Nathanael Koh
Nathanael Koh B. Y. is our youngest composer in residence at a tender age of 9 years old. He is one of the youngest worldwide to attain the Trinity Diploma in Music Theory (AMusTCL), and ABRSM Grade 8 Music Theory at age 9.
Recognising his talent in Music, the Ministry of Education (New Zealand) presented him with the Gifted Learner Award in May 2019. For 2 consecutive years (2018 and 2019), Nathanael was awarded 1st place in the Junior Composition Competition organised by the Institute of Registered Music Teachers (Otago), NZ. He is also a Top 10 finalist in the ongoing Commonwealth International Composition Award (UK), in which the Grand Final will be live-streamed around the world.
Determined to study and understand music, Nathanael is learning the piano, clarinet, cello and French horn to help hone his composition skills. Since 2017, he had been performing regularly for the public and concerts organised by IRMT.
Besides music, Nathanael's many other interests include Mathematics, Chemistry, German, crafting and playing with Lego. He is a current MENSA member and St John Youth Cadet who has perfect pitch and loves the great scenic New Zealand. As a budding composer, these provided inspiration for him to compose music on a weekly basis. Depending on the seasons, he writes a wide range of music ranging from different cultures, genres and eras. He is presently composing original pieces for semi‐professional and amateur orchestras. Some orchestras he had composed for are the Otago Symphonic Band, Bathgate SMMC and George St SMMC.
"I read an article that says music heals the soul, and it does."