Hsin Yeow’s thoughts: Butterfly Kisses
The most touching song performed at David and Joanne’s wedding was by none other than Joanne’s dad.
Done in a capella style, he sang the lullaby that he used to lull Joanne to sleep during her childhood. Before he began, he wished aloud for a guitar so that there could be some music to accompany him. But I felt music was unnecessary. His baritone voice was so assured, clear and moving that there was no need for adornment.
That spontaneous performance was just one of the many highlights of Joanne and David’s wedding, which was really a two-part celebration. It began two weeks ago in the picturesque island of Bali, and the acclaimed photographer Gabriel Mendes was there as lensman. Gabriel’s photographs not only featured the riotous celebrations that day, they captured the unadulterated joy and happiness on the wedding guests’ faces. It was clear that everyone had a whale of a time in Bali.
Nevertheless, I dare say the wedding reception in Singapore was more moving. Apart from Joanne’s dad singing, there was Joanne’s 15-min speech. Usually, speeches are best enjoyed when they are short, but Joanne had a lot to say, and said it so well I felt like I was part of the family. She knew almost everyone of her guests by name, and had me almost in tears when she mentioned that her “mother cried every day for a week before I left for Hong Kong.”
Despite Joanne’s busy schedule, she found time to put together a great list of songs that had something for everyone, including English classics, Mandarin pop and jazz standards. Bevlyn even sang some French classics, to the delight of David’s parents and friends. Bevlyn and I were accompanied by James and Fabian, excellent musicians who put their unique jazzy stamp on all the songs played that night. I’d gladly perform with them again in a heartbeat.
To Joanne and David: congratulations once again! Thank you once again for being so sporting (e.g. kissing when I asked you to), and dancing to my rendition of “Butterfly Kisses”. It was a privilege to be part of your wedding celebration, and I look forward to meeting you again soon!
Band: Bevlyn, Hsin Yeow, Fabian, James
Thanks, Gabriel, for the lovely photos.
L-R: Fabian, Bevlyn, Joanne, David, Hsin Yeow, James
Repertoire:
Canon In D (First March-in), Besame Mucho, Over The Rainbow, Love Me Tender, The Young Ones, Let It Be Me, Can’t Help Falling In Love, I Will, Words, Forever Love, 爱的就是你 (You’re The One I Love), Something Stupid
La Vie En Rose (2nd March-in), Butterfly Kisses (1st Dance), Fly Me To The Moon, Come Fly With Me, Till There Was You, Douce France, La Mer, 月亮代表我的心 (The Moon Represents My Heart), 至少还有你 (At Least There Is You), New York New York
Compliments from Joanne:
Dear Hsin Yeow and Bev
Thank you so much for singing at our wedding on Saturday. The repertoire was perfect with a bit of everything for everyone. Thank you for indulging me by singing the Lee Hom songs (yes! I am a BIG FAN!!) and for incorporating French songs and oldies too.
Most of all, thank you for your soulful and beautiful rendition of Butterfly Kisses. I loved the way it tied in with my Dad’s speech. It made the entire moment that much more touching, special and absolutely memorable.
My parents totally enjoyed themselves (which was the most important to me) and my mom told me that my uncles had nothing but praises for the band (can you imagine that?! No comments about the food or the venue or the candy corner.. Just the band!!) So kudos to you guys. Please also help us thank the saxophonist and keyboardist who were absolutely fabulous!
I’m now trying to find another occasion to invite you guys to play for us.. =) If all goes well, you might be hearing from me again soon!
I have a photo somewhere that Gabriel took of us with you guys. Will send that over to you once I sort though the photos.
Merci encore!
Jo
Songs To Recommend:
Douce France – To me, this song has the quintessential French flavour, and I can’t wait to listen to it again.
New York, New York – What a marvellously hopeful and joyous song! Not a wedding staple to be sure, but it was a great way to end the evening!
