Starting from 1 June 2024, you won’t be able to use your old EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay cards to pay for public transportation fares anymore.
Additionally, the old EZ-Link cards also won’t work for retail payments.
But you can still use the NETS FlashPay and EZ-Link cards for driving-related payments like Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) and parking fees.
Image Credits: channelnewsasia.com
The Land Transport Authority is moving everyone over to the SimplyGo system by June 2024 since most people are already using SimplyGo EZ-Link or contactless bank cards.
Apparently, about two-thirds of adult fare payments are with one of those options now.
But there’s good news for folks like seniors, students, and those with disabilities who are using concession cards as y’all don’t need to change anything.
If you have an old EZ-Link card, you can upgrade it to SimplyGo at any ticket machine, SimplyGo office, or service center.
You can keep using the same card.
To find out if your card is a SimplyGo EZ-Link card, check to see if you can find the SimplyGo logo/text:
Image Credits: ezlink.com.sg
Anyway, just in case you need reminders, starting at the end of March, the ticket machines will remind you to upgrade your old EZ-Link card when you add money to it.
For NETS FlashPay users, you have 6 months to swap your card for a FREE NETS Prepaid Card from 19 January to 18 July at SimplyGo locations such as ticket offices or ticketing service centers.
Or you can choose other SimplyGo payment methods like contactless bank cards.
For the stored value left on your old cards, you can either use it for other non-transit payments or get a refund.
To qualify, you just need to add your SimplyGo EZ-Link card to the SimplyGo app and then make one bus or train ride.
Easy peasy!
Here are the draw dates so may the SimplyGo force be with you:
Image Credits: ezlink.com.sg
Even if you’re not joining the lucky draw, it’s still a good idea to download the SimplyGo app to check your trips and add money to your card remotely when you need an urgent top-up.
But if you don’t have the app, you can still check balances and trips at the ticket machines.
Just note that since SimplyGo transactions are like credit/debit cards, you won’t see deductions or balances at station gates or on buses, yeah?
And that’s about all we have for you.
If everything written here has been too much for your fried brain to take in, just take heart that staff will be at stations and interchanges to help people upgrade and provide information on how to download and use the app.
Selecting the right piano teacher plays a significant role in shaping your skills, techniques, and overall appreciation for the instrument. When searching for a piano teacher, you should consider their qualifications and experience, which ensure that they can provide both technical instruction and musical mentorship.
Your personal goals and preferences are paramount when choosing an instructor. Whether you’re aiming for classical training, looking to explore jazz improvisation, or simply want to play for enjoyment, it’s important to find a teacher whose expertise and teaching style align with your objectives. A teacher’s capability to adapt to your learning style and the rapport you establish with them will greatly influence your progress and the enjoyment you derive from your lessons.
Understanding Your Goals
When choosing a piano teacher, it’s essential to clarify what you wish to achieve, as this will steer your decision-making process.
Identifying Your Musical Aspirations
You need to determine what kind of pianist you want to become. Whether it’s mastering classical pieces, playing by ear in a contemporary style, or simply gaining a new skill for personal enjoyment, your musical aspirations will influence your choice of teacher.
Classical Training: Look for teachers with a strong background in theory and classical repertoire.
Contemporary Styles: Seek a teacher who specialises in jazz, pop, or other modern genres if that’s where your interest lies.
Hobbyist: If you’re learning for fun, find someone who makes lessons engaging and flexible.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Your progress on the piano will depend on your commitment and the quality of instruction you receive. Setting realistic goals and timelines is crucial.
Beginner: Understand that fundamentals take time. Look for a teacher who is patient and encouraging.
Intermediate: Focus on developing technique and musicality. Aim for a teacher who can challenge you appropriately.
Advanced: Choose a mentor who can refine your skills and potentially offer performance opportunities.
By aligning your goals with the expertise of a piano teacher, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed choice that suits your musical journey.
Evaluating Teacher Credentials
Once you understand what you’re looking to achieve with piano lessons, it’s time to make a list of prospective piano teachers and evaluate them. For Singapore the easiest way is to check the list of piano teachers and schools on SGLessons where you can see teacher profiles, compare prices and reviews, and contact teachers directly.
Assessing piano teachers’ qualifications is as crucial as gauging their teaching style. Ensure the credentials align with your learning objectives and the teacher’s ability to cater to your educational needs.
Assessing Educational Background
Your piano teacher’s educational background provides insight into their formal training and musical knowledge. Look for qualifications such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music, with a specialisation in piano or music education. Advanced diplomas or degrees from recognised institutions indicate a solid foundation in both theory and practice.
Checking Professional Experience
Experience is equally telling of a teacher’s capacity to impart skills effectively. Determine how long the teacher has been instructing and what levels they cater to, from beginners to advanced students. A history of nurturing students to complete examinations or performances can reflect their competence in teaching.
Recognising Accreditation and Affiliations
Accreditation and professional affiliations, such as membership in a music teachers’ association, signal a commitment to industry standards and continuous development. Confirm the teacher’s Grade 6 Practical and Grade 5 Theory credentials from recognised music examination boards like the ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) or Trinity College London.
Considering Teaching Style
The teaching style of your prospective piano teacher significantly affects how you will learn and progress. It’s essential to find one that complements your learning preferences and goals.
Matching Teaching Philosophies
Your musical aspirations should align with your teacher’s philosophical approach to instruction. A teacher who views music education as a strict discipline may suit you if you’re aiming for professional performance levels. Conversely, if you seek to enjoy and explore music in a relaxed setting, seek out a teacher with a more flexible and supportive philosophy.
Assessment of Communication Skills
Evaluate how effectively a teacher communicates. You’ll benefit most from a teacher who articulates concepts clearly and listens to your questions and concerns. During an initial discussion or trial lesson, pay attention to:
Clarity: Are the teacher’s explanations comprehensible and precise?
Patience: Does the teacher allow you time to process new information?
Feedback: Is the critique provided constructively and in a manner that you find motivating?
Exploring Teaching Methodologies
A variety of teaching methodologies can influence your learning progress and enjoyment. Here are a few you may encounter:
Traditional: Emphasises reading music and technique.
Suzuki: Focuses on learning by ear and mimicking before reading music.
Alexander Technique: Aims to reduce physical stress and improve ease of playing.
Consider which method resonates with your learning style and will help you achieve your musical objectives.
Practical Considerations
Take into account logistical aspects that will affect your learning experience. These include where the lessons will take place, when they are scheduled, and the financial commitment involved.
Location and Accessibility
Consider the location of your piano lessons. You want a site that is easy for you to reach, whether it’s the teacher’s home, a music school, or your own house if the teacher offers home visits. Accessibility is crucial to maintain regular attendance and reduce travel-related stress.
Music School: Access to more resources; might be further away
Online Lessons: Cheap, convenient; limited feedback from a teacher
Lesson Scheduling and Flexibility
Your schedule and the teacher’s availability must align. You need a teacher who can offer lessons at times that suit you.
Fixed Schedule: Consistent; less flexible
Flexible Scheduling: Can adapt to changes; could be less structured
Cost of Lessons and Payment Terms
Be clear about the cost for your piano lessons and how it aligns with your budget. Teachers might charge per lesson, per term, or have different rates for varying lesson lengths. Also, understand the payment terms—whether it’s in advance, per session, or on a monthly basis.
Cost Per Lesson: S$40 – 100 (30-60 minutes)
Bulk Payment: Discounts for term payments
Cancellation Policy: Understand penalties or notice periods
Remember to discuss these aspects in detail with any potential teacher to ensure their suitability and to avoid any hidden surprises.
Trial Lessons and Interviews
Trial lessons and interviews are pivotal in this quest as they provide a platform for mutual assessment between you and potential piano teachers.
Arranging a Meeting
To set up a trial lesson, reach out to prospective teachers with your availability, expressing your desire for an introductory session. Ensure this meeting occurs in the teaching environment, whether it’s their studio or a music school, to give you a sense of the learning atmosphere.
Contact Method: Preferably via email or telephone, providing a personal touch.
Scheduling: Propose several dates and times to increase the likelihood of finding a suitable slot.
Preparing Interview Questions
Prepare a list of specific questions to ask during your trial lesson or interview to understand the teacher’s approach and see if it aligns with your goals. Your questions might include inquiries about their:
Qualifications: Ask about their educational background and teaching certifications.
Experience: Explore their experience with students at your level of proficiency.
Teaching Style: Get insight into their method of instruction and whether it complements your learning style.
Expectations: Clarify what they expect from their students in terms of practice and progress.
By methodically approaching trial lessons and interviews, you forge a path to a rewarding educational relationship with the right piano teacher for you.
As we usher in the Lunar New Year with festivities and fresh beginnings, we think fashion-forward ladies would love to say hello to the mandarin collar top, a style that’s making a comeback for CNY 2024.
For those who adore mixing and matching without breaking the bank, we’ve curated a list of chic mandarin collar tops, each priced at $49.90 or under.
Whether you’re hopping between reunions or hosting a festive gathering yourself, these tops are sure to add a dash of classiness to your CNY wardrobe while keeping the spirit of the season alive.
Channel your inner screen siren in this modern take on the traditional Chinese qipao.
The Rui Qipao Curved Hem Top features a cropped fit and curved hem that flatters the figure, while still paying homage to the signature silhouette with knot details and mandarin collar.
Made from a breathable cotton blend, this top adds festive flair to your wardrobe this season. Simply pair it with your favorite bottoms and shoes for an effortless ensemble. The concealed zip and functional front knots ensure an easy yet secure fit, allowing you to move easily as you go about visiting in this updated version of a cultural icon.
Next, we have this adorable cheongsam top that channels vintage charm with modern comfort.
Frog buttons and a mandarin collar give it a traditional Asian flair, while the soft rayon blend jersey material feels oh-so-cozy against your delicate skin. The unlined design allows for maximum breathability on balmy Singapore summer days, while the slightly stretchy fabric offers the right amount of comfort after those CNY kueh feasting.
Simple yet stylish, this number adds a touch of cultural flair to your wardrobe while providing the easy, carefree wear you need this CNY.
This Veronique cheongsam top is the epitome of old-world grace with modern panache.
The cap sleeves and mandarin collar with marble buttons evoke timeless styling, while the concealed back zip ensures easy slip-on wear. Crafted from lightweight polyester, this top boasts fluid movement and comfortable all-day wear without sacrificing its silhouette.
Don it on to channel a vintage vibe infused with contemporary cool blue. Whether over jeans for a day out or with cigarette pants for cocktails, this cheongsam top brings understated charisma to any ensemble while keeping you stylishly covered.
Want to bloom in festive floral jacquard patterns that are fiercely feminine and exclusively designed in-house? Then this top was made for you.
The premium jacquard fabric and mandarin collar with side keyhole closure detail bring classic charm, while the cropped fit and concealed back zip keep it modern. Pair it with the matching Yuan Jacquard Slit Midi Skirt for a complete floral ensemble that’s apt for CNY.
The lined cotton-poly blend bodice ensures comfort and ease of wear, so you can strut in style over the bai nian period.
Here’s another floral blouse that blooms with style.
The cropped satin top features a modern Mandarin collar with a side tie for an adjustable waist. The lovely floral print adds a touch of festive cheer that’s lovely for Lunar New Year celebrations.
Fully lined for modesty, wide sleeves offer ease of movement while you chase the kids, nephews, and nieces around. Made from a polyester blend, this blouse is lightweight yet durable enough to wear again and again. Slip it on to make any outfit pop with color.
Last but not least, we have this qipao top that evokes the spirit of Chinese gardens in full bloom.
Its silk embroidery depicts whimsical flora and fauna abounding in a chinoiserie wonderland. Pastel pink and blue threads bring oriental fans, Chinese cranes, and springtime blooms to life against the embroidered brocade backdrop.
Functional pankou knot buttons allow you to channel your inner empress as you walk the garden path. The light and airy blend of silk and pastel threads ensures comfort while you immerse yourself in this oriental fantasy brought to life through the skill and passion of the artisans who created this top.
As the fireworks light up the night sky and the songs of CNY fill the air, your fashion choices should be as auspicious and delightful as the celebrations themselves. With these mandarin collar tops, each under $49.90, you’ve got the right mix of style, tradition, and value to take on the festivities. From gatherings to street struts, your CNY ensembles will be a harmonious symphony of culture and contemporary chic. So go ahead, play the match-up game with confidence, and step into CNY with an outfit that’s as fabulous as the fresh start it heralds. May your style be as booming as the year ahead!
TWG Tea is ringing in the new year with a collection that is sure to delight tea enthusiasts.
In their latest offering, they have curated a selection that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also symbolizes good fortune and prosperity.
We’ve explored this collection and handpicked our favorites priced at $50 and under, believing they hold the power to bring you all the luck you need in 2024.
This magical blend of white tea promises to lengthen the brevity of your existence. The tea features a high percentage of precious silver tips, known for their longevity-boosting antioxidants.
Steep the light, fragrant leaves for a sip of timeless flavor, combining the delicate flavors of white teas with the age-defying properties of classic blends. Simply pour 95°C water over 2.5g of tea leaves per cup and infuse for 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the leaves and savor a cup that aims to extend your time on this earth, at least for a little while longer.
This lustrous tin box evokes the romance of an antique tea shop with its glossy hand-painted numeral 8 design.
Reminiscent of 18th-century toleware, Secret Tea Tin Eight can hold up to 100g of your finest tea leaves, protecting them from light, air, and humidity. As no two tins are alike, this artisanal container boasts deep rich colors and a beautiful finish achieved through TWG Tea’s unique and ancient craft of hand painting each tin individually.
Secret Tea Tins are available in ten variations numbered one through ten, just in case you’ve got a personal lucky number that’s not 8 😉
This gorgeous Saturn Tea Tin in bright red awaits your finest loose-leaf teas. Handcrafted from a durable material blend, this tin showcases an original design inspired by the celestial beauty of the Milky Way.
At 50g, it provides just the right amount of space to store your favorite afternoon or late-night brews in style. The glossy finish and high-quality construction ensure your tea stays fresh for many uses to come.
Before using, simply rinse the tin with warm water and mild soap to maintain its lustrous shine and pristine condition. Fill it with your best black, green, or herbal teas, and heighten your tea time ritual with this artisanal accessory, ideal for any tea connoisseur’s collection.
Next up, we have the Jade Dragon Tea that unleashes an epic adventure for your senses.
The golden leaves unfurl to reveal an intense infusion with hints of sweetness that linger on the palate. When brewed at the perfect temperature of 70°C, this blend of majestic green teas awakens the dragon within, filling your being with its invigorating essence.
With its aroma and flavor, this Jade Dragon Tea transforms an ordinary gathering into an experience worthy of the Chinese New Year celebrations. Brew a cup and impress your guests with its marvelous complex notes that bewitch the spirit.
Step into a world of wonder and delight with Ali Baba Tea.
This magical green tea blend shimmers with the golden promise of riches, like the words of the legendary tale that inspired its name. Gleaming wild strawberries highlight the forest berry and coconut notes that tantalize the palate, lingering long after each refreshing sip. Brew a cup and transport yourself to a realm where treasure awaits around every corner.
Simply pour 95°C water over 2.5g of the tea leaves per cup and infuse for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the leaves and savor as the luxurious green tea blend awakens your senses and transports you to a place where wishes come true.
And to round us up, this limited-edition green tea ushers in the Lunar New Year in grand fashion.
The pale emerald leaves infuse into a refreshing cup imbued with notes of fragrant mandarin orange, bringing good fortune and vitality. A slightly modern take on the traditional exchange of mandarin oranges as a CNY symbol, this tea embodies strength while remaining refined and uplifting.
Exquisitely packaged in an emerald-green collectible tin adorned with a golden dragon motif, Grand Dragon Tea welcomes the Year of the Dragon with prosperity and pleasure. Brew a cup at 95°C to welcome good fortune into your home.
As we conclude our exploration of TWG Tea’s New Year Collection, we are left with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the possibilities that 2024 holds. These carefully selected teas and tins, priced at $50 and under, not only offer a sensory experience but also serve as a gentle reminder to savor the simple moments in life. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or simply seeking a touch of luck in the new year, TWG Tea’s collection is THE companion you need at your start to the new year. So brew a hot cuppa, embrace the warmth and aroma, and let the flavors transport you to a year filled with prosperity and endless possibilities. Cheers to a lucky 2024!
Give your cheeks a pop of irresistible color with this Invincible Reds blush refill.
The matte apricot shade blends seamlessly into your skin for a powerful yet natural-looking flush of color. Layer it on for added definition or use a blush brush for a subtle wash of glow. Whatever your style, this blush works hard to boost your look and infuse your complexion with natural radiance. The pressed powder formulation ensures long-lasting wear so your cheeks stay tinted all day, while the silky-smooth texture feels featherlight on your skin.
A timeless shade for both day and night, this blush refill is a must for any makeup bag.
Draw on the powerful energy of the dragon year with Shu Uemura’s Invincible Reds Collection Hard Formula Eyebrow Pencil.
This best-selling seal brown eyebrow pencil effortlessly shades, draws, and colors your brows to perfection with its Japanese naginata-blade tip that enables you to draw natural hair-like strokes one by one.
The formula, made with a blend of powder, wax, and oil, glides smoothly over foundation for an effortless application while maintaining a long-lasting finish that stays put all day. With its calligraphic dragon design that summons good fortune and strength, this eyebrow pencil helps you draw brows that frame your face with fierce and stylish energy, making every day feel like a lucky one.
Experience invincibility with this luxurious lipstick. The creamy whipped texture glides on effortlessly for buildable color while the alluring aroma of Hinoki wood energizes and revitalizes.
The limited-edition calligraphy-inspired Dragon pack includes two special shades to help you rediscover your inner strength and confidence (RD 177’s almost selling out!). The nourishing formula features a Camellia Japonica Seed Oil blend that pampers lips with moisture as the rich pigments saturate for an alluring color that lasts for hours.
Slip into invincibility with this indulgent lipstick that awakens your spirit and brings out the dragon within.
Or if you prefer matte ones, these limited-edition matte lipsticks bring festive shades and dimensional color to your lips.
Created with Shu Uemura’s innovative Kinu Matte technology, the formula delivers an intense matte finish with a soft light-reflective effect. The oil-infused formula locks in moisture for up to 12 hours of comfortable wear while Camellia Japonica Seed Oil nourishes your lips.
Take your pick from two show-stopping shades—one bestseller and one exclusive to this collection—that will add a playful pop of color to your look this Chinese New Year and the days beyond.
Next up, we have this limited-edition dragon-inspired Petal 55 foundation brush from Shu Uemura that allows you to paint on your liquid foundation for a flawless, streak-free finish.
The extra soft, synthetic bristles blend and buff foundation into your skin, blurring pores and imperfections for a seamless, airbrushed look. The shape offers a comfortable grip and allows you to use the wide end for broad strokes on the cheeks and chin, and the tapered end for precise application around eyes and nose.
Embrace the artistry of Shu Uemura with this unique Petal 55 foundation brush, now featuring a calligraphic dragon design that adds a touch of “dragoness” to your makeup routine.
Last but not least (and the most expensive one of this lot), we have this legendary make-up remover that takes cleansing to the next level.
Formulated with 75% skincare ingredients including nourishing Rice Bran Oil and anti-aging Panax Ginseng Root Extract, it removes impurities, makeup, and long-lasting foundation with just 3 to 4 pumps, without stripping skin moisture.
Its cleansing oil formula works wonders on even the most stubborn waterproof and smudge-proof eye makeup, leaving skin refreshed, clean, and supple. Infused with natural oils, this two-in-one formula helps sweep away the day’s dirt and grime while nourishing your skin with a dose of hydration.
Say goodbye to dry, tight skin and hello to a youthful-looking complexion that’s prepped for your favorite serum and moisturizer.
As we celebrate the arrival of the year of the dragon and well into Chinese New Year, Shu Uemura has gifted us with a limited edition Lunar New Year beauty collection. So, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or surprise a friend or loved one, consider the items listed above! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get into the festive spirit and change up your beauty routine with the touch of elegance that Shu Uemura can provide. May your new year be filled with prosperity and beauty!
