Inspiring young musicians and sharing Eastman knowledge in Singapore

Meet violinist and Global Leadership Council member Vivien Goh ’69E

Photo credits: Gilbert Chan

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

I graduated with a bachelor of music in violin performance from the Eastman School. After graduation, I returned to Singapore and performed actively on stage, radio, and television in Singapore and the region. I taught violin classes in public schools and had a private violin studio until 2017. I was the founding music director and resident conductor of the Singapore Youth Orchestra from 1980-1990.

Currently, I am retired but still teach a chamber music class at the School of the Arts. I am an organist and choir director at the Wesley Methodist Church and sit on the Boards of the Youth Orchestra and the Music Conservatory. I am involved in projects to mentor young musicians. I am an avid walker in the various parks in Singapore and also on my travels in the UK, Europe, Japan, and New Zealand.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

At Eastman, I was involved in so many musical activities that were not available in Singapore in the 1960s, like playing in a full Symphony Orchestra and being part of chamber music groups. The opportunity to listen to famous musicians “live” at school and on campus provided many moments of inspiration.

What University resources or initiatives were most impactful to your next steps after graduating?

The Sibley Library was and remains one of the great collections of music scores and audio recordings. The Eastman Theatre and Kilbourn Hall were thrilling to perform in. I was loaned a precious Italian violin – a G.B. Guadagnini – to use in my senior year.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

My experiences in the Eastman Orchestras, playing under various conductors and guest conductors and composers like Stravinsky and Khachaturian shaped my activities as conductor of the Singapore Youth Orchestra, as did my intensive activities as a member of the Eastman Honors Quartet. The Suzuki Method was first introduced at Eastman when I was there. I used the concepts of this method in my teaching. Listening to great musicians of the day “live” was a great inspiration.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

My time spent in Rochester had a great influence on my life and I wanted to share this experience with aspiring young musicians in Singapore who were looking for a university education. Currently, I am on the Global Leadership Council.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

Being involved in this community brings you together with many alumni from different faculties and professions which broadens your horizons. It is also rewarding to help steer young students toward fulfilling their aspirations.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

I enjoy many of the live-streamed concerts from Eastman and webinars on a wide range of topics. It is fulfilling to know that I can help future students experience what I did at the University.