Alumni News | Top music festival brings alumni back to campus

We have been fortunate to welcome the Association for Music in International Schools (AMIS) to the International School of Beijing, to host the prestigious organization’s Orchestra Festival for middle and high school musicians. The arrival of our AMIS friends from February 12 to 15 was extra special as the group included Cindy Bulteel, once a member of faculty at ISB and now AMIS Associate Director.   

 There were 140 student musicians on campus from around 30 schools across Asia. All the students had gone through a rigorous audition process to be selected for the event. The two guest conductors – Avery Waite, who led the middle school orchestra, and Kira Omelchenko, who led the high school group – brought out exceptional music and performance talent.   

 We celebrated 11 ISB Dragons playing in the festival, and we also extend congratulations to Sam Wu. As a student at several of our peer schools, Sam took part in AMIS festivals. He has gone on to be an acclaimed musician and composed Eagle Huntress, a piece played at this AMIS event.  

Exclusive interview with Cindy Bulteel  

From ISB to AMIS: A Journey in Music Education  
“In 2019, I transitioned from teaching at ISB to becoming Associate Director at AMIS. My ISB experience shaped my approach to music education through festivals, student preparation, and fostering a love for music. At AMIS, we support music education in all international schools, and run auditioned and non-auditioned for students from grades 4-12 and professional development for teachers.”  

Reflections on the 50th AMIS Festival  
“Returning to ISB for the 50th AMIS Festival was like coming home. A standout moment was reconnecting with a former student who I taught in Grade 5, now performing at the festival.”  

 Legacy at ISB  
“A memorable ISB experience was the High School orchestra concert at the National Center for Performing Arts in Beijing, where we collaborated with a local school. I also fondly remember working with Elementary students, particularly the fifth-grade advanced strings in the Elementary School shows.”  

 The Evolution of Music Education  
“Music education helps students develop collaboration, discipline, and emotional expression. It’s concerning that some schools are prioritizing subjects over the arts, even though music is a core subject and plays a vital role in a well-rounded education.”  

 Looking Ahead in Music Education  
“At AMIS, we’re focused on refining our approach, expanding opportunities for students, and growing our network of music educators. There are exciting plans for volunteer opportunities and building an alumni base.”  

 A Full Circle Moment: Sam Wu’s Reflections  
Sam Wu’s journey from AMIS student participant to becoming a renowned composer exemplifies how ISB’s music program and AMIS festivals shape students’ creative paths. Seeing his piece Eagle Huntress performed at the 50th AMIS Orchestra Festival was a special full-circle moment.  

Sam told us he would encourage students to trust their personal voice and persevere through challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience in a music career.  

Website: https://www.samwumusic.com 

YouTube: youtube.com/samwumusic  

Bilibili: space.bilibili.com/3546699792386377