The Full Story
PASAT MERDU
/ˌpɑ ˈsɑt/ - A colloquial hokkien (Chinese dialect) word that means marketplace, specifically the wet market in Singapore
context. Borrowed from the Singapore Mandarin equivalent "ba sha 巴刹", which in turn borrowed from the Malay term
"pasar".
/ˈmər du/ - Bahasa Melayu (Malay) for melodious. Derived from Sanskrit.
The wet market was where people of all ethnicities would congregate for daily necessities. Amidst a cacophony of languages and the bustle of life, the interaction of cultures allowed Singapore to develop our unique identity, one that is still evolving with the times.
We love how the various languages spoken in Singapore have borrowed words from each other. It shows how we have adapted to get along. In this same spirit, we explore musically the richness of our cultures.
At Pasat Merdu, we gather to understand each other, and ultimately ourselves. Who are we? What is our sound?
All are welcome at Pasat Merdu - a melodious marketplace.
Mission
Pasat Merdu aims to deepen intercultural understanding and navigate the Singaporean Sound through education as well as the commission, presentation and the promotion of new works
Vision
A Distinctive Singaporean Sound Presented On The World Stage
Our Founder & Managing Director
Felix Phang is a Singaporean musician, composer, and educator dedicated to blending traditional Asian musical heritage with contemporary Western influences.
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Originally trained in classical violin and trombone, Felix later studied Jazz Composition at Berklee College of Music, where he also picked up the double bass. Since returning to Singapore in 2008, he has led acclaimed projects such as Imaginary Forces, Ark Royal and The Shanghai Jazz Club—performing at local and major festivals around the world. From 2018 to 2023, he also helmed the Music & Drama Company (MDC).
A 2024 National Arts Council Scholar, Felix is currently exploring intercultural music research rooted in Singapore’s diverse soundscape. His compositions have been showcased at the International Jazz Arrangers & Composers Symposium, and he continues to champion local music through Pasat Merdu, the arts non-profit he founded. He also teaches as an adjunct lecturer at LASALLE College of the Arts since 2015.