Cover Myramae Meneses, Soprano opera singer and one of the Filipino talents for Progetto Puccini
Myramae Meneses, Soprano opera singer and one of the Filipino talents for Progetto Puccini
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A celebration of opera and a show of support for Filipino talent while honouring Puccini’s legacy in one fell swoop
From October 1 to 4, Filipino opera singers of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) and Viva Voce’s production of La Bohème will be joined by internationally acclaimed maestros from Italy and the United States for a series of opera masterclasses, culminating in a recital that celebrates the great Italian composer Giacomo Puccini. To be held at The Metropolitan Theatre in Manila, the singers are given the unique opportunity to hone their craft—focusing on vocal technique, Italian diction, interpretation and stagecraft.
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Above Maestro Fabio Armiliato, master opera teacher
Maestro Fabio Armiliato, master opera teacher
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The masterclass will be led by four internationally acclaimed maestros, headed by Maestro Fabio Armiliato—an Italian operatic tenor known for his dramatic ability and vocal range. With over 1,000 performances around the world and more than three decades of experience, Armiliato stands as one of this generation’s most important opera singers.
Above Mariano Panico, Vocal Teacher and Musical Director
Mariano Panico, Vocal Teacher and Musical Director
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Joining him will be Mariano Panico, a musical director, vocal teacher and composer. Considered one of the most promising young directors in the Italian opera landscape, his unique approach to the art form allows him to blend traditional and contemporary elements in his productions. “[I’m] looking forward to working with young Filipino talent, leading room rehearsals in this amazing opportunity for artistic growth and exchange,” said Panico on a social media post.
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Above Lorena Zaccaria, Diction Coach and Soprano singer
Lorena Zaccaria, Diction Coach and Soprano singer
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Lorna Zaccaria, a diction coach and soprano based in Taranto, Italy will also be joining the masterclass. Branded as one of the most promising voices in the opera scene, she has attended multiple Advanced Training Academies such as The Belcanto Academy “Rodolfo Celletti” in Martina Franca and The “Verismo Opera Studio” Academy among others.
Above John Florencio, Répétiteur
John Florencio, Répétiteur
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Completing the lineup of mentors is John Florencio, a Filipino-American pianist and répétiteur known for his versatility. After years of studying—from the University of Santo Tomas to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music—he divides his time between France and Italy and has performed in multiple prestigious concert halls such as Carnegie Hall, Davies Symphony Hall, and Benaroya Hall among others.
Above Irene Marcos-Araneta, Executive Producer of Progetto Puccini
Irene Marcos-Araneta, Executive Producer of Progetto Puccini
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After the concert in October, Progetto Puccini will enter its second phase—featuring performances of Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème at the Teatro Orfeo in Taranto, Italy from June 15 to 30, 2025.
Led by Irene Marcos-Araneta, Progetto Puccini is more than just a way to bring opera to the mainstream. Ultimately, it’s a way to support Filipino artistry whatever the medium. “It is a bold celebration of the rich cultural synergy between the Philippines and Italy. It is an affirmation of the country’s commitment to the Filipino Musicians," says Marcos-Araneta.
Above Myramae Meneses, Soprano opera singer
Myramae Meneses, Soprano opera singer
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Images: Cultural Center of the Philippines
About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
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A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
