I truly appreciate being given the chance to serve as Concertmaster for Shrek the Musical. I feel proud of everyone who participated, especially those in the Pit Orchestra, as we did our best to produce the most exquisite sound for the audience.
Meet Pathways Scholar Braydon W. (’27), who joined ISKL in August 2023. He has a great passion for music, and is proficient in playing the piano, violin, and French horn. Braydon was also the concertmaster for the HS production, Shrek the Musical.
Here is Braydon’s story:
Do tell us more about yourself.
I was born and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I started my first year at ISKL this August, previously studying in a public school called SMK Bukit Jalil. I started playing the violin and piano when I was 8, and I am also a player in the school’s symphonic band, playing the French horn.
What encouraged you to join ISKL as a Pathways Scholar?
I have never anticipated studying in an international school, as I come from a middle-class family. At first, when I knew about the scholarship offer, I just wanted to give it a shot, as it might transform the rest of my school years and even my future career.
How has the process of transition to ISKL been for you?
So far, so good, but it has been challenging to cope with both studies and co-curricular activities in school.
Do you participate in any co-curricular activities at ISKL?
Yes, I do. I am the concertmaster in the pit orchestra for the High School production “Shrek the Musical.”
With this in mind, what are your thoughts on your career pathway?
I plan to pursue music in the future but have yet to find a place I am interested in.
Who or what inspires and influences you?
My mom inspires me a lot; she is the one who introduced me to music from a young age. She was also there for my early years of violin and piano learning.
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL so far?
I just returned from Bangkok a week ago, where I joined the Bangkok International Band Festival held at the International School of Bangkok (ISB), playing the French horn. It was an enjoyable experience to play with 200 people from 11 other international schools in Malaysia and Bangkok.
Can you tell us about your hobbies and interests?
I listen to all music ranges and am a big rock, jazz, and soul music fan. Every time I listen to them, I instantly play it on my violin, try improvising, and come out with my version; this applies a lot to jazz and soul music. Sometimes, I play it with my musical friends at school, jamming in groups of three or four.
I am also a big fan of the English Premier League, and I have barely missed any matches Manchester United plays (who are obviously my favorite club).
What does the ISKL’s vision: know yourself, care for all, and create a better world mean to you?
By joining ISKL, I have a clearer direction of what I want to pursue, as the school offers individualized pathways to serve each student’s abilities and interests. Here, I can mix with students from around the world, creating a calm and harmonious learning environment that bonds us as a big and caring family.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.
