Singapore Flutist Goh Tiong Eng Artist Interview
Founder and Artistic Director of the Flute Festival Singapore, Goh Tiong Eng studied in Paris under the renowned Philippe Pierlot on a prestigious three-year French government full scholarship, and later continued his training in London at the Royal Academy of Music, earning both the LRAM and a Master’s degree under the guidance of world-renowned maestro William Bennett OBE. Tiong Eng performed full-time with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra for fifteen years, contributing to numerous concerts, recordings, and international tours. In addition to releasing two solo CD recordings that showcase his artistic versatility, he is an active leader in the regional flute community.
1. Can you give us 5 career highlights?
- First professional appointment in a symphony orchestra, performing a wide orchestral repertoire.
- Extensive chamber-music collaborations with orchestra colleagues.
- Recorded two solo CDs in London.
- Inspiring students through teaching and mentorship.
- Founded the annual Flute Festival Singapore in 2009.
2. How about 3 pivotal moments that were essential to creating the artist that you've become?
- Three years of undergraduate study in Paris from age 18.
- Two years of postgraduate study in London with William Bennett.
- Fifteen years of orchestral performance working with world‑class conductors and soloists.
3. What do you like best about teaching?
Seeing each student’s breakthrough in tone, technique or musical insight—those moments are the most rewarding.
4. What do you like best about performing?
The daily practice and preparation leading up to a concert; solving musical challenges and then delivering a performance is deeply satisfying.
5. CD releases?
Yes — I have released two solo CDs (recorded in London).
6. What are you most excited about participating in VIFF?
I love Vietnam and am honoured to support the country’s first flute festival, organised by my friend Erin Bourikov. I expect it to be a wonderful event for flutists and audiences alike.
7. What are your goals personally? Professionally?
Continue refining my playing, pursue stronger performances, and enjoy each step of artistic progress.
8. What inspires you the most in life?
Classical music in all its forms — not only flute repertoire but any music that moves my heart.
9. What has been your greatest challenge?
Reproducing my best playing consistently — staying in peak form every day.
10. Who were your music mentors? and what did you learn from them?
William Bennett: an immense musical and personal influence. He taught me expressive, vocal musicality on the flute and modelled artistry with warmth and generosity
11. Can you give us 5 quirky, secret, fun, (don't think too much about this) hobbies or passions?
I love animals: I have two hamsters and two cats. (My cats are famously displeased when I hit the highest A and beyond.)
12. What 3 things would you offer as advice for a young flutist?
- Keep searching and never give up.
- Work persistently toward your goals.
- Enjoy the journey and the small progress along the way.