Dr. Gene Aitken Retires
Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, NUS Deputy President and Provost, announced the retirement of Dr Gene Aitken as Director of the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music.
"I would like to thank Dr Gene Aitken, who has worked so tirelessly and passionately to ensure that the new Conservatory building was completed to the level of performance, functionality and aesthetics that we see today, clearly one of the best facilities in Asia. The success of the Official Opening and Gala Concert also reflect Gene's significant contributions in building the faculty, staff and students of the Conservatory. Having steered the Conservatory through this critical phase of its development, Gene will be retiring from the Conservatory. On behalf of the NUS, I would like to thank him for all his contributions and to wish him the very best for the future."
As Director, Dr Aitken had also focused on integrating technology into the classrooms, building a new wind ensemble - the Conservatory Chamber Winds, developing a recording arts programme and outreach programmes, as well as expanding the faculty. His retirement marks a milestone in his long teaching and administrative career, which includes 27 years as Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Northern Colorado.