Whitney Tan takes us through the behind-the-scenes of concert programming that enriches communities with classical music.

Let’s address an age-old question: Is a formal music education a prerequisite for a position at the Singapore Symphony Group? In the scope of the organisation’s community outreach work, Whitney Tan, Assistant Manager, Community Engagement, said otherwise.

I’m a business management major, though having some form of music knowledge and background would help tremendously in making sound decisions, the plucky programmer revealed. Regardless, there is still a wealth of experience one can only gain on the job.

Whitney’s tenacious and determined personality, along with a fiery passion for the arts, are perfect for her role in the Community Engagement department. From large-scale community concerts to engaging in-school programmes, she and a team of programmers develop a slew of liv...