Soprano Khor Ai Ming pays tribute to Malaysian roots

Performing on one’s 55th birthday might be a daunting task for most, but not so the Malaysia-born soprano Khor Ai Ming, vocal teacher and founder-chorus master of Vocal Associates and Joy Chorale.

- Chang Tou Liang

Her two-hour recital, which she delivered without a break despite nursing a poor stomach, was a microcosm of her personality: vivacious, tireless and driven by a “can-do” spirit.

Speaking in a comfortable mix of Mandarin and Singlish, she laid bare her life story, filled equally with career triumphs and _ personal vulnerabilities. The programme of songs in multiple languages also illustrated her versatility and penchant for diversity.

Raised by strict but loving teacher parents in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, the provinciality of her beginnings was reflected in the opening song Xiao Cheng Gu Shi (A Small Town Story) popularised by Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng.

This was followed by Du Juan Hua (Azalea), also in Mandarin, a recollection of her very first singing competition, which she won.