Over the summer in 2007 and 2008, the National University of Singapore's Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music played host to young, gifted pianists who were invited from all over the world to take part in the Summer Piano Institute (SPI).

The project was led by the Conservatory’s Head of Piano Studies, Dr Thomas Hecht and Assistant Professor Albert Tiu. In 2008, the SPI welcomed 18 pianists hailing from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Taiwan, Australia and the United States. The students were involved in daily masterclasses and lessons with the SPI faculty, and performed in showcase recitals in the concert hall, culminating in a special Finale Concert at the end of the summer programme.

The Conservatory plans to host the next SPI in December 2010.