While there’s a lot of fanfare around SG50-related new openings, one that looks really legit is the Museum of Independent Music, dedicated to documenting the history of Singapore’s indie music scene and slated to open in late January.
“There will be video documentaries and short films about the local music scene, artifacts and memorabilia from local musicians’ touring days and notable shows and an archive of music related art pieces. Visitors can listen to local songs of all genres from past to present and learn how to make music with the guidance of virtual bands,” says Anvea Chieu, who co-founded it with Tarmizee Taksen (both owners of recording and performing studio Lithe Paralogue). There will also be performances, talks and workshops.
The founders hope that the chance to learn about the local music scene’s rich history, culture and influences will lead to wider appreciation of Singapore’s hidden talents and the stories behind them. The space also has an educational and social aspect, being a fertile meeting ground for all genres of musicians and form mentorships or partnerships.
Though the museum will only be ready in late January, you can get a sneak preview of the space at the pre-opening exhibition Red Herrings (Dec 14-24), a collection of art by local musicians.
In a country where big international names in music are like catnip to us—and yes, admittedly we’ve just written about Future Music Festival and Laneway—it seems only fair that Singaporean rock stars, past and present, get to bask in the limelight for once.
