Taipei American School | 800 Zhongshan N. Rd., Section 6, Taipei, Taiwan | blueandgoldonline.org | VOLUME XXX, ISS. 01 | March 12, 2024
NEWS
FEATURES
SPORTS
Taylor tours Japan
Seniors host art exhibitions
IASAS comes to TAS
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Music Goes to SAS By Katrina Fu (‘24) The Interscholastic Association of Southeast Asian Schools (IASAS) Music Convention will happen March 1 to 3. Delegates representing Taipei American School (TAS) will travel to Singapore American School (SAS). This year’s music convention stands out compared to previous years due to its unique plans. For the first time, students are preparing for three distinct components of the convention. The first component involves crafting their own solo pieces, which are oftentimes accompanied by a piano. These solos will be performed and adjudicated at the festival by expert musicians in their respective areas. The next component focuses on engaging students in chamber ensembles. These ensembles involve collaborative efforts as students play together within their specific domains. These ensembles are in preparation for the third component: the festival ensemble, a collaborative project where students from all IASAS schools unite. During this festival ensemble, there will be a guest conductor guiding and conducting the students, fostering students’ teamwork and connections beyond their school community. “The festival prioritizes collaboration and growth over competition, creating a unique and special experience for all participants,” Ms. Andersen said. In addition, three students deserve recognition for their exceptional character. Despite focusing on their individual piano solos, these students are also actively preparing to accompany their peers during their performances, a testament to the supportive environment within the music team. “We have three piano students that really show great character in how much they give up for the people on the music team,” Ms. Andersen said. Ultimately, for March’s IASAS convention, each student is expected to perform at least one solo and one ensemble piece, specifically a chamber ensemble piece. Depending on the ensemble type, vocal students may learn two pieces, while students participating in the large ensemble may tackle four to six pieces. This year’s convention is planned to be extensive, with lots of teamwork and learning, providing a rich experience for all involved.
The Best MRT Station: Our Journalists Weigh In By Katherine Ma (‘24), Victoria Hsu (‘24) & Aiden Shen (‘27) Zhongshan At Zhongshan Station, convenience meets a bustling cityscape. The junction for the city’s red and green lines is home to a wide array of eateries, the underground Taipei City Mall and three above-ground shopping centers. After grabbing lunch at one of the local cafes or roaming the malls, visitors can wander around the back-alley streets. From thrift shops to boutiques, there is something for everyone. In the evening, musicians and dancers perform right outside of the station’s primary exit, showcasing their talents to onlookers. And just a few minutes’ walk away, people can take a break from the bustling streets to browse
booths selling treats and antiques that are set up in a small park area. Zhongshan has Xinyi station’s shopping experience with a more local feel, making it one of the trendiest stations in Taipei. Jiantan Despite its unassuming name, Jiantan Station boasts a multitude of activities to choose from. The station itself is nothing special, but popular attractions like the Taipei Performing Arts Center and Shilin Night Market sit just outside. Inside the Taipei Performing Arts Center, visitors can find art installations, performances
and restaurants to enjoy with family or friends. The building itself is an innovation in architecture, with a ball that hangs precariously out the side of the building. A little further down the street, visitors can hike up the Jiantan Mountain Hiking Trail or visit historic buildings like The Grand Hotel and the National Martyrs’ Shrine. The location of Jiantan Station allows visitors to explore an assortment of both new and old Taiwanese city life, making it one of the most underrated MRT stations. Taipei Main Station Taipei Main Station is the heartbeat of the capital, and with four different railway lines
spreading to all parts of the island, it’s hands down the best metro station. The structure of the station itself is iconic with its curved temple style roof, sitting over a food court with the best mochi in town. The station is a hub of transportation, housing two metro lines and rails from the local train to Kenting to the High Speed Rail to Taichung. The station also has an Airport Express allowing access to the airport in 45 mins by train. Further from the station is Taipei’s only three star Michelin restaurant, Le Palais. Offering a wide selection of Taiwanese and Cantonese cuisine, this restaurant is one of the best on the island.