Cover Manila Symphony Orchestra’s concertmaster Maestro Alessio Benvenuti joins Sara Gonzales, Arnold Josue, Lawrence Palad, Mariel Ilusorio and Alfonso Encina on the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium on October 16 (Photo: Courtesy of the Manila Symphony Orchestra)
Manila Symphony Orchestra’s concertmaster Maestro Alessio Benvenuti joins Sara Gonzales, Arnold Josue, Lawrence Palad, Mariel Ilusorio and Alfonso Encina on the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium on October 16 (Photo: Courtesy of the Manila Symphony Orchestra)
1 / 1
The Philippine Italian Association (PIA), in collaboration with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, proudly presents the Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert on October 16 at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium
Celebrate Filipino and Italian cultures through the universal language of music in an unforgettable concert at the Asia Pacific College in Magallanes, Makati City, featuring the works of esteemed composers Nicanor Abelardo, Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Antonio Vivaldi, Tomaso Albinoni and Gioachino Rossini.
Headlining the performance are artists of the Manila Symphony Orchestra, with its concertmaster, Maestro Alessio Benvenuti, playing First Violin. Joining him on stage are Alfonso Encina (Second Violin), Sara Gonzales (Viola), Arnold Josue (Cello), Lawrence Palad (Bass) and Marie Ilusorio (Piano).
Read more: Cultivating opera and orchestra music in the Philippines
The ensemble will be presenting an exquisite blend of Italian and Filipino masterpieces, including Rossini’s Sonata No. 1 for Strings in G Major, Tartini’s evocative Sonata in G Minor (Didone Abbandonata) and Ennio Morricone’s beloved film scores Cinema Paradiso and La Califfa. Adding further variety are the spirited classic Funiculi Funicula and Debussy’s Piano Trio, 3rd Movement.
Complementing these European works are Filipino gems, including Constancio de Guzman’s patriotic Bayan Ko (arranged by Orlando Dela Cruz), Nicanor Abelardo’s lyrical Cavatina and Mike Velarde’s enduring Dahil Sa Iyo, as well as treasured folksongs such as Si Nanay Tatay Di Ko Babayaan (Bicolano), Ili-Ili Tulog Anay (Ilonggo) and Salidumay (Igorot).
Read more: Manila Symphony Orchestra begins its concert season with a poignant reminder of its storied past
Above Poster of the upcoming Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert
Poster of the upcoming Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert
1 / 1
This collaboration is made possible through the shared vision of the PIA, the MSO, Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch.
Now celebrating its 63rd year, PIA continues to fulfil its mission of fostering unity between Filipino and Italian cultures through Italian language instruction, translation services and social security and welfare assistance provided via the Patronato Acli.
Likewise, the MSO, one of the oldest orchestras in Asia and the longest surviving artistic institution in the Philippines, remains steadfast in its goal of discovering and nurturing Filipino musical talent, while making the appreciation and practice of music a vibrant part of Filipino life.
Above Alessio Benvenuti performs in the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s concert ‘A Tribute to Burt Bacharach’
Joel’s Place further complements this collaboration. Not only did it host the recent press conference for the concert, but it will also offer food and beverages at the venue. This modern lifestyle grocerant seamlessly blends grocery, speciality and dining concepts, offering a curated mix of local and international products. With its commitment to healthy living and distinctive shop and dine experiences, Joel’s Place brings a contemporary edge to the partnership while celebrating cultural exchange.
Meanwhile, The Master’s Touch on 98.7 DZFE-FM is the only classical music service in the country today and has delivered “masterworks and Master’s Word” programmes to its listening community since 1954. DZFE belongs to FEBC Philippines, a non-profit, non-commercial and non-denominational Evangelical media network serving Filipinos and their communities with biblical commentary and public service programmes.
For ticket inquiries and reservations, contact the Philippine-Italian Association.
NOW READ
Manila Symphony Orchestra embarks on its momentous “Road to 100”
A Little Night Music: In conversation with Cecile Licad, ‘the pianist’s pianist’
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
