Beginnings
a Princess with a passion
Music was an integral part of my childhood and upbringing. My name, Bianca, was inspired by an opera singer in the Tin-tin comic book because Dad loves comics and Mum loves to sing! I grew up watching and listening to my mum playing the piano and singing and often joined along on the guitar, drums, and piano, and sometimes, even put on my ballet leotard and tutu to dance along! Home was full of laughter, and music brought my family so much joy. At the age of 8, my parents decided to enroll me in harp classes after watching a concert with a harp performance. It was love at first sight for me when I saw and heard the sound of this magical instrument!
MENTORSHIP AND GROWTH
A big part of my love for music came from my first harp teacher and mentor, Katryna Tan at the Raveharps Academy, where I spent my formative 10 years before Conservatory. These early years of music study and traveling internationally to perform not only instilled in me a strong passion for music, the harp, and a desire to hone my craft to the best of my abilities but also taught me that being a harpist goes beyond just being a fine-skilled musician. It also encompasses the people, the community, the journey, and the lives touched along the way. The gift of music is special, but it is the community of musicians I have met that has made this journey such a memorable and precious one.
a School filled with art
I spent my secondary and tertiary education years at the School of the Arts, Singapore. SOTA was relatively new at the time of my enrolment and one filled with so many possibilities - a place with like-minded, passionate young artists, all eager to learn and challenge their artistic boundaries. It opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of art and gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for all art forms and genres. The close-knit school family meant that conversations between all creative peers constantly bounced around classroom walls. A school where inter-collaborative arts are celebrated and a place I enjoyed experimenting and widening my knowledge.
THE LAND OF FISH N CHIPS
Going overseas further developed my skills and gave me an eye for detail. At the Royal Academy of Music, I learned the needed skillsets from world-renowned harpists who have worked in the industry for decades before me, expertise I am grateful to have. The Royal Academy of Music provided me with a vast amount of experience in many different musical settings, from musicals, and jazz, to orchestral and solo events. It gave me a firm foundation in the technical skills, tone sets, and musical direction needed in a professional harpist of the Academy’s level.
surfs up sydney!
Pursuing a Masters in Sydney was a good opportunity to hone the skills learned from my time in London. Many people ask what I have learned going from undergrad to postgrad. It would be the speed in learning repertoire, confidence and stamina in performing in recitals, attention to detail, precision in execution, and clarity in musical direction and artistic interpretation. Sydney provided me the space and support to find my musical identity. Besides harp, I also took modules focused on music therapy, pedagogy, and childhood education.
A NEW CHAPTER- HOME
Currently, back in Singapore, I am blessed to be able to share and carry on the legacy of my mentors. To give others the happiness of learning music, a community and music family, and to cultivate skills and professionalism that can be applied to all areas and walks of life. I am excited to share my passion with others, and to encapsulate memories and experiences whether in a concert or event setting.
Let’s Work Together
E-Mail: biancabengharpist@gmail.com
@biancabengharpist