Music Director / Resident Conductor

The esteemed Associate Professor Ho Hwee Long studied band conducting under the tutelage of the late Professor John Paynter, and graduated with a Master's in Music Education from Northwestern University, Illinois, USA. Since assuming the conductor’s baton in 1967, he has played an instrumental role in the evolution of Singapore’s band scene. Over the years, he has amassed an impressive record of achievements in the field of band music, and is frequently invited to adjudicate several prestigious local and international music events.

Appointed Music Director and Resident Conductor of the NUS Wind Symphony in December 2008, Associate Professor Ho is also the resident conductor for the National Junior College Symphonic Band and the National Institute of Education (NIE) Symphonic Band. His love for music and belief in exacting standards has seen his bands making their mark in the local band scene.

As an adjunct Associate Professor of the Visual and Performing Arts Academic Group at NIE, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Associate Professor Ho currently teaches Conducting and Music Education modules and is also the coordinator and lecturer for both the Special and Advanced Diploma in Band Directing. This allows him to tap on his vast knowledge and help to nurture the next generation of band conductors and music directors.

Associate Professor Ho’s numerous accolades serve as a testimonial to his ubiquitous influence in the field of band music. In January 2004, he was conferred the Meritorious Award by the Composers and Authors Society of Singapore (COMPASS) for his outstanding and commendable achievements and contributions to the development of local music in Singapore. He was also awarded the “NTU Excellence in Teaching Commendation” in 2004, in recognition for his excellent performances in teaching over the years.

He is currently the Vice Chairman of the Art and Cultural Committee, Northwest Community Development Council (CDC), and is responsible for cultural performances for the residents in the heartland. In recognition for his contribution, he was conferred The Public Service Medal (Pingat Bakti Masyarakat – PBM) from the President of Singapore, His Excellency S. R. Nathan in 2007. He also serves as the Vice President in Wind Bands Association of Singapore (formerly known as the World Association of Symphonic Band and Ensemble, WASBE). The association had formerly hosted the International Band Conference in 2005.