai, Wong Shuen Da and the choir’s very own Assistant Music Director Tracy Wong. The audience will be able to enjoy original arrangements of songs that are close to the hearts of most Malaysians, even a completely different rendition of Jalur Gemilang along with some completely original compositions such as Not Alone Anymore and Tracy Wong’s Walk With Me.

The chamber choir will be working with stage director Melissa Teoh, who lectures at Sunway University College’s Department of Performance & Media. Melissa is also a double nominee for this year’s Boh Cameronian Arts Awards for Best Set Design for the productions Air Con and Hero.

Armed with a stage director, original arrangements and compositions, the YCA Chamber Choir’s debut production promises a reminiscent night for Malaysians with a twist as the audiences will hear familiar tunes to songs they probably know all the words to in a completely different light and will be introduced to the wonders of our very own Malaysian arrangers!

Venue : Pentas 2 of the KL Performing Arts Center (KLPac)
Date : 28th and 29th of March
Time : 3.00pm and 8.30pm on Saturday and a 3.00pm Sunday matinee show.

Tickets can be purchased from the KLPac Box Office (03-40479000) for a flat rate of RM25.

It ended!

2009-03-02T19:34:00.008+08:00

It ended finally. After the last show on Saturday, a bunch of us (mainly klpac staff) stayed back to helped to pack up and tear down the place. We worked overnight and we finished at 7am. In a way, we are glad that the whole saga is over but at the same time, we are also deeply saddened that we lost another performing arts venue.

Anyway, looking forward to the new place.

P.S: By the way, Palm Square Jaya One also discontinued their acoustic series due to financial challenge.

*The above picture is courtesy of Yin

TAS @ BSC Gala Farewell: Week 1

2009-02-23T14:25:00.003+08:00

The 1st week singer songwriter showcase it’s over and it was an awesome week. I know I have thanked the entire list of people below but I can’t thank them enough as without them, it will never happen as it is. So here goes the list again.

The two main people behind TAS
- Joe Hasham
- Dato’ Faridah Merican

The performers who gave their very best for this showcase. (But I nearly had heart attack when Sei Hon and Otam was late and arrived at the very last minute before door opens)
- Tan Sei Hon
- Peter Brown & Markiza
- Ida Lisa
- Jerome Kugan
- Panda Head Curry who hijacked 13 Voices in My Head
- Tony Leo & Segar
- Blister
- Ariff Akhir
- Wani Ardy
- Azmyl Yunor
- Edwin & Albert
- Silent Scenery
- Otam
- Jasemaine Gan
- Izzy Mohamed
- Kevin Broken Scar
- Rashdan Harith

Special guest appearance who provide another flavour to the show
- Pang Khee Teik
- Priya K
- Jasmine Low
- Ashraf Zain
- Farah Rani
- Pappi Z

The witty MC
- Fahmi Fadzil

The volunteers in backstage, front of house and production management
- Sesha
- Shangari
- Shalu
- Ain
- Bharani
- Suresh
- Oliver
- Joel Wong
- Yue May
- Helena Foo
- Mark Beau

The technicians:
- Zaw
- John Siew
- Ang Swee
- Yit Boon

Don’t miss out this weekend show starting from 25th to 28th Feb 2009 @ 8.30pm. No doubt that it is full but if you want to take the risk, just come as they are also opening up stairs seats. Moreover, I doubt everyone will turn up even if all tickets are redeemed (just like what happened to this weekend)

The Actors Studio @ BSC Gala Farewell

2009-02-07T13:16:00.012+08:00

After 8 years of drama, dance, comedy and music, The Actors Studio will be bidding farewell to its TAS @ BSC space...

As part of The Actors Studio @ BSC Gala Farewell, there'll be a free three-day singer-songwriter showcase this weekend! Join us as we pay tribute to this special space that has seen the start of countless careers, the premiere of many exciting Malaysian works, sparked some wonderful collaborations and productions... a space that has been a second home for many artistes and arts lovers.

Sit back and enjoy the eclectic mix of homegrown music we have lined up for you - all composed and performed by local singer-songwriters. You'll also be entertained by the witty Fahmi Fadzil who will be hosting the showcase.

Don't miss your last chance to be an audience member at TAS @ BSC!

20th Feb 2009 @ 8.30pm (Friday):
Tan Sei Hon
Ida Lisa
Jerome Kugan
13 Voices In My Head
Peter Brown and Markiza
Tony Leo
with guest appearance by Pang Khee Teik and Priya K

21st Feb 2009 @ 8.30pm (Saturday):
Blister
Ariff Akhir
Wani Ardy
Azmyl Yunor
Edwin & Albert
Silent Scenery
with guest appearance by Jasmine Low

22nd Feb 2009 @ 3pm (Sunday):
Otam
Ian Chow
Jasemaine Gan
Izzy Mohamed
Kevin Broken Scar
Rashdan Harith
with guest appearance by Farah Rani

This showcase is co-organized by Ian Chow and Sei Hon

HURRY LIMITED PASSES AVAILABLE
Call The Actors Studio @ BSC at 03-2094 1400 / 0400 now!

ALSO PART OF THE ACTORS STUDIO @ BSC GALA FAREWELL:

Catch a mixed bill of performances from 25 - 28 February @ 8.30pm featuring Afdlin Shauki, Jit Murad, Douglas Lim, Harith Iskander, Indi Nadarajah, The Young KL Singers, dancers from ASWARA, Mew Chang Tsing, Lee Swee Keong and many more...

Admission is FREE except for the Charity Gala Night on 25 February - tickets are priced at RM200 / RM100 / RM50 and all proceeds from that night will go to the CANCERLINK FOUNDATION. Refreshments for Gala Night will be served from 7.30pm onwards.

www.theactorsstudio.com.my

Thank you...it's over

2009-01-22T16:20:00.002+08:00

klpac Open Day 2009 is finally over. Pheeewwww......in a way, it is a relieve after 3 months of hard work. But, the actual event day passes by so fast (like the saying goes, good times always passes by within a blink of an eye). Thanks to the blogs below for the nice word / review.

http://kaiserslayz.wordpress.com/2009/01/19/klpac-open-day-09-not-a-virgin/

http://lotfiismail.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-am-not-klpac-virgin-ulasan-selari-ajl.html

http://jzlynn.blogspot.com/2009/01/open-day-09.html

http://byanting.blogspot.com/2009/01/klpac-open-day.html

http://aaroncwl.blogspot.com/2009/01/klpac-sentul-west-1812009.html

http://arrrty.blogspot.com/2009/01/smack.html

http://prinzessinzlya.blogspot.com/2009/01/hujung-minggu-yang-meletihkantapi-tetap.html

http://itsnottheheatitsthehumidity.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-lost-it.html

klpac Open Day 09 Programme

2009-01-12T17:49:00.001+08:00

*Click to enlarge

klpac Open Day 2009

2009-01-09T18:32:00.001+08:00

I am back!

2008-12-17T13:36:00.004+08:00

My newly wedded wife and I

I am back but not much to update. But this is what I am busy with at the moment:

- Will be performing in a caroling gig next week at Smoke House.
- Currently also busy co-producing klpac 2nd Open Day scheduled to be on 18th Jan 2009
- Busy coordinating Young KL Singers (YKLS) mini showcase for The Actors Studio Finale Show on Feb 2008. Yes, in case you haven't heard, The Actors Studio @ BSC is closing down due to reasons that not that suitable to be discuss here.
- Contemplating whether to be involved again with YKLS next year production or just stay behind the scene
- Will be looking at some gig opportunities to perform alongside with Tracy Wong. Need to promote the album again as the sales is close to none now.

In case you are wondering, nope, i will not be busy making babies at the moment. Still recovering from the fact that I have become somebody's husband (not to say that i am not proud).

See you soon

2008-10-31T16:49:00.003+08:00

Guess I won't be blogging and gigging for a while due to my hectic wedding schedule.

So, see you after my wedding ceremony. At the meantime, you still can get in touch with me via my e-mail, chi_43@hotmail.com

My beatiful wife-to-be and the handsome, I :)

Wedding Venue: Citron Cafe

2008-10-21T17:54:00.005+08:00

Being a bit quiet lately as kinda busy with my wedding. For these few months, I don't think will be gigging anywhere. Need to spend time in organising my wedding as well as spending some time with my newly bought XBox 360.

As some of you have known, the wedding dinner meant for close friends and relative is screwed up as Citron Cafe has changed to new management, now known as Coppers. They couldn't honour back the old commitments which is fair enough. But what troubles me is Citron Cafe management actually knew of the change of management since May 2008 but yet, they did not bother to inform us until we call them up wanting to setup food tasting date at the end of September. Before that, we did call them up too on several occasions as we were anxious on our booking but yet, there is no indication at all.

It's a month away and very unfortunate, this happens. It is really sucky. I do like Cafe Citron food and the ambience especially at the now closed down branch at Jalan Eaton. However, from this experience, I definitely will not frequent Cafe Citron anymore and I will definitely will not hesitate to relate this incident to any of my friends who ask for my recommendation.

Thanks to Dilla and Anthony (who are both from Citron Cafe), they have ruined one of the most memorable time in my life!

P.S: Maybe i should write and dedicate them a song.

Teachers' Pet

2008-10-09T20:26:00.003+08:00

Been very tied up lately with work and personal stuff. But a quick update: I will be performing (one song only) at a this recital called Teachers' Pet with the details below:

Date: 11th October 2008, Saturday
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: The Young Choral Academy, 114A Jln. Burhanuddin Helmi, TTDI
Entrance by minimum donation of RM10.

The catch is, I will be playing in classical style. Hmm....can you imagine me doing that? Actually, i have been taking classical guitar (going back to basic) for 4 months already. So, this is sort of like the student showcase.

Acoustic Jaya

2008-09-25T10:16:00.002+08:00

Palm Square presents Acoustic Jaya is a free-to-play outdoor concert, live and under the stars, that happens every first and last weekend of the month. Acoustic Jaya was created as a live and free music series featuring the most original and independent singer-songwriter talents in the Klang Valley. The series aims to offer these young and gifted artistes a creative community space to call their own and to bring their music to a brand new audience in PJ.

This weekend will see Ian Chow collaborating with Tony Leo with guest percussionist, Segar. Expected the unexpected from this trio as they will not only be singing their original compositions and covers but will also be belting a few lovey-dovey duets, singing each other's compositions in their own styles and hopefully there'll be a mini jam session thrown in too!

Date: 26th & 27th September 2008 @ 8.30pm

A wonderful finale

2008-09-22T18:19:00.003+08:00

Finally, this year This is Acoustic! came to an end on 20th Sept 2008. It was a great show especially the second half (despite the 40 plus audience size). The performers really ended it with a bang.

The last round was superb as soon as M (consist of Michelle Lee and Melina William) started their song which involves the audience clapping the beat. Both Nick Davis (with Savy Ho) and Max Lim (with his brother Emmanuel) were not far behind as well with their consistent energy. But the show stealer I would say is Stephanie’s last energectic soulful number (she has improved a lot since I last heard her sing).

A special shout-out to all the performers that have appeared before in This is Acoustic!, starting from 2005 onwards (in alphabetical order):
Daniel Chan
Emmanuel Lim
Fahcry
Ida Lisa
Izzy Mohamed
Joachim Goh
Joshua Foong
Max Lim
Melina William
Michelle Lee
Moe
Nick Davis
Savy Ho
Sei Hon
Sharmaine Van Driesen
Silent Scenery
Stephanie Van Driesen
Suk Yin
Tony Leo
Tracy Wong
Wani Ardy
Yuna

If everything goes well, watch out for the two off-shoot programmes, This is Acoustic (Open Mic) & This is Acoustic (in Acapella) in 2009.

This is Acoustic! / Groove Junction

2008-09-17T15:15:00.003+08:00

Was pulled in by Tony Leo for a last minute gig at Groove Junction. We were suppose to have rehearsal in preparation for Acoustic Jaya gig next weekend however, Groove Junction organizer got their dates mixed up. Never mind lah, we can consider this as a dress rehearsal also. Playing 2 sets of 40 mins each from 8.30pm onwards. If you are free, please do drop by.

And don't forget, This is Acoustic! is happening this Saturday (20/9/08) at 8.30pm, Indicine KLPac. See you there!

This is Acoustic!

2008-09-09T14:00:00.000+08:00

Acosutic Jaya: Snow Symphony / Miliz

2008-09-04T15:50:00.003+08:00

This one night collaboration is definitely a rare treat! Don't miss it if you can. Most of all, it's free!

*Snow Symphony is made out from the young and talented Nick Davis and Savy Ho.

What Does It Means To Be Malaysian?

2008-08-29T12:04:00.003+08:00

Don't miss this play deviced by the young talents from T4YP Ensemble (directed by Abdul Qahar). I must give credit to the Production Designer, Yusman Mokhtar whom together with the rest of the team, has managed to expand the potential of a space like Indicine.

The flow of the play can definitely be tighter and dynamic can be stronger but despite of all these nifty-gritty hiccups, these guys definitely deserve our attention and support.

Venue : IndiCine, Level 2
Date: 28 - 30 August 2008
Price : ENTRANCE BY MINIMUM DONATION OF RM15

Surenee

2008-08-22T16:24:00.007+08:00

This post is dedicated to Surenee!

Surenee is KLPac's Publicist and also the one responsible (with Yue May of course) for all the articles and interviews that I got for the album, He Says / She Says.

She is going to RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) to further her study. When she graduate, she can possibly take over my position at KLPac or even the Technical Director post. :)

From L-R: Yue May, Joel (album's graphic designer), Surenee, yours truly

Surenee is considered as one of my "loyal fan" who is there for almost all my gigs. So now, one less fan for me. :( All the best to Surenee in her future undertaking!

New songs

2008-08-13T17:09:00.005+08:00

A photo taken in Caen, France when I attended The Youth, Voice and Arts Management Forum. The building behind (a church) was one of the concert venue..... damn nice acoustic with beautiful natural reverb. If only I can do a recording in here.

Below is the lyrics for one of my new song this year. I only managed to composed 3 new one for 2008. First is Sorry which was sung in the last TIA. Secondly will be What If which i will be singing at my next gig at Acoustic Jaya. The final number will be this one which is written specially for my wedding at end of the year. Once again, I am collaborating with Tracy Wong and Ariff Akhir together with Chelsia Wee and Kenneth Law (two friends from Young KL Singers).

Here We Are
English lyrics by Ian Chow
Chinese lyrics by Kenneth Law
Composed by Ian Chow & Tracy Wong

Flower girl, bestman, bridesmaid, band of eternity,
Step by step, together towards a promise of a life time,
A vow with a seal, infinite (and) unbreakable,
A humble beginning, a great new journey.

Everyone is looking,
Everyone is waiting,
Everyone is searching,
And here we are.

Everyone is curious,
Everyone is anxious,
Everyone (is) excited,
And here we are.

难得有你，做我幸福的定义,
多得有你，生活色彩更美丽,
一生寻寻觅觅，总于让我人海之中找到你.

In sickness or in health, Poor or rich,
For better or worse, in the name of love,
Been waiting all my life for this moment,
With this tune, the song that binds our heart,
With this faith, it’s a dream come true,
Like a fairy tale ending,
Together forever, happily ever after.

Here We Are

2008-08-06T10:04:00.003+08:00

Will be going into recording again with Ariff Akhir as my Sound Engineer. I will be recording a new track for a very special occasion. This will be another collaboration with Tracy Wong (hmm....we are like Sonny and Cher already). This time round, we will also be collaborating with one of our close friend from Young KL Singers, Chelsia Wee who has a beautiful soprano voice.

Tracy has once again did wonder to my composition. With a simple 4 chords progression in bossanova style, she injected numerous chord fillers that accentuate the essence, feel and mood of this song. And the chorus, she has turned it into a 12 chords progression with beautiful melody lines.

At the current moment, Tracy and I are also working on a future project that incorporates singer-songwriter with acapella. :) More details to be followed.

Acoustic Jaya again

2008-07-29T10:01:00.004+08:00

I will be back again this weekend for Acoustic Jaya appearing alongside with Izzy Mohamed, Joshua Foong and Jasemaine Gan. This will be my first time sharing the same stage with Jasemaine. Earlier on, I was also exploring with her on a collaboration project however, due to her time constrain, she couldn't take it on.

Meanwhile, Acoustic Jaya is an ongoing series which feature free live showcases every first and last weekend (Fri & Sat) of the month. Happening at Jaya One, a spanking new creative community centre, it is aim to bring fresh talent and acoustic goodness to the Petaling Jaya audience.

Date: 2nd August 2008 @ 8.30pm It's free!

Acoustic Jaya @ 26th July

2008-07-22T14:49:00.001+08:00

Acoustic Jaya is an ongoing series which feature free live showcases every first and last weekend (Fri & Sat) of the month. Happening at Jaya One, a spanking new creative community centre, it is aim to bring fresh talent and acoustic goodness to the Petaling Jaya audience.

This weekend performance feature Izzy Mohamed and Ian Chow with a very special performance by David Knight, the travelling singer-songwriter from San Jose.

Date: 26th July 2008 @ 8.30pm
It's free!

KL Sing Song 2008

2008-07-18T10:15:00.001+08:00

Song list

2008-07-11T09:21:00.001+08:00

Met up with Tracy the other day to work on KL Sing Song song list. We are preparing 4 songs including rearrangement of 2 of the songs, Bidadari and Returning.

Bidadari will now feature Tracy as the second vocal. The song is transposed 2 key up to suit Tracy’s voice. It will be plucking throughout and my original melody line is change tremendously to fit the new key (or else, I will be singing a high “A” and high “B” which surely will go off-pitch).

Returning has become very mellow with not much anger (but still has the melancholic feel in it). But Tracy has also injected in some jazzy feel to it rather than the rockish number as appeared in the album.

Our two other songs will be Berner Street and I Do, I Do, I Do (with Tracy as the backing vocal).

We also briefly spoke about our short term plan of having a full band setup for our songs (not for profit making though but more for the experience). If anyone is interested to be part of it, e-mail us lah. chi_43@hotmail.com

KL Sing Song: Line Up

2008-07-07T10:35:00.002+08:00

Here you go, the confirmed line up of KL Sing Song 2008 with a short description. Check out "Ian Chow & Tracy Wong" description. :) For ticketing details, please look at the post below.

18 July (Fri):
Mia Palencia ~ Nominated for Best Solo Vocal (Music), Cameronian Arts Awards 2005
Reza Salleh ~ Soulful performer and organiser of Moonshine.
Paolo Delfino ~ Emerging singer songwriter with witty songs and showmanship flair
Sherry ~ Legendary veteran busker with unique voice and songs
Otam ~ New singer songwriter with chilled out vibes and gruff vocals
Izzy Mohamed ~ Upcoming singer songwriter with warm, soothing sound

19 July (Sat):
Pete Teo ~ Winner of three AIM awards in 2007 and the producer of the Malaysian Artists for Unity Project
Shanon Shah ~ Most Promising Young Artist Cameronian Arts Awards 2004. Best Male Vocalist AIM 2006
Estrella ~ Breakout band of 2008 of sweet bossa nova sounds and sultry vocals
Karen Nunis ~ Veteran female folk rock singer songwriter of bluesy grit
Rendra Zawawi ~ Witty singer songwriter with dynamic vocals and engaging songs
Edwin & Albert ~ Mandarin-speaking duo with sparkling acoustic pop melodies

20 July (Sun):
Meor ~ Former Luncai Emas artiste, legendary independent performer
Yuna ~ Young, heartfelt, wistful singer songwriter with disarming voice
Peter Hassan & Markiza ~Long time supporters of live music, founders of Acoustic Jam
Nan Blues ~ Local street busker with songs flavoured in the blues and folk genre
Azmyl Yunor ~ Lively solo singer songwriter with cheeky folk songs
Sei Hon ~ Singer songwriter with songs on urban life, politics and more
Jerome Kugan ~ Most Promising Young Artist Cameronian Arts Awards 2005
Ian Chow & Tracy Wong ~ Sunny, earnest vocal duo with cheerful acoustic pop songs
Panda Head Curry? ~ Rabble-rousing duo with intellectually engaging pop ditties

KL Sing Song 2008

2008-07-02T17:43:00.000+08:00

Urbanscapes 2008 @ KLPac

2008-06-25T14:33:00.001+08:00

For more info: www.urbanscapes.com.my

This is Acoustic! Six Feet Above

2008-06-17T17:21:00.007+08:00

*All photos courtesy of Wani Ardy (taken from photo album on Facebook) except for the last photo taken from zeetuwaywern's blog.

My three co-performers on that night, Izzy Mohamed, Joshua Foong and Wani Ardy.

This is a day before the gig, a meet up / ice breaking session between all performers. Hmm...I looked kinda serious in this photo (I think i was concentrating very hard on learning Joshua's song).

This is the general view (everyone look very tiny here) on the show day itself.

My Co-Producer, Nick Davis who also opened up the show with his new song.

This is Acoustic! Six Feet Above

2008-06-09T10:13:00.000+08:00

Receipt

2008-06-06T15:36:00.002+08:00

This is the temporary receipt for the donation we collected from the Fundraising Recital handed to Yayasan Nanyang Press. For those in the list that need tax exempt receipt, please do hang on for a while. However, if you still do not get it after a month or two, please do get in touch with me so I can follow with them. Or, you may also contact them directly at 03-7872 6888.

Singing for Fun(ds) - A great success!

2008-05-31T15:27:00.002+08:00

Donation were still coming in even on this morning itself. The figure now stands at RM7,156.00. I know this is not a lot compared to what some companies have done but do think about it this way: the amount raised was just from a small idea (through msn chatting while at work) of two person (yours truly and my Co-Producer, Ryonn Leong). I am not saying that you should be proud of us but what I am saying is, if this is what 2 person are capable of, can you imagine if we have ten more people coming forward and organize or doing something similar on their own?

My heartfelt thanks to all everyone who made this possible from the audience to the performers to the entire crew and organizing committee who poured in their heart and soul. This whole fundraising recital was organized in less than two weeks and the result is definitely amazing from the amount of money to the audience turn out to the positive feedbacks that we’ve got.

Special thanks to all the volunteers (sorry, if I missed out any names):
Ryonn Leong (my co-producer),
Joe Hasham & Dato’ Faridah Merican (for sponsoring the venue),
Kuen Stephanie & Tommy Tanggara (for sponsoring the cards which were all sold out)
Raymond Chua (our MC for the night. He was actually quite sick but he still delivered a fantastic job)
Li Sun (for helping out in the publicity)
Max, May Yee & Yeow (for handling the front of house)
Yue May & Surenee (for helping to take care of the nitty gritty details)
Shafie & Sazali (for the good sound and light)
All the performers including:
Young KL Singers Chamber Choir, YCA Youth Chamber Choir, Friends of String Ensemble, Yogaero Guitar Ensemble, Joel Wong (sorry for the little screw up in You’ve Got A Friend), Idzam Othman (you still forget your lines, haha), Otam (it is still cool to jam with you), Ann Peter, Eugene, Sei Hon (who at first thought the event is at Central Market and went there), Tracy and Max.
All the donors and audiences, of course (who contributes a big portion to the success of this event)

Please don't forget to join us

2008-05-28T18:49:00.002+08:00

Here I Come Again

2008-05-23T14:44:00.002+08:00

I started my classical guitar class again (after the failed attempt on Oct 2007). My teacher is once again younger than me (then again, don't judge a book by its cover). He is pretty experienced and I have worked with him before on last Christmas Caroling. He is also actively performing with the Yogaero Guitar Ensemble (started by Mr Lee Thiam Foo back in 2004).

First lesson was a painful lesson for my finger. Having my guitar on the left leg is another "sensation" that I need to get used to. Body posture is my biggest challenge now. It feels as though I am going for some yoga class. Well, we haven't really started playing any repertoire yet. Only starting next week.

At the end of the lesson, I ended up talking to him on the upcoming fundraising recital and gotten a string ensemble contact. A kind reminder, the fundraising recital for the Myanmar Cyclone Nargis is happening next Friday(30/5/08) at 8pm at Indicine, KLPac. Rest assure that we will have something for everyone from instrumental numbers to chamber choir to singer songwriter with original composition and soloist belting out favourite musical numbers.

Singing for Fun(ds)

2008-05-16T16:09:00.001+08:00

Singing for Fun(ds) - A fund raising recital for Cyclone Nargis disaster

2008-05-14T10:39:00.003+08:00

With the generous support from The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac), charity arm of the Young Choral Academy, Voices of Hope is raising fund for the victims of Cyclone Nargis disaster.

Using what we do best which is singing and performing, we are featuring a vast blend of musical genre performances;From choral music, musicals, independent singersongwriters, instrumentals, and youth singers, we hope to raise as much as we could during the 2 hours performance.

ALL funds collected would be channelled to the Yayasan Nanyang Press, for their disbursement to the victims for their basic supplies.

Performers confirmed so far include:Young KL Singers Chamber Choir, The Young Choral Academy Youth Chamber Choir, Ian Chow, Max Lim, Tracy Wong, Sei Hon, Otam, Idzam Othman, Joel Wong, Malaysian Institute of Arts’ Guitar Ensemble

Date: 30th May 2008
Venue: Indicine, KLPac
Time: 8pm
*Entrance by donation of any amount

Fundraising Recital

2008-05-12T18:04:00.003+08:00

Been very busy for these few days but a very quick update. Currently, Ryonn and I are planning for a fundraising recital for the Cyclone Nargis, Myanmar's victims. It is scheduled on 30th May at 8.30pm at Young Choral Academy, Taman Tun Dr Ismail. It will be done under the Voices of Hope banner.

We will have something for everyone in the recital. Chamber choir performance, instrumental performance as well as singer-songwriter showcase.

More details to follow but make a date with us. Even if you are not coming, please donate.

Graphic Novel

2008-04-30T17:31:00.005+08:00

This post has nothing to do with my performing arts life but just to share that recently, I have started this 'addiction' to graphic novel. :)

Definition (taken from wikipedia): A graphic novel is a type of comic book, usually with a lengthy and complex storyline similar to those of novels, and often aimed at mature audiences.

Borders Malaysia is having their sales now and I bought the whole series of The Walking Dead (hardcover) by Robert Kirkman, The Great & Secret Show by Clive Barker and Alien vs Predator Omnibus Vol 1.

It all started with me watching the movie I am Legend (Will Smith). I was fascinated with the movie and read more about it on IMDB. I found out that the movie was actually an adaptation from a novel which was also adapted by Steve Niles (30 Days of Nights' fame) into a graphic novel.

Hmm....it stirred up my interest then and it took me a month or two before I finally made up my mind and buy it. I was contemplating at first because the price of a graphic novel is usually double the price of a normal book. But after finished reading the book, here I am, buying a whole lot more of graphic novels during the Borders' sales. In a way, I do feel regret (a little bit lah) of buying my first graphic novel because I have just used up all my book allowance for the next 5 months. But still, I am enjoying every moment of reading the The Walking Dead now. Heheh....i guess, graphic novel will be the new genre of book that I will be reading for a while.

P.S: Come to think of it, all this purchasing of book is also tax deductible and I bought it during sales. (Haha....here I am, trying to justify my spending)

Acoustic Jaya

2008-04-26T11:49:00.007+08:00

All photos courtesy of Yin (my loyal fan and "groupies").

The performers with Yin - from left to right: Nick Davis, Tony Leo, Otam and I.

The overall look of it...very cosy but they were not many people (which is pretty fine with us too).

Me in action. I did one cover, Smashing Pumpkins' Tonight Tonight. Pheeww....pull it off pretty ok except for forgetting two of the lines. Hmm....i still hate doing covers.

All the 4 performers on stage. They couldn't solve Otam's guitar issue so in the end, he had to exchange place with others during his piece.

We will be on again tonight (26/4/08) starting at 8.15pm, same venue (Jaya One, Seksyen 13). The stage is in front of Starbucks. Ida Lisa will also be joining us for tonight showcase.

Eat! Eat! Eat @ Jaya One

2008-04-23T10:04:00.003+08:00

This will be happening this weekend with the line up as below:

25th April 2008 (Friday):
Ian Chow, Tony Leo, Otam and Nick Davis

26th April 2008 (Saturday):
Ian Chow, Tony Leo, Otam and Ida Lisa

Venue: Jaya One (it is an outdoor stage if I am not mistaken) You may also log onto their website for location map.http://www.jayaone.com.my/

We will be playing a 1 1/2 hour set straight from 8.30pm to 10pm.

Groove Junction Gig

2008-04-17T12:01:00.004+08:00

The performers: Me, Tracy Wong and Max Lim. The crowd that night consist mainly of our friends. It seems that business there is pretty quiet on weekdays as though I have booked the whole venue for my gig.
They have a pretty good sound system. But the only thing is the stage layout is at such where Tracy is at one corner, then Max and I are at the other end.

I screwed up on most of the covers.....not super screw up but I felt that I can do much better. Overall, it was a nice and cosy place to have gig.

*Photos courtesy of Ryonn Leong

Ian Chow & Tracy Wong feat Max Lim @ Groove Junction

2008-04-14T18:20:00.003+08:00

Please do drop by tomorrow (15/4/08) 9pm at Groove Junction if you are available. Location map is as per posting before this.

Groove Junction @ 15th April 2008

2008-04-11T17:57:00.003+08:00

If you are doing nothing much on next Tuesday (15/4/08) @ 9pm, be sure to drop by at Groove Junction (map as above). I will be playing 2 sets of 40 minutes with Tracy Wong featuring Max Lim. We will be doing half original compositions and half covers.

Meanwhile, I Do I Do I Do and Returning (both taken from the album He Says / She Says) is on download.com/ianandtracy as well as amp.channelv.com/ianandtracy for preview. If you like the songs, be sure to rate it on download.com. We have 2 votes which give us an average point of 2 out of 5 now.

Breakfast Show Interview

2008-04-03T17:09:00.004+08:00

My first appearance on NTV7 Breakfast Show, last Friday. Someone saw the programme and commented that I looked quite nervous at first but started to get the hang of it when I started playing. Tony helped me out as the lead guitarist.

I was told to prepare two songs but in the end, they only have time for one.

Time Out Review / Ceylon Bar Gig

2008-03-31T13:23:00.005+08:00

Time Out Review with a 4 out of 6 star rating

April 2008 issue

Ceylon Bar, Changkat Bukit Bintang Acoustic Gig

27th March 2008

The little stage space that we fitted in. Believe it or not, it is approximately 2m x 3m and we have managed to fit in all 4 of us with guitars, digital piano and djembe.

The "thorn" among "roses" - Tracy Wong

The three gentlemen - me, Nick Davis and Tony Leo