Entertainment

Meet the Remarkable 12-Year-Old Maestro Blending Passion, Culture, and Talent!

2025-01-29

Author: Arjun

In the vibrant heart of Punggol, there’s a 12-year-old prodigy whose passion for Chinese culture echoes through the streets. Clarissa See, a Primary Six student, captivates everyone with her sensational skill on the erhu and gaohu. If you happen to hear what sounds like a horse neighing in the distance, it’s not a hallucination -- it’s Clarissa practicing her beloved erhu, crafting melodies that resemble the calls of birds or even the sounds of city life.

Her love for this two-stringed instrument blossomed at just six years old, after attending a concert by the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. "Initially, I thought the erhu was just a fun toy," Clarissa shared. "But as I grew older, I appreciated how much stories and emotions can be conveyed through its sound."

Recent achievements mark a significant milestone in her musical journey. In 2024, Clarissa was awarded the prestigious Mapletree-Teng scholarship, which supports talented youths from underprivileged backgrounds in mastering Chinese instruments. Without a doubt, she chose the erhu to continue sharing her passion.

A Renaissance Girl: Mastering Multiple Art Forms

Clarissa's expertise isn't limited to the erhu. She's also the youngest gaohu player in the Singapore National Youth Chinese Orchestra. The gaohu, known for its higher pitch, brings a unique energy to her performances. "The first time I played it, I was amazed by how bright its sound is," she recalls excitedly.

Her interests extend beyond just string instruments. After starting Chinese dance and martial arts, she found herself enchanted by Teochew opera at the tender age of eight. Training with Nam Hwa Opera, Clarissa donned beautiful costumes and makeup, describing the experience as stepping back in time. Her devotion to this art was recognized last year when she received China’s Little Plum Blossom award, the pinnacle honor for young talents in Chinese opera.

Balancing Act: An Inspiring Routine

Despite her packed schedule, Clarissa manages her time like a seasoned performer. A typical week sees her juggling two orchestra rehearsals and daily solo practices on both the erhu and gaohu. Yet she doesn’t shy away from her academic commitments, participating in Scouts, higher Chinese classes, and tutoring sessions in science and math.

With the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) on the horizon, Clarissa has strategized to maintain balance. "Planning is key," she insists, sharing her routine of homework and practice. "If I finish my school tasks first, I can enjoy my music practice, and if I have extra time, I dance or play badminton."

Her mother, Deng Xiu Wei, has witnessed her daughter’s transformation over six years. "The early days were tough," she admits. "There were mornings filled with struggles, but the scholarship and joining the orchestra boosted her motivation."

Nurturing Growth: A Mother's Perspective

Deng remains cautious about pushing her daughter too hard, encouraging Clarissa to explore and enjoy her passions freely. "Every child is unique. I’ve learned to guide rather than push," she reflects, emphasizing the importance of healthy stress and supportive environments for children to thrive.

Siblings Josh and Clarissa share a solid bond, both participating in the arts without rivalry. During competitions, Clarissa usually plays a calming role, setting realistic goals while Josh focuses on his own journey in Teochew opera and cello.

Spotlight and Stagecraft

Whether on stage or in her living room, Clarissa thrives in the spotlight. She takes every opportunity to connect with her audience, delighting them not just with her musical skills but also her charming performances in Teochew opera. When nerves set in before a performance, she centers herself with deep breaths, showcasing remarkable poise for her age.

As the family frequently gathers in their living room for impromptu performances, the atmosphere buzzes with creativity and support. Clarissa’s dancing skills shine as she seamlessly blends music and movement, compelling her family to participate with enthusiasm.

"I feel immense support from my family," she beams. "While I practice, my brother stays quiet, and my parents cheer me on. My grandparents always make sure I’m well-fed, which is just as important!"

Clarissa’s tale is not just one of talent, but of dedication, familial support, and cultural pride. With each note she plays and every dance step she takes, she represents the flourishing spirit of youth, art, and tradition in modern society. Keep an eye on this emerging star – the world is bound to hear more from her!