By: Ms Chew Yi Chien

Mont'Kiara International School (M'KIS) Head of Music & Tri- M Music Honor Society Advisor

M'KIS Middle School students embark on an invaluable musical education journey to Hong Kong, led by music teachers Ms. Chew Yi Chien and Mr. Kevin Pham.

The Mont'Kiara International School (M'KIS) Strings Ensemble's annual music exchange returned to Hong Kong this year with five unforgettable days of music, learning, and connection. Eighteen M'KIS Middle School string and piano students took part in this four-night journey, from 27 to 31 January 2026, experiencing what it truly means to learn beyond the classroom.

The exchange brought our musicians to ISF Academy and Chinese International School (CIS), where music became a shared language. At ISF, our students performed for their peers and took part in joint rehearsals designed for lower middle school level, building confidence, collaboration, and ensemble skills. At CIS, the experience shifted up a level as M'KIS students rehearsed and performed alongside selected high school string players, rising to the challenge of more advanced repertoire and learning what it takes to perform at a higher standard.

One of the most exciting highlights was our visit to the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA). Touring HKAPA gave students a glimpse into future pathways in the performing arts and sparked meaningful conversations about passion, commitment, and what life as a performing arts student could look like.

This exchange did not begin in Hong Kong. Preparation started back in November last year with twice-weekly morning rehearsals, focused score-reading practice, and reflective journals that captured each student’s learning journey. The process encouraged independence, reflection, and growth, closely linking musical learning to the values of M'KIS as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. 

After months of dedication and a week filled with performances, rehearsals, and new experiences, the trip concluded with a full day at Hong Kong Disneyland, a well-deserved celebration of hard work, teamwork, and shared memories.

The M'KIS Strings Ensemble music exchange continues to be a meaningful tradition, inspiring young musicians to grow, connect, and experience the world through music.