Nusantara Orchestra

Discover the Meridian Nusantara Orchestra, a unique Performing Arts CCA that brings together the rich sounds of the Angklung, Kulintang, and Gamelan Ensembles.

Last updated 29 July 2026

About Us

Students playing and exploring traditional percussion instruments including drums and xylophones, with a group photo in red uniforms.

SYF Arts Presentation 2025 (Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble)

Meridian Nusantara Orchestra (MNO) – Where Tradition Meets Innovation!

Step into the world of rhythm, culture, and creativity with the Meridian Nusantara Orchestra (MNO) a one-of-a-kind Performing Arts CCA that brings together the rich sounds of the Angklung, Kulintang, and Gamelan Ensembles.

What makes us truly special?

MNO is the only orchestra that plays traditional Indonesian gamelan instruments tuned to the international diatonic and chromatic scales, allowing a harmonious fusion of traditional and Western instruments. The result? A uniquely Singaporean sound with a global touch — vibrant, dynamic, and full of heart.

Through exciting performances and meaningful collaborations, MNO members grow not only as musicians but as confident, disciplined, and resilient individuals who know the power of teamwork and expression.

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just curious about exploring new sounds, MNO welcomes you to discover music like never before — and be part of a tradition that celebrates both heritage and innovation!

Schedule and Venue

Tuesdays and Thursdays - 2:45pm to 5:30pm

All trainings will be conducted in Music Room & Art Gallery.

Teachers In-Charge

Ms Ng Yi Qing (Overall IC)
Miss Veronica Lee (2IC)
Mdm Norzalina Bohari
Mdm Nordiana Daim
Mr Dzakirin Azfar Bin Mohamed Herman

Instructor

Main Instructor / Conductor

Mr Shaik Khalil Mohamed Yusuf

Assistant Instructors

Mr Muhammad Razin Bin Mohamed
Mr Muhammad Fariz Bin Adbul Rashid
Mr Muhammad Hariz Bin Mohammad Azhar

Achievements

The Meridian Nusantara Orchestra, comprising Angklung/Kulintang Ensemble and Gamelan Ensemble, has been the pride of the school. Their quality performance has garnered top awards in the bi-annual Singapore Youth Festival (SYF).

Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble

SYF Arts Presentation 2025 – Certificate of Distinction
SYF Arts Presentation 2023 – Certificate of Distinction
SYF Arts Presentation 2021 – Certificate of Distinction

Gamelan Ensemble

SYF Arts Presentation 2025 – Certificate of Distinction
SYF Arts Presentation 2023 – Certificate of Accomplishment
SYF Arts Presentation 2021 – Certificate of Accomplishment

Group in blue traditional costumes poses before SOTA School of the Arts Singapore sign at Singapore Youth Festival 2025.

Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble

Group of students in matching uniforms posing in front of the School of the Arts Singapore sign with festival signs.

SYF 2025 - MNO GAMELAN ENSEMBLE

Students in blue uniforms play traditional xylophones on a concert hall stage, led by a conductor, at Meridian Secondary School.

SYF Arts Presentation 2023 (Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble)

Gamelan ensemble with musicians in traditional attire performing on a wooden stage with gongs and percussion instruments.

SYF Arts Presentation 2023 (Gamelan Ensemble)

Highlights

2026

Sec 1 CCA Experience

Students in uniforms sit on a wooden floor playing traditional gamelan instruments including metallophones and gongs.

Sec 1 CCA Experience

The Sec 1 CCA Experience gave students a warm and engaging introduction to MNO. Senior members guided them through a typical training session, helping them feel welcomed and at ease. Through patient guidance, the Sec 1 students discovered that picking up musical skills can be both manageable and enjoyable. The seniors taught them simple keynotes, enabling everyone to come together and play a short musical piece, building confidence and excitement for their musical journey ahead.

School Exchange with Opera Estate Primary School

Students in red and white uniforms play traditional instruments including xylophones, bamboo angklung, and drums in a school setting.

School Exchange with Opera Estate Primary School

The school exchange with Opera Estate Primary School was a meaningful celebration of music and connection. Students from both schools performed pieces, sharing their talents for appreciation and enjoyment. Our MNO members guided the junior musicians, sharing musical knowledge in a supportive and engaging way. Through this interaction, students bonded, built friendships, and grew in confidence. The exchange not only enriched their musical experience but also carved a promising path for future collaboration between both schools.

2025

Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025

Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025

The Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble delivered an outstanding SYF performance, earning a well-deserved Certificate of Distinction. With poise, absolute focus, and seamless synchrony, every note reflected their dedication and discipline. Their performance was not just technically impressive, but deeply expressive – instilling a strong sense of pride in all who watched. A truly remarkable showcase of teamwork, musical excellence, and passion.

Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025 - Gamelan Ensemble

Musicians playing gamelan instruments on a concert hall stage with bold gold text reading SYF 2025 GAMELAN.

Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025 - Gamelan Ensemble

The Gamelan Ensemble captivated the audience with a stellar SYF performance, that also earned a well-deserved Certificate of Distinction. With remarkable precision, unity, and control, the ensemble delivered a rich and immersive musical experience. Their disciplined coordination and nuanced expression brought the music to life, reflecting countless hours of dedication and teamwork. A performance of such artistry and excellence is truly a source of immense pride for the school.

SYF Showcase@Esplanade

Three photos of a traditional outdoor performance with performers in red and blue costumes playing gamelan instruments before a crowd.

SYF Showcase@Esplanade

Embracing the theme of SG60, “Building Our Singapore Together”, the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) 2025 Celebrations presents a performing arts showcase that aims to strengthen community bonds and inspire youth engagement, fostering a sense of shared identity and collective future. The Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble proudly showcased their talents at Kaleidoscope, the SYF showcase held at the iconic Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. A standout highlight of the performance was the lively interactive segment, where audience members were invited to try the angklung and play along to the familiar tunes of the beloved National Day song, We Are Singapore. This engaging moment transformed the performance into a shared musical experience, creating a joyful and immersive atmosphere that resonated with all.

School Exchange with Hougang Secondary School

Three photos show students in blue uniforms playing traditional percussion instruments and posing as a large group on a stage.

School Exchange with Hougang Secondary School

MNO’s school exchange with Hougang Secondary School was a meaningful and enriching experience for all involved. Students actively learned from one another, sharing musical knowledge, exchanging tips on their respective instruments, and gaining fresh perspectives on performance techniques. Beyond honing their skills, the exchange fostered new friendships and strengthened bonds through a shared passion for music. Such experiences not only build confidence and collaboration, but also nurture open-mindedness, communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for diverse musical practices.

2024

School Exchange with Haig Girl’s Primary School

Students in uniforms playing traditional gamelan instruments including drums, xylophones, and hanging gongs indoors.

School Exchange with Haig Girl’s Primary School

As part of their VIA service, MNO took on a meaningful role in coaching and mentoring the Nusantara Orchestra students from Haig Girls' School as they prepared for their SYF performance. Our students guided their juniors with patience and care, sharing musical techniques, rehearsal strategies, and performance tips. This experience was mutually enriching. The Haig Girls’ students gained confidence, skills, and a deeper understanding of ensemble playing. Our MNO members, on the other hand, developed leadership, empathy, and communication skills. The programme also strengthened ties between both schools, fostering a supportive musical community built on collaboration, mentorship, and a shared love for music.

Hari Raya Community Performance

Three photos of a group of young people in traditional attire playing and posing with wooden xylophone-like instruments.

Hari Raya Community Performance

MNO was honoured to be invited to perform at the Hari Raya celebration hosted by Pasir Ris Central Community Club. Set against the heartfelt theme “Nostalgia Raya”, the performance evoked cherished memories of the past through familiar tunes and expressive melodies. The event was graced by Desmond Tan, Grassroots Adviser to Pasir Ris Central GROs, adding to the significance of the occasion.

It was truly an honour to perform for the residents, whose heartfelt appreciation and warm support uplifted and inspired our musicians. Through this meaningful experience, the ensemble not only celebrated cultural heritage but also strengthened their connection with the community through the shared joy of music.

Our CCA Experience

Boy in red shirt sitting on wooden floor playing traditional barrel-shaped drums in a school music room.

My time in MNO has been a truly meaningful journey that has helped me grow as a leader. Through participating in various activities and taking on responsibilities, I developed important skills such as communication, teamwork, and confidence. My instructors also played a significant role in this journey, guiding and supporting me every step of the way, which allowed me to improve continuously.

These experiences gave me the courage to step up and lead others, eventually leading me to take on the role of Head Chairperson of the CCA. I am truly grateful for how MNO has shaped me into a more confident and responsible leader.

Mohamed Ariel Syahmi Bin Mohamed Herni (3-5)

A smiling girl in a red polo sits on a wooden floor surrounded by several traditional drums of varying sizes.

MNO is my second home. Everyone in MNO is incredibly inclusive and welcoming.

I remember when I first joined MNO in Secondary 1, the teachers and seniors were patient, supportive, and caring.

Through MNO, I learned to lead by example and take initiative. As the newly appointed Vice Chairperson, I have learned to lead the CCA and communicate more effectively with the members of this big family. I also learned to take initiative and work closely with our Head Chairperson, Syahmi.

Beyond developing my musical skills, I have grown to be more responsible in handling the instruments and more attentive to my teachers and instructors.

Queaisyah Binte Mohammad Zaki (3-6