lebby's lodge

Last Post

2010-12-02T01:33:00.001+08:00

This is the last post to round off the lifespan of this blog.

I have moved to iamleb.tumblr.com

This blog has done me well. Good job. Goodbye.

-LeB-

HELLO WORLD - LADY ANTEBELLUM

2010-07-03T04:29:00.002+08:00

I am loving this song now. And the lyrics are meaningful. :)

Traffic crawls, cell phone calls
Talk video screams at me
Through my tinted window I see
A little girl, rust red minivan
She's got chocolate on her face
Got little hands, and she waves at me
Ya, she smiles at me

Hello world
How've you been?
Good to see you, my old friend
Sometimes I feel cold as steel
Broken like I'm never gonna heal
I see a light little hole
In the little world

Hello world
Every day I drive by
A little white church
It's got these little white crosses
Like angels in the yard
Maybe I should stop on in
Say a prayer
Maybe talk to God
Like he is here
Oh I know he is there
Ya, I know he's there

Hello world
How've you been?
Good to see you, my old friend
Sometimes I feel as cold as steel
And broken like I'm never going to heal
I see a light
A little grace, a little faith unfurled
Hello world

Sometimes I forget what living's for
And I heave my life through my front door
And I'll be there
Oh I'm home again
I see my wife, little boy, little girl
Hello world
Hello world

All the empty disappears
I remember why I'm here
Just surrender and believe
I fall down on my knees
Oh hello world
Hello world
Hello world

Side-note:

SONG MEANING / about this...
- This string-laden song penned by Tom Douglas, Tony Lane and David Lee, is a track from Country music group Lady Antebellum's second album, Need You Now.

- The song talks about seeing God's miracles in life. AOL's the Boot asked LA member Charles Kelley what was the last thing he saw that made him remember that God is here? Kelley replied: "I can put myself in that spot, in the car, just sitting there in traffic absolutely about to explode and all of a sudden you look over and see something as innocent and cute as a child with chocolate on her face. And you go, 'I needed that, in that moment, to relax and remind myself that life is still sweet.'"

- LA member Hilary Scott told Billboard magazine: "That song found us. It was written by Tom Douglas, David Lee and Tony Lane, three of the greatest songwriters in Nashville. The first time I heard it, it wasn't even a pitch for us, it was just a friend saying, 'You need to hear this song.' I loved it, but I didn't even think about it for us. A couple of months later we're sitting in London, Ontario, and we're missing this one song that could round out the record, not about a relationship per se, but something that has a bigger thematic message. I said, 'Guys, I have something, I don't really know if you're going to hear it, but I know it's a beautiful lyric and it's a really well-written song.' I played it for the guys and they flipped."

-LeB-

Coporate Gig for Dualog, 9 Jun '10

2010-06-14T12:01:00.005+08:00

I was cool doing a gig with a future schoolmate of mine. Haha! Cool because I would know beforehand that we would be schoolmates. :) I did a gig with Sheena; a corporate gig (thanks Sheena for asking me along) for the company Dualog. We did a 15mins set, just 4 songs, namely... What a Wonderful World, Man in the Mirror, Hey Jude and My Way. Sheena is a voice major heading to Berklee... and yes she does have a good voice! :) I just thought, wow, its really cool to be a voice major man. That I would never be able to do! Imagine going to a music college and just SINGING! hahah... but of course, there are other stuff on top of that as well.

It was nice doing the gig with her, at least now, I have another friend (that I already know) going to Berklee. So to date, this is my 2nd gig with a Berklee schoolmate. :) And we had lots to talk about; basically, all about music and Berklee. I am curious to see how we would fare in Berklee and how we would improve as musicians over time. :) My 1st was with Keith when we played for Alex W.'s gig.

The gig was at Grand Plaza Parkroyal. Its really near to Echo Music, but I've never been to the hotel. They had a poolside event in the evening and it was really nice. The layout, the ambience and the food. Haha... :) the CEO who engaged us was very hospitable also. And we could help ourselves to the food, that sure was a plus point. Haha... :) So I love music and I love food!

Some pics taken...

Sumptuous Spread...

A pic with my future schoolmate, maybe classmate. Hahha. :)

-LeB-

John Williams - Home Alone Theme

2010-06-11T18:05:00.000+08:00

Home Alone is one of my favourite movies of all time! Probably because of the festive mood, beautiful scenes of America, a touching reunion of the family, every kid's dream (maybe mine) of plotting traps against the baddies and it was the best kid's show around then! Love it! But not just that, the music had a part to play. The main theme is way moving; simple yet it tugs at the heartstrings. :) And I just recently found out that its composed by John Williams. John Williams is a prolific composer/musician and most notably famous for his film scores. Some of his works are... Star Wars, Superman, Home Alone and the first 3 Harry Potters. He's 78 this year and still composing! Amazing! I hope you would enjoy this piece as much as I do! I should get the soundtrack. :)

-LeB-

feels blessed... :)

2010-06-11T03:23:00.003+08:00

feels blessed and appreciates it that i was paid for going down to my student's place, even when something cropped up for him and he missed the lesson.

feels blessed that we got a small tip for the corporate gig... :)

-LeB-

Gigs.

2010-05-30T02:26:00.003+08:00

I used to count how many gigs I have in a week or how often I do gigs. These days, its been quite a natural thing to be doing performances. But I'm still gonna count them! For this week, I have done 4 gigs! :) Thank God for opportunities. Its been a busy week.

1. A substitute gig with Phoebee at Temasek Club, Wednesday
2. HK Cafe @ East Coast (C-Nai) with Fong + guest singer, Desmond, Thursday
3. HK Cafe @ East Coast (C-Nai) with Phoebee, Friday
4. LoveMeKnot Wedding Gig (Fong + Desmond) @ Mandai Orchid Park, Saturday. :)

I am thanking God and the people around me for every aspect of my life.

We (LoveMeKnot) had 2 gigs back-to-back today as well. Rock on team! :)

Keep the music alive and going! :)

Love, LoveMeKnot

-LeB-

keeping this blog alive... a little update...

2010-05-07T01:50:00.003+08:00

i just came home from macdonalds. i went there to study some music theory. i have been tasked by my teacher to attempt a grade 8 theory paper. and after reading thru the grade 6 text and attempting the paper, i really do not know all these stuff. sheesh.

studying at macdonalds, or rather out of my house has been my habit since... secondary 3? and this method really works for me. just that... it is rather costly. especially when i do not exactly go budget. these days however, i have been trying to cut down on my expenditure and saving up as much as i can.

doing work and getting things done is quite a good feeling. slacking... isn't. well, too much of it that is. so, even though i struggled trying to learn some music theory, at least i got some things done. its been a while since i STUDIED again. and come 8 months time, i would be back to school.

i have stopped school for 2 years now. it seems like another cycle of army. not that i haven't been learning or studying stuff. i have but i guess going back to school and being a full-time student is gonna be different. but at the same time, this time around, it really is gonna be different. i am going to a music college. not the conventional school. i am excited but full of anticipation as well. i really do not know how things are gonna be like. and not just school is gonna be different, my lifestyle is gonna be different also. i would have to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to changes...

i am gonna embrace... EMBRACE it... :)

-LeB-

Admission Decision...

2010-04-24T18:41:00.001+08:00

I.G.O.T.I.N.T.O.B.E.R.K.L.E.E !!! Ah!!! !!! !!! Praise the Lord!!!

-LeB-

Recalling Back... my trip to England...

2010-04-14T03:02:00.003+08:00

Blogs are not quite the common thing these days. But still, I shall just pen down some thoughts and happenings; an attempt to revive the blog.

Its 3.18am and I am in Singapore. I wish I could sleep earlier and have a better sleeping habit. And talking about sleeping habits, I think my best sleeping habits are when I am overseas... faraway overseas. I remember when I was in America and recently in England, I really felt tired when nightfall came. I hardly feel that way in Singapore. Arggh!

Talking of which, I just thought of my time spent in England and it led me to my "moment" at Harrods. So Harrods is THE place in London and so I went there with my family. It was huge and lots to shop and I splitted up with my family for some "shopping time". I hardly did any shopping but I went to the section that sells musical instruments.

There it was, a young chap was playing the tune of Canon in D (which I think he played it in C Major). Then the sales person (a very good pianist) joined in on another grand piano playing some fill-ins and extra stuff... I secretly meddled around with another grand and softly added some notes. Soon, we had a crowd standing behind us. The sales man started playing much more and so did I... it was actually... to me, quite a beauty... I was like a conversation going on, a form of teamwork, spontaneously done. And I really enjoyed that moment. We ended and we had applause from the crowd. :) I thought to myself... its really cool! Its like... I PLAYED THE PIANO IN LONDON. wahhahah! At that time, it was yet another reaffirmation that I really LOVE music and thats what I want to do for the rest of my life. PLAY MUSIC. Thank God that I can play music and for the gifting :)

I am still in the midst of waiting for my Berklee results. Whatever the outcome, I know that He has plans for me. :)

A picture of Harrods in London.

Me! I think I like to "uglify" myself... smile!

:) -LeB-

My Best Days... Danny Gokey...

2010-03-28T02:08:00.003+08:00

I needed some new albums for some listening pleasure. And I managed to grab one off the shelves of HMV. I got Danny Gokey's album. :) I enjoyed his recent performance on idol; singing "My Best Days"... He was quite a favourite of mine when he was competing on Idol and his album is not too bad :) He went country and I have been appreciating country music more now... I like that his album is very positive, speaks about hope and Jesus. :) I was blessed by a couple of songs on the album. It has good lyrics written and some nice catchy tunes. I particularly like this chunk of lyrics...

It's the love we make, it's the dreams we share
The friends we find in our short time here
It's knowing God's grace, the touch of a hand
Holding a baby, calling mom and dad
It's making the most of the moments we have
And getting to live long enough to look back
On the years, the sweet tears of joy and laughter
That's all that really matters...

-from the song "Tiny Life"

Lord, may You lead my life and help me to see what is important and not miss out on the details of living and living for You. :)

-LeB-

the pursuit of playing jazz...

2010-03-11T16:05:00.002+08:00

I think my appreciation for jazz has heighten another level. I first liked jazz when I was around 17; listening to Diana Krall's album. Which is probably easier to listen to compared to other jazz artistes. Last time all I would and probably could say is that... "jazz... its nice, its classy..."

Diana Krall still remains as one of my favourite jazz artistes but along with her, I have widen my listening repertoire, to artistes like Hiromi (a sure favourite), Oscar Peterson, Art Tatum, Keith Jarrett, Red Garland and of late... Vince Guaraldi. I went to HMV yesterday to get some albums to listen to... and I got Art Tatum's and Vince Guaraldi's album. Its my first time listening to Vince Guaraldi, who is best known for his compositions for Charles Schulz's Peanuts. I have to say that his playing is very tasteful, not extremely complex but he definitely has his chops. And I like it :)

However, when it comes to playing jazz, I still have a long way to go. But whats comforting is that... I do see myself improving (although probably, I should be improving faster), still its better than nothing. At least now, I can play some licks that sounds really quite jazz; whereas last time I could play... Some licks that are so predictable, all my friends would know I am playing the piano/keys. Hahah! And I really enjoy seeing myself improve and playing stuff that really sounds jazz. I give myself a pat on my shoulders. :)

Vince Guaraldi's album... I like the album cover :)

-LeB-

doesn't know what will happen...

2010-03-09T14:03:00.004+08:00

Its exactly 2 weeks to the Berklee auditions again. So fast and 1 year has gone by.

What will I feel when April comes? And where will I be in 6 months time?

Praying and trusting in the Lord.

-LeB-

I'd really love to see you tonight

2010-02-13T16:53:00.002+08:00

I heard this song being sung at barstop last Monday. And it sounded really familiar, still I wasn't too sure if I had heard this song before. Especially when it dates back to 1976??? I wasn't even born yet. In any case, this is a great song and I love it!!! :) It has that "country sound" I think... and that I like.

I love oldies.

-LeB-

张克帆 - 爱错了

2010-02-10T02:07:00.001+08:00

currently learning this song for Wendy's student for open mic tomorrow. quite a nice song. I really think i'm an oldie. what crossed my mind is that... 张克帆, he's really got a good good voice! really nice voice. :)

-LeB-

a night of music... :)

2010-02-09T00:44:00.002+08:00

I've always liked to watch live performances. Last time I would stroll by the walks of Esplanade and catch the outdoor performances, that was when I was 17!!??!? Today I decided to take a break and decided to chill out with some live music.

Pheebs and I decided on bar stop. We've heard a lot of the place but we've both not been there. Its a nice place to chill, quite comfy. Today's act was David & Wendy. We totally had no idea who these 2 people are, still, we decided to give it a shot. And boy were they good!!! :) I had a great time listening to their music. It was just a simple acoustic set up, guitar + vocals with occasional flute and tambourine; it was nice, full and sincere. They are both really good singers. David has a very nice tone to his voice, somewhat of a country tone. And Wendy glides through her singing, one word SOOTHING. Do all Wendys have a "smooth" voice? Haha... They were very comfortable on stage, just doing their thing. And I felt their sincerity through the songs. They also sang 2 of my requests. 2 of my favourite English songs. 1) Leader of the Band 2) Put Your Records On. Thanks to the duo for the great night of music! :)

Caleb is now feeling... satisfied and inspired :)

-LeB-

YouDuoShaoAiKeYiChongLai(有多少爱可以重来) --- Hao Ge(郝歌)From Africa

2010-02-08T00:49:00.001+08:00

I've always wondered how would an african sound like singing in Mandarin. And here it is... Cool man! Interesting! I think his Mandarin diction is even better than mine! Soulful singing!!! :)

-LeB-

Hiromi_Chou à la crème

2010-01-29T16:17:00.001+08:00

there will only ever be 1 Hiromi... She is a genius! No! more than a genius... arggh! Superb, brilliant, fantastic, fantabulous... just... Great!!!

american idol season 7 - Angela Martin

2010-01-28T16:38:00.003+08:00

from season 7... look how she blossomed... :)

Angela Martin American Idol 9 Audition Just Fine by Mary J. Blige

2010-01-28T16:38:00.001+08:00

3rd time auditionee for American Idol. I like this girl! She's got the voice, great vibes!!! Woohoo~!~! I hope she goes far... and as she says... "I can't give up until I touch my dream" :)

Cover: Shadowfeet (Brook Fraser) w/ AJ Rafael, plus Luie-talk!

2010-01-24T17:43:00.001+08:00

Two very talented people... Jane Lui + AJ Rafael. Brilliant! And both playing keys and singing! Phew! Way to go Jane!!! :)

-LeB-

Things to be happy about :)

2010-01-22T02:57:00.002+08:00

Today I first received a sms from WangDaJie. The contents of the message was... "Wah! I can't help but to share tis to u all! Wendy is playing violin 4 ah mei next wk!! Yeah!" When I saw the message I was thinking to myself... Who is ah mei? Some friend of ours or someone we know... I thought harder then I realized... Its Zhang Hui Mei! Oh my goodness!!! WendyMAMA is gonna play for ah mei!!! Yes, she's going to play the violin for ah mei! I am totally elated and excited for her! Especially when ah mei is one of Wendy's favourite singer. Way to go MAMA! Jia you!

Then a few days back, Simin was updating us about her collaboration with the chinese ensemble. Looks like things are looking bright on her side too. And they had their gig at St. Regis... Way cool! :) :) :)

I truly feel happy when good things happen to the people around me... the joy is just so infectious :) at least I feel joyous!

Today's gig at C-Nai... It was nice to have my elder brother and sister-in-law coming down to support. And it was unexpected but great to have Minhui and Yiling dropping by too. :) Thanks!

This week I had the privilege to spend some time with my younger brother too... wahahhah! I brought him out to do CNY shopping. Treated him to Kenny Rogers which at first he thought the place was called Carls' Jr. Haha... He's such a loveable brother. Its just a joy to have him as my brother. :)

Once again, I thank God for the many blessings I have in my life. And... He provides. :)

-LeB-

Assuredly Yours - Paradise

2010-01-14T01:45:00.001+08:00

I finally found this song! I love this Christian song and its... just lovely. Enjoy! :)

Take my life, Lord... make me Assuredly Yours. :)

-LeB-

A good start to the year 2010~!~!

2010-01-05T01:06:00.003+08:00

I played at the Esplanade! Its a dream come true... Haha! I have always wanted to play at the Esplanade and I did it at the start of this new year. A good kick off to the year 2010!

I was involved in Alex Wang's "No Explanation" Concert @ Esplanade's Recital Studio. I played 2nd keys... yeah! It was a very enjoyable time and I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. And praise the Lord for a good show and the opportunity! It felt really good to be playing with a band, especially when they are all great musicians! I enjoyed the songs I was playing too... Initially it was hard to digest but after playing it a couple of times, it gets to you. Nice songs composed by Alex. And I think all of us saw Alex's spirit and enthusiasm in doing things; something that we all felt is good to learn. :)

To conclude, I really had a great time! Although because of the concert and other commitments I was quite burned out, but everytime we went on stage, I felt the energy coming back! It feels good to be doing something you like and I feel ignited in my passion for music after this... keep going Caleb! Its going to be an arduous journey but keep to it... :)

The band

From (L-R) Meow Leng, Simon, Tiffany, Kailun, ME! (Caleb), Desmond, Jonathan, Liang Hong and Keith

Day 2 and final show (The band + Alex Wang and Ashley Foo)

Next Gig (Wedding Gig)... 08 Jan '10 (a total headache, I need to play JAZZ!!! faintz)

But press on!

-LeB-

Last Major Event of the Yr 2009 --> Camp Liv It!

2009-12-31T09:40:00.003+08:00

Today marks the last day of the year 2009. Its been a year of many eventful happenings... and on this post, I shall blog about the last major event that happened... Camp Liv It!

Its the annual youth camp for my church and I went for it! Ha, probably in that, its quite a miracle already. I have not gone for a full youth camp for donkey years now... probably the last was 5yrs ago? I would sometimes go for the camps but as a "part-timer"; for one, I am not fond of chalets and camps. But this year, taking up the role of a cell group leader, I had to go and I am really glad I did! (if I wasn't a leader, I wouldn't have to go for it as well, cause I am OVERAGED!) We started the camp asking each other about our expectations... for me, I wanted to experience God once again in that close intimate way and to impact the people around me (be it small or big). I think I did achieve both. Praise the Lord!

To begin, I didn't fulfill my responsibility as a logistics I/C for the camp. I was appointed this position and I totally went... "What!??!?!??!?? Caleb doing logistics?" I totally could not imagine... for those who know me, I would think its difficult to imagine me doing logs as well. Haha. But also, I was busy before the camp to do the logs stuff. As a result, Zheng Xin took up the role... Thanks a lot bro! And so, I went from logs I/C to being the DRIVER! wahahha. And I enjoyed it. Although we didn't exactly drive around much. But I do like driving. :)

Apart from driving, I also played keys and sung during the camp, of which, I thank God for these gifts and for the opportunity to serve Him. It is where God has placed me in my ministry and I would strive to do better... for Him! I was also a group member of the group ARISE! Come on' we'll LIVE IT! BEAT IT! LIVE IT! BEAT IT! Hahah... although the first day I wasn't really involved with my group but we were very much bonded during the 2nd day. And it was awesome to be in my group... Shalom did a fantastic job rah-rahing the group (she was as fierce as she can be... wahahah!) and we did all the silly cheers together, played the games like fanatic people! I also got to know each and every member in my group better. Even though I come from a rather small church, for some people, I see them every week but that doesn't mean I know them. Take for example, Christine and Joyce... I've been in the church for years and so have they, but before this camp, we didn't even exchange a WORD! But I got to know them in this camp and it was great! We are one big family after all! :) And it was great to have Amanda, our new friend joining us for this camp :) Lets bond people!

Moments of the camp:
I cried or almost cried 2-3 times in the camp. 1 was when I was PRAYING FOR SOMEONE... Arggh! It usually happens the other way, when some one prays for you, you get touched by the Lord and you cry. But for me, I went to the person and I said, "Can I pray for you?" I closed my eyes and I started SOBBING! It was embarassing!!! I almost couldn't say the prayer out properly. But in anycase, I just felt a burden for the person and I was glad I mustered up my courage to pray for the person.
2 occasion was when my group had OUR MOMENT just before the last session... when ms. fung shared about how she felt. So she was half-tearing and sharing and that made me want to cry as well! I think everyone's sharing touched me also. Praise the Lord for His work in the camp! :)
I was also happy that the very last session of the camp, everyone was very much liberated in singing praises to the Lord, its a wonderful feeling! :)
And glad was I that I talked to people whom I had never before this camp. Christine, Amanda, Joyce, Kevan... It was also a great time of bonding with everyone. And for many, I grew up with them, I saw them grow up. Shalom used to be this tiny little girl and so was Dan Fung. Haha, but they have grown so much both physically and spritually. Its very heart-warming to see that. :)
I think the wet games on the 2nd day was also a highlight! I think I went crazy playing the games! Wahhahah... People who do not really know me or for their first impression often think that I am a serious person rather COOL... wahhahah, right ??? But actually, I am so not what I look... I think?? (but at times I can be serious and cool!) I didn't play all the games but I played the dog-and-bone and tug-of-war. Its been quite a long time since I played games man... I suddenly feel alive and young again! wahahh. Dog-and-bone wasn't the conventional game known by many. We covered the "bone" with a ground sheet and when your number was called, you would have to lift up the ground sheet crawl in the MUD and look for the "bone". I salute the girls on this game. I was one of the last few the be called... and honestly, my heart was pumping!!! Especially when the petite girls had done such a brilliant job, they literally BURRIED themselves in the mud! But when people do not care about their image, it becomes really fun and crazy! Haha!

So on an ending note, the camp was really a BLAST! And thank God for all his blessings during the camp. His providence, His touch, His Word, the good weather, His protection... and more! Also, kudos to the camp comm! Isaac, you did a great job as a camp commandant man! And my ever hilarious JonLY as 2 I/C... We had great games and wonderful food as well! A round of many applause for everyone! :)

And so, here is my group, the winning group for this year's camp... ARISE!

Joel and I are in the picture!

Stay blessed and have an even blessed new year ahead! God bless ALL!

-LeB-

Cover of When We Say (Juicebox) - Original by AJ Rafael

2009-12-14T22:13:00.001+08:00

I am back with another youtube video! wahhahah! the editing is quite... hilarious (yeah I know). this song is an original by AJ Rafael, those who've followed my blog for some time should know him by now. I have posted quite a number of his clips on my blog. and this song of his... rocks! :) so i decided to cover it and here it is! pls comment! comment on youtube. :)

-LeB-

Trip to England (post 1/ I don't know how many)

2009-12-13T23:06:00.002+08:00

I went on a trip to England (mistaken that I was going to just London), the main trip was actually around England and it included London. I have been lazy and time stricken to blog about the trip but the trip was really good. :) England is peaceful and I would say... classic. I like its architecture. The weather was also lovely. Till now, I still like cold weathers (probably its because we don't get it in Singapore)

The impression of England that I have before I went there was actually from... Mr. Bean, thats probably all that I know about England, apart from the EPL which I don't watch. I feel the travelling really broadens your mind and widens your knowledge (if you would just immerse in the culture and observe) thats what I really like about travelling :)

I'll end of the post with a photo...

We drove through the hills and plains... :)

-LeB-

Very Surreal!

2009-11-30T00:32:00.003+08:00

The weekend has just come to an end. And I am about to catch a flight in another 6hrs. I just reached home, have yet to complete packing. Probably in another 24hrs, I would find myself in another part of the world. I am flying!!! to... London!!! Yet cause everything is moving so fast, its been so busy for me, I am not feeling the excitement. I don't even know what exactly I am to do in London. I hope it'll be a great trip and a great experience! Lord, guide me!

The last 2 days were Isaiah's and Matilda's wedding... I think its been such a blast for them and exciting for everyone of us as well. Matz was a close friend of Karen, an older sister that I looked up to while I was still young. And now, Isaiah has joined our church, been such a blessing and the both of them are MARRIED! I am really happy for them :) Once again, I wish them a more than blissful and ever blessed marriage! Also, I am really thankful that Isaiah open a slot for LMK to sing at his wedding. It might be but a small gesture but I am really touched!

Its not long that I am going away again... and I hope it'll be yet another fantastic break, vacation and that I'll be back working even harder!

Waiting to see God's plans fully unveil in my life... Praise the Lord and thank God... :)

-LeB-

巫啟賢遺憾MV - NEW ALBUM!!!

2009-11-29T02:28:00.001+08:00

I couldn't help but to post this!!! Eric Moo has a new album!!! A NEW ALBUM. Yes, A NEW ALBUM. News of the album was out when I was still back in JC, thats about 5-6 years back now. And only now, after 6 years, is his album out. And he's actually covering this song '遺憾'. I love the song! And to have him sing it... its... 天衣无缝. Wahaah! I am so gonna get the album.

我是巫啟賢的歌迷!

-LeB-

I am 23~!~!!!

2009-11-19T17:40:00.006+08:00

This post is a little late but I decided to put it up anyway. I am officially 23 now! I should really cherish this 23rd year and strive for the best. Had a few mini-celebrations this year and it was nice :) Thanks to all my friends for the celebration. :)

First stop... Chilis with EVOFUS

At Chilis! Although not everyone liked the place, I kinda like it for its very American-feel of the restaurant. Just like those in America. :)

Some of our food...

BBQ Ribs with Chicken... Big portions!

Drumlets... The taste was... ... ... ...

Sauces and cheese, there's a specific name for the green stuff, but I can't remember.

Beef slices...

Honey Chicken...

What happens when you're too engrossed watching soccer on the big screen... hahah!

I was asked to stand on my chair, shout out my name and tell everyone that its my birthday today. Haha! I was actually very sporting and I did just so, even Kelvin was surprised. :)

With my birthday cake... Almond Longan Cake?

The group of EVOFUS + Partners...

And this is my 23rd birthday present from EVOFUS. A "paper bag"... hahaha! Thanks!

The Echo Gang took a special visit to C-Nai Hong Kong Cafe for a mini celebration as well. It was nice to have Mark around together with the "surprise" from him. Group pic below!

The pic made it look like it was Wendy's birthday instead...

And we had a LMK and team celebration as well :)

Smiles :)

God bless all!

-LeB-

Let It Snow - Love Me Knot (Trio)

2009-11-18T21:37:00.001+08:00

Love Me Knot is back!!! This time round, we're doing up some Christmas videos just before the season of love begins. Our rendition of Let It Snow, hope you like it and be blessed! Do comment! :)

*The beginning is FUNNY, thanks to WangDaJie, hahah!*

To Love You More by Celine Dion

2009-11-15T04:22:00.001+08:00

A sleepless night let me to this musical treat. I was youtubing and I came across this Japanese violinist, Taro Hakase. He's a brilliant, fantastic violinist! And he was the violinist who played on Celine Dion's track "To Love You More". This vid is a clip of them performing together on stage. I think the both of them exude great stage presence. And it’s a beautiful combination of a maestro violinist together with the powerful vocals of Celine Dion. Enjoy!

Whilst you marvel at the musical beauty... Here's some comic relief!!! I was looking thru the comments posted on the clip... and one comment said...

What the hell? Jumping Jacks @ 3:00?? ahhahahhaa absurd!!

And I burst out in LAUGHTER!!!!!! Wahhah!

I was thinking that the dancing behind was an overkill as well...

Still, enjoy the vid!

-LeB-

ALL Glory to God~!~!

2009-11-13T13:27:00.002+08:00

So... I started a wedding band with my friends and we are called Love Me Knot. If you haven't checked us out, visit our website at www.lovemeknot.sg or our youtube channel lovemeknotters. :) Things have been looking positive! And I really want to thank God for it. I am sure we would be blessed by God. I prayed at the start of the week for gigs to come in, and there have been some enquiries! Things are taking flight... really excited and happy! Praise the Lord! Faith and deeds go hand in hand... So lets strive hard too!

-LeB-

MJ - Man In The Mirror (Cover) Vox + Keys

2009-11-10T12:31:00.001+08:00

Its me!!! and Wendy!!! Finally my first official nicely done youtube video. Haha... It was great fun doing the vid. Great thanks to MInny for editing the video... Haha! Brings so much laughter and more to the video. Tune in to it yeah? I'm hoping to do more vids... Do comment! and subscribe too?? Yeah...

*Pls support my wedding band by subscribing and commenting on the videos too! :)

-LeB-

These days Fridays = Doomsday...

2009-11-10T00:05:00.003+08:00

At least last Friday was better... I have been taking Jazz Piano lessons from someone quite legendary. I got introduced to her by Edmund and lessons with her have been fruitful! I really hope to improve further and one day be able to play real, solid jazz.

Fridays have been really terrifying or should I say stressful because the work load is tough at times. And somehow, I "lose myself" when I have piano lessons with my teacher. I feel like a hermit crab. Though she's really nice and stuff, she's a strict educator; which I haven't quite faced in all my music education. But I think... I got to stick with her. I really need someone like that. (especially for a lazybum like me! arggh!) 'Cause I would be afraid of being SLAUGHTERED (which I was 2 weeks back), I would practice.. and I would really practice. Sometimes its really trying but after it all... I feel a sense of satisfaction. Keep going Caleb! And also with the fact that I know its gonna be hard work and more hard work to improve myself musically. I am starting to see the difference between school teachers scolding students vs. a private educator scolding the student... I was never the goody-two-shoe student in school but with my music teacher, I am willing to be scolded. I guess the difference is that... I really want this, I really want to play the piano well, I really want to play jazz, I really want to improve musically. Minhui ever said she doesn't understand why her students who come back to her even though she SCREAMS at them... Haha... Now I can totally experience it. But of cause, my teacher doesn't exactly scold... she is just strict and... POWERFUL.

Its the end of Monday now and I really got to "mug" for this Friday's lesson again. Go go go! But... I got to say I am quite pleased with something I did for my lesson. I did a 31 bars jazz solo transcription? Something I never thought I would do. I can kinda hear and play melody and chords... But a jazz solo?? The notes run like they are doing a 100m sprint. Although it was HARD WORK, I somehow did it. I was praying as I did it, and I managed it somehow. Praise the Lord!

My Jazz Solo Transcription! Not very much accurate but I tried!

So apt it is that David's sermon in church just yesterday was on stress. He started off with... Stress is good but excessive stress is not. I think that applies to me VERY VERY MUCH. I need some kind of stress/pressure... I pray that the Lord will help me cope and balance my life well. :)

Some pointers from David's sermon...

1. Know where we are going - certainty
Heb 11:1 now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Matthew 11:28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

3. Know what we want - desires
(NIV) Psalm 40:8I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."

(NIV) Psalm 37:4Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

And a verse that I've always liked... and I sing to it...
Matthew 6:33
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

God bless all!!! :)

-LeB-

When We Say (Juicebox) - AJ Rafael (NEW SONG! Original) --FREE DOWNLOAD

2009-11-08T02:36:00.001+08:00

Happened to chance upon this song by AJ. AJ Rafael is a youtube star/singer... A very talented musician. And this is a nice song. I like it! Caught my ears the very first time I heard it. Enjoy!

-LeB-

Can't Take My Eyes Off You - Love Me Knot

2009-11-05T00:02:00.001+08:00

Our rendition of "Can't Take My Eyes Off You", a shorten version. Hope you like it. Support us and do comment! More vids will be up! :)

-LeB-

L.O.V.E - LoveMeKnot's Rendition

2009-11-05T00:00:00.001+08:00

This is my wedding group and featuring our trio. Doing the jazz classic, L.O.V.E. Hope you enjoy it and do comment! :)

-LeB-

二十二 - 陶喆

2009-11-03T00:41:00.001+08:00

Decided to post this video just before I am no longer... 22! For now, I am still 22 and I love this song. Simple yet fantastic melody... brilliant David Tao. :)

-LeB-

Man In The Mirror Tribute Siedah Garrett and The Agape International Choir Michael Jackson

2009-11-02T03:55:00.001+08:00

I'm not really a fan of MJ, but I think this is really a nice song. And I found this version by Siedah Garrett who co-wrote the song. What a talent! And I really like her version of it cause its filled with emotions. This song I only knew about it recently... but yeah, its really good. Feel like doing a cover of it myself... Haha! Meanwhile, enjoy!

-LeB-

Fun gigs.

2009-11-01T02:12:00.002+08:00

I was just thinking about last night where I performed at C-Nai with Meilian. It was fun! The response was probably the best we've had so far. And I had fun playing and singing :) Yeah, hope to have more moments like this. And being spontaneous is probably good at times. Its a good feeling seeing people nodding along as you sing, having them sing along or just seeing them listen to you.

I enjoyed myself singing 2 of my favourite songs where the response was rather good. Surprised me cause just 1 day before, the response was a stark contrast. I sang 执迷不悔 and 爱情傀儡, love these songs. And I made a blunder by thank God I managed to pull it through... I sang 爱情傀儡 in its old key!!! Eb major. Lots of jaw movements I did to hit the high notes. It was sometime I've never attempted before. After a verse and a chorus, I quickly switched back to my usual C# major. 2 keys of a difference. It was also a night where both Meilian and I had "open throats"... Haha... Basically... Singing our lungs out!

Looking forward to doing more fun gigs and having great performances with great music and entertainment.

-LeB-

遺憾 - 方炯鑌 (Cover) Original: 许美静

2009-11-01T01:56:00.001+08:00

I am a sucker for this kind of melodies. There is a certain sound to the songs that I love. And this song is one of them. Originally by 许美静 which is really well sung by her. Lately I heard this song on the radio and was surprised to find a male cover of it. Inspires me to want to learn and sing it. Heard it again tonight and I finally found out who's the singer. Great feel and I love it... Great music in its simplest state.

-LeB-

With you all the time - Gareth Gates

2009-10-30T16:47:00.001+08:00

Song of the day! From the album, What My Heart Wants to Say. I bought this album when I was... in JC I suppose. Diya introduced the song "that's when you know", another song by Gareth Gates. And I took that song and sung it for my JC's talentime. Those were the days... Coming from the same album is this song "with you all the time" and I like it. Its a song that grows on you, at least it did for me. A sentimental and emotional song with meaningful lyrics. I listen to it like God is speaking to me through the lyrics. Hope you like it. :)

-LeB-

我不爱 - 孙燕姿

2009-10-29T12:19:00.001+08:00

Song for the day! I really love this song and its my favouritEST song from Steph Sun. Love the strings arrangement, the MV shot in New Zealand; the whole song is simply very tasteful. Not the usual Chinese song. Although this song is not well received by the general public... its still a VERY good song to me. Bravo!

Enjoy!

-LeB-

Because You Love Me - Celine Dion

2009-10-27T22:22:00.001+08:00

I have decided to post a song each day on my blog. It will be the song of the day. And today, this is the song of the day! Hope to share great music with everyone... or music that I love. I heard this on the radio a few days ago and indeed, this is an all time favourite.

The first time I heard this was when I was in P5 during my pri sch's music lesson. Our music teacher asked us to share any music that we particularly like, and a classmate of mine shared this song. Great taste he had at the age of 11. :) I had liked it too... And after many years, this song is still great. Enjoy!

-LeB-

JS - Officially Missing You - Tamia (cover)

2009-10-26T16:17:00.001+08:00

The twins' cover of "Officially Missing You". Decided to post this cause its really well done. Looking fresh and sounding fresh... :)

-LeB-

Tamia - Officially Missing You (LIVE)

2009-10-26T01:24:00.001+08:00

Song for the day! Loving this song... Was introduced to this song by Jon Lee, but he had given me the link to a cover of this song which is fantastic too! But I decided that I should share the original. The link to the cover done by a pair of Australian-born-Korean twins is here... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtXr0pIRSg4 Enjoy!

Wuhan Trip (Part 2)

2009-10-24T12:25:00.007+08:00

Part 2 of the Wuhan Trip is mainly on FOOD! But then again, almost the whole trip was filled with eating after eating. My sis-in-law brought us to a famous street in Wuhan that has aplenty of choices for food... and it was for breakfast!

户部巷... I love this street! So much so that I requested to go back on the last day.

Imagine long sticks of "satay" for breakfast

Oysters, clams and tofu...

Red dates with glutinous flour...

My brother on his favourite meat stick...

The company...

Hawkers in action...

Deserts for breakfast? 米酒 is my favourite... something I can't find in Singapore

Crabs? for breakfast...

I love this! 臭豆腐... and they are black in colour! Really good!

豆腐脑 as they call it... our beancurd. :)

The street... food street...

热干面。。。 Wuhan's speciality...

米酒！Nice, nice!

Smells and taste really good! Black coloured smelly beancurd!

A variety of food... neverending...

Streets...

Along the streets of Wuhan...

To be continued...

-LeB-

Wuhan Trip (Part 1)

2009-10-23T02:25:00.005+08:00

My first trip to China and it was to Wuhan.

It was an interesting trip and a good retreat.

I gained 3kg in a week. Wow. Too much food to eat.

Will be keeping my posts short.

I love my brother! He cracks me up EVERYTIME! :)

Our first dinner together with the in-laws. And we were served 26 dishes!!! 26!!! I got a shock of my life. Surprisingly, I ate and ate but I still wasn't all that full. Very interesting and sumptuous dishes they have.

Some of the dishes we had.

Pork ribs. Where we were given plastic gloves to wear and eat the ribs.

Yam pastry.

A whole basket of stuff made of lotus.

We went to the bridge. It was a very nice place :) The newly wed couple, my brother and sis-in-law.

My proud "work". I took this picture with my camera of 3yrs. The bridge, but somehow this picture looks too good till it looks fake. Still, I'm proud of my photography skills. :)

More to be updated.

-LeB-

中国旅途

2009-10-22T05:00:00.002+08:00

我回来了！！！

-乐比-

Flying Off~!~!

2009-10-15T02:01:00.002+08:00

Blogging right now at the airport, just about to leave for China... :) Its good to have a short trip (although its not that short), but hopefully just nice and enough for me to take a break, be recharged and to work really hard before my next trip!!!

Many travel plans this year and its gonna get really busy. But well, I'm gonna enjoy while I still can! :)

After this trip... I want to work hard, work hard, work hard!

Bye everyone! God bless!

-LeB-

LoveMeKnot is up~!~!~!

2009-10-14T21:59:00.006+08:00

LoveMeKnot

My wedding group and its what I've been busy with for the past few weeks or months. We've done it! The website is finally up! Visit us at http://www.lovemeknot.sg/ and support us! We want to sing at your wedding, your relative's or friend's wedding! Whatever it is, we want to sing for you!

:) May God bless us with a plentiful of gigs!!!

-LeB-

Say goodbye to Creative CARROT...

2009-10-14T01:31:00.006+08:00

I decided to be really decisive today! I told myself that I'll get a new mp3 player, and I did! Went to BEST at J8 and got myself an IPOD Touch. I think I did my sums and decided that it would be the best buy :) Also, I consulted my ever faithful and trustworthy IT consultant, Fabby Tan. Haha! Fab is really a very "handy" friend. Anything about technology and gadgets, he would be the person I would look for... Thanks budd! *except that the last sound system he recommended wasn't too good!*

And with a new mp3 player bought, I hope I'll really put it to GOOD USE... Lots of applications and such, which... If people know me well enough would know that I am NEVER and was NEVER EVER into such things. I even questioned myself after the purchase... Why did I get the IPOD Touch? Haha... But anyways, I decided to be decisive and maybe for once splurge on IT gadgets. Woo! Ain't I IT-Savvy? Call me Whizz Leb! Thanks. I feel UPGRADED... haha.

So, its goodbye to my CARROT... The mp3 player that I've been using for... I think... around 2 years? And its about time... the rubber casing has broken and the sound is failing me!!! Thats what gets on my nerves. Good quality of sound is VERY IMPORTANT. And the fact that my CARROT can only store 2GB of songs... thats sad. :) Goodbye CARROT.

Hopefully I wouldn't be too frustrated navigating around my IPOD...

24hrs more to fly!!! :)

-LeB-

My Brother's Wedding!~!~!

2009-10-11T01:25:00.002+08:00

The wedding is finally over! And I am really really happy. I am really happy for my brother and sister-in-law :) I am sure they will have a very blessed and blissful marriage!

Woke up at 6am on 101009 and now at 1.26am of 111009 I am still awake... Its been a really long day. There were moments that tears welled up in my eyes during the wedding; tears of joy and just being very touched and happy for them :) God bless their marriage!

Will update more when I have the time...

-LeB-

Sun - Fancy Free (Official Release)

2009-10-03T13:58:00.001+08:00

Sun Ho's English album release in the STATES! Its the States huh? Not a local English album. Its definitely not easy for an Asian to break into the English pop scene. Whats more a Singaporean? I don't know how she does it... but looking at the MV and song, there's a lot of hard work and effort... And the production is 1st class. However controversial this lady is, I got to give it to her for her perserverance, drive and boldness. :)

No Absolutes...

2009-10-02T11:51:00.000+08:00

When left doesn't seem the right way and right doesn't seem to be it as well...

-LeB-

Tis the season for weddings~!~!~!

2009-09-30T15:22:00.000+08:00

In a span of 2 months, I have attended 3 weddings... That's quite a lot considering I am not quite of the age to get married yet. And in the next 2 weeks, there are 2 more weddings to come. For one, it'll be a wedding gig together with Phoebee; I certainly hope to do a good job. Its... a WEDDING! The "BIG DAY" for the couple. :) And 1 week later, it'll be my elder brother's wedding... Its really nice to see my brother and his fiance getting everything ready. From the bridal pictures, banquet preparations, shifting in to a new home... etc etc. I'll be preparing an item and providing the live! music with LMK's lovely trio. Our first performance! Lets do it well... :)

Also, there are many others who are getting married in the next few months. LMK's webby is going to be up! I certainly hope we start getting the gigs! Oh Lord, I'm praying... :) After all the hard work, late nights and preparations... its finally taking off!

-LeB-

nothing much... just random ramblings...

2009-09-23T04:03:00.002+08:00

i need to think out of the box! be more creative Caleb!

i've been practicing with Desmond of late, time to buck up on my speech...

practice, practice, practice... really hope i will make it to Berklee next year. but I'll go where the Lord leads me.

Is looking forward to a wedding gig on the 3rd of Oct. And the first unofficial gig for LMK! And looking forward to the VERY FIRST gig LMK does... :)

Discipline, discipline, discipline... and time management...

wants to spot a tan! and start exercising regularly again.

Matt 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

thank God for the many countless blessings in my life! :)

-LeB-

Fall out boy-What a catch, Donnie

2009-09-17T01:48:00.001+08:00

I chanced upon this music video on one of the early mornings... and immediately, I was caught by the melody of the song. BRILLIANT! Its a REALLY REALLY VERY nice and good song. Love it! :) It has that "hopeful" sound? or maybe, just a kind of melody line that I like :)

-LeB-

give thanks for the simple things... I love MUSIC... :)

2009-09-11T01:30:00.002+08:00

I've been rather busy of late again. Probably a lot of people would think that I have a lot of spare time, time to slack. I would say... I have a greater control of my time and playing around with opportunity cost. Yet in that sense, I need much more discipline! Lord, please grant me discipline! :)

This week, I had my usual teachings and gig @ C-Nai. Postponed my jazz piano lesson to next week but I am really looking forward to it! I really enjoy my "music education"... learning has never been so fun and satisfying! Whenever I go for my piano or cello lesson, I always leave the lesson feeling satisfied and knowing there is so much more to do (I would feel so motivated)... and I really need to get that transferred into my daily life! Playing the piano or cello is REALLY FUN... basically, making music is really a joy!

Besides those, I went down to fusionpolis on Monday to help Paul, Minny's friend with a project. It was something rather simple, just singing and "ah-ing" simple songs. But I felt so blessed that I could be involved in the assignment; I don't think I did a great job though. I thank God that I know music, I can play the keyboard, sing in tune, read notes... etc... It really is a blessing! Hopefully I wouldn't be axed out. Haha...

Went down to Jazz@Southbridge on Tuesday with LMK, considered our first outing?? :) Wei Xiang was on the piano and... he's really good. Will I ever play like him someday? Emm... And for the first time, I heard Melissa Tham. She went on stage as a guest singer and, boy was I surprised! She sounded really good :) It was a pleasant surprise...

Also, been busy with LMK stuff and its only going to get busier... I too wish that we would get busier and busier. Being busy should mean a good thing? Meaning we're getting gigs and moving in the right direction? Did the recording for our first trio song on Wed night. Its really a joy to be working and doing music with your friends, its a lot of fun. I also enjoyed recording my keyboard parts. Haha... although its just something small, a recording of 30secs? But yeah, it was so enjoyable! Especially when it sounds... NOT BAD?? :) I was also very anxious to listen to the end product with WendyMAMA's vocal arrangement. I thought she did a good job :) I really hope LMK takes flight this time round :) lets work hard together??

Lets back track a lil'... I went to the "Dead Sea Scrolls" exhibition on Sunday. It was interesting! About the history of the Bible and the scrolls that were found. Although... there weren't many scrolls to see, and they were really PUNY. But I chanced upon a beautiful quote...

Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us (Martin Luther on Music)

Thank You for the Music :) Counting the little joys and blessings :)

-LeB-

F.R.I.E.N.D.S

2009-08-26T02:02:00.002+08:00

I love the connotation of friends. God puts people around us for a reason and I've always believed in the term "friends forever". For those who know me well enough, I really cherish my friends a lot and my friends are blessings that God have bestowed upon me. :) I hope I would in the same way be a blessing unto all my friends. I love my friends! :)

-LeB-

This week there gonna be many things... many things...

2009-08-24T13:31:00.003+08:00

Its the start of a new week. Time has been FLYING by, its probably travelling on a jetplane. And this week, there're lots to be done. I pray for wisdom, discipline and time management! Hopefully, I'll set out to complete the things that needs to be done. Press on!

-LeB-

Happy Birthday Jonathanly~!~!

2009-08-21T02:47:00.004+08:00

We had a mini birthday celebration for Jonly. Hope you enjoyed it! Haha... Anyway, happy birthday bro! Thanks for being such a blessing in my life. Love your honesty and you being you. :) Haha... As cliche as it is, I wish for our friendship to last FOREVER. I truly believe in that. :) Here's wishing you all the best in your studies, your social life and in your pursuit for the right girl *moves eyebrows*... and the most important, a even closer walk with God. :) may the Joy of the Lord be in your life! :)

Pics from the mini-celebration...

23rd birthday of Jonathanly...

The birthday boy having to pick up a candle stand from the cake...

Group 1...

Group 2... the NTU gang...

Final group pic... :)

God bless all!

-LeB-

I Do (Cherish You)

2009-08-18T02:46:00.001+08:00

Just came back from a long Wedding Gowns try-out. Of course, it wasn't me who tried neither am I getting married soon. Its for LMK. And after trying twice to work LMK out, I really hope that this time, we'll make it! Lots to be done, songs to be learnt and I want to do it with passion and love~!~! :) Nice song we'll be doing and I hope it'll turn out REAL GOOD! Lord, may you bless us with teamwork, creativity, talents, passion and opportunities :)

-LeB-

Reminiscing the Past.. the power of technology!

2009-08-13T01:03:00.002+08:00

Primary 1! 1-1 of Saint Andrew's Junior!

I was shocked to see this photo posted on facebook! Yet, I am so happy to see it also. Indeed, a picture paints a thousand words. Its just this one picture, but it reminds me about so many things, evokes aplenty of feelings. I see my previous PRIMARY school classmates whom I have lost contact for "ancient of years"; the old hall in the old Saint Andrew's School building which stood by the WW2. And I see a little cute me. Wahaha! Spot me if you can! Thanks Melvin for uploading this pic! I hope to remain in contact with all my ex-classmates, schoolmates and to find out how everyone has been doing. Friends come and go, but to me, at least that person has been in my life for that short moment :) God bless everyone! :)

-LeB-

That crazy National Day long weekend...

2009-08-11T16:00:00.004+08:00

Saturday, Sunday and Monday was crazy! There was my cousin's wedding, classes to teach, meeting for LMK, late night supper, church in the morning, cell group and outing for secell, supper at HK Cafe. Then the bimbos-hiao hiaos came up with the idea to go to JB on Monday. Well, what to do... my gf is a part of the bimbos-hiao hiaos. Haha... I was initially supposed to be going to JB with evofussies on Sat but plans had to be shelved away for me. I want another race on the race tracks!!!

It was quite interesting to have 3 couples go on a date together. Haha... It was almost like primary school kids lining up in 2s and moving around... A huge portion of the trip was on shopping (yawnz!), I'm a shopper as well, but not when I've spent too much this GSS and the places we went to weren't quite the places I would go to. I've finally tasted what its like to go shopping with your other half and the anticipation to "find" a seat at the shop! Haha! But, I wasn't bored. No worries sui!

Our proposed meeting time was 9am at Kranji, but as usual, at 9am, we were still in the Bishan area. The journey in to Malaysia was smooth, except maybe for sui who broke her slipper the first thing in the morning! Poor girl had to glide across to the customs. We went to City Square, which is just beside the causeway. Lunch was... Kenny Rogers. Unfortunately, the food didn't match up to what we expected. Prices way almost half of Singapore, but... ... ... ... Singapore's KR is still better :) After lunch was shopping. I think its been a long time since I've walked around so much and spent so much time at a shopping mall. After City Square, we headed down to Jusco and Tesco. I like Jusco, Wanping would always bring us there everytime evofus visits Malaysia. Ha... nice place :) Sui and I went for a foot reflex while the rest headed different ways before we met up again. Foot reflex was good, both of us fell asleep during the process. :)

It was by then 6.30pm. We met up and hailed for cabs along the road. However, none of the cabs wanted to go to Taman Sentosa (our dinner spot for seafood) due to the HEAVY JAM. Indeed, the JAM was BAD. The cab drivers quoted us RM30. Logically speaking, if you were to convert that amount back to SGD, it isn't all that expensive. Its just that the number 30 sounds BIG! Haha, but Rachel made a point also. Its not the money its the feeling of getting SCAMMED. True enough, but well, we had no other way out. Taxi was our only mode of transport. So, we hopped onto 2 cabs and set off. Joel, Rachel, Sui and I in a cab and we managed to bargain a little down to RM25 while the older couple were in the other cab. Haha...

Dinner was the best part of the trip! We ate at the BIG CRAB stall at Taman Sentosa. Thanks to Wanping's recommendation. Indeed, she's the best JB tour guide. :) And the food was VERY affordable. We had 2 crabs, kang kong, pork ribs, an egg dish, bbq sides and drinks. In total, it was about RM180. Thats abt $14 per pax. I love the dinner! :) The next plan was to go for a durian feast, but we couldn't find a durian stall. And there's a reason behind it! Van, Dan, Sui and I wanted durians but Rae and Jo didn't want to... So while we were walking and looking for a durian stall, Rae and Jo SECRETLY PRAYED for no durians! Arggh! The both of you owe us 1 man! Still, the food was good enough for me :)

I think almost the whole Singapore went to JB that day. The road back to Singapore was ROUGH, very rough! We had to squeeze, queue up, run, pack up the bus, stand on the bus in the jam... It was really hordes and hordes of people. Arriving back in Singapore was like "Phew!"

Being out the whole day was tiring, tiring, tiring. But it was fun and I think all of us were happy :)

Pics below!

Arriving in Malaysia... almost there...

On the cab...

Man, am I FAT!

Sweet couple! Dan feels on top of the world! :)

Couple 2... Forever act cute!

Us :) Sui and ME! :) :) :)

BBQ chicken wings. Nice and its only 40cents SGD per stick!

The green drink is BA-LONG-LONG...

Last pic of the day. Group pic!

For now, 我好想放慢脚步... 休息是为了走更长的路！

-LeB-

Grade 8 Piano Exam Results!!!~!~!~!

2009-08-07T00:00:00.002+08:00

I can't believe what I got! Thank God and praise the Lord! Woohoo~!~! All glory to God! I passed my grade 8 piano exam! I am really really really very happy! I got the e-mail that the results are out. When I got it and know that its out, my emotions were like when I got the e-mail from Berklee regarding the audition results. Really nervous! I prayed and told God that I'll commit everything to Him and everything is in His hands! And... I passed! I got 115marks! 5marks short of a merit. But! A pass is enough... I really thank God for the results :) And, thank all of you who prayed for me and wished me well! :) thank my piano teacher, Ai Cheng also... Phew! I am glad that I am not her first student to fail the grade 8 exam. Yeah!

I am happy! :)

-LeB-

universal music

2009-08-04T16:17:00.001+08:00

Suddenly I thought to myself, "music is universal, do not limit yourself by boundaries and restrictions." :)

-LeB-

the terms "bf" and "gf"...

2009-07-28T23:15:00.003+08:00

Ok, and so... I am attached. Does everyone know that by now?

Shuan said she isn't used to hearing me mention "gf". Indeed, it does sound weird when those 2 letters come out of my mouth. Wahaha... So I asked Sui today, does it sound weird saying or mentioning about your "bf"? And the answer is... she feels weird too! Wahaha... Maybe its because we were friends for so long and suddenly, we are a couple. Maybe its because I am her 1st boyfriend and I haven't had too many relationships before. Maybe we were single for so long and we were almost comfortable with that fact. Still, it is interesting... My mum asked me what's my gf's name today. I answered her... but to hear my mum asking about my "gf", yeah, it does sound a little odd. Haha... Sui said it should be normal cause her friend too very long to come to terms with that term also :) Well, whatever the case, the bottom line is that we are together and "bf", "gf" are just but terms coined by people. Maybe we are just a weird couple. Wahahha...

My girlfriendsss!

As long as we are happy together and I am happy holding your hands :)

-LeB-

Under Construction!!!

2009-07-21T12:47:00.002+08:00

Its time to revamp, time to change... This space will undergo a new look! Do check back! :)

-LeB-

Grade 8 Piano Exam...

2009-07-09T01:36:00.002+08:00

My grade 8 piano exam is coming in 11 days time. 20/07, 4pm. It is coming really soon. And my level of preparation? Insufficient. My pieces are still bits and pieces, not thoroughly fluid. I know I really have to get down to practice, practice, practice but I'm quite lacking in my stamina. I'll pray! Pray for a greater sense of discipline. Do well in this, and once its over, it'll be a load off my mind. I hope I do well in the exam. Somehow... Praying for a miracle!

-LeB-

Mini Outing...

2009-07-06T01:46:00.000+08:00

Went to do some shopping with Jon, Adriel and Sui-ying today. Ha... A unique combi for the first time. I decided to go shopping cause Adriel was telling me about Pedro's sales with shoes priced at $20-$50. Sounded way to attractive to ignore! So we headed off to Citilink's Pedro. Sadly, I couldn't find a nice pair within that price range. In the end, I settled for a pair of NEW white shoes. :) Yeah! Its the pair I've eyed on for a couple of months. Finally got it today :) Then we went to another favourite boutique of mine. Zara. GSS and Zara would be a definite spot to visit. Being low on a budget, I just got a tee for $20+. Great retail therapy there. Haha...

Jon fixed the budget of dinner... His usual one digit dinner. Haha... I recommended an affordable Jap food restaurant @ Millenia Walk. Great food at an affordable price :) Walked around Millenia for a while. Candy Empire and we walked into an interesting boutique that sells tailor made shirts. Its a really nice store, the first time I saw that brand too, however, the price was a little too steep.

We settled down at Starbucks! And had many lame conversations going on. Haha... 3 guys and 1 girl. Quite an interesting "formation". Jon is forever funny... Cracks all of us up half the time. But I must say he's changed so much since years ago and its good!

We walked back to Marina Sq and chanced upon Kenko Foot Reflexology and Fish Spa. Adriel mentioned we should visit "Qian Hu Fish Farm"... then I said, "ok! lets do it now!". And there we went, into Kenko Fish Spa to fish spa our legs! Wahahahah! That was really really random and spontaneous, it was 10.40pm already. I think we must have been mad. Haha... A first time and it was scary! The fish were ferocious and agressive! Jon said its... FEAR FACTOR! whahahah... we could hardly place our feet in the pool for more than 10secs! Only to realise that we were at the "highest level" where there are the most fish and they are the most agressive. We switched to another pool and it was much better... Haha. Its neither that ticklish nor pain. Just weird to have shoals of fish "biting" your leg! But it was fun. The people watching from outside must have thought what are these idiots doing in there... Haha... :)

A new week coming, got to work hard!

-LeB-

tea, breakfast and starbucks...

2009-07-01T22:00:00.002+08:00

I had a wonderful morning today. I woke up at 7.45am and rushed out for BREAKFAST... I headed down to Starbucks at United Square for breakfast. Nice place and breakfast was good :) Besides, I love starbucks... for its decor, the drinks & food and its name. I have always loved the mornings and I now believe in the theory of waking up early it does me a whole lot of good.

In this week, I have visited Starbucks twice now. Met up with Sun Quan for lunch on Monday and thereafter we had a drink at Starbucks, The Cathay. Great weather that day and we managed a good spot outside the outlet. I love times spent like this; just a nice cup of coffee, great company and chit-chatting away. We also had a VERY close up view of the logo. I have been to Starbucks many times but it was a first that I could scrutinise the logo. If you've never observed it before, there's actually an image of a "lady" or a "mermaid". I checked up wikipedia and it actually is a "siren" from Greek Mythology. Interesting... :) Loving Starbucks so much, I have decided to get a book entitled "How Starbucks Saved My Life" after I finish reading my current book.

An image of the Starbucks logo in the past...

I love cafes and I love Starbucks. It would be great to open a cafe of my own someday... :)

-LeB-

Collin Raye - Without You (Mariah Carey cover)

2009-06-23T17:00:00.001+08:00

Collin Raye, a superb country/ christian singer with awesome vocals. I really love his pipes. That twang in his voice and wholesome sound that comes out. :) As such, I went to get his newest album "Never Going Back", also because I love this song "WITHOUT YOU" A LOT! It was a favourite since a long time back. And now having Collin Raye cover it, it was probably one of the most awesome things that could have happen. But! The album that I bought lacked 4 tracks from what I saw online :( and it didn't have this track... :( I should have been more cautious in checking for the tracks. Still, its a good album and he still sounds great even at his age. Amazing. Some good lyrics in the album too. :) Just wanting to share this awesome cover of the song...

back from Bible Camp '09...

2009-06-19T23:12:00.002+08:00

It has been a fantastic camp! Really good and God is good! :) I had a great time praising and worshipping God, listening to his Word, seeking Him, praying, fellowshipping with my Brothers and Sisters-in-Christ and having loads of fun too! :) Although I was sick from day 2 onwards... I slept thru most of my afternoons... it was probably a very good time of rest as well! :)

Camps are fantastic because you get to know more people, interact with people whom you seldom do and do things together. So in this camp, I got to talk to some people whom I don't usually do. Manage to interact with some of the secell boys and Joy, also, it was the first time I talked to Elyna. I actually felt some kind of prompting to talk to her. Hope she would join us for the youth activities and to see her serving God in a greater capacity! :) I also wanted to talk to Mas <-- I think that is how her name is spelt. Cause I felt SO TOUCHED by her simple faith in knowing God and her longing to know God more. Although I didn't have a conversation with her, I prayed for her. :) (I stole Gail's "customer" in doing that... Haha...) And the "awkward" thing was, I started tearing when I prayed for her! I had to control man... Usually, its the other way round, someone prays for you, you get touched and you cry? But for me, I prayed for someone and the very instance I began, I cried! But I was trying my best to control, so... I wasn't sobbing!

If there are 2 things that I have to take back from the camp with me, it would be simple faith and purity. Another incident when I had tears flowing non-stop was when the kids went up the stage on the last day of camp to do a dance item. I really couldn't take it... I cheered like as though I was one of their parent. What I saw was purity and sincerity from the kids. It was a lovely and beautiful sight that got me really tearing. I felt really touched. :)

The speaker of the camp, Pastor Mark Benard also preached interesting and fantastic messages. I would definitely want an attitude like Joseph! A good attitude towards God, the people around me and life :)

I am really glad I decided to go for this year's camp after my last camp 4 years back? :) Praise the Lord and thank God! :)

-LeB-

Funny Bunny on "Howie Do It" pilot episode

2009-06-15T02:40:00.001+08:00

haiz... what to say but... HILARIOUS! HILARIOUS! HILARIOUS! This guy who took the prank is FANTASTIC! Funny Bunny! Wahahahhaha! Sadistically funny! If it was me, I think I would have really DIED from a heart-attack... MUST WATCH!

Bible Camp 2009...

2009-06-14T23:02:00.002+08:00

Leaving for Awana Genting in about 7hrs time. As I recall back, the last time I went for Bible Camp was probably 6yrs ago! Time flies... many years have passed... This year, I think I have taken up more responsibilities for the Kingdom of God and I hope, I would have a spiritual breakthrough in the camp and for the year :) A prayer before I leave...

Dear Lord,

I pray that in this coming camp, Your Presence would reign at the "campsite", You touch the lives of Your people and may You draw us nearer and closer to You. Through all our activites; the meals, the ministering, worship and Word that is spoken, the fun, rest, fellowship and more, I ask for Your guidance and You to be in our midst. May You grant us journey mercy and protect each and everyone of us. Thank you Lord for everything! In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen!

5 days away, in Genting... will be back soon and energized!

-LeB-

simple updates...

2009-06-03T13:16:00.002+08:00

Nothing drastic has been going on in my life. But since this space has been rather dead, I decided to update it a little. :) Life has been usual, teachings and learning and occasional performances... I went to watch Jeremy Monteiro + T'ang Quartet last Saturday. It was good... Although at times, the improvisational stuff were too abstract for me. Will I ever reach a point in time that I am able to play such stuff or to know what is going on? I am still pressing on, still pressing on towards my dream... :)

A simple accomplishment I have achieved this week... I ran 3 times from Friday till today! We did it! In order to wake up earlier, I reckon that I had to wake up, get out of the house and start doing something! So, I arranged with Fab to meet 1, 3, 5s every week to run. Its good! Feels good... and I am building up my stamina too :) Yeah. I ran/walked 12 rounds today. Kudos to me! :)

Next exercise appointment, Friday... :)

-LeB-

a reminder...

2009-05-23T00:14:00.002+08:00

Desmond called me today... all the way from London. He's been travelling many places and it has been awesome! Great to know he's having a fantastic time there :)

We talked and we set out 2 goals for ourselves to be completed. Tangible goals that would need discipline and focus... Its time to get back on track. Hoping to do better each time :) DESENSITIZE!

Thanks Desmond for the push and practice...

-LeB-

Piano Lessons Again!!!

2009-05-20T01:38:00.004+08:00

Yeah... I am resuming my piano lessons starting tomorrow! Or should I say... today! 20/03 Wednesday. My piano teacher has finally rested for 1 month after giving birth :) I miss my piano lessons, I miss the fun in learning. And I am looking forward to learning more, improving and playing the piano more!!!

Looking forward!

-LeB-

Gentlemen Don't (Gabe Bondoc Cover) - AJ Rafael

2009-05-06T01:52:00.000+08:00

I love this song! Gabe Bondoc, Filipino-American and covered by AJ Rafael. This guy is superbly talented... Love his vids, good voice and love the way he plays the piano. He's got it in him. :) And he's a student at Berklee! Seems to fun... Surprisingly, I love the song's melody. A little RnB, which is normally not what I would be inclined to. But this song touched me. :) I love the part that goes ... "but I know very well, gentlemen don't kiss and tell..." This is one of those songs where at times I wish I could rush home to my computer to turn it on and listen to it. It happened to another song by Eason Chan when I was in JC. The song would just keep playing in my head. Great compositions! :) awed.

-LeB-

Freshmusic Awards~!~!~!

2009-05-03T22:05:00.004+08:00

There's this online radio/ music critic website called freshmusic. Its set up by a group of youngsters with a deep passion for music and its been around for 3years! Congrats to them :) Do visit their website for insights into music and support them! www.wretch.cc/blog/freshmusic
They are also a very energetic, funny and entertaining group of people who are very daring in their critics and words...

They held their annual music awards which happened last night... The Freshmusic Awards! The podcast will be on their website so do give it a listen. It was really fun listening to them :) I got involved in this 'cause Diya asked me to be the accompanist for herself and Carrie. It was my honour to do so... and it was fun and enriching! :) whats more... its a 颁奖典礼！So I had to play 7 songs for them, by the nominations of the "newcomers". It was my first time listening to some of the songs and we re-arranged some songs. Thanks Diya and Carrie for giving me pointers on my playing too... really appreciate that :) ... Our songlist included these...

杨宗纬 - 对爱渴望
林宥嘉 - 慢一点
蕭敬騰 - 收藏
伍家辉 - 无家可回
梁文音 - 最幸福的事
魏如昀 - 蝶恋
小宇- 终于说出口

Anyway, yesterday I felt so stupid... Haha, yeah... and embarassing! Why? Because Diya told me that its a music awards show. And how would that embarass me? This was what happened...

Yesterday night I will tabbing out the chords for the songs from about 6plus to 8plus. Then I bathed and waited for Diya and Carrie to come over to my place to rehearse. Diya said the show will be at 10.30pm. Venue, Bishan... "Oh, I see"... So its a 颁奖典礼 and a performance. I changed into my usual "formal-performing attire" and styled my hair for I think... 10mins? And I was very happy with the result of my hair! Woah! I'm ready to go... "Ding-dong!" "Oh, they must be here..." (I opened the door). First question they asked me... "Why are you dressed so nicely?" I said, "Aren't we going to the awards ceremony?" (Btw, Diya was wearing shorts) And they started laughing!!! Wahahaha... Actually, I too think it was damn funny. I felt so dumb. Why? Because the "awards ceremony" is going to be at their friend's house and... its a recording that we are doing!!! Online radio recording... Best! So why did I bother to dress up so nicely and style my hair... Arggh... I had wanted to spray perfume too! Good thing I didn't... Haha... In the end, I left my house with my formal wear and SLIPPERS. Diya was SO nice to repeat the whole incident to her friends at the awards ceremony venue. Wahaha... The conclusion is... always communicate when in any doubt. (Although I wasn't, I was just misled!)... Haha...

I am anxious to hear our recordings... And through the whole process, I could really see the passion of this young group of people who founded Freshmusic. I hope they go far :) I am reminded that passion drives people but it requires a lot of hard work and discipline too...

Some pics that I took...

In the midst of the awards ceremony interview and presentation...

Reading out the winner!

And this is how the "awards" card looks like...

Stars of the night... at a friend's place!

-LeB-

EchoMusic Student Gathering...

2009-04-30T22:01:00.005+08:00

Last Saturday we (EchoMusic) had our student gathering at the Singapore Arts Museum. It was the longest gathering we've ever had... but it was good and still enjoyable :) It was great to see the students prepare themselves and give their all to their performances. It was heart-warming and inspiring! Great! Everyone did well :) And I felt like a PROUD PARENT. Haha... I was so proud of all my students! Weelin, Adeline, Lixian and Markolele! All of you did well...

I love to teach and the joy of teaching comes when your student improves. Be it in small steps or in a big leap. I have some students who have been with me for over 2years, they are those who've followed through almost since the time I started. Its a blessing to be able to teach... and I sure hope that I bring joy and teach well in my lessons :)

Photos below...

"Old time" students and more like friends now... Zhang Yan and Lixian :)

Weelin and I... Great job for the night! :)

Lix and I... What happened to "掌心"???? But a fabulous job on "你快乐所以我快乐"

The best friends in action! Yan and Lix :) Cheers to your friendship!

Markolele... I still think you did well for your performance! :)

Adeline and I... its great to see how she has improved :)

Also for the night, it was the night that officially marked the end of the 1st Star Program. They have come a long way. After a whole year of training, practicing, exposure, performing... etc etc. And I have been involved in many ways. In fact, I was a 1/2 star program student? Ha... Many memories and left and I have known so many of them :) All the best to all, pursue your dreams and keep the passion alive! Its been great knowing all of you and spending the times together :)

A group pic together! :)

Also that Sunday, after WTC's performance, I had supper... with Jake and Minhui. So it was the 3 of us. A first and a different combi. Ha... so weird...

At Macau Cafe...

-LeB-

English Tuition...

2009-04-24T12:17:00.003+08:00

there are times where I do not know whether to laugh or cry...

its when... your student reads "ordinary" as "original", thus the sentence becomes somewhat... "Her wish was to be an ORIGINAL girl..."

and when asked what is "breadwinner"... the student's reply is... "BEST BREAD!"; indeed, he has an understanding of the 2 words... Applause for that, but its wrong!!! And when I explain that it means earning money or income, he says..."oh, selling bread to earn money". Great... Now, how did the word breadwinner come along?

-LeB-

Jehovah Jireh, God our provider...

2009-04-23T00:52:00.002+08:00

This is a thanks-giving post... Today Caleb is in a thanking mood... I thank God for...

Providing me with jobs for an income! In the last 2 weeks and past few days, I got...

-1 new keyboard student
-A new keyboard class of 4 students starting in May! Woohoo! Haha...
-A soon-to-be classical piano student (thanks to KP for the recommendation! It really was a surprise...)
-A new tuition kid!

God really provides... Just when I was looking for more assignments for more income. Although the doors for relief teaching did not open, I didn't expect all these to come :) Praise the Lord!

I also thank God for..

-Shufen's marked improvement in her health. I really really thank God and praise Him! :)
-Dan Fung getting 2nd in his school's Betty Idol... Haha!
-Simon and Meilian's gig at C-Nai Cafe, East Coast

I feel happy for my friends and the people around me :)

I thank God I can play the piano and some cello...

-LeB-

T'ang Quartet ft. Albert Tiu + catch up session...

2009-04-21T01:56:00.003+08:00

Met Xingyu up for a concert by T'ang Quartet with special guest Albert Tiu. This was the first time I heard T'ang Quartet playing more "listenable" pieces, and also the first listening to Albert Tiu. The concert was good! Very enjoyable... the 2nd half was much more enjoyable! I think the piano did spice up things a little :) But I thought the T'ang Quartet did an amazing job... I was wowed at the very first note! They certainly live up to their reputation :)

Before the show we had a fabulous dinner at Ichiban, great food! And after the concert, we headed to the HK cafe at Marina Sq. I didn't expect that we would just talk and talk till we lost track of time. I certainly didn't plan to head back after 12midnight. Besides, I wasn't driving which meant more COST! But I guess, good time spent together is always worth the value. I really had a great time catching up with Xingyu today and we talked about almost everything under the sun. Thank God for this friend whom I met in an interesting way? Haha... But I guess its also the common interests that we have that keeps us in contact :)

No photos taken but I've got a photo we took 3years back! Its been 3years now... time flies...

Haha... Taken with a polaroid :)

Have a great and fruitful holiday girl!

-LeB-

my latest CD purchases...

2009-04-18T23:31:00.003+08:00

Over the last 1-2 months, I have bought about 5 CDs, ranging from Cantonese Pop, Jazz albums, instrumentals, a Christian album... etc... 2 of the albums I bought stood out. Eric Kwok's Leet Collection and Eason Chan's (陈奕迅) H3M, which actually means hak hau hak mien; direct translation is black mouth, black face. H3M is what they call his line up of musicians touring with him. Interesting! Haha...

Cantonese Pop is very much more interesting to me compared to the current Chinese songs. To me, they are more daring, more creative and adventurous in trying out different styles and genres, especially Eason Chan. I took notice of the songwriter/arranger/producer Eric Kwok from his famous numbers such as 幸福摩天轮 - Eason, 伤逝 - Sally Yeh, 华丽邂逅 - Joey Yung. He has adopted his very own style to the usage of notes in his compositions, and that to me is very interesting... I like his songs too... It was also through the album that I realised he composed a song by Sandy Lam that I like very much! Talented guy he is...

So Eason Chan released his latest full cantonese album. Honestly, I love his cantonese songs better, much better I think. It was thrilled to know he had an album out. I was out with Sun Quan when I decided to get his album. Sun Quan saw the album cover and said, "Who's this? Robinson Crusoe?" wahhahah! I replied, "Yah, yah"... well, as if I know how Robinson Crusoe looks like! Anyway, who is RC? I flipped through the lyric book hoping to find Eric Kwok's work in this album, but... nope. However, I got to say that this album is terrific! I played the CD on my car and through the first 4 albums, ALL the songs were nice! Refreshing ideas, nice hooks to the song, great arrangement and of course, splendid vocals by Eason himself. It reminded me of the time Danick, Minny and I went to watch his concert. It was ... REALLY GOOD. No doubt one of the best singers in the Chinese industry. 2 thumbs up for Eason Chan and his new album. Also, kudos to all the musicians involved in the album. Loving it and listening to it through and through.

From H3M, no.1 on my list is... Allegro, Opus 3.3 a.m. (with a tinge of Mika-ness in the song... its a very refreshing song that gets you on your toes!)

no.2 of my recommendation is... 于心有鬼 (a slow number with a nice hook, the kind that I like)

no.3 ... Life Goes On (a swingy feel with that some kinda hook that gets me)

no.4 ... 七百年后（I think this is the hit song on the album, however, I think I prefer the not-so-commercial stuff)

anyway, all tracks are good! get the album man!

it seems fun to be a CD critic...

Good music must be shared and appreciated!

-LeB-

Faith in God...

2009-04-18T02:50:00.002+08:00

Life is never easy but this road has been made possible with the help of God. I have faith in God, in a true and living, almighty God. Often we are busy with our own lives that we forget the Kingdom of God. It is in times like this that God pulls everyone back on track, test our faith and gives us reminders...

I want to put ALL my faith in God and trust Him like never before and PRAY, PRAY, PRAY...

Lord, let Your Will be done and not ours... We are praying, we are interceding...

-LeB-

some updates... a super duper long weekend...

2009-04-13T14:00:00.002+08:00

these days, blogging hasn't been a frequent thing to do... I just had a super packed and busy extended weekend together with Good Friday... Busy-ness started with thursday night! I was out with Minny and Markolele again at a comfy HK cafe in Marina Sq, I think we wanted to leave at latest 1am? Ended up, we left at 3am... But, good time spent together with friends is always worth it! :)

Friday morning... 9am, I was supposed to be in church for a rehearsal, but... I was late!!! Ended up reaching at 10am. Sorry dudes, should have been there earlier... 10am-1plus, prayer walk... Continued with lunch and hanging out. Then it was lesson with Dan and E. at 4.30pm, after which, we had BBQ at my estate for the night. Tired, tired... I tried to learn 2-3 songs needed for WTC' performance but I was too tired. Yawnz...

Saturday. I had wanted to wake up earlier to learn more songs. But... I failed :( Slept in till 10plus and had to get ready to head down to Echo for practice and lessons. Was at Echo till 8pm then headed down to Global Sounds for dinner and watched a little of Neo, Audrey and Sem's performance. Not bad, not bad, I did enjoy the performance :) Had to leave earlier to go back to finish up the remaining songs to learn.

Sunday. I reached church at 8.30am in the morning! For once, I wasn't late! Haha, I'm so proud of myself. Rehearsed for a short skit and worship practice for SR's easter program. I was... dead beat by then! But I just had to go through it. Thank God that I still had energy... Lasted throughout the easter program and had lunch with my church friends and went down to east coast for baptism + rollar-blading! Rollar-blading was fun! I miss it... :) Hopefully, I can get to do it more often! Also, it was good cause I got to know the younger youths (primarily the secondary school kids) much better. I think even seeing them weeks after weeks in church, I have never talked to some before. But I did this time round! :) After everything, I had to leave for WTC!

I leave east coast and took a cab to WTC. I stammered really badly on trying to tell the cab driver where's my destination. And the cab driver turned back and asked me in a crude manner, "Whats wrong b*lls??" and started laughing, he also said some crude things which really... not worth mentioning. I had wished that he could just stop talking but he couldn't! Arggh! I wanted rest man! Ironically, I told him I was at east coast with my church friends and he said he's a Christian too, a Catholic and started talking to me about God. Err...

Finally reached WTC and at my first performance with Xinyi and Shaotian. For the first time, I had to play 3 birthday songs for the slot and play "song dedications"... It was... challenging! After the performance, I went to eat supper with Wangdajie (Minny) and finally headed home at 12am...

The weekend felt like a 12hit combo! Good thing I do not have to suffer Monday blues and I could sleep in for the morning. :) Its time to get recharged and busy again!

Thank God for everything! :)

-LeB-

planning for the future...

2009-04-01T02:25:00.003+08:00

at 2am in the morning, Caleb is planning for the future...

I just made a call to Berklee to find out about some stuff. I also managed to find out what went wrong with my audition. It was good that I could find out what went wrong... cause... I'm dying to know! What the guy over the phone said was that... Nothing really major or drastic went wrong with my audition, I have got some good technique, musicianship... but it was that this semester, the applicants were too strong. Its really time to work harder and harder if I really want to make it there...

I also checked if I had to wait a year before reapplying... and the answer is yes. :( Sadly... However, I could do the 12 week summer program next year (May) which could credit into a 1st semester in Berklee... That sounds like a plan. :) then... to reapply into college again and get it! I really want to go Berklee, study music and do my best in music.

my thoughts after 14hrs since the release of results:

-I am feeling MUCH better now :) yeah. and I know that God certainly has plans to prosper me, bigger and better plans for me. I have to trust in Him... and find comfort in Him! :) I ever thought how would I react if I really didn't get in... would I blame God? and I am glad that I am not blaming God! yeah! in fact, I still thank Him :) God is good ALL the time.

-now that I am not going over... I can attend my brother's wedding (which is a big thing and that I would have to miss it if I was accepted!) and I can attend Matz & Isaiah's, Joyce's ... and others?

-its time for me to be DISCIPLINED. I think God is probably speaking to me on that aspect. Life has been quite a bed of roses, and I thank God for it... but I must not get complacent! Time to step out of my comfort zone, do more things and starting earning more income! Should be going back to relief teaching...

-not going over means I have another 1 year learning the cello as well. Which is a good thing cause I think I've got a really good and nice cello teacher and I enjoy lessons with him. And the cello is something I would like to continue with even if I do go overseas :)

-from now till then, I have exactly 1 year or more... and I better improve musically and in my piano. Also, I believe God has His timing and I am looking out for what God has in stored for me this year and in Singapore :)

and lastly, I really thank God for wonderful parents, a very supportive elder brother, a very close and still adorable younger brother. I thank God that they understand what I really love, appreciate and want to do in life :) my mum told me, "its ok, just try again next year" and my dad said, "how about going to the music college in KL, or Australia?" I am really really grateful and thankful that they don't pressurize me to do something that I do not like or to be more so-called-useful. There wasn't even a word of reprimand. I cherish my family very much :) love them lots... thank God, thank God.

Also, I thank all my friends for all the encouragement. Thanks, thanks and more thanks :)

I really do hope I can do it!

striving towards a much more disciplined life... praise the Lord!

-LeB-

e-mail from Berklee College of Music

2009-03-31T13:11:00.002+08:00

the e-mail came, the verdict is out...

I didn't get accepted... Caleb didn't get into Berklee College of Music. I thought chances were 50/50 and was hoping very much to get in. Definitely I am saddened and lost at the result. Well, got to move on... Thinking about my plans, but I am thankful that I have God. I know He is in control, as long as I commit everything to Him :) Yeah!

I have been slacking for months, as xuan said... "wsss" 无所事事. I think I'll go back to do relief teaching, continue teaching and strive harder in music. :)

I thank God for his blessings :)

-LeB-

Ruth Ling in concert...

2009-03-28T02:46:00.002+08:00

Just got back from Ruth Ling's concert... It was great! Inspiring in many ways and enjoyable!

It was inspiring to see how good she is... Her arrangements, song-writing abilities, singing, playing and more! To see how blessed she is with many opportunities and how she uses her abilities to glorify God. Amen! She is indeed an inspiration :)

After that, it was a very enjoyable chill out time with the music family. And, welcoming back Wendy from HK (as if she had left for a long time), only 5 days man...

After all that is seen tonight. There's one conclusion... We got to work so much more and many harder man!

-LeB-

a God of miracles...

2009-03-26T00:53:00.002+08:00

they have been such a blessing in my life... in our lives...

and I know probably more than anyone else how grave the matter is...

I am praying... praying and praying... for a miracle...

God, please grant healing and a miracle!

-LeB-

My Genting Trip + Malacca and JB...

2009-03-19T14:36:00.005+08:00

This post should have been up quite some time back. But I haven't had time or maybe, I have been lazy... I had a short getaway last week. Just after my audtion, Simon and Minhui drove to KL to look for me. And up we went to Genting... :) It was a very relaxing, nothing much planned but very enjoyable trip. Just spending time together. But... Mark pulled out last minute from the trip and I became an obvious LIGHTBULB. I am glad they didn't mind also. Besides, they are still very loving even if I'm there or not! Whahaah... 'Cause of Simon's membership, I had free hotel stays and a hotel room to myself :) Thanks a lot! We needed 2 rooms... How could I disrupt the couple. :P

This trip sparked my first official entry into a casino. I have walked through casinos in Vegas but, I was underaged then and I didn't see what was going on. This time round, we went in and I saw how "big, small" was being played. It was tense! But I am glad I'm not really lured to play at the casino :)

We had one MAJOR highlight...

On our way back from Genting to Singapore, when we reached Ipoh (quite near to Johor), Simon asked us to check our passports. I was rather sure that I had mine in my lugguage. He had asked me to checked for his and Minhui's and... it wasn't there! The whole situation became tense... I knew it was no joke to be losing passports in a foreign land. I helped looked around and it REALLY wasn't there. They analysed the situation and confirmed that they probably left it at the hotel. Good thing Minhui was quite calm... in fact, she seem quite happy... wahhah! Cause if she left it at the hotel, means we would spend another day in Malaysia. Haha... It being a grave issue, I began praying... and praying and praying... :) We found the hotel's number on a tissue box that Simon had taken from the hotel room. Haha... And asked them to check the room for us. Thank God and thank God that the passports were there! Really really thank God :) So at 12am, we drove back up to Genting, a 4hrs drive back up. Though it was tiring, I thank God for everything. For being in control and for being there... and with the journey up to Genting again, I had quite a good talk with Simon. Some things that I have wanted to say for some time. And I am glad we talked :) I really cherish the time spent together...

Thank God for Simon and Minhui as mentors, colleagues, close friends, fellow music lovers in my life :)

We slacked and slacked... Ate and ate and this was our usual routine of using the net.

At the middle of a mountain enjoying teh-tarik...

The mushroom farm that we failed to enter...

Hahaha... China boy and Mr. Sleepy at A&W... Talking about A&W... When I saw it, I was elated! But... the standard has dropped so much! Its no longer nice. :( I miss the A&W from my childhood...

A&W... Look at the colour of the waffle... :(

At the happening street of Malacca! I love the street... it was bustling and different!

Famous Chicken Rice Balls and Kampong Chicken...

My wonderful photography! I think I am talented in photography man... 2 heads + a restaurant! Wahhah...

Our only group pic together... taken with a pair of shaky hands... wahhah

This is the "hui guan"... Something like a community centre for different groups of people with the same dialect to gather and have activities... It looks so traditional and happening. I didn't know such a thing exist!

In japan... Handmade sushi. I actually enjoyed it. Although Simon had warned us about its hygenie. But its nice!

A rainbow we saw on our drive back :)

This was our 3 trip overseas now... How many more will there be?

Thanks for the time... :)

Thank God...

-LeB-

My Berklee Audition

2009-03-17T02:27:00.002+08:00

This is part 1 of my Malaysia trip and it is the main reason why I went to Malaysia, KL in specific. I had arrived 1 day before my audition and when I woke up on the day of my audition, I almost couldn't believe that THIS IS THE DAY. Being alone in Malaysia was quite lonesome. I've realised that travelling alone you would tend to talk to strangers more. There was this guy from UK who asked me if the shop that I had dinner served good food. And from there, we continued with a conversation. There was also this guy from China who talked to me... Why? Cause he said he came to Malaysia to look for a friend but his friend went overseas, he has no money and needs some for a meal. And... He is a GM! Its just absurd! No money, no credit card? Best was... a day later, he approached me on the streets again! Arggh!

Back on my audition, many have asked me how it went. Thanks a lot for the concern! :) And thanks to those who prayed for me and wished me all the best! Yeah! I REALLY APPRECIATE IT... My overall thoughts about the audition, I didn't meet my own expectations. I really practiced hard for my 2 pieces but at the audition, I made many mistakes :( Other components went pretty fine, I HOPE! The examiners were very nice and encouraging though... It wasn't like ABRSM exams. When I went in they said, "Hi! Welcome!" Shaked my hand and we introduce ourselves. It was like making new friends. Really quite cool. I was mainly tested by this female examiner, I have quite a good impression of her :)

Apart from the audition itself, I talked to quite a number of people who went for the audition. It is not exactly quite me to talk to strangers. But, I enjoyed talking to them! Many were from other countries, I was the only true-blue Singaporean there? There was a Malaysian who studied in Singapore and a Japanese who has been living in Singapore for 11years. The rest were from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam... They were all rather young too... An average age of 17, 18 years old? I am... 23 years old this year! I exchanged contact with one of them, so at least if the both of us make it to Berklee, I would have 1 friend! Haha... I hope we all do well :)

My hotel room at KL, Grand Seasons Hotel. First time staying in a hotel alone. With a big bed to myself...

ICOM (International College of Music), the place where the audition was held. This is also my piano teacher's school.

Results of my audition will be out early next month. I certainly do hope I get selected. It is my dream to go to Berklee! And of course, to improve by leaps and bounds... But whatever it is, I am certain that God has plans for me :)

Another reason is... I wish to save my friend's head...

-LeB-

BACK!~!~!

2009-03-15T00:31:00.002+08:00

I am finally back in Singapore. Supposed schedule was supposed to get me back yesterday, but... We had a really EVENTFUL trip.

And the Berklee audition is finally over, a load off my shoulders... Friends have been asking me how I did. I have to say, I didn't do as well as I thought I could have done. The 2 pieces that I prepared, I had a lot of mistakes :( However, the interview and talking went fine. I thank God for it :) Whatever it is, I entrust everything into God's Hands.

I covered KL, Genting, Malacca, Genting, Johor on this trip. I shall update soon...

Thank God for everything, for being with us through the trip, His protection was definitely with us. Lord, I thank You :)

-LeB-

the day is really coming...

2009-03-10T01:33:00.002+08:00

11 March '09 Berklee Auditions at ICOM, KL... It really is going to come.

I am leaving in a few hours time, not on a plane though. Just on a coach to KL. And I am officially travelling alone for the first time! I have always wanted to do that. Sounds really exciting :) It got to be safe too...

This time however, the agenda is different. Its not like any other travel plans that I have made. I am going for an AUDITION. Seems so surreal. I don't even really know how its going to be like. Shall do my best...

I commit my hands, my mind, my thoughts, my nerves all into the Hands of my Almighty God.

Whatever the outcome, I thank God, I praise the Lord :)

-LeB-

My Compositions...

2009-03-05T18:10:00.002+08:00

I had always thought of becoming a songwriter, music producer... I started off writing Christian songs when I was about secondary 3, something I did with my church friends in the past. Together with Zichao, Joyce, Esther, Dawn, Su Jun, Joel, Isaac. Looking back at those songs, its interesting... :) We simply wanted to use our own songs and expression to worship God. Indeed the songs were simple, yet, they did have that special meaning. Those were the beginnings.

When I went on the Junior College, I met 2 other budding songwriters... Jasmine and Jiarong! Hahah... together we formed "JJC", which in coincidence is the college we came from. We wrote qutie a number of songs. All 3 of us did. It was the time when I started listening to more chinese pop. And because I had loved Eric Moo's songs so much, my songs ALWAYS had that xinyao-super cheenah feel. Sadly, in that era, it was no longer popular! I am a backdated songwriter. Being rather handicapped in Chinese didn't exactly help either, most of the lyrics were penned by Jasmine and Jiarong who were Chinese A'Level students. Not just AO level. I remember a duet that I wrote the tune and Jasmine did the lyrics, the chorus contained the words 山盟海誓. Totally out of my vocabulary! Thinking back about our songs, every song contain SO MUCH SO MUCH memories. We would record 1 song in... 1-2hrs? It was that difficult to get a good take. We had 距离，是否，梦想, the charity song, and other songs I don't remember their title. Jasmine and Jiarong, if you all do remember, refresh my mind. But its unlikely Jiarong remembers... She could hardly remember the lyrics! My JC days were almost the kick start of a greater passion in music.

Recently, I composed another 3 songs. But this time round, they are instrumental pieces. I have tried at times to compose pop songs, but often I am unable to complete a full song :( It didn't quite occur to me that I could try composing instrumentals as I listening to mainly music with singing, although these days, I have more instrumental tracks in my playlists. These 3 composed songs are what I plan to show to Berklee's "auditioners"? And hopefully get an edge and be accepted into the college. Going into Berklee does mean a lot to me, 4yrs of a very different life. I am really committing everything to God, wherever He leads me. God has blessed me so much... just so much that things seem so impossible :) I will be recording my tracks and hopefully they'll turn out fine. Possibly, I could share it around :)

2 encouraging responses I have had so far...

1 day my cousin came to my place and heard me play my 2nd composition entitled "Final Hope". She didn't ask me anything about the composition until she suddenly messaged me on msn... She said, "How come I can't find anything on the song "Final Hope", the song that you were playing at your place? Who is it by?" I was surprised. Haha... I didn't know it would appeal to her. Although she is only secondary 4 this year, I feel glad that someone appreciates my composition and feels that it is nice :) Goody!

2nd encouraging response. On my 3rd composition, my piano teacher said, "I didn't expect that you could come up with something like that..." I certainly take that as a compliment. :) Thanks! Honestly, sometimes I do not know how I get the inspiration or creativity for a song. I have been doing up the scores for my song and my scores look really BLACK.

Creating one's music is definitely a joy to do. And I hope that one day, some day, there will be more people who would appreciate my compositions. Provided I continute churning out songs. Haha... May God inspire me more :)

My audition into the Hands of God :)

-LeB-

巫啟賢 - 英雄熱血 (純歌曲、清晰版) (TVB電視劇《大刺客》主題曲)

2009-03-01T02:14:00.001+08:00

Wow great! So I happen to find this obscure song from youtube. Sung by my favourite singer in 1997. I think that was when his tone sounded the best, and I love it when he sings cantonese songs. A very "jiang hu" flavoured song, probably a composition by himself. Love it!

Much as I love jazz and all, these old canto songs appeal so much to me... Very contrasting I would think. But, I can't help it. They really SPEAK to me. I have decided. I would want classic jazz songs at my wedding and also... classic canto songs. Aww... Minhui and Wendy can help me sing them right?

A contrasting and "dilemmic" Caleb...

-LeB-

my beloved mornings...

2009-02-27T04:37:00.003+08:00

I realise that I really need my mornings and love it so much! The morning sun that shines into my house and morning breeze are too enjoyable that it seems like a sin to miss it. And awaking to know that there's a long day ahead with many hours does WONDERS. I feel so much more diligent with that mindset. However, I have missed out much on it. My "nights" have been 3-4am and "mornings" begin around 11am. This must change! Its 4.41am now and I am vowing to wake up 9am tomorrow morning. Let this be a start and hopefully, I'll adjust my body clock back to 7-8am as my wake up time. Caleb needs to salvage his mornings!

I just came back from Carls' Jr @ East Coast. Another supper session with WangDaJie and Markolele. I think we spent 3hrs just suppering?? Of course, with many many conversations as well. We literally talked the whole night out. Mark was saying its amazing how much we have to talk about. From life, love, dreams, past, cultures, music and more music... Haha... I really love eating, talking and just hanging out with friends.

Music is intriguing me... Even more so these days. In awe and confusion, dilemma that there are so many genres, styles, kinds, variety, sounds of music out there. And I am thinking what does my future lie? Many routes out there to be taken. Well, I really should not think so far. I have not even gotten my education! Wait... I have not even been confirmed a place. :( 12 days to go. Prepare, pray and leave it in the Hands of God. :)

Read the Bible, pray everyday... pray everyday... pray everyday...

-LeB-

Our 1 day escapde...

2009-02-25T13:06:00.006+08:00

It felt like a holiday, too relaxing and carefree to be true. We finally carried out our plan of having breakfast together. The stipulated time to meet was 9am but WangDaJie had the "call of nature" and could not be on time. We met up at around 9.40am instead, at Raffles Place. It is still early for non-workers! We headed down to Raffles Place in search of a westernized breakfast. WangDaJie was expecting glass houses, open spaces and greenery... unfortunately, we have to be reminded that we are in Singapore. Space is a constraint and we do not have that much greenery :( Still, we found Tully's Coffee and Quiznos at Far East Square. I like the place. Cafes... I love it :)

Our breakfast(s)... Nice nice!

Breakfast Khakis...

And my portion. I ordered the breakfast serving which resulted in a really small portion of sandwich. I then decided to order brocolli and cheese soup. Love it!

After breakfast, we headed to Suntec to watch a movie. Its... a miracle. Cause the few of us have never watched a movie together! For one, I am not a movie avid. WangDaJie is though, but there weren't chances thus far. So, we proceeded with our first movie together... And we caught Pink Panther 2! Whahahha... To critic the movie is a tough thing to do. Or maybe, not. I wouldn't recommend it actually cause its really LAME and irritating at times. But, there were also funny moments. WangDaJie and I have the same stand but Markolele thinks otherwise.

To commemorate our FIRST movie together. Pink Panther 2!

Tuesdays are always the best and I would always remember the half-priced waffles at Gelare. I love waffles and Gelare was a VERY frequent hang out last time. 6-7 years ago when I was still in secondary school? A frequent hang out with my buddies Sun Quan and Guorong. I would love to re-live those memories and have a meet up with them and get THAT usual spot at Suntec Gelare.

The waffles that day were not bad. I guess it was due to the fact that we tasted way better waffles at Korea. Simply amazing waffles! To open a waffle cafe is part of my dream :)

We went seperate ways thereafter and 7hrs later, we met up again... Do we love each other or what?? Wahahha... But this time round, we had another agenda. And that was to support Simon on his first night with his band at Firefly. :) Friends always have a big standing in my heart and I dare to say that I would go the distance for friends, cause they really matter to me. Especially my close friends. And, I always thank God for them :) To see Simon "gig-ing" very often and playing music again is a joy and I am happy for him. I certainly hope he enjoys what he's doing as well. God would bless him.

Outside Firefly, the couple...

Together with the star of the night, Simon! :)

ay back, we decided that Pink Panther 2 was such a good movie that we decided to take another pic. Now, I really do not know whether its thumbs up or down for the movie.

The day didn't end that quickly when we left firefly at about 1.30am. We continued with "early morning supper" and went home dead beat. Really dead tired. It was a long day but fulfilling day :)

-LeB-