JASS’s Albert Chiu orchestrates Singapore’s jazz renaissance through community impact

Albert Chiu, executive chairman, Asia Pacific, EFG International, may be a towering figure in Singapore’s financial world, but his heart takes centre stage when it comes to jazz. 

“My favourite jazz musician has got to be my friend, Jeremy Monteiro!” he declares with a warmth that lights up the room. Monteiro, a household name in Singapore’s jazz scene and a co-founder of Jazz Association Singapore (JASS), is, in Chiu’s eyes, more than just a virtuoso.

“He is not just about the mastery of his art. He is wise — often offering his words of wisdom with a touch of humour. He cares deeply, offering a listening ear to those who may be troubled.”

Their shared passion for jazz began in 2016 and is filled with dedication, a collective dream, and a deep love for the art form. With Monteiro, Dr Edmund Lam, chief executive officer (CEO) and director of the Composers and Authors Society of Singapore, and Susan Peh, CEO of Adsan Law, Chiu laid the foundations to promote jazz in Singapore.

It was an aspiration that materialised and exceeded expectations, becoming a transformative force in Singapore’s cultural landscape.

From modest beginnings to a cultural force

“We started with a modest vision,” the honorary chairman of JASS recalls. “It was about promoting participation, engagement and excellence in jazz. But we soon realised the potential was far greater than we initially imagined. Every outreach means something to us.” 

From its early days, JASS focused on expanding its influence, creating not one but two orchestras — the Jazz Association Singapore Orchestra and the Jazz Association Singapore Youth Orchestra. Establishing these ensembles was a landmark achievement, providing a platform for local musicians to hone their craft while spreading the joy of jazz across the country.

JASS’s influence quickly grew, as did its reputation for staging memorable events that resonate deeply with the community. The annual celebration of United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization International Jazz Day at the Singapore Botanic Gardens is now a beloved tradition.

The same can be said for “Jazz It Up! A Jazzy Celebration of Chinese Songs,” a performance series that merges jazz with Asian heritage, a nod to Singapore’s multicultural identity.

“It is incredibly encouraging to witness our growing impact, especially among the younger generation, whom we are seeing attending our concerts and outreach initiatives. We are truly creating a jazz culture for all,” Chiu affirms.

Beyond the spotlight of major concerts, JASS has also made significant strides in mental health advocacy. One notable achievement was its Silver Ribbon Mental Health Award, presented to the association in 2023 for its “Swinging Through Our Emotions” concert. The performance used jazz to explore themes of emotional well-being, making the powerful connection between music and mental health. 

A commitment to youth and excellence

Chiu’s pride in JASS is not limited to its performances. His passion for mentoring the next generation shines just as brightly. He is heavily involved in supporting youth, not only in the arts but also in sports, specifically golf. 

“Youth is the heartbeat of any society,” he says. “I am fascinated by so many talented young people in Singapore.” Naturally, then, the association’s Music Scholarship programme, launched in 2018, is significant to him. “Some scholars have graduated and are making a mark for themselves,” Chiu says with a fatherly sense of satisfaction.

“Rit Xu has become a celebrated flautist, and Sean Hong Wei, another scholar still pursuing his jazz studies in New York, had his album reach the Top 20 of the USA Jazz Charts. He is one of the first Singaporean musicians to achieve such a milestone.”

Leading with integrity and transparency

Yet, for all the glitter of concerts and accolades, Chiu is a man deeply committed to the nuts and bolts of leadership and governance. As association chairman, his work extends beyond the creative realm to ensure that JASS operates with integrity and transparency. 

“We can only flourish with strong governance,” he states, underscoring the importance of maintaining JASS’s charitable status. The association’s Institute of Public Character status, renewed until May 2027, speaks volumes about its credibility.

Further validation came in the form of the Charity Transparency Award, recognising its efforts in maintaining a high level of accountability.

A legacy of friendship and jazz

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Looking back on the past eight years, “what made this experience truly special was that four friends founded JASS,” reflects Chiu. “Some people might shy away from starting a business with friends, but for us, it worked because we all had the same love of jazz. It was never about personal achievement but about jazz and what we could accomplish together.”

For Chiu, the bonds of friendship that have shaped JASS are as vital as the music itself. As he looks to the future, he remains hopeful about the continued growth of Singapore’s jazz scene. 

“JASS is on a journey of growth. We need to stay true to our vision of building Singapore into a city of jazz to continue creating a positive impact in society. The music genre must continue to stay relevant.”