Posted on

Filipino Pianist Rowena Arrieta Returns for PPO Concert VI: Homecoming this March 14

Laureate pianist Rowena Arrieta makes a triumphant return to her homeland with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) for the highly anticipated sixth installment of its 40th concert season. Dubbed “Homecoming,” PPO Concert VI shares the warmth of home through musical brilliance on March 14, at 7:30 p.m. at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

The much-anticipated comeback of Rowena Arrieta

 Arrieta will be playing Franz Liszt’s Totentanz (Dance of Death) in PPO Concert VI: Homecoming. Composed in 1849, the dramatic piano and orchestra work is based on “Dies Irae (Day of Wrath)” from the Requiem Mass. Arrieta will showcase her world-class technical skills through the piano variations of “Totentanz”.

Truly a Pinoy Pride

Arrieta was hailed the “youngest and most promising of 82 contestants” in the prestigious Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow. After winning the competition’s Fifth Prize and Special Prize in 1982, she received the title “Laureate”. To this date, Arrieta is the only Filipino to attain this honor.

One of the first graduates of the Philippines High School for the Arts (PHSA), Arrieta received her Master’s Degree from the renowned Moscow State Conservatory. She received the highest honors under the tutelage of Russian National Artist Yevgeny Malinin in 1985. While in Russia, she also earned a degree in Russian Language Pedagogy. She later pursued Professional Studies at the Manhattan School of Music as a student of Dr. Solomon Mikowsky and as a recipient of the Elva Van Gelder Memorial Scholarship.

Arrieta’s accolades include being one of the Ten Outstanding Women in the National Service (Philippines, 1989), Presidential Awards in Performance (Philippines, 1978–1979), and Second Prize as a songwriter in the 1979 Metro Pop Music Festival (Philippines).

Since 1990, Arrieta has been a faculty member of the National Piano Teachers Guild (USA). She was then inducted into the Hall of Fame of the U.S. National Piano Teachers Guild in 2009.

PPO CONCERT VI: Homecoming Takes Flight

 The PPO Concert VI: Homecoming unfolds with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, a renowned violin and orchestra work inspired by George Meredith’s poem of the same title. Composed in 1914, the piece portrays the image of a lark in flight. In “The Lark Ascending,” Vaughan Williams makes use of sweeping melodies to evoke a sense of freedom.

PPO guest concertmaster and artist-in-residence Diomedes Saraza Jr. will perform this exquisite work, highlighting its emotional depth.

PPO’S Artist–in-Residence Diomedes Saraza Jr. Joins Concert VI: Homecoming 

 Before becoming PPO’s guest concertmaster and artist-in-residence, Saraza Jr. was a 3-year-old playing the violin with his father. His formal training began at St. Scholastica’s College in Manila. Through a full scholarship, Saraza Jr. received his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from The Juilliard School in New York.

At 19 years old, Saraza Jr. was the first Filipino Outstanding Academic Achievement awardee of former U.S. President Barack Obama’s Education Awards Program. He then pursued a Master of Musical Arts degree as a full scholar at Yale University. At Yale, he received the Brodus Erle Prize and successfully debuted at Carnegie Hall with the PPO.

Musical Tales of Home

The PPO Concert VI: Homecoming concludes with Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, an orchestral arrangement of unforgettable moments from the composer’s ballet “Swan Lake”.

An evening of exquisite musical storytelling, PPO Concert VI: Homecoming holds a diverse repertoire that transcends time and borders. Under the baton of Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, this unmissable concert harnesses music’s power to shape and preserve cultural identities.

Tickets for PPO Concert VI: Homecoming on March 14 are priced at Php 3,000, Php 2,500, Php 2,000, and Php 1,500. They are now available online via TicketWorld. To enjoy up to a 25 percent discount, be a PPO subscriber. You may also email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Box Office at +63931-033-0880 for ticket concerns.

For updates on PPO’s future performances and CCP events, follow the CCP and PPO’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph for updates on future masterclasses, performances, and other events.

#CCP #PPO #RowenaArrieta #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Creativity Takes Center Stage at Rhythm and Hues: A Two-Day Celebration of Art and Innovation

February 2025 — Rhythm and Hues transformed Ayala Malls Solenad 3 into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation on February 1-2, 2025. This highly anticipated two-day celebration marked the 22nd anniversary of Life n’ Arts, bringing together students, professional artists, and art lovers for an unforgettable experience filled with live performances, hands-on workshops, and breathtaking exhibits.

As a pioneer in nurturing creative talent, Life ‘n Arts provided its students with a powerful platform to showcase the skills they had honed throughout the year. But this wasn’t just about the students—it was about the magic that happens when fresh talent meets seasoned expertise. By blending youthful enthusiasm with the wisdom of professional artists, the event became an inspiring testament to the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.

From the moment attendees stepped in, they were immersed in a world of artistic wonder. The exhibit space buzzed with creativity, displaying stunning works from students and local artists—each piece telling a unique story. Meanwhile, interactive workshops, from bear painting and oil pastels to crochet and resin-making, invited participants of all ages to unleash their inner artist.

The energy on stage was electric. Spectators marveled at everything from graceful ballet performances to high-energy hip-hop battles led by the renowned Philippine Allstars. Young talents from Kids’ Lab Dance Studio brought infectious enthusiasm, proving that creativity has no age limit.

One of the festival’s most thrilling highlights was the Battle of Canvas, an adrenaline-fueled, on-the-spot painting competition where artists raced against time to create stunning masterpieces. As the brushstrokes came to life, the air filled with the sounds of acoustic sets and rhythmic drumbeats, creating a sensory experience that blended sight and sound seamlessly.

Life ‘n Arts 2025 22nd Anniversary event.

The event culminated in a heartwarming awards ceremony, recognizing the hard work and dedication of the participants. Reflecting on the event’s success, Life ‘n Arts Nuvali owner and mentor Lerma Julian shared her excitement: “Rhythm and Hues was a testament to the creativity and hard work of our students and professional artists. It’s inspiring to see how this event brought people together, giving our students a platform to share their skills and passion while creating lasting memories for the community.”

With an incredible turnout of both participants and spectators, Rhythm and Hues was more than just an event—it was a celebration of artistic collaboration and the power of creative expression. By seamlessly blending student and professional artistry, Life ‘n Arts once again proved its unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and innovation.

As Life ‘n Arts commemorated 22 years of empowering young creatives, Rhythm and Hues stood as a shining example of its mission: to create spaces where art, music, and dance bring communities together, proving that creativity has the power to inspire, connect, and transform.

For updates on future events and programs by Life ‘n Arts, visit their official Facebook page facebook.com/lifenartsofficial.

#RhythmandHues #LifenArts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Asian Cultural Council Philippines Celebrates 25 Years of Supporting Filipino Artists

The Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation (ACC Philippines) celebrates 25 years of solid commitment to nurturing Filipino artists and fostering cultural exchange. To mark ACC Philippines’ silver year are a series of special events beginning with its much-anticipated annual Asian Cultural Council Auction set to take place on February 22, 2025, at 2:00pm at Leon Gallery.\

The fundraising auction directly benefits the ACC Philippine Fellowship Program, which empowers Filipino artists by providing opportunities to engage in apprenticeship programs, pursue research and studies, participate in international collaborations, and learn from esteemed mentors and experts abroad. These initiatives align with ACC’s overarching mission to advance international dialogue and cultural exchange, fostering mutual understanding and respect across cultures.

Since 1963, when ACC started giving grants to support artists in their self-exploration and development through cultural exchange in the United States and/or intra-Asia, the growing list of Filipino artists who have received the ACC fellowship grant continues.

ACC Philippine Grantees

Nine Filipino artists and art specialists representing Visual Arts, Theater, Literature, Conservation, and Art Criticism are the recent additions to the roster of ACC’s outstanding fellows and alumni all over the world.

Currently on their ACC fellowship are dance artist MARIA PATRICIA BERNAS who is pursuing her Master of Science in Dance Movement Therapy at Sarah Lawrence College in the United States; theater arts practitioner AINA RAMOLETE who is pursuing her MA in Puppet Arts at the University of Connecticut; Literary artist PADMAPANI PEREZ who is conducting her research in India; visual artist ARCHIE OCLOS is conducting his research in Coney Island; dramaturg and educator SIR ANRIL TIATCO is training on dramaturgy in New York; curator and critic JOHN ALEXIS BALAGUER is also in New York for his research on exhibition writing and art criticism. Conservation specialist PETER JOHN NATIVIDAD has just returned from his fellowship in Japan for his research on the techniques used in the mounting and seismic control system of display and storage in museums; while theater artist TONI GO and stage writer and director JOSHUA LIM SO are set to leave in July for their New York fellowship.

Through the years, ACC is proud to have supported almost 300 exceptional alumni, some of them have become revered National Artists such as Jose Joya, Lucresia Kasilag, Lamberto Avellana, Alejandro Roces, Francisco Feliciano, Jose Maceda, Kidlat Tahimik, Ramon Santos and Alice Reyes. They are joined by icons of contemporary art and some of the most promising young creatives of this generation. From the year 2000, grants were supported and sustained through the fundraising projects of the ACC Philippines Foundation Trustees and the donations from ACC sponsors and benefactors.

The ACC Auction, with Preview starting February 18, 2025 at 6:00pm, has become a highly anticipated event in the art and cultural community, bringing together esteemed collectors, patrons, and art enthusiasts to support a meaningful cause. Among the important pieces up for bid are by ACC alumni, starting with 1967 ACC Fellow and National Artist JOSE JOYA, 1968 ACC Fellow, Gawad CCP Awardee and Father of Philippine Conceptual Art ROBERTO CHABET, and ACC 2012 Fellow RIEL HILARIO. The proceeds from the auction will help sustain the foundation’s grants program, ensuring that Filipino artists continue to have access to invaluable learning and growth opportunities on the global stage.

Join us in celebrating this milestone and supporting Filipino artistry. For more information on the auction, visit www.leon-gallery.com. To know more about the ACC and how to support its programs, visit www.asianculturalcouncil.org

#ACC #LeonGallery #auction #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Exhibition of Antique Jewelry at Cuartel de Santo Domingo to Celebrate National Arts Month

This antique jewelry showcase is merely the first of many exciting activities planned for the year. As July 2025 approaches, Cuartel de Santo Domingo will proudly celebrate its 20th anniversary as a National Historical Landmark, alongside Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc.’s milestone of 25 years of enriching the community through culture and heritage.

 

In a dazzling homage to National Arts Month, the Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo proudly hosted an extraordinary exhibition of antique jewelry at the historic Cuartel de Santo Domingo, dubbed the “Intramuros of the South,” on February 13.

As visitors entered, they were transported into an enchanting world of elegance and artistry, where each piece of jewelry sparkled with the whispers of history. The collection showcased a breathtaking array of craftsmanship, rich culture, and deep-rooted heritage. Each stunning item glowed with the unforgettable tales of artisans lost to time, revealing the incredible skill and passion that breathed life into these exquisite creations.

This one-day event was not just an exhibition; it was a vibrant celebration of artistic expression and the timeless legacy embodied in these extraordinary treasures. These magnificent artifacts have been lovingly preserved through generations, nestled in the heart of this iconic landmark, steeped in history.

Ms. Gemalin Batino (left, standing) with her dedicated team members at Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo.

Behind this captivating jewelry exhibition was the dedicated team at Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo, led by the inspiring Ms. Gemalin Batino. Their collective passion shone brightly, as each member played a pivotal role in unveiling this marvelous collection to the public.

Antique jewelry exhibition at Cuartel de Santo Domingo in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

This antique jewelry showcase is merely the first of many exciting activities planned for the year. As July 2025 approaches, Cuartel de Santo Domingo will proudly celebrate its 20th anniversary as a National Historical Landmark, alongside Kilusan Cuartel de Santo Domingo Inc.’s milestone of 25 years of enriching the community through culture and heritage.

For more information, like and follow https://www.facebook.com/cuartelph

#jewelryexhibit #CuarteldeSantoDomingo #nationalartsmonth #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

CCP Pasinaya 2025 Open House Festival expands its two-day program nationwide

The Philippines’ largest multi-arts event, the CCP Pasinaya Open House Festival, returns bigger and better than ever, featuring an exciting new component and an expanded audience reach. The festival will take place on February 1 and 2, 2025 at various venues nationwide under the theme “CCP Pasinaya 2025 Open House Festival: Para sa Lahat!,” in its 19th edition.

This year, CCP Pasinaya will serve as the vibrant launch event for the National Arts Month 2025 celebration, setting the stage for a month-long tribute to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.

In partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), this year’s National Arts Month aims to engage audiences from all walks of life, inviting them to explore, support, and celebrate the dynamic and flourishing arts scene across the country.

With the country’s leading cultural institutions collaborating, CCP Pasinaya will not only showcase Filipino artists but also foster a deeper appreciation for how the arts shape the nation’s identity and cultural landscape, unite communities, inspire creativity, and preserve its rich traditions.

The festival also extends its reach to new regional partner sites, including Clark (Pampanga) collaborating with Clark Development Corporation, Batangas Province (Batangas), Himamaylan (Negros Occidental), and Sorsogon City (Bicol). It also makes a highly anticipated return to Iloilo City headed by the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) and Tagum City (Davao del Norte) with the Musikahan sa Tagum Foundation, Inc. This is in partnership with the networks of the CCP Kaisa sa Sining.

In Metro Manila, the CCP Pasinaya will unfold across multiple venues such as Circuit Makati, The Metropolitan Theater, Intramuros, Aliw Theater and various partner museums and galleries, offering a vibrant celebration of Filipino arts and culture.

“The CCP Pasinaya has always been a celebration of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines. As we mark its 19th edition, we are excited to expand the festival’s reach and bring more inclusive, accessible, and engaging experiences to audiences across the country. With new regional partners and innovative components like the Palaro, Pasinaya 2025 promises to be a grander, more vibrant showcase of Filipino artistry for all to enjoy,” said CCP President Kaye C. Tinga.

Favorite components – Palihan, Palabas, Paseo Museo, Palitan, Pagtitipon, and Pamilihan – bring together a diverse mix of art groups and individual artists from across the Philippines. They offer over 200 performances, workshops, and activities showcasing the best of music, theater, dance, visual arts, films, and literature.

In Palihan, the public can participate in workshops of various art disciplines conducted by leading artists, resource persons, and experts. Palabas is all about performances featuring the CCP resident companies such as the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, the Bayanihan National Dance Company, the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, and the Madrigal Singers, along with professional, amateur, and community-based artists and arts organizations.

Meanwhile, Palitan is an arts market where pre-registered participants can pitch their productions and other contents to prospective producers from here and abroad; while CCP Kaisa sa Sining regional network members converge in Pagtitipon. Paseo Museo gives audiences a hop-on, hop-off tour of the partner museums and galleries in Manila and Pasay cities.

A new highlight of this year’s Pasinaya is Palaro, which features the final output of the CCP Game and Comics Development Grant awardees that showcase Philippine mythology, simulation with iconic Filipino heroes, exploration of Philippine landmarks, puzzles, and story-driven adventure.

“The addition of Palaro to this year’s CCP Pasinaya is a groundbreaking step in celebrating the intersection of art, technology, and creativity,” said CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis N. Marasigan.

With its See-All-You-Can, Workshop-All-You-Can, Network-all-You-Can, Pay-What-You-Can scheme, the CCP Pasinaya anticipates an audience of over 50,000.

For more details on Pasinaya and other CCP events, check out the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and its official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

#Pasinaya #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

PPO Concert IV: ‘Europa’ blends world-class Filipino talent with the elegance of Europe

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra—the country’s leading music ensemble—kickstarts the new year with the fourth installment of its 40th concert season, dubbed “Europa,” on January 17, 7:30 pm, at CCP at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.

PPO’s Concert IV: ‘Europa’  features world-class violinist Aylen Pritchin. He performs the elegant and diverse sounds of European classical music, playing works by master composers Zoltan Kodály, Peter Tchaikovsky, and Antonin Dvořák. Among the world’s most sought-after violinists, Pritchin is known for his versatility in contemporary music performances of both period and modern instruments.

Under the baton of PPO music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the concert will open with Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, bringing audiences on a melodic journey to Hungary. A homage to the composer’s hometown, the 1993 folk-inspired masterpiece Dances of Galánta allowed Kodály to display his extensive skills as an ethnographer and musical pedagogue through its spiritual tunes.

Pritchin will also perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto No. 1. This masterpiece successfully held Tchaikovsky’s burning love for Russia through its majestic Canzonetta. When Tchaikovsky finished composing the piece, it was to be performed first by Leopold Auer and Karl Davydov in a concert at the Russian Musical Society in St. Petersburg in 1879. But the performance didn’t push through after the musicians declared it too difficult to play.  For years after its composition, the concerto gained a reputation as unplayable (following failed attempts by Iosif Kotek and Emile Sauret) until violinist Leopold Damrosch successfully performed it in a New York concert in 1879.

The PPO’s Concert IV: Europa concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, an inspiring composition celebrating the beauty of nature. The surroundings of Dvořák’s country house in Vyoská inspired his masterpiece in 1889. In merely 18 days, he completed the symphony’s sketch and finished its scoring in Prague. With its striking and colorful thematic ideas with varying Czech flavors, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 premiered in 1890 as part of his induction into the Czech Academy of Science, Literature, and the Arts.

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

Through PPO’s 39th Concert Season, dubbed “Forte,” the CCP continues to honor its commitment to showcasing and promoting world-class Filipino artistry while providing unique cultural experiences to its audiences. The concert season runs until April 2025.

Tickets for PPO concerts are priced at Php 3,000, Php 2,500, Php 2,000, and Php 1,500, available at TicketWorld. Be a PPO subscriber and enjoy up to 25 percent discount. To purchase a PPO’s 40th concert season subscription and other inquiries, email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880.

For more updates on PPO’s future performances, follow the CCP and PPO’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts. You may also visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph for news on future concerts, masterclasses, workshops, and other events.

#PhilippinePhilharmonicOrchestra #Europa #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Embrace Fresh Perspectives with the ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series: ‘Machine of Thoughts’ Exhibit at Conrad Manila

Gallery C presents an immersive group exhibit that challenges perceptions and celebrates the intersection of art, architecture, and innovation.

 

Conrad Manila welcomes the new year with the unveiling of its latest art exhibit, “Machine of Thoughts”, as part of the 33rd edition of the hotel’s acclaimed Of Art and Wine series. Featuring 53 dynamic works by five prominent artist-architects from The Authenticity Zero Collective (TAZC): Cocoi Base, Gab Brioso, Almi Domingo, Walther Ocampo, and Robin Ravago, the exhibit invites viewers into a thought-provoking exploration of form, space, and human interaction.

“Conrad Manila is committed to championing local artists and fostering creative diversity through our Of Art and Wine series of exhibits at Gallery C. In the new year, we are particularly excited to introduce a dynamic line-up of six exhibits, starting with “Machine of Thoughts’, which will offer our guests a fresh perspective through immersive and unconventional art, and ignite conversations about the evolving relationship between humanity and the material world,” says Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.

Displayed at Gallery C from January 7 to March 8, “Machine of Thoughts” breaks conventional artistic boundaries through non-representational expressions. Each artwork stands as an autonomous creation while contributing to a larger evolving dialogue—a metaphorical “machine” generating new concepts and ideas. The exhibit challenges viewers to reassess preconceived frameworks, biases, and attachments to historical or cultural narratives.

The official opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony graced by distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Guest of Honor and art curator Nestor Jardin, and the featured artists of TAZC.

Front [L-R]: Nestor Jardin (Art Curator/ Guest of Honor), Peggy Angeles (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Executive Vice President), Elizabeth Sy (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, President), Fabio Berto (Conrad Manila’s General Manager) Back [L-R]: Robin Ravago (featured artist), Walther Ocampo (featured artist), Cocoi Base (featured artist).
Art enthusiasts and guests are invited to experience “Machine of Thoughts” at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C, where all artworks are available for purchase. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s art collection, along with the exclusive privileges and personalized experiences for a luxury stay, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +632 8833 9999.

 About The Artists

 Cocoi Base

Cocoi Base is an architect and visual artist based in Bicol. His works are visual concepts of structures, machinery, spaces, events, and projections of how things can be, should have been or as it is, condensing each subject to its barest and most basic form until only the essential geometries, composition and color emerge.

Gab Brioso

Gab Brioso is a designer, artist and an architect who thinks about design holistically. He holds an architecture degree from the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde and a master’s degree in fine arts from the Philippine Women’s University. He is currently teaching in De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Asia Pacific College, and in Ateneo de Manila University.

Almi Domingo

Almi Domingo is an architect and visual artist. He is a graduate of Technological Institute of the Philippines-Manila and a product of the MetaArch Program 2016 of The Brown Bauhau Alternative School of Architecture + Design. His exploration uses etching technique of acrylic sheets resulting to a dynamic interplay of bold geometric elements.

Walther Ocampo

Walther Ocampo is an architect, visual artist, and a pedagogue. For him architecture and art should act together in an alchemic platform so as to produce a more poetic and authentic environment. In both architecture and art, he explores new aesthetic and theoretical directions through speculations, oppositions, diagramming, and re-constructions. This system manifests in his drawings, paintings, sculptures, and installations. He is currently an assistant professor in the architecture program of the De La salle-College of St. Benilde.

Robin Ravago

Robin Ravago is an architect and artist based in Manila. His works revolve around the formal qualities of objects and its potential relationships – explored through drawings, photographs, installations, and objects. He holds a degree in architecture from the De La Salle College of St. Benilde. He is currently teaching architectural theory and design in the architecture programs of Asia Pacific College and De La Salle College of St. Benilde.

#ConradManila #GalleryC #MachineofThoughts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

PPO’s Concert III: Fantasy Explores Depths of Human Emotions

Violinist Diomedes Saraza Jr. took music lovers on a journey of imagination with the third installment of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO)’s 40th concert season, held last December 6, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

With his 1972 French violin by Eugene Guinot and Rene Morel (given by Standard Insurance), Saraza Jr. captivated audience with his exceptional skill and artistry on the violin as he effortlessly met the virtuosic demands of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius’ Violin Concerto op.47, D minor.

One of the most challenging in the repertoire in the classic music scene, Sibelius concerto premiered in 1904, with violin teacher Victor Novàček as soloist. With lukewarm reception during its premiere, Sibelius rewrote the concerto in 1905, with Berlin concertmaster Karl Halir playing the revised piece.

Music history has revealed that the concerto was initially created for violinist Willy Burmester, who was then the concertmaster in Helsingfors. After Sibelius passed him over during its two premieres, Burmester never touched the work for the rest of his life.

For the PPO Concert III, Saraza performed with the PPO and took the audiences on a profound journey through the emotional spectrum of life, under the baton of acclaimed music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak.

Currently the PPO’s guest concertmaster and artist-in-residence, Saraza received both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in music from The Juilliard School as a full tuition scholar. He studied under the tutelage of Juilliard’s Dean Emeritus-violinist Stephen Clapp, American violinist-pedagogue Lewis Kaplan, and Taiwanese-American violinist Joseph Lin (the first violinist of the Juilliard String Quartet from 2011 to 2018).

He also finished his master’s in musical arts from Yale University, under Prof. Hyo Kang. During his time in Yale, Saraza was awarded the Brodus Erle Prize 2016 for best violinist of the school year and the Alumni Association Prize 2017 for important community initiatives that he led.

Since winning the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in the Philippines in 2002 at age 12, Saraza has been performing and giving solo recitals both in the Philippines and abroad. He has won international competitions, including New York’s Friday-Woodmere Young Artist Competition and Associated Music Teacher’s League Competition.

He has performed solo internationally with the New York Symphonic Arts Ensemble, the Sichuan Philharmonic Orchestra, among others, as well as locally with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and the PPO. He has collaborated as soloist with prominent conductors, namely Darrell Ang, Olivier Ochanine, David Bernard, Gerard Salonga, Yoshikazu Fukumura, Joshua Kangmin Tan, and Haoran Li.

Saraza served as concertmaster of MSO and Yale Philharmonia, as well as an associate and assistant concertmaster of The Juilliard Orchestra and Juilliard Lab Orchestra. He was also an educator at St. Scholastica’s College Manila and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.

Saraza has finished his USA recital tour and album recording with Music Foundation founder and Steinway artist Victor Asuncion.

Completing the program for the Concert III: Fantasy, the PPO will perform Gioachino Rossini’s William Tell Overture and Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 5, op. 64, E minor.

Premiered in Paris on August 3, 1829, the William Tell Overture is part of Gioachino Rossini’s opera Guillaume Tell, which was adapted from Friedrich Schiller’s 1804 drama inspired by the legendary 14th-century Swiss patriot William Tell. In pop culture, this piece is best known for its thrilling final three minutes, which became iconic as the theme music for The Lone Ranger, the masked avenger of the Wild West.

Meanwhile, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, is often interpreted as a reflection of the composer’s personal struggles and doubts. First performed in 1888, with Tchaikovsky conducting, the symphony is known for its sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts, and rich orchestration. Over the years, this masterpiece has remained a favorite in concert halls.

#PPO #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Unveils “Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad”: A New Dance Adventure for Young Audiences

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad is the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children’s Dance Theater.

This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.

The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.

Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.

The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature,  they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.

Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.

The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.

This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.

Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad premieres on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.

#MgaKuwentoNiJuanTamad #CCP #AliceReyes #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

ManilART ’24: Illuminating 16 Years of Artistic Excellence

Held earlier this month from October 9 to 13, the country’s national art fair showcased a convergence of Philippine art in its many shades. ManilART ’24, with its theme “Prisms and Mosaics,” reflected the diversity of Philippine contemporary art, uniting various expressions into a vibrant, cohesive whole. This annual event, now on its 16th year, banners the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s overall celebration for Museums and Galleries Month, themed “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation).

Visions in Glass: The Legacy of Ramon Orlina

Philippine glassmaster Ramon Orlina’s long-awaited coffee table book, Visions in Glass, authored by art critic Cid Reyes and designed by Dopy Doplon, showcases his remarkable journey as an artist. Weighing 6 kilograms and comprising 57 chapters, this book is hefty not just in its contents. It spans Orlina’s artistic journey from the 1960s to the present, highlighting his life’s work of transforming discarded glass cullets into stunning art pieces. The overall project was brought to life and spearheaded by his wife, Lay Ann Orlina.

Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey with Cid Reyes and Ramon Orlina.

The book launch attracted notable personalities, including National Artist Virgilio Almario, Secretary Sonny Angara, Senator Allan Cayetano and Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Dr. Jimmy Laya, celebrity art patron Ms. Assunta De Rossi Ledesma, Metrobank Foundation’s Chito and Anna Sobrepeña, and Ms. Daphne Osena Paez, among many others. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach-Jauncey was honored as the book’s Ambassador at the launch. In attendance at both the book launch and the vernissage night were top diplomats including Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand, Ambassador Dr. Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Toth of Hungary, Mr. Martin Karuse from the German Embassy and Mr. Mouablong Xayvue from the Embassy of Laos. Apart from this milestone book launch, Orlina has inspired his children, Michael and Anna, to pursue careers as glass artists, and his family has also established Museo Orlina as a cultural landmark in Batangas to honor his artistry.

Illuminating the Mosaic: Some Highlights of ManilART ’24

 This year’s fair featured an impressive array of works from 32 participating galleries. Plugged into Fernalia: Art in the Age of AI, curated by Gromyko Semper, explored the intersection of art and technology and its implications for contemporary creativity. The exhibit showcased a diverse range of artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, and mixed media, featuring works from various artists such as Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, and Austrian fantastic realist artist Peter Gric. The exhibition was organized into four thematic sections: “Origins and Inspirations,” reflecting on AI’s initial promise to the art world; “Ethics and Appropriation,” addressing artists’ concerns about the use of their work by AI companies; “Human vs. Machine,” comparing AI-generated art with human creations; and “Future Visions,” envisioning the future of creativity in an AI-driven landscape.

Several artists chose to focus on nostalgia as their muse across various exhibitions. Hues of Nostalgia featured glass artist Anna Orlina and painters Bea Policarpio and Abby Añover, each interpreting a chosen decade. The Blast from the Past series by Otep Bañez presented mixed media installations infused with childhood memories and nostalgic technologies like the Walkman. Ang mga Anik-Anik ng Diwang Di-Malirip, curated by Gromyko Semper and Cheryl Hironaka, explored the Filipino practice of collecting small, sentimental objects known as “anik-anik,” representing personal history and memory. These exhibitions reflected on the intricacies of human existence and the connections formed through treasured memories.

This year’s iteration of the fair also featured collaborations between renowned sculptors. Steampunk Unplugged, by Danny Rayos del Sol and Ram Mallari, combined intricately carved ostrich eggshells and carabao skulls with brass robotic figures, pushing the limits of imagination. Jik Villanueva and Ramon Orlina showcased larger-than-life sculptures of brass ants carrying glass “grains,” highlighting that persistence yields good fortune.

Ed Coronel’s massive works graced the center-stage area of ManilART. The hyperrealist painter’s pieces, including the award-winning portrait of the Rayos del Sol family, Rays of the Sun, and his mural triptych The Wave, inspired by his ponderings on the West Philippine Sea, explore themes of cultural heritage and resilience through a blend of realism and expression.

Expanding the Experience: Conversations and Collaborations at ManilART

ManilART continued to offer its regular repertoire of talks, satellite shows, and refreshments. The fair hosted discussions that delved into the intersections of art, artists’ rights, and new technologies. This series of talks began on October 10 with Ian Felix Alquiros discussing Art for Stigma Reduction, followed by Hon. Christopher de Venecia’s talk on the Creative Industries Act and its significance for the visual arts and galleries on October 11. On October 12, Abe Orobia illuminated fairgoers about Art in the Colonial Periods, while Atty. Emerson Cuyo addressed An Artist’s Moral and Economic Rights, Duties, and Obligations. The round of talks concluded with a panel discussion featuring Marian Pastor Roces, Cristian Townsend, Noel Sadicon, and Jerry Yapo, who explored AI’s role in shaping contemporary artistic creation.

ManilART ‘24 also featured world-class satellite exhibits. One of these satellite shows, Viaje 4: Filipinism, was hosted across Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, delves into the essence of Filipino identity through the works of several artists, including Nino Cris Odosis, Joseph Albao, Ian Maigan, and Windsor Magnaye. Another notable exhibition, Refracted Light, occurred on October 6-7 at Ricardo’s Galeria Al Fresco in Amadeo, Cavite. Lastly, Kutkot Pa More, a solo exhibit by Elmer Nocheseda at Galerie Du Soleil in Taguig, explored his distinctive “kutkot” technique as he came to terms with the onset of Parkinson’s disease.

Lastly, ManilART’s partners provided a delightful wine-and-dine experience while viewing art. Purefoods Deli elevated a beloved brand with its quality franks, sausages, and meats; MOD Coffee offered the perfect pick-me-up; Sebastiao Cocktails helped everyone unwind; and Via Mare was once again present to serve Filipino culinary favorites alongside the art fair.

“ManilART ’24: Prisms and Mosaics” was a celebration of all the shades and hues that make up Philippine contemporary art. Each fairgoer contributed to this vibrant display, reflecting the depth and creativity of the nation’s artistic landscape.

ManilART ’24’s participating galleries include 29 Kapitolyo Art Space, 371 Art Space, Annual Sculpture Review, Art Circle, Art for Space Gallery PH, Artalyer, Artienda Art Gallery, Artologist Gallery, Artes Orientes, AT Art Gallery, Daloy Likha Art Gallery, Drybrush Gallery, Espacio Manila, Florentino Gallery, Galeria Bañez, Galleria Nicolas, Galerie Artes, Galerie Raphael, Gallery Nine, Historia Art, Legacy, Life ’n Arts Gallery, M Gallery MNL, Museo Orlina, NAMI Art Gallery, OMVI Art Gallery, Pugad ni Art, Rayos del Sol Gallery, Renaissance Art Gallery, VAM International Art Gallery, Village Art Gallery and Ysobel Art Gallery.

The fair was supported by partners Museo Orlina, The City of Taguig, SM Supermalls, SMX Convention Center, Ladder Events Production, Vision Prime Media, Future Studios, Design Phoundry, Ticketbooth.ph, Via Mare Catering, Purefoods Deli, BDO, MOD Coffee, Grentek Solutions, Marco Polo Ortigas, Art Caravan, and Sebastiao Cocktails. Media partners include ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), The Philippine Star, Inquirer.net, Metro, Inquirer Pop!, The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Preen.ph, Business Mirror, Peoples Journal, WhenInManila.com, Scout, Pilipino Mirror, Nolisoli.ph, Klik.ph, Cebu Daily News, Experience Travel & Living, Hue TVEverywhere, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Standard, and Alike.

#ManilART2024 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph