Daniel Ku started playing the flute since he was 6 years old, first with his school band and then with Mr Julius Baker (Principal Flute, New York Philharmonic Orchestra), Mr Samuel Baron (Flute, New York Woodwind Quintet) and Mr Andrew Lolya (Principal Flute, New York Ballet Orchestra).
Upon returning to Singapore, Daniel played for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra for 2 concerts and was with the Singapore Wind Symphony (SWS) from 1993 – 2005. He had performed in the Netherlands, Norway, Thailand, Hong Kong and Australia with SWS. He appeared as a guest player with the Asian Youth Orchestra in 1999. Together with SWS, he represented Singapore in the World Music Competition in 1993 and 2001 and won First Prize with Distinction.
Daniel has taught flute and music theory in music schools in New York City and Singapore since 1989. His greatest achievement was turning a group of underachievers into high scorers in music theory. One of his flute students eventually graduated with a PhD from New York University. Two of his flute students in New York City achieved near perfect score in Grade 5 Flute Practical Examination after spending 6 months with him. Daniel is comfortable in teaching young children and the young at hearts.
Besides wind music, Daniel enjoys orchestral works, chamber ensemble and 20th century music. He constantly seeks out new compositions to perform.
Daniel holds a Master of Education (Gifted Education) from Nanyang Technological University. Concurrently, he also holds Licentiate Flute Performance Diploma (LRSM), Licentiate Flute Performance Diploma (LTCL), Licentiate Flute Teaching Diploma (LTCL), Licentiate Flute Performance Diploma (L.Mus.A) and Associate Flute Performance Diploma (A.Mus.A) from the Australian Music Examination Board.
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