The UNSW Society of Orchestra and Pipers (SOAP) is the student-run collective associated with the university’s Large Instrumental Music Ensembles (LIME), namely the UNSW Orchestra and UNSW Wind Symphony. It was established during Colin Piper’s reign as orchestra conductor, hence the use of ‘Piper’ in the name. ‘Piper’ also alludes to brass and woodwinds.
Supported by Arc@UNSW and the Music Performance Unit, our goal is to be an accessible platform for music performance, engagement and sharing. We hold regular events for our members to help increase ensemble cohesion and hope to bring people together through their love of music.
Who should join SOAP?
All past, current and future members of UNSW Orchestra and UNSW Wind Symphony are invited to join SOAP. We also encourage those completing a Bachelor of Music at UNSW and anyone interested in joining a music community to become involved.
What does SOAP do?
SOAP holds a number of social events throughout the year. Notable ones are the annual Cruise and the Ball. On a smaller scale, we often have bowling/board game nights, bake sales, and there's always a concert afterparty. We also have a Discord server for fun online events, such as games nights, movie nights, or online performances. Drop by to meet some like-minded musicians and make some lifelong friends!
2025 SOAP Executives
Ernest Quah, President
Hello, I'm Ernest, honoured to be SOAP's President! I'm currently in third-year studying Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Relations & Music Studies) and Bachelor of Laws. Since primary school, I've been playing percussion in the Wind Symphony & Orchestra, and now I'm excited to lead UNSW's largest Music Society!
Alex Yuen, Vice-President (Wind Symphony)
Hi everyone! I’m Alex, and it’s an honour to serve as the Vice-President of Wind Symphony this year. I’m in my first year, studying Master of Construction Project Management and Master of Property Development. I’ve been playing the French horn for many years, and I’ll be performing in both the Wind Symphony and Orchestra. I’m excited to contribute to the vibrant musical community here at UNSW SOAP!
Any enquiries regarding Wind Symphony, such as commitments, openings, or apologies, may be directed toward the VP for Wind Symphony.
Josh Chan, Vice-President (Orchestra)
I'm Josh, and I have the honour of being Vice President of Orchestra. I'm studying electrical engineering and music is my biggest stress relieving outlet. I play horn in UNSW Orchestra, but I also play piano and have played percussion and piano in orchestras previously.
Any enquiries regarding Orchestra, such as commitments, ability requirements, openings, or apologies, may be directed toward the VP for Orchestra.
Parsa Rahmanseresht, Secretary
Hey! I’m Parsa and I'm excited to be taking on the role of secretary for SOAP 2025. My main focus will be to handle the club’s administration to keep everything running smoothly. I’m an avid violinist and am in my second year studying mathematics and computer science. I hope to see you around at rehearsals and events!
Ethan Yan, Treasurer
Hi everyone, I’m Ethan and I’m thrilled to be SOAP’s treasurer for 2025! I’m currently in my second year of studying Medicine and I’ve been playing in the violin section since primary school. It’s great that I can be part of UNSW SOAP in university to keep it going, hope to see all of you in Clancy auditorium this year!
Joean Sun, Arc Delegate
Hi, I’m Joe! I can’t wait to get involved in this exciting community and work with others as an Arc Delegate. I’m currently in my second year of Science and Computer Science, and I play the violin in the orchestra. I hope to see you at SOAP events and look forward to you joining us!
Patrick Yang, Marketing and Events Coordinator
Hey guys I’m Patrick and I’m SOAP’s Marketing and Events Coordinator for 2025. This year will be my second year doing Actuarial Studies and Commerce and I play the violin in the orchestra. I will be very happy to see you guys be a part of the society.
Marissa Chu, Welfare Officer
Hi, I’m Marissa and I’m the Welfare Officer for SOAP 2025! This will be my second year studying Commerce and Law, and my second year playing in the UNSW Wind Symphony. Music has been one of my favourite ways to connect with new people and make friends since I started playing percussion in primary school, and I’m really excited for another great year of SOAP!
Contact
Email: societyoforchestraandpipers@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UNSWSOAP/
SOAP is partially funded by Arc, which allows us to host all these incredible events and keep bringing you exciting opportunities.
If you haven’t already, please sign into spARC and make sure to officially join SOAP.
Get in touch with us online, by phone or in person.