Chapter Text
— Excerpt from The Strait Times, Wednesday, 23 October, 2024
LETTERS AND DOCUMENTS THAT REVEAL INNER THOUGHTS OF EDWARD CHEN GO UP FOR AUCTION
A discovery of hundreds of letters and other documents written by Singaporean classical violinist Edward Chen was found in Redhill Estate over the weekend. The letters will be sold at auction next week. The discovery has caused minor hubbub only days before the prestigious Luo’s auction house was to open for a rare weekend estate auction.
Penned by the former co-leader of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, the missives were recovered from a single-story bungalow near Alexandra Estate, with some expected to fetch over $1500 at auction.
One of the most loved home-grown Singaporean violinists of the past century, Chen performed in a variety of famous concert halls across the world including a particularly intimate performance of the Korngold Violin Concerto at the Sydney Opera House.
Over the years Chen put down his innermost thoughts and scholarly learnings into a series of letters and documents, drafts and finalised copies of which have been acquired by Luo’s. The documents cover a vast variety of topics and illuminate the violinist’s thoughts on music, love, relationships, and the minutiae of daily life in a never-been-seen-before level of detail.
The Chen letters are expected to be of significant interest to many scholars and classical music lovers from around the world, with the collection listed in ten lots: Lots 1-2, estimated to sell from $200-$1000; Lots 3-8 (the largest lot), estimated to sell from $500-$3500; and Lots 9-10, estimated to sell for $300-$800.
"We are very excited to be able to offer these fantastic Edward Chen letters to interested bidders," said a Luo’s spokesperson. "They really do give a great insight into Chen’s world and Singapore around that time."
As the letters are still undergoing research and valuation, sources confirm that it is likely some, if not many, will be included in the wider auction, leading to speculation concerning the identities of Chens’ correspondents.
Despite the discovery, the auction house has not made any change to its upcoming schedule. The public viewing of the Chen Estate is still slated to begin Friday 25 October 2024 and run through the weekend. The private auction will open at 3pm Sunday 27 October 2024. All proceeds raised from the auction will be donated to the organisations previously named as beneficiaries in Edward Chen’s will: Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Singapore National Youth Orchestra, and People Like Us.
- Excerpt from the auction catalogue EDWARD CHEN: VOLUME II
LOTS #3 to #8 — Personal correspondence by Edward Chen, violinist, composer, among the most popular Singaporean classical musicians in the 20th century. Letters cover the period from 1967 to 1986 and the highs and lows of Chen’s life. Names featured include Belle Chen, his sister; Yena Kim, Korean actress; Lee Song-Hiew, the leader of the Singapore String Ensemble, Metro Philharmonic Society, and later a member of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra; Annette Lee, actress and friend; Jordan He, Taiwanese film score composer; and Brett Yang, the owner of Xiao Xiao Yang Music Store. Items are those remaining from a collection of letters uncovered during final house inspections, a significant portion of which sustained irreparable water damage. Lots contain 20-25 items of various conditions and are grouped in chronological order. Five to six letters from each lot will be displayed for public viewing and further inspections.
LOT 3: 1958 TO 1964
Letter to Sacred Heart Church, August 1958—
Respected Sacred Heart Church,
I am an young aspiring violinist who would like the opportunity to perform for the Sunday lunch feast recital. Will work for free. Looking to gain experience in ensemble music playing.
Do let me know what you think,
Edward Chen
Item 1: Annotated sheet music, Amazing Grace.
Letter to Bengt Wong, June 1960—
Bengt,
Wishing you a happy birthday – you are an year older and none the wiser. While you certainly don’t deserve any niceties after the miserable sheet music you transcribed erroneously for me, I have sent you a tin of parisienne biscuits because I am a great friend.
My ‘music work’ is not going particularly well though you must already know that through the loudspeaker system isn’t it. I have been hunting for more opportunities to play. Ma is mad about the amount I spent on the violin, but it’s been the biggest balm to my soul. No regrets from me! Thank you for helping me acquire it – it might be the biggest debt I will ever owe you.
How are things going with your lady? And how is auntie now? Is her coughing better? Let me know if you want me to send her anything from Hong medicine hall.
Come visit again soon – Eddy
Letter to Belle Chen, February 1964—
Dear Belle,
First things first: your chocolates made it from Paris with only minor melting which I consider to be a success given how hot this damned country is!
How have you been? There is so much news to give you since we last saw you and not all of it is pleasant. Ma has started looking for suitors for you with full gusto – our entire kampung is now involved in finding a ‘suitable boy for the Chen daughter’. Trust me when I say I’ve been trying to fend them off for you, but it’s looking more and more bleak. Ma has branded you a 不懂事的女儿 and I am forced to listen to her wails day in and out about the matter. (I tried stuffing cotton into my ears once, but she noticed and for such a frail lady, her lungs must be made of steel bellows.) I’m tired of newsletters from other kampungs touting their eligible bachelors like fresh fish and I don’t particularly want to go def. Dad and I are praying you’ve found someone to settle down with so we can stop this insanity.
In positive news – we may be moving out to Toa Payoh. There is a government project which has opened up flats for sale and dad thinks that moving there will offer better opportunities for all of us. (He has been applying for Thomson General Hospital and may get a job there soon!) We will finally be able to have all that water on tap like you tell us about. Ma is already planning on hiring a photographer to take a portrait for our ‘new beginnings’. Will try to remember to send you a copy so you can see too though I do hope that you’ll be able to visit by then.
Tell me more about your music classes? I have been desperate for more news from your side. We haven’t had any better performances recently and I’ve listened to every record I own over 30 times already. My application at the National Music Society was also rejected. Alas – I am bound to struggle in search of good teachers for years, I suppose. But I have been working with a few students (if you can call them that) and trying to start an string ensemble to take part in a competition. I showed them pipe dreams of Paris, but at the skill level they display right now, I fear I have been too ambitious. I will admit most of this was my selfish desire to come to you and hear beautiful music played live in front of me. Either way, we might at most be able to perform publicly at the Botanic Gardens if all goes according to plan… (The govmt. is a stickler for the damnedest of things and I have decided that, if all else fails, I will play in the park anyway!) It seems like I still have atime to go before reaching your levels of prolificacy.
Dad is telling me to hurry up, so I will send this off now. I’ve been promoted from working at his clinic and taking appointments to writing out prescriptions as well – not the job I was expecting, but I have been saving. If possible maybe I will be able to come to Paris and take a masterclass under some great teacher there. (Surely they must all be great in that continent of music?)
Stay safe & lots of love from all of us (yes, even Ma),
Your loving brother – Eddy
Letter to Xiao Yang Music Store asking about supplies, April 1964 —
Respected Sir,
One year too late, but hoping your shop is still in operation.
Enclosed herewith is a list of items I am looking to purchase for a small string ensemble. Please let me know at your earliest convenience whether your store has them available or not and attach a price list so neither of us waste time.
Regards,
E. Chen.
Item 2: Pressed receipt detailing purchase of packs of violin strings for a variety of violin sizes, rosin, manuscript sheets, and 1 copy of Warlock’s Capriole Suite.
— Excerpt from Singapore Free Press, Thursday, 19 April, 1964
RAGTAG YOUTH STRING ENSEMBLE ‘ADAGIO’ SERENADE CROWD AT BRIGHT PARK
The first youth’s string ensemble concert of the year was held in kampung Potong Pasir’s own Bright Park last evening under the conductorship of local violinist Edward Chen. Despite the showery weather affecting attendance, a sizable appreciative audience appeared to show their support to the ragtag group under Edward Chen’s tutelage.
The program was short and as follows — Elgar’s String Serenade and Warlock’s Capriole Suite .
Even though there were intonation issues, a lack of eye contact, and oftentimes the players were not playing together, the event drew the attention of many to the oft-neglected park and to the idea of a fixed Singaporean Youth Orchestra.
— Excerpt from SAFE Magazine, Monday, 02 June, 2025
Singapore’s Love Is Two Arms Wide — An Insight Into Asian LGBTQ+ Art History And Culture
As Singapore’s Supreme Court begins hearing petitions that challenge Section 377A of the Penal Code—during Pride Month, no less—it is time once again to celebrate queer heroes of our past.
Singapore’s first ever exhibition celebrating queer Singaporean creators opens this weekend at Atelier Tan organised by LGBTQ+ organisation CAFE (Community Action For Equality). Love Is Two Arms Wide runs from 13-18 June and presents 14 historical figures. Featuring artworks, photographs, audio-visual media, music, and personal documents, the exhibition gives voice to moments and experiences faced by the queer elders during formational moments of the Singaporean identity.
The project was 5 years in the making, curator Ray Chen explains, due to the investigative fieldwork required to identify relevant and suitable artists for the project. “For a country where homosexuality has long been oppressed, it was hard to find artists and artworks which dealt with LGBTQ issues. Or even finding queer creators! We spent a lot of time doing research and reaching out to various estates and descendants the moment we had any sort of clue. You don’t know how repressed this country is—and how many people hid—until you really start looking into these things, you know. Some of the works are hiding, and in some other cases, the messages are hiding. We wanted to do our best to give them the justice they deserve.”
Amongst the collection—which boasts art pieces from famous names such as writer Shen Ming Hui and painter Wendy Yazid—is also personal communication sent by the artists across their lifetimes which offer a deeper dive into their psyche and the structure of the world in that point of time.
One of the freshest attractions of the exhibition is a name almost no one expected: Edward Chen. In ‘Love Mortal’, the wing dedicated to music and audiovisual art, Edward Chen’s impact on the western classical music scene in Singapore and recordings of select works are played as background to the treasure trove of letters and other documents that were auctioned off to a single private buyer last year that Atelier Tan in conjunction with CAFE has managed to get to be displayed at the event.
— Excerpt from Atelier Tan’s Love Is Two Arms Wide Exhibition Website
Love Is Two Arms Wide
June 13-18 | Atelier Tan Gallery, Level 1 | Daily from 5pm–7pm
Contemporary art museums, private galleries, and ateliers in major cities worldwide have long been engaging the public in the exploration of various socio-political issues and the human condition by visually representing these topics through artistic approaches. Through art they offer the public a route to apply their theoretical and perceptual knowledge to the discussion of diverse issues and hope to inspire vision for a wider understanding of a world.
Singapore has lagged behind when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights in the past, but as we get ready to take our first step towards equality, Love Is Two Arms Wide hopes to use this historical wave of our time to create dialogue and open up discussions about the diverse issues in society while honouring the artistic achievements and lived experiences of the artists.
Chosen based on their diverse backgrounds in culture, language, geographical location, and ethnicity, 14 historical figures from all across Singapore are showcased. The exhibition represents the life stories and related issues of the LGBTQ+ society searching for its identity in post-independence fledgling Singapore.
Starting from the mid-20th century, Love Is Two Arms Wide invites visitors to re-trace the complex emotions of a budding society at its different points and explore subject matters such as identity, equality, exploitation by mass media, social predicaments, human desire, life, death, and most importantly, love.
LOT 4: 1964 TO 1965
Letter to Xiao Yang Music Store, September 1964—
Mr Yang,
I am doing my best to remain polite, but when a violin I have sent halfway across the country goes missing… I suppose you can understand my concern. BEGGING that you send me an update soon on whether you received it or not — I don’t want to regret the trust I have put upon you in the 6 months that we have been talking.
Eagerly anticipating a response (or a package).
E. Chen.
Letter to Xiao Yang Music Store, September 1964—
IT HAS BEEN 2 WHOLE WEEKS WITH NO REPLY FROM THE FRAUD LUTHIER YOU SUPPORT NOR FROM YOU! HAVE YOU RUN OFF WITH MY VIOLIN????? BRETT YANG WAS I A FOOL TO TRUST YOU?? I WAS CERTAIN THAT WE HAD SOME SORT OF RAPPORT BUILT UP FROM OUR NUMEROUS LETTERS TO EACH OTHER BUT WAS I WRONG???
I am going to report you and your friend to the polie for this scam if i dont get a response soon!!
Sending my most hateful & cursed spiritual energy towards you
Eddy
Letter from Xiao Yang Music Store, October 1964—
Mr Chen – apologies for the long delay. The shop was closed because I was out of station to my kampung on the occasion of the Moon Festival and had some family matters come up. I have sent off your parcel through the priority mail and it should arrive at your place posthaste. Receipt enclosed.
Regards,
Brett Yang
Letter to Xiao Yang Music Store, October 1964—
Brett (I shall dispense formalities as one should after having sent the most hateful and ignorant letter),
1000s & 1000s of apologies. I promise that I am usually not so short on temper (as you must have noticed, I hope, with my prior commmunications with the exception of the last one), but I was worried about my violin. It is the most indulgent object I own and I am rather protective of it.
Unsure of how to apologise and make up to you when you have sent me the most wondrous & lovely package of mooncakes despite my absolutely atrocious behaviour. I am unworthy! I have attempted to have a fruit basket and loveletters delivered to your place and hope they can soften the harshness of my words. (Truly!!! Many many many sorries!! I should have had more faith!!)
中秋快乐!!
Eddy
P.S. Not to excuse myself, but if I could suggest: if you have the money to invest in a type-writer perhaps you can consider investing in a telephone subscription for your store so we don’t have a repeat of this event again. I will be continuing my services with you, but who knows how many customers you will lose out on. Once again sorry!! – Eddy
Letter from Xiao Yang Music Store, October 1964
Eddy – Loveletters and fruits delivered to me safely. You needn’t have sent it. Work staff is most grateful for the present as am I. Have added some cost of the basket to your tab so you have extra credit the next time you frequent my store. The mooncakes were a present, after all, which I spent no extra on since I made them with my mother. I will take your suggestion of a telephone subscription into consideration for when I can finally afford one. Perhaps in repayment of cursing me out, you can send me the title of your favrite piece so I shall have something new to listen to? (If this is too bold of me to ask of you when you are so busy, do ignore.) For equality’s sake, I shall go first: Bach Violin Sonata 2, Andante.
Regards,
Brett Yang
中秋快乐
Excuse misspellings – my mandarin isn’t good BY
Letter to Xiao Yang Music Store, January 1965
Brett,
Your knowledge of the most recent compositions and newest styles of musics never fails to surprise me. Your most recent recommendation – Klavierstüc^ke finally arrived at my house last week and I eagerly gave it a listen.
I really don’t know what to tell you. In an attempt to understand what you so enjoyed about it, I spent hard-earned money on importing publications by a few authors – I am telling you friend, that for once I cannot understand the appeal to it. There is very little musicality in what I heard. Discordant, pointillistic, empty, and unpleasant to listen to! Can you honestly tell me that you would rather listen to a goat banging on the ivories rather than the sumptuous curves of Tchaikovsky’s v.c.? I don’t claim to be the most acclaimed musician – (I am, in fact, still struggling as you very well know by now. This economy is terribly cruel to musicians and to music store owners. I do hope you're not faring too poorly. Once I get a regular supply of income again, I’ll be back to ordering from your store and supporting you.) – but I will once like to play for you. There is much romance to be held in this world that is not shown to you by someone as dull and minimalistic as Stockhausen.
Though unintended, this is a perfect segue into the question I was looking forward to asking. Do you have timeplans for the lunar new year? I have attached myself to a small Toa Payoh-based travelling troupe (not the best, but I do want performance experience) and will be travelling during the new year period to perform in various areas. It would be amazin nice to see you there. I will enclose my schedule when it is set.
In business news Please send forward the following:
- Jean Sibelius – violin concert in D minor, opus 47
- Maurice Ravel – string quartet in F major
- Any vinyl of Heifetz
- A vinyl of Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun with the prettiest covering you can find for it (gift)
Regards,
Eddy
Letter from Xiao Yang Music Store, January 1965
Eddy - 新年快乐 in advance. I will most likely not be available during that time as my mother wants me to go with them to visit our extended family in Changi. If I somehow manage to evade the situation you are most welcome to stay at our flat while you tour. (As your elder, let me give you one piece of free advice: do not have a career in this day and age. Apparently it is a sign for all the aunties in the building to find me a woman of calibre. I am no natural beauty nor particularly fit, but I have had to fend off women left and right recently and wouldn’t wish it upon my most hated enemy. Nothing makes me feel like a prick more than rejecting a gentle woman who was dragged into meeting the likes of me in the first place.)
Send me your schedule when you can and I’ll see if I can use it to my advantage. Perhaps showing my Mum that I have a hapless tourist friend might help.
I have also dispatched your items with the bill enclosed. Hoping your recipient finds the cover for the Debussy vinyl lovely.
Regards,
Brett Yang
Items 1-4: Bus tickets to and from a variety of villages and towns that Edward Chen travelled to. The least damaged one reads ‘Marine Parade.’
Item 5: Handwritten note, undated—
Brett Yang,
[smudged handwriting], Siglap Block 3, East Coast Rd.
Unit 104
Yellowy building
Item 6: A photograph of two men–a young Edward Chen and a young Brett Yang. Both are seated in front of a white wall and smiling at the camera, holding up a violin each. The back of the photograph reads a scribble:
Brett Yang (楊博堯), 1965 – an imp of a man, perhaps the fastest friend I have made
Item 7: A tea-stained postcard with one bar of music labelled as ‘Prelude to…?’
— Excerpt from Classical Insider, Saturday, 14 June 2025
EDWARD CHEN’S MYSTERIOUS BEAU?
With the huge success of Singapore’s first Pride-themed cultural exhibition, Love Is Two Arms Wide, over the weekend, there has been one question on the forefront of everyone’s minds: who exactly is Brett Yang?
Peppered throughout the snaking corridor section dedicated to Edward Chen and his impact on western classical music in Singapore are odd snatches of his private life and sexuality in small missives. While the collection doesn’t feature many letters penned by the elusive beau, Edward Chen’s adoration of him is clear in his own letters.
We at Classical Insider decided to take a deeper look by going through the archives at City Hall to discover more about the mysterious lover who was a solid part of all of Edward Chen’s career.
Brett Yang, born in Taipei and raised and naturalised in Singapore, was the owner of Yang Music Shop for most of his life. The small store based out of the East Coast stood at the juncture of a popular area frequented by many musicians. Known customers of the store include members of the now-defunct Metro Philharmonic Society, the Singapore Music Society, a variety of Singaporean Choirs, and our very own Singapore Symphony Orchestra. Aspiring luthiers and local teachers were also known to, on occasion, rent out the back-room and host their own businesses in conjunction with the actual store.
While there is a fair bit of information on the comings and goings of the store, Brett Yang himself remains shrouded in mystery. Apart from some information on his place of birth and death, little remains known about the lover of one of the best violinists of the turn of this century. However, with the few photos unveiled at the exhibition and the loving tone with which Edward speaks of him? Anyone would be able to fall in love.
— Advertisement in Singapore Monitor, 8 February 1963
FINE INSTRUMENTS & ONE-STOP MUSIC SHOP
Xiao Yang Music Store
小楊音樂店
101, MARINE PARADE ROAD, NEXT TO SIM SI LING PHOTO STUDIO.
PROVEN DEPENDABILITY SINCE 1956
IMPORTED GOODS AVAILABLE AT REQUEST. MAIL ORDERS ACCEPTED.
LOT 5: 1968 TO 1970
Letter to Belle Chen, July 1968—
Dearest sister,
I am plagued by a summer cold and restlessly trapped at home. It is moments like this when I miss living in the midst of the kampung the most—aunty Nur would have brought us something refreshing & cold by now if we were at our old place! Our new neighbours are still struggling with the HDB and we haven’t had proper time to interact. I while most of my time away in the void deck playing to anyone who would listen.
Ma and dad are still not pleased with the gallivanting about I did with the Metro Philharmonic Society. Is it bad that I don’t feel terribly about it? I have auditioned for the Chamber Players and registered for another tour with the M.P.S. (They have even let me play a solo! Can you believe it Belle? Me! A soloist! I even had a chance to have a chat with the esteemed sir Jasc^ha Heifetz!) They will bemoan my decisions, but I am firm on my standing. I am sick of looking at people’s mouths. If touring gives me an opportunity to see the wider world—and perhaps visit you—I will take it. (When will you save up enough to invite me? Have you really gotten married and that’s why you refuse to return?)
Brett is much better. His bout of illness took three doctors and a variety of medication to fix. Luckily for him, his business keeps him afloat well enough that the doctor’s fees were only a small dent on his wallet. We kept in touch through letters & he refused to let me come visit lest I catch whatever he has too. Did I tell you he is getting a private phone line installed? It’s meant to be for his shop, but I am already eager about it. I have been taking long walks to map every single public payphone near me & collecting all my spare change to be able to hear his voice soon. I have mis8ed my friend in these miserable months of illness. Our own phone line is set to be installed next month. Hopefully will be able to call you through that soon as well.
I saw an article about you in last month’s issue of The Strad and remembered your bitter tears before you left. I hope you know how proud I am of you. You blaze paths I would never dare to. Love you, Belle.
I have to rush to post this so that you can have it soon. I’m sending you the banana chips you requested with this parcel too. Hoping they reach you insect-free and crisp. Share them with everyone!
Lot of Love – Eddy
Letter to P. Wei, February 1969—
Dear Patrick,
Imagine my surprise when the first mail I receive from you in over 2 years is a wedding invitation! Congratulations are in order but some ragging too – it’s hard to believe that you of all people have decided to get settled down. No offence meant ofcourse. Your missus is a cultured lady & better than you in that she remembered my existence!
In response to her request: of course I would be delighted to play at your wedding. You don’t need to flatter me by calling me a soloist – I have only played a little bit with the M.P.S. and unlike their actual soloists, I have no formal music education from abroad. I suspect maestro Lee Song-Hiew just has a soft spot for me.
I heard you will be moving into the HDBs near Geylang Serai. I am extremely envious. If you so have the opportunity between all your dealings, I shall give you my friend’s name and address. He has been living in the area for years and is friendly to boot. I know he would have no trouble in guiding you as needed. Take a photo of him and send it to me too – he is a stingy old bastard who hates listening to me.
Wishing you the very best on your journey forward into the marital lifestyle. Don’t forget us poor bachelors later!
Your long-time friend – Eddy
Item 3: Scraps of composition sheets which bear bars of crossed out compositions. The first scrap reads ‘Prelue to’ with no other words following it. It is a composition for two violins and a piano and bears a few sweet chords. (Note: venue will play a recreation of the few bars of music that each scrap contains, unchanged from how the composer intended it.)
Diary entry pages ripped out and stored carefully inside a book—
23 Apr. 1970 — Tired & more tired. Called Brett at 2 today and managed to get him to stay on the line and hum his new attempt at composition for me for a while. Truly! I never thought I was one for these feelings of adoration & fanciful childish delight, but I was proven wrong yet again. In better news: will be travelling to Paris in a month. Belle – angel that she is – has set up some recital opportunities for me and crafted me a loving lullaby woven with our childhood. I have started practising my arse off so I can keep her face when I arrive.
Note: remember to tell Ma & dad that I booked tickets
Note 2: banana chips, sambal, oyster sauce, shrimp paste, 汤圆(?)
Note 3: Debussy violin sonata –
- practice slowly with metronome
- practice against recording
- wrist relaxing exercises, vibrato fixing
26 Apr. 1969 — Brett. He was so wonderfully flustered the last time I saw him in the botanic gardens. Surprisingly plays the violin rather well. Mèditation isn’t my favourite piece but I think I am beginning to like it if he will be the one to play it to me. I spent all of that night overanalysing his expression and working up the courage to hold his sweaty hand – only to fail! Cannot believe he had the gall to tell me he would like to try for a relationship when I was leaving. What romantic flim does he think he is in to throw out a confession in the midst of bus fumes as I am hanging half out of the window?! Will have to surprise him with another visit & ambush the answer out of him.
In terms of violin: struggling with upbow spiccato. Work on wrist and finger exercises. Scales check – Rachmaninoff. Ask Anish about massage parlour.
29 Mar. 1970 — He is truly the most interesting person I have had the pleasure of meeting. Foolish man sent his letter to me on the back of an order sheet because he had no stationery to spare and wanted to write to me before my birthday. Cannot wait to see him again. I heard the neighbours giggling and auntie shaving uncle – oh! How frightfully soft this idea of domesticity in our own honey-stained future leaves me.
Letters to Ensemble Group and Metro Philharmonic Society, August 1970—
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am taking an urgent leave from the current touring season due to family emergencys. Apologising for the abrupt end to this wonderful opportunity you have given me & pray that you won’t hold it against me.
Regards,
E. Chen.
— Excerpt from The Strait Times, Thursday, 13 August 1970
AWARD-WINNING SINGAPOREAN PIANIST BELLE CHEN AND RISING VIOLINIST EDWARD CHEN GIVE UNEXPECTED PERFORMANCE AT BUKIT BROWN CEMETERY
Belle Chen and Edward Chen reunited after decades apart at the occasion of their father’s death, sending him off with a loving original composition penned by the elder sister. The funeral of doctor Chen, held at Bukit Brown Cemetery on the 12th of August, 1970, was attended by his friends and family from all over Singapore.
A gorgeous sonata originally written for violin and piano, Elegy takes the listener on a heart-wrenching and soulful journey. With their combined skills—Belle manning a luscious viola to her brother’s melancholic violin—the Chen siblings brought tears to the eyes of all attendees.
We at The Strait Times express sympathy with Edward Chen and family in their bereavement.
— Excerpt from Ugly & Queer Presse, Tuesday, 8 July 2025
NEW EDWARD CHEN RECORDING IN RAY CHEN’S POSSESSION
Following a series of rather exciting new uncoverings of the life of the famed Singaporean violinist Edward Chen in the past month, a heretofore unseen cassette recording made by the man came into the possession of Ray Chen through a mysterious benefactor.
“I was rather surprised,” Ray says of the event. “The person reached out to me after the Love Is Two Arms Wide exhibition on Monday and asked me if I could verify whether the cassette they had was an Eddy Chen original. I didn’t want to get my hopes up, you know? But I went there anyway and, lo and behold, it was real!”
The recording has been sent to the Chen Estate for verification, and Ray says he doesn’t expect that it will be displayed to the wider public any time soon. When asked if there was anything interesting on the cassette, the curator only offers an enigmatic smile.
“It’s an intimate peek into Edward’s life,” he says. “Sometimes it’s easy to forget that all those letters we saw over the weekend, all that music, was actually made by someone around the same age as…well, me. By a person. The recording was a gentle reminder that no matter how great he might have been considered, he was just like any of us: young, dumb, and in love.”
— Snippet of Eddy Chen Cassette #3, B-Side, Loaned to The Queer Project, Wednesday, June 2, 2032
“Happy biiiiirthday to you, happy birthday to you. Happy biiiiirthdaaaayy deeeear Brett Yaaaaang. Happy biiiirthday to youuu.
“Actually, [laughs] I don't know if this is recording sia. Imagine if it was a waste. [Papers rustling. Sniffs.] I got prepare a small speech because I got so many things I want to tell you, but now that I'm recording this, wa , I damn kancheong. [Papers being set down. Takes a deep breath.]
"Happy birthday again. You're thirty-four, but still not married lah.
“...I can't fix that in this lifetime—not yet lah—but I wanted to do something romantic. Just tahan a while more, okay? Next time I come see you, I will bring a ring.
"You say you want to hear me play live, but i cannot come back yet leh. So......this is for you, [clears throat] sa...sayang."
[Recording continues and ends with Barber Violin Concerto, first movement.]
LOT 6: 1977 TO 1981
Letter to Minjin Cho, 20 September 1977—
Dear Minjin,
안념녕하세요? (I practised my best handwriting for you so you better have appreciated it!) Most grateful for your present - the exquisite bow arrived two days before the inaugural ceremony. (I feel so old, Minjin, with how many orchestras I have been a part of already whether they be amature or not.) I practised my arse off to make sure that the bow was in fine fettle on the day of performance and – lo! With great joy I can let you know that your present is masterfully crafted and was played masterfully with! Maestro Osawa was most pleased with the music tonight and none of us got chewed out too badly. (I came in on the wrong key once, but he forgave me. Safe!)
How are things with you? When are you coming back to visit us? Singapore misses your bright personality, and perhaps I miss it the most. (Don’t tell Brett I said this – he is rather childish these days because of all the time we spend apart. I would have loved for you to meet him at least once. Why must the heavens refuse to let my two circles intersect? With how awfully my family treats my relationship with Brett since I told them, I would have liked having you around as my bodyguard.) Anyways – enough about my whingeing. I hope your husband is doing well. Send him & your daughter my regards.
I had so much I wanted to tell you, but I fear it all looks incredibly boring when I write it down. The only exciting thing has been my appointment to the Singapore Phil. but you already knew that. I also had a small feature in a local newspaper! I don’t mean to brag, but I think they rather enjoy my playing. I’ve been called a soloist so many times even though I know it means nothing on this stage – the classical music scene in this country needs lots of improvenents. I’ve been talking to maestro Osawa and trying to forge connections to be allowed to play outside. Unsure of how it’ll go, but I shall keep you up-dated. Maybe I can find my way to you and visit your family as I’ve always wished. You promised me some delicious food and I damned well intent to eat it.
Belle sends her regards from Paris and has asked for your address, so let me know if you’re alright with that. She wants to send you a small cello poem she’s been working on. (Her success as a musician fills me with so much pride. I hope both of my favourite women in my musician life can work together and give me something great to look forward to.)
Have to send this out to post now if I want you to receive it soon!
Lots of love to you & family – Eddy
Letter to Brett Yang, 25 January, 1979—
Brett,
First order of business: ♡♡♡ these are three kisses for you for what you did in my dreams last night. Missing you terribly, terribly much – I wish I could have joined you in Taiwan and spent time riding up those mountains just to feel your arms tight around my waist (or wrap my own around yours). I hope you’ve been eating well & your family isn’t being too tedious.
In the news you have been awaiting the most: the first performance was today. Singapore Symphony Orchestra – isn’t the name itself grand? I know you have awaited this day with great interest and hope too, so I made sure to cut out all the articles I could find for yesterday’s performance for you to see! (I have taken the liberty to circle myself so you don’t have to search. Yes, I know, the shorter hair looks funny, but alas… I was demanded to cut it yet again. Who even cares about these rules in this day and age?) I don’t know what this means for me yet – but we hardly have anything to do despite the government funding, so I suspect I will continue to do performances where I have the opportunity to. (I was talking to a few friends and conductors I have worked with and they have been of utmost help. Maestro Livijyck in particular has been an absolute pleasure. He treats me as his own son and has said he will attempt to get me an opportunity to play in Finland. Finland! Can you believe it?! From our own playing in our own orchestra which has over 20 ang mohs to getting a chance to play solo in another country? My right arm is bruised from how much I have pinched myself to make sure I’m not dreaming. The chance to travel the world – funded by someone… You know how many of my dreams would come true with this.)
Alas! Enough fantasising about a life that hasn’t happened yet!
I have been busy trying to learn how to make a mild laksa for you from the Malay aunty next to my Ma’s place. She openly laughed at how few chillies I was putting in, but has been very patient and kind otherwise. I have managed to extract an promise that she will cook for you when you next come back & visit me.
In return for the lovely tofu snacks you sent me, I am sending by courier a bottle of sambal as well-packaged as I can make it.
I will do my best to not perish until your return, so promise me the same. (I have been noting down the debt of kisses owed. Be prepared.)
Yours with love – Eddy ♡♡♡
你問我愛你有多深，我愛你有幾分
你去想一想，你去看一看
月亮代表我的心
This will reach you after the New Year but just for tonight, the day you receive this, let’s look at the moon together.
[Note: “You ask me how much I love you, I want you to go outside and look at the moon, it represents my heart.” Lyric from Teresa Teng song of the same name.]
A note on scrap paper enclosed with a dried rose, January 1979—
Eddy – I can’t be there to give you flowers that you deserve on your opening night as a part of the Singapore Symphony, so the ones enclosed with this letter will have to suffice. Most proud of how you are taking shape and growing in front of my owne eyes. Missing you terribly in this city (and will write to you a longer note once I have more time). BY
[picture of dried flowers]
Short note to Brett Yang on the back of a nude photograph of himself, October 1979—
You absolute madman – how I love you! And desire you! You look handsome as anything against that wall. Don’t keep teasing me like this or you’ll come to regret it when I finally do get to see you. Enclosing this to show you how much I miss you as well (and hoping the post master doesn’t catch wind of this).
- E
A hand-written short programme, March 1980—
A private concert to celebrate my dear lover BRETT YANG on the anniversary of his Birthday
- Drei Romanzen - Schumann, performed by Edward Chen & accompanist Chee Jue Ting
- Mélodie - Tchaikovsky, performed by Edward Chen & accompanist Chee Jue Ting
- I Just Wanted To Tell You - Belle Chen, arr. violin, performed by Edward Chen
- Sospiri - Elgar, arr. For violin and piano, performed by Edward Chen & accompanist Chee Jue Ting
- Prelude - composer anonymous, performed by Edward Chen
Letter on torn notebook paper to Brett Yang stained with dried pools of spread ink (tears?), May 1980—
I am terribly, terribly, terribly sorry for the cruelty I bestowed upon you on Friday. I do not want you to perish in solitarry misery. I do not want you to be alone. I want you to live the happiest most fulfilling life you can – whether that is with or without me.
I am begging you to respond back. You haven’t been back at the store and with the S.S.O. taking me so far away from you… My heart can’t rest easy.
Forgive me, Brett. I do still want to live the rest of my life with you: through love & tears & mistakes. I hope you do too.
Awaiting your reply. – Your Eddy
— Excerpt from New Nation, Thursday, 11 February 1982
FIRE TAKES OVER SIGLAP MARKET —
In a startling chain of events, Lunar New Year celebrations went awry once more in a haunting echo of the Kampung Siglap fires of 1962. Blazing along the cramped market spaces, the fire spread along the main street and devoured three stores completely before being stopped at the fourth. Xiao Yang Music Store – a cornerstone of the Siglap marketplace that has been around for over a decade and attained fame by partnering with the various government-funded music groups – sustained the heaviest damage.
Firemen arrived on scene within an hour of the blaze and managed to control it to stop the spread of the fire towards the HDB block nearby. Despite their best attempts, three deaths occured and more injuries which are being treated at the nearby hospitals.
LOT 7: 1983 TO 1984
Postcard to Yena Kim, January 1983—
Dear Yena,
Just a word to let you know that I shall be visiting Seoul in a month’s time with the S.S.O. and hope to see you at Minjin’s wedding. Glad to hear that you & husband are both well.
– Edward
2 loose diary entries—
6 June. 1983 — Finally! Had the opportunity to record a cassette of my own playing! As a soloist! Ever grateful to loving maestro Choew for granting me so many opportunities most would not get. The orchestra plans to sell them to get extra funding so we can go on a wider world tour to Europe. So many people come to watch us play…I am hesitant about being this excited.
Note: buy a cassette for Brett!!
12 July. 1983 — Atrocious and horrible how the HDBs are giving priorities to families. Where are bachelors supposed to find a house in this econommy? Brett has been searching tirelessly for a place to call his own, but the moment he mentions that it will be us living together, people turn their noses up at him. Never have I ever felt so snubbed and looked down on outside of my own family. Not a day goes by that I don’t regret our relationship being judged by people who simply cannot understand. What do they know anyway? Why do these stupid HDBs even reject us?! What will families do that we won’t?
Hateful. We will have to check out places near West Jurong at this rate and hope that we can get space near the choked industrial areas where no one wants to live. Brett is telling me to just buy a bungalow with him, but one of us needs to save for the future. I cannot in good conscience let him handle more of these financial burdens.
Sigh, maybe Ma was right in that I should have chosen to become a doctor like dad. Or perhaps I should have gone to Paris too. Surely Europe is a goldmine for musicians?
Note: ask Minjin about opportunity to perform with the seoul phil. for extra money.
Have to go call Brett now to give myself some peace.
Letter to Jordon He, September 1983—
Dear Jordon,
Hello old friend - I do hope the sunny and bright coasts of southern Spain are giving you the healing and rest you have been searching for. It has been a while since we last talked and I had to find out that you have given up your passion for violin and switched to compositions instead?! My friend! What an amazing transition you’ve made. I have always known that you would make a fine composer and creative as shown throughout our years of schooling together and the boisterous little pieces you have made. (I still remember the opening strains of Cabbage whenever I chance upon the vegetable - the impression you have made in my life is quite lasting. Your ingenuity and naturalness would put you on par with composers of yore, friend.)
I heard that you were being patronised by some rich so-and-so lady in Spain. How absolutely brilliant for you - you are living the true classical musician lifestyle from a bygone era, haha! What do we musicians want more than some money for doing what we love & perhaps someone to love? As you know, I have been fulfilling my life’s little dreams playing with the S.S.O. and have come into contact with many interesting characters as well.
Most recently, I have been requested to compose & perform a little piece for a wife from a certain rich household here. (Shan’t name any names in case they somehow find out.) The sheer audacities I have had to experience! I am a professional musician and to have to hear whinings and complaints about my performance day in and day out! I never claimed to be a composer — rather the opposite in fact — and yet. Brett suspects that it is all a ruse to introduce me to their daughter, but I have seen neither hide nor hair of her any time I have set my foot in the house. Who understands the goings-on of a rich house, is all I can say. Certainly not me. I can only hole myself up and play the same three chords as I try to figure out exactly what they’re looking for. (What household needs their own personal piece? Who will they have it played in front of?)
The things one does for money & love.
Tell me more about what you have been up to Jordon — I fear this turned into my own ranting! I hope your compositional life is going much better than mine is. Will you be returning to Singapore any-time soon or have you decided to settle in China for good? My doors are always open if you come back here.
Say hello to 小 Jiang for me & send her my love.
Hoping to hear from you soon! — Eddy
Letter from Xiao Yang Music Store, July 1984—
Eddy - it seems that, at present, the only way to obtain the urtext edition of the Prokofiev Violin Sonata 2 is through direct contacts based out of Germany or America. Singaporean is at a discount against American dollar (and also the Euro). Since the store is not currently experiencing enough demand, it would not pay the trade to handle the book only for one buyer. I will try to connect with other sellers within our country and see if I can scrounge you up a copy if necessary. Apologies once more.
Sincerely,
Brett Yang
P.S. I have listened to your casset and am reminded yet again of how much your playing styles suits the dark, intimate, mysterious, and satisfying. Can’t wait to hear you live soon BY
P.P.S You sent me some lovely words which I’m afraid to let my mother see, but can’t translate by myself. I have told you that my mandarin is atroucious! BY
Letter to Brett Yang, July 1984—
Dear Brett,
You speak so formally when it comes to matters of your store. Replying in kind: I have yet to find another store as prolific as yours which will provide me everything I need in one place – love & music. As you are struggling with proc^urements, I will wait until you can provide to me again.
How goes the house hunt? I have talked to many a realtor and have come to only one conclusion – i.e., this country only wants families and the rest off us are to die alone. Shall we get married as well? Hold a little ceremony and type up a marriage draft and bring it to show them? Perhaps we will be allowed a nice little HDB in Queenstown where we can live with ourselves & perhaps the dog you’ve wanted. (Am willing to bear the allergies if it’ll make you happy. Don’t think I haven’t seen you yearning for a furry little friend.)
Tell me more about your foray into composition. I know you aren’t confident in your works enough to show me, but I am desperately awaiting a continuation on your Prelude. The sweetest, most dulcet tones… Ah, lover, I want to hear you play it with me one of these days. You need to show me the piece first when you finish it, alright? I demand to be the first one to witness the glory of Brett Yang composing.
Sending you a little surprise for being so patient and loving while I gallivant about all of Singapore (and sometimes out of it).
♡ Hugs & hundreds of kisses ♡ – Eddy ♡
— Excerpt from newspaper, December 1984
OUR OWN RISING SOLOIST: EDWARD CHEN AND THE SPIRIT OF SINGAPORE
With his second international solo recital in hand, violinist Edward Chen makes waves in the European classical music scene with a violin concerto crafted specifically for him by modern Taiwanese composer Jordon He.
While not completely true, Edward Chen is considered by many to be the first home-grown classical musician to come out of Singapore. The reason behind this is simple: Edward Chen’s career has spanned the Singaporean classical music scene through its ups and downs and he has remained loyal to his roots throughout it. His explosive performance of A Lover’s Journey as an encore to his Bach programme at the Royal Bulgaria Hall stunned Bulgarian crowds and elicited a fifteen-minute standing ovation.
The piece by Jordon He depicts Chen and his love for music blooming and growing in spite of all the hardships. At twenty minutes long, the piece is scored for a small string chamber ensemble and solo violin.
— Excerpt from New Nation, Friday, 3 January 1986
EDWARD CHEN TAKING SABBATICAL: LOOKING INTO THE MYSTERY
Loyal followers of the blossoming classical music scene will know that rising soloist Edward Chen has been on a streak in recent years. With four bombastic tours under his belt, what should have been a few more years of international performances has come to a grinding halt as Chen announces a sudden sabbatical.
Attempts to reach out for an interview went unanswered and the reason behind his sudden disappearance remains shrouded in mystery, though many believe it to be because of family issues. Music Director of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Choo Hoey, gave a vague comment when asked.
“Eddy has decided to take a little break and focus on himself and find his musical centre. Now is a good time as any – we at the S.S.O. hope that he comes back to us better than before and ready to conquer new worlds.”
LOT 8: 1986 TO 1987
Postcard to Mama Chen, January 1986—
媽， 您身體還好嗎，左腳還會痛嗎？ 文洲13日會載我回樟宜，我買了跌打酒給您。您還需要我買別的回來嗎？
韋丞 敬上
[Translation: Ma, are you alright? Does your left foot still hurt? Wenzhou will bring me to Changi on the 13th. I bought ointment for you. Do you need me to buy anything else?
Respectfully, Weicheng.]
Letter to M. Kadir, January 1986—
Dear Mr Kadir,
I am writing to ask you about the expected delivery date of the set of framed photos I had ordered as I was unable to reach to you by your business phone. Requesting that you take care of it as urgently as possible – I really need it to arrive at the destination by March 3.
Regards,
E. Chen.
Letter to Annette Lee, February 1986—
Dear Annette,
I fear you were right. I am facing that fatigue that musicians so often do. On the plus side, all the traditional chinese medicine made my legs feel better. Have decided to take your advice and go on a sabbatical to beloved Belle and the city of Paris. Ma was not pleased, but she rarely is these days. Her thoughts on my career and love-life remain heartbreakingly unchanged.
Don’t worry though. I’m doing much better these days, but I am afraid that things will have moved too far ahead and I will be abandoned once again. Practising by myself without the input of another musical ear… By whenever this illness runs its course perhaps I won’t be soloist Edward Chen anymore! Just Edward Chen.
Please check in on Brett a few times – he hates worrying me which in itself is worrying. (He doesn't seem to understand that as long as I don’t see him, I will worry regardless. He worries over me as well! The hypocrisy is too high. I hope your Raphael is better than him in that regard.) An update on how he really is doing would do me good.
I’ll be sending you these fancy dernier(?) stockings that my sister rants about as a bribe, so I expect that you’ll see to him properly. (And a tin of nice biscuits because I do love you.)
Take care of yourself & send love to Raphael for me – Eddy
Letter to Brett Yang, April 1986—
Dear Brett,
Paris is increasingly getting worse without you and so am I. Belle says I have become a tragedy without your good cheer to keep me feeling my best – and as much as I hate to say it, she may be correct! I hope your little cold has fixed itself up and you are on the mend.
My own recovery is going marvellously with sunshine & the fresh air, but the lack of your presence weighs heavily with each passing day. I can finally walk completely properly! (The doctors here have been useful. If pa is still feeling those shakes in his knees, I think it would be best to bring him here next time. At least I have scoped out a hospital for him by now.) I’ve already booked my flight tickets back – I can’t wait a second longer now that I know I can come back to you hale and somewhat hearty.
Have you missed me? Do you want to hold me as eagerly as I want to hold you?
在哪裡，在哪里見過你
你的笑容這樣熟悉 我一時想不起
啊，在夢裡
I know you won’t recognise the song, nor be able to read all the characters, but I wanted to quote it to you anyway. I miss many things these days and your smile the most.
Brett, a part of me is afraid I’ll have forgotten your face, but I’m sure I’ve burned the image of you straight into my retinas with how often I look at the photo you sent me last week. Let’s take more together when I come back. We need to have some prepared for when we finally move into that new house you’ve been talking about.
I will be arriving back in Singapore on the 20th of July. I hope you can be there to receive me.
Ever loving – your Eddy
寶貝, bring a hat on the day. I don’t care how many people will watch! I’ve missed you and that sharp little mouth of yours and I will kiss you. – E
[Note: “Where have I seen you, your smile is so familiar, I can’t remember, ah in my dreams.” Lyrics from Teresa Teng song ‘Sweet on you (甜蜜蜜)’.]
Note from Brett Yang, on paper, undated —
Just the other day I was thinking of all that I have lost and all that I have gained and you, Eddy Chen, love of my dour little life, are one of the things I wish to never lose again.. These past few months without knowing how you were doing, without you in my arms, without your voice in my ears was terrible. The years before that with only snatches of you whenever you were here were even worse.
So here is my promise to you: this will be a house for us to live in and love in and hold each other in where every part of us is welcome as can be. We’ll come home to each other every night and, while I can’t guarantee good food, I can guarantee you good love and patience. I’m sure you’ll still travel the world (and Singapore), but I hope you’ll let me join you. And when you can’t, that this will be where you return.
I’m not that good with the romantic words you so love. I’m trying, OK?
Sorry you have to wait to see me until you arrive. (I feel like I must have definitely underestimated your reading speed.) I just wanted to get the key so we can step into our own space together immediately. We’ve been wanting this for so long and it’s finally here.
Looking forward to the rest of our lifes, sayang – Your Brett ♡
— Excerpt from Pink Newsletter, June 2025 Issue
EDWARD CHEN 2001 KORNGOLD VIOLIN CONCERTO: THE PIECE THAT STOLE A THOUSAND HEARTS
If you’ve followed the Edward Chen Letters saga closely, you know that the violinist’s sexuality and personal life have come under a lot of scrutiny with the Love Is Two Arms Wide exhibition. His personal letters—not to mention the yet unheard cassette recording—to his lover Brett Yang have been the hot topic for almost the entire month. It’s no surprise, then, to hear that many netizens have taken it upon themselves to sleuth through the Singaporean violinist’s various concerts in search of his mysterious beau.
Most recently, a new video was uploaded on YouTube showing grainy footage of the man himself prior to his infamous Korngold Violin Concerto at the Sydney Opera House. The video shows him standing on stage and explaining the concerto, back slightly curved and friendly smile in place as he talks to the audience. Astute fans have pointed out that there appears to be the hint of a necklace peeking through his shirt collar—one which makes multiple appearances after this concert in photographs taken of the violinist. Chen ends the speech with a small smile and a few words which we now know are intimate words meant for his partner, Brett Yang.
“This piece is the pinnacle of romance for me,” he tells the audience with a fond laugh. “I know someone will disagree and call it lukewarm film music. But I hope you’ll attempt to feel what I feel when I play it.”
While we don’t know for sure if Brett Yang appeared on that day, and most sources say he didn’t, what we do know is that performance definitely brought tears to many eyes—including the soloist’s! The encore performance of the first movement of Barber’s Violin Concerto was similarly moving. Ending the intimate atmosphere on an emotionally high note, the performance was given a standing ovation at the Opera House. Another grainy video shows Chen receiving a bouquet of flowers from an unknown source that many—with newfound knowledge—claim to be his beau. While there is no concrete evidence for or against it, the idea of a queer love-story spanning decades is certainly a pinnacle of romance for a lot of us.
If you didn’t have a chance to catch Love Is Two Arms Wide, CAFE will be organising a virtual walk-through tour and will be posting updates about it on their Instagram and Twitter . Make sure to follow them for more updates!