To many in the audience at one of Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO)’s performances, first violinist William Tan may just be another key member of our nation’s flagship orchestra. However, to the scuba diving community – locally and internationally, and particularly, the underwater photography scene – William is an esteemed wildlife lensman.
When William is not playing his prized violin, which was made by master Italian luthier Camillo Camilli in 1737, he puts his finger dexterity to good use as an underwater photographer. Perpetually zipping around the world, the 58-year-old keeps a fine juggling act between his musical career and his other lifelong passion, deftly switching between violin strings and camera settings, tails and wetsuit.
Not only has William published two award-winning underwater photography books together with other contributors – Silent Symphony and Gorontalo: Hidden Paradise, he judges at photography competitions, and speaks at diving and photography expositions alongside other internationally renowned peers like David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes.
A highly sought-after instructor for photography expeditions globally, he sells out workshop spots on cruises and dive resorts alike – even in the most far-flung places. For a few years running, William has also served as the ambassador for macro (extreme close-up) photography at ADEX (Asia Dive Expo), which is the biggest and longest-running diving showcase in the region that spans several countries, including Singapore and China.
This story is from the August 2022 edition of Prestige Singapore.
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This story is from the August 2022 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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