All-Kundiman Night: Arthur Espiritu leads fundraising concert at MiraNila

A rare evening of Filipino music is set to take place this May as internationally acclaimed tenor Arthur Espiritu headlines his first-ever all-kundiman concert, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman. Happening on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Gallery MiraNila in Quezon City, the one-night-only performance also serves as a fundraising initiative for heritage conservation.

Presented by MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with The Blue Leaf, the concert brings together a distinguished lineup of artists who share a deep connection to Filipino musical traditions. Espiritu is joined by award-winning soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila and celebrated pianist Najib Ismail, creating a program that highlights both vocal and instrumental excellence. The evening also pays tribute to Ambassador Tomas C. Benitez, whose passion for kundiman helped preserve its place in Filipino cultural life.

Arthur Espiritu

 

Stephanie Quintin-Avila and Najib Ismail

At the heart of the concert is a curated selection drawn from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ newly recorded 13-track archive. This project, developed in collaboration with the Manila Chamber Orchestra Foundation, marks a significant step in digitally preserving Filipino classics performed by some of the country’s finest voices. The repertoire traces the evolution of kundiman, from its roots in patriotic expression to its transformation into zarzuela, love songs, and modern art music. Works by composers such as Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Constancio de Guzman, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, and Augusto Espino will be featured, offering a rich look at the musical figures who shaped the nation’s sound.

Espiritu, known for his performances on major international stages, arrives fresh from his title role in Prince Igor at the Munich Opera House. A recipient of the George London Award and the Scala Award at the Belvedere Competition in Vienna, he has built a global reputation for his powerful tone and commanding presence. His return to a repertoire rooted in Filipino tradition gives this concert a distinct sense of homecoming. Quintin-Avila, recognized for her clarity and range, reunites with Espiritu following their acclaimed collaboration in 2024. She continues to gain international attention, with an upcoming appearance at the Gleam International Early Music Festival in Belgium. Completing the trio is Ismail, whose career across Europe, Asia, and Australia has been marked by a strong commitment to promoting Filipino composers, making him a fitting musical anchor for the evening.

Beyond the performance, the concert carries a deeper purpose. All proceeds will support the MiraNila Conservation Program, which has been instrumental in restoring vulnerable artworks and is now focused on urgent structural repairs after severe flooding in 2025 affected the 94-year-old heritage house. The event offers audiences not only a chance to experience world-class music but also an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Guests can expect an immersive evening that begins with registration and access to the gallery, accompanied by refreshments. Heritage house tours will be available in the early part of the program, offering a closer look at the site’s history and architecture. The concert itself runs from 6:30 PM to 8:10 PM with an intermission, followed by a meet and greet with the artists. Food and refreshments will continue to be available until the evening concludes.

Tickets are offered under a free seating arrangement, with early bird rates available until March 29 at ₱2,000 for adults and ₱1,500 for seniors, PWDs, and students with valid IDs. Regular rates are set at ₱2,500 for adults and ₱2,000 for discounted groups. Special items tied to the NCCA recordings will also be available for purchase, including a vinyl LP and a secure digital card edition.

For inquiries and ticket reservations, guests may contact the event organizer via Viber at 09458530963, preferably between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM for faster response.

With its combination of music, history, and purpose, Mga Awit ng Pag-ibig at Kundiman positions itself as more than just a concert. It is a gathering that brings together artists, audiences, and advocates in support of preserving Filipino identity through both sound and space.

Read More

FEU presents Pundaquit Virtuosi in "The Seven Last Words by Joseph Haydn" on March 31

Far Eastern University through the FEU Center for the Arts presents the Pundaquit Virtuosi from Zambales in Haydn's Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ with reflections in between in the FEU Chapel surrounded by The Stations of the Cross, a National Cultural Treasure by National Artist Carlos "Botong" Francisco.

The FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) continues its Tutti Concert Series with Tutti Strings, featuring the Pundaquit Virtuosi from Zambales in a special Lenten performance of The Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ by Joseph Haydn.

Presented in partnership with the FEU Campus Ministry, this free concert will take place on March 31 at 5 PM at the FEU Chapel, offering the Tamaraw community a moving musical reflection in preparation for Holy Week.

FEU Chapel

Adding a unique dimension to the performance, each of the Seven Last Words will be accompanied by a short reflection delivered by representatives from the FEU Community.

Founded in the quiet coastal village of Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales, the Pundaquit Virtuosi is led by internationally renowned Filipino violinist Coke Bolipata. Through his vision, music education has become accessible to children in the community, transforming lives and nurturing young talents through classical training and performance opportunities. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a respected ensemble known for its heartfelt performances and advocacy for arts education.

Pundaquit Virtuosi

Stations of the Cross by Carlos "Botong" Francisco

Coke Bolipata

Reflecting on the significance of the featured piece, Bolipata shares, “Haydn’s Seven Last Words is a rare piece of music: one that invites stillness. It does not dramatize Christ’s suffering so much as meditates on it.”

Composed in 1786, Joseph Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ is a deeply contemplative masterpiece originally written for Good Friday services in Cádiz, Spain. The work consists of seven sonatas, each reflecting one of Christ’s final utterances on the Cross, framed by a solemn introduction and a powerful concluding movement. Revered for its emotional depth and spiritual intensity, the piece invites listeners into quiet meditation through expressive melodies and profound musical storytelling.

The concert is open to all but with limited seats available through pre-registration via the QR code on the poster or the registration link below.

Interested attendees may also contact the FEU Center for the Arts through its official platforms for further inquiries.

Reserve your seat through this registration link: https://forms.office.com/r/Tb3m5a9W49.
For more info, follow the FEU Center for the Arts at https://www.facebook.com/FEUcenterfortheArts
Email: fca@feu.edu.ph

Read More

A Century in Symphony: MSO Opens Its Centennial Season with Sleeping Beauty

On March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 & 15, 2026 at 5PM, the MSO joins forces with Ballet Manila for a shared season opener at the Aliw Theater. Together, they present Sleeping Beauty, a production that celebrates two milestones: the MSO’s Centennial Season and Ballet Manila’s 40th Performance Season.

A Shared Milestone for Two Cultural Pillars
This collaboration is more than a performance—it is a historic convergence of two institutions that have shaped the Philippine performing arts landscape.

Both companies are among the few in the country with a sustained legacy of presenting full-length classical ballets with live orchestral accompaniment. In mounting Sleeping Beauty, they reaffirm a shared belief: that music and movement are universal languages, capable of expressing love, longing, triumph, and transcendence—even without words.

Under the baton of Russian conductor Alexander Vikulov, the MSO brings Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score to life in real time, elevating the ballet experience into something immersive and unforgettable.

Reimagining a Classic: Ballet Manila’s Sleeping Beauty
At the heart of the program is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66—presented in Ballet Manila’s distinctive version choreographed by the Philippines’ prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

This staging forms the third installment of Ballet Manila’s “Princess Trilogy,” following Cinderella and Snow White. But here, Princess Aurora’s story takes on deeper emotional nuance. The ballet opens with the “Dance of Aurora,” portraying her youthful innocence while subtly suggesting that her heart had already awakened to love long before her fateful slumber.

Tchaikovsky’s score moves with symphonic grandeur and lyrical elegance—from ceremonial marches and courtly dances to fairy variations and sweeping waltzes. Each character is painted in distinct musical color, shaped by intricate melodies and rich orchestration.

One of the evening’s most anticipated highlights is the Pas de Deux (No. 28), featuring a luminous solo violin passage performed by MSO Concertmaster Alessio Benvenuti. In this moment, the music does more than accompany the dancers—it carries the emotional pulse of the ballet, guiding audiences through tenderness, tension, romance, and celebration.

The Artists Behind the Magic

Ballet Manila
Known as the country’s most prolific ballet company, Ballet Manila trains its dancers in the Russian Vaganova method. Under Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s artistic direction, it has steadfastly pursued its mission: bringing ballet to the people—and bringing more people to the ballet.

Ballet Manila

Maestro Alexander Vikulov
A conductor of international distinction, Vikulov’s career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire. Having debuted at the Mariinsky Theatre in 2002, he has since collaborated with major institutions across Europe and Asia. His longstanding musical partnership with Ballet Manila ensures a seamless dialogue between orchestra and stage.

Maestro Alexander Vikulov

Manila Symphony Orchestra
Now at 100 years, the MSO remains one of the Philippines’ most active and enduring artistic institutions. Guided by Music Director Marlon Chen and Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, the orchestra continues to uphold international standards while nurturing the next generation of Filipino musicians through education and training programs.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

More Than a Concert—A Centennial Celebration
Sleeping Beauty is only the beginning of the MSO’s Centennial Season, themed “In Pursuit of Excellence.” The season lineup includes:

• Concert II – From Mozart to Mahler

• Concert III – 80 Years of Filipino-American Friendship

• Concert IV – Opera and Kundiman: The Legacy of Maestra Conching Rosal

• Concert V – Cellist Camille Thomas with the MSO

• Concert VI – World Premiere: Filipino Master Composers

(Programs, artists, dates, and venues are subject to change.)

For devoted concertgoers, the MSO All-Access Season Pass offers up to 50% savings, making it the perfect way to experience this landmark year in full.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra’s Centennial Season opens with Sleeping Beauty at the Aliw Theater, located within the CCP Complex in Pasay City. Performances are scheduled on March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 and 15, 2026 at 5PM. Tickets may be purchased via bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMSleepingBeauty. For updates, audiences may follow the Manila Symphony Orchestra on Facebook, Instagram (@manila.symphony), TikTok (@manilasymphonyorchestra), YouTube, and visit www.manilasymphony.com for more information.

As the curtain rises this March, Sleeping Beauty becomes more than a fairy tale. It becomes a symbol of legacy, resilience, and artistic excellence—proof that after a century, the music of the Manila Symphony Orchestra continues to awaken hearts.

Read More

FEU Center for the Arts presents "Tones Through Time: A Musical Odyssey"

FREE ADMISSION on January 21, 2026

The Far Eastern University Center for the Arts (FCA) invites music lovers to an inspiring and educational evening as it presents an informational piano concert by internationally acclaimed pianist Dr. Raffi Kasparian, D.M.A., returning to the FEU Auditorium on January 21, 2026.

Titled Tones Through Time: A Musical Odyssey, the free concert offers audiences a guided journey through the evolution of Western classical music. Through performance and narration, Dr. Kasparian will bring to life key musical periods—from the Baroque and Classical eras to the Romantic, Impressionistic, and 20th Century traditions—making the concert both engaging and enriching for listeners of all backgrounds.

Produced by the FEU Center for the Arts with the support of the Silaw Foundation and DZFE 98.7 FM, the event forms part of Dr. Kasparian’s 2026 Philippine concert tour. His tour includes performances in Paoay, Holy Angel University, the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music, and the Manila Pianos Showroom.

Registration is free but required: https://forms.office.com/r/wS8B3qpyQp

Dr. Kasparian has performed extensively across the United States, Canada, and the Philippines as both a soloist and collaborative artist. His repertoire spans classical masterworks, original compositions, and inventive arrangements of popular and sacred music. Audiences and critics alike admire his ability to combine technical brilliance with thoughtful storytelling, transforming concerts into memorable learning experiences. His recordings and performances are available on his YouTube channel, Quantime Classics.

For 24 years, Dr. Kasparian served as pianist of The United States Army Chorus, the vocal counterpart of The United States Army Band Pershing’s Own. In this role, he performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States, including the White House, the U.S. Capitol, and the Kennedy Center.

His musical relationship with the Philippines began in 1996 with performances at the University of the Philippines College of Music and Fort Ilocandia. He later helped inspire the creation of the SILAW Foundation, which supports cultural outreach through piano concerts. Over the years, his Philippine performances have included collaborations with his son Roman and landmark concerts with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, notably at Paoay Church and at Far Eastern University, itself a UNESCO Heritage site for its Art Deco campus.

Dr. Kasparian holds a Bachelor of Music degree from California State University Northridge, a Master’s degree from Peabody Conservatory, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. He also pursued advanced studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music.

Beyond music, Dr. Kasparian enjoyed a parallel career as a software engineer, driven by a lifelong passion for mathematics. He co-authored the book Java for Artists and has presented mathematical research at international conferences—an extraordinary testament to the harmony between music, math, and creative thinking that defines his life and work.

Read More

Manila Symphony Orchestra announces Centennial Concert Schedule for 2026

The Manila Symphony Orchestra beams with pride this 2026 as it celebrates its Centennial year bringing together music, legacy, collaboration, and learning through concerts, conversations, and community programs.

In Pursuit of Excellence: The Manila Symphony Orchestra at 100

A Celebration (1926-2026)
Presented by the Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc. and Standard Insurance

Concert I – Centennial Opening: The Sleeping Beauty
March 13 -15, 2026, Aliw Theater
Featuring Ballet Manila with Alexander Vikulov, conductor

The Manila Symphony Orchestra ushers in its Centennial Season with the timeless Tchaikovsky masterpiece, The Sleeping Beauty. This grand production brings to life the fairy-tale magic of Princess Aurora’s awakening. With lush orchestration, exquisite choreography, and visual splendor, this performance marks a truly magnificent opening to MSO’s 100th year celebration.

Ballet Manila is one of the Philippines’ foremost ballet companies, known for its high artistic standards, strong educational mission, and dedication to presenting classical and contemporary ballet to local and international audiences.

Alexander Vikulov is a Russian conductor of international distinction, trained at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, whose eminent career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire, with collaborations at leading institutions including the Mariinsky Theatre, Vienna State Opera, and Teatro Regio di Torino, and Ballet Manila.

Concert II – Rising Stars of the Philippines
May 30, 2026, Proscenium Theatre, Rockwell, Makati
Featuring: Jeanne Marquez (violin), Damodar Das Castillo (cello), and Joshua Dos Santos (conductor)

The future of Philippine music takes center stage as Jeanne Rafaella Marquez and Damodar Das Castillo join Joshua Dos Santos from Venezuela and the MSO for a showcase of youthful brilliance. The concert features Brahms’ Double Concerto in A minor, Op. 10 and other symphonic gems, celebrating both tradition and the promise of new artistic horizons. Supported by Standard Insurance, this evening shines a spotlight on the next century of Filipino talent.

Jeanne Rafaella Marquez is a Standard Insurance scholar, studying at The Juilliard School in New York. A Golden Medalist of the Vienna International Music Competition and recipient of the Philippine Ani ng Dangal Award, she has earned top prizes at major international competitions in New York, Singapore, and Manila.

Damodar Das Castillo is an MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar and a Mozarteum Alumnus in Salzburg, Austria. He is a top prize winner of five international music competitions, including Musica Goritiensis (Italy) and the International Anton Rubinstein Competition (Germany), and is the winner of the German Musical Instrument Prize 2012.

Joshua Dos Santos is recognized as one of the most accomplished young conductors to emerge from Venezuela’s National System of Youth Orchestras. He began conducting at the age of fifteen, and has conducted the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, maintaining close ties with the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth.

Concert III – Symphony of a Nation: 100 Years of Music, 80 Years of FilAm Friendship
July 4, 2026, Manila Metropolitan Theater
Featuring Emanuel John Villarin (violin) and Thanos Adamopoulos (conductor)

The MSO celebrates a century of Filipino creativity with a concert devoted to the nation’s most stirring orchestral works. The evening traces the evolution of Philippine symphonic expression, from its roots in tradition to its bold, contemporary voice. A musical portrait of a people, told through a hundred years of sound.

Emanuel John Villarin is an MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar and Hanns Eisler Scholar in Berlin, Germany. He is a first prize winner of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (2020) and the National New York Young Performers Prize (2021). Thanos Adamopoulos is a Parisian conductor active across Europe, the United States, and Asia. He began his musical studies in Israel and, at the age of nineteen, and is the music director of the Chapelle de Larranie in Brussels and maintains a long standing artistic relationship with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, and the Asian Youth Orchestra.

Concert IV – Legacies in Song: MSO’s 100 Years and the Voice of Conching Rosal
August 29, 2026, FEU Auditorium
Featuring: Rachelle Gerodias – Park (soprano), Michelle Mariposa (mezzo-soprano), Byeong In Park (baritone), and Marlon Chen (conductor)

Celebrating the timeless union of voice and orchestra, the program includes Bizet’s Carmen excerpts and other operatic treasures, tracing the MSO’s legacy in vocal music over the past century. A lush evening of passion, drama, and melody that honors the orchestra’s lyrical heritage.

Rachelle Gerodias - Park is a winner of “The Outstanding Young Men” and “The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service” awards. She is also the first “Aliw Awards Hall of Fame” awardee for Best Female Classical Performer, thereby cementing what many have long known: that Ms. Gerodias is currently the country’s brightest gem in the field of opera and classical vocal performances.

Michelle Mariposa is a Filipino-Chinese mezzo-soprano, a Grand Finals Winner of the 2025 Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition, and Winner of the 2023 Sullivan Foundation Award. Michelle completed her Master's degree in Voice and Opera Performance at Northwestern University, and her Bachelor’s degree in Voice and Psychology at the University of the Philippines, both summa cum laude.

Byeong In Park is an international Korean baritone who studied under acclaimed tenor Francisco Araiza at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Stuttgart, Germany. Since his studies in Germany, he has been actively performing in opera productions and concerts around Europe and Asia.

Marlon Chen is the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Manila Symphony Orchestra since 2019 who is acclaimed for his dynamic versatility across opera, ballet, symphonic, and chamber repertoire. He has guest-conducted leading orchestras worldwide, including Orchestre de Paris, MDR Leipzig, and the Baltic Sea Philharmonic, while holding key positions in the US and Mexico.

Concert V – Philippine Master Composers, Past, Present, and Future
October 24, 2026, Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University
Featuring New works by Ryan Cayabyab, Marlon Chen (conductor)

The grand finale of the Centennial Season is a sweeping tribute to the genius of Filipino composers across generations. The MSO presents the world premiere of a new work by Ryan Cayabyab, alongside masterpieces by other national icons. This historic gala concert brings together the country’s musical past and its bright creative future in one resounding celebration of national artistry.

Concert VI – MSO 100 Centennial Finale
January 2027, Venue: TBA
Featuring: Camille Thomas (cello), and Marlon Chen (conductor)

Bringing the Centennial Season to a resounding close, this grand finale celebrates a century of the MSO’s artistry and impact through a program of luminous orchestral works that reflect both gratitude for the past and hope for the future. Presented in partnership with UNICEF, the concert embodies the orchestra’s enduring mission to uplift, inspire, and give back through the universal language of music.

Franco-Belgian cellist Camille Thomas has been performing since the age of four and is acclaimed for her deeply expressive artistry, distinguished by exceptional technical refinement and emotional immediacy, qualities that have established her as one of the most compelling artists of her generation.

*program, artists, date, and venue subject to change

Support the Manila Symphony Orchestra by being a SEASON SUBSCRIBER!

Check out our social media accounts to get up to 50% off on all MSO100 VIP Season Concert Tickets!

Read More

A Front-Row Seat to Broadway, Games, and Holiday Joy

Being invited to such an intimate concert already felt special, but getting a front-row seat made the night even more memorable. U Hotel’s El Mundo Café, usually known as a lively and busy restaurant, transformed into a relaxed and cozy performance space. It became a chill setting where music and storytelling took center stage, allowing everyone to truly appreciate the art up close.

The night opened beautifully with guest front act Hannah Bulos singing “Give Love on Christmas Day” popularized by The Jackson 5 in 1970. Her sweet, childlike voice instantly set the mood and gently pulled the audience in. Before long, people were singing along, turning the opening into a shared and heartfelt Christmas moment.

 

What made the concert even more enjoyable was how interactive it was. Games were woven into the program, giving Anya and Cara the chance to connect directly with the audience. Guessing which song they would perform next added excitement and laughter, making the night feel personal and playful rather than formal.

 

Cara and Anya Gutierrez

Despite some technical difficulties during the first act, the performances themselves stood strong. Anya opened Act 1 with “Popular” from Wicked, delivering a lively and confident performance that highlighted her natural charm and comedic timing. Cara followed with “Journey to the Past” from Anastasia, where her clear vocals and emotional delivery captured the longing and hope of the song. She continued to impress with the 1939 hit from the movie, Wizard of Oz, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” offering a gentle and heartfelt version that felt intimate and sincere. Anya then surprised the audience with a more serious turn in “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” from Jesus Christ Superstar, proving her ability to shift from playful to deeply emotional with ease.

The technical issues from the first act were fully redeemed in the second act, where the sound system was restored and the performances truly shined. Cara delivered a touching rendition of “Pasko Na Sinta Ko,” the only Tagalog song of the night, which resonated deeply and brought a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the room. The sisters then came together for “For Good” from Wicked, a duet that highlighted their strong harmony and emotional connection. Their chemistry continued in “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “All I Want for Christmas,” where they balanced softness, power, and joy, ending the concert on a festive and uplifting note.

Throughout the night, Anya and Cara clearly showed both vocal and character versatility. Anya’s cheerfulness and expressive energy were perfect for playful and upbeat songs, while Cara’s composed and serious presence brought depth to ballads. Together, they blended these strengths seamlessly, proving they can shine both individually and as a duo.

One of the biggest surprises of the evening was a special performance by Cara with director Jojo Urquico. Their duet of “Sun and Moon” from Miss Saigon delighted the audience and felt like a meaningful tribute to musical theater, leaving a lasting impression.

Overall, the concert was heartfelt, fun, and inspiring. It showcased not just strong vocals, but growth, versatility, and genuine passion. I left the venue excited and hopeful for what lies ahead for Anya and Cara, knowing that this night was only a glimpse of greater things to come.

Read More

A Night of Broadway, Christmas, and Storytelling: Cara and Anya Gutierrez Live at U Hotel Makati

This December 18, U Hotel in Poblacion, Makati sets the stage for an enchanting evening of Broadway favorites and holiday classics as sisters Cara and Anya Gutierrez headline a special pre-Christmas concert directed by Miss Saigon alumnus Jojo Urquico.

Both Cara and Anya are Miss Saigon alumni, a shared legacy that anchors the evening with theatrical depth and international pedigree. Designed as an intimate, two-act performance, the concert blends timeless Christmas songs with iconic musical theater numbers, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience world-class talent in a close, personal setting.

Act I opens with heartwarming holiday selections and beloved Broadway standards, including “My Grown Up Christmas List,” “For the First Time in Forever,” “Journey to the Past,” “Over the Rainbow,” and “Climb Every Mountain.” The act concludes with emotionally resonant performances that highlight each sister’s distinct vocal strengths and storytelling ability.

Act II brings playful energy, powerful theatrical moments, and a festive finale. Audiences can look forward to crowd favorites such as “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman,” “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Home,” and “Popular,” as well as moving duets like “For Good” and a joyful holiday closer with “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

Anya Gutierrez is an internationally trained singer, actress, and dancer who starred as Belle in Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical and played Yvette in Miss Saigon with World Theater Productions in Guam (2022–2023). She recently portrayed Maria in the Ateneo dramatic play No Harm, No Foul (2024) and headlined major performances including the ISKiN 10th Anniversary Show at Solaire and Opening Night: A Broadway Concert at Ateneo’s Dulaang Sibol (2025). Anya trained in acting for film and television under renowned Hollywood coach Howard Fine and is a Soprano 1 trained in the McClosky Vocal Technique. She also continues her dance training with Douglas Nierras Power Dance and IDMM Ballet.

Cara Gutierrez is a Filipino-American actress and vocalist celebrated for her expressive authenticity and luminous vocal quality. She starred as principal Kim in Miss Saigon (World Theater Productions), earning critical praise for her raw emotional delivery and gentle strength, and is currently in callbacks for major productions including Hamilton, Les Misérables, and Aladdin. A Merit Scholar at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (New York City), Cara trained under Broadway professionals Kyle Taylor Parker, David Cady, Jim Elliott, and Jay Russell, with further international training at the Unseen Acting School in London, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, and with West End dance instructors Jack William Parry and El Haq Latief; she also continues her hip hop and jazz training with Douglas Nierras Powerdance. Trained in the McClosky Vocal Technique, she brings emotional honesty, depth, and heart to every role, and holds a cum laude degree in Information Technology Entrepreneurship from Ateneo de Manila University.

Set against the stylish and intimate backdrop of U Hotel, Poblacion, the December 18 concert promises an evening of music, storytelling, and holiday warmth—led by two rising stars whose shared journey on international stages now comes home for a special Christmas performance.

Read More

An ‘Al Fresco’ Concert and Film Night at MiraNila Heritage House

Experience Concert and Cinema Under the Stars

On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the historic MiraNila Heritage House will open its gates for a rare evening where time, memory, and music come together in one immersive al fresco event. As the sun sets over this beautifully preserved 1929 ancestral home, guests will first be invited to explore its storied halls through an intimate house tour before gathering on the front lawn for a unique blend of live performance and open-air cinema.

The evening will feature violinist Alessio Benvenuti, praised as an “Artist of High National and International Value,” and pianist Mariel Ilusorio, whose work has touched audiences across four continents. Together, the duo will perform selections from the timeless score of Cinema Paradiso, composed by Ennio and Andrea Morricone. The Oscar-winning and Palme d’Or–honored classic will then be screened outdoors, with a special message from celebrated director Giuseppe Tornatore delivered exclusively to the MiraNila audience after the film.

Tickets are available at special early bird rates until December 20, priced at ₱1,000 for adults and ₱800 for seniors and students with valid IDs. After the early bird period, regular tickets will be ₱1,200 for adults and ₱1,000 for seniors and students. To reserve a seat, guests may contact Bern via Viber at 0906 547 8268.

Guests may also look forward to a selection of food and beverages available throughout the evening. Pasta stations, snack tables, and cold drinks will be offered on the front lawn for purchase. Those who wish to elevate their experience can book VIP enhancements, including pre-concert cocktails and antipasti for ₱1,000 or a post-concert dinner for ₱1,750, available through the official booking link.

For event inquiries and additional information, guests may reach out to MiraNamin at +63 917 621 0062 or via email at hello@thenestbythesea.com

Read More

The Manila Symphony Orchestra marks 100 Years with a historic anniversary concert

The Manila Symphony Orchestra opens its centennial season with a powerful evening of music and thanksgiving on January 22, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati. The MSO celebrates a hundred years of excellence by revisiting the very piece that launched its journey: Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3, performed exactly a century ago at its inaugural concert. Then conducted by founder Alexander Lippay, the work now returns under the baton of acclaimed Singaporean conductor Darrel Ang, bridging the orchestra’s rich past with its bright future.

Darren Ang, conductor

Joining the celebration is rising Chinese pianist Muyu Liu, who performs Beethoven’s majestic Emperor Concerto, a work known for its heroic opening and dazzling virtuosity. The concerto, written amid wartime tension in Vienna, remains one of Beethoven’s most beloved pieces for its grandeur and emotional depth.

Muyu Liu, pianist

The evening culminates in a resounding tribute to faith and Filipino musical spirit with two major works by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. His award-winning Misa 2000, a sacred composition weaving together choral textures, orchestral color, and Filipino musical identity, is performed by the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers and the MSO under the direction of Prof. Mark Anthony Carpio. Cayabyab’s Te Deum follows—an uplifting, joy-filled hymn of praise that blends classical tradition with modern Filipino sensibility, offering a deeply moving finale to the centennial celebration.

Philippine Madrigal Singers

Prof. Mark Anthony Carpio

MSO Season 100 Lineup (2026–2027):

Concert I – Centennial Opening: The Sleeping Beauty
March 13–15, 2026 | Aliw Theater

Concert II – Centennial Rising Stars of the Philippines
May 30, 2026 | Proscenium Theatre

Concert III – Symphony of a Nation: 100 Years of Music, 80 Years of FilAm Friendship
July 4, 2026 | Manila Metropolitan Theater

Concert IV – Legacies in Song: MSO’s 100 Years and the Voice of Conching Rosal
August 29, 2026 | FEU Auditorium

Concert V – Centennial Finale Gala: Philippine Master Composers, Past, Present, and Future
October 2026 | Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University

Concert VI – MSO 100 Centennial Finale
January 2027 | Venue TBA

Program, artists, dates, and venues may change.

Tickets are now available via Ticketworld, with prices ranging from ₱1,800 to ₱5,000 across various seating zones. Audiences can also enjoy special offers, including a 50% student discount, 20% off for senior citizens and PWDs, and a limited 20% early bird discount using the code MSO100EB20 valid until December 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

Stay connected with the Manila Symphony Orchestra and get the latest updates on their centennial season by following them on YouTube and Facebook at Manila Symphony Orchestra, on Instagram at @manila.symphony, and on TikTok at @manilasymphonyorchestra. More details about their concerts, programs, and legacy are available on their official website: www.manilasymphony.com.

Read More

Christmas Comes Home to Los Angeles with Pasko sa Baryo

A Filipino Christmas Celebration by ABS-CBN Global and Baryo Entertainment

Iconic Filipino artists, festive flavors, and the warmth of home come alive in Downtown LA.

The sights, sounds, and spirit of a true Filipino Christmas are coming to Downtown Los Angeles with Pasko sa Baryo, a grand holiday celebration presented by ABS-CBN Global, TFC, MYX, and Baryo Ent.
On Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 9:00 PM at 9ThirtyLA (930 Mateo Street, Arts District, Los Angeles), this all-day indoor-outdoor festival marks the first-ever Pasko sa Baryo event—bringing the magic of a Filipino Christmas village to the heart of LA.

A Star-Studded Celebration of Music and Homecoming
Headlining the stage are legendary Filipino and Fil-Am artists whose music has defined generations:

• VST & Company – pioneers of the Manila Sound movement, performing timeless hits like “Awitin Mo, Isasayaw Ko” and “Rock Baby Rock"
• Jocelyn Enriquez – the trailblazing Fil-Am Queen of Freestyle, known for “Do You Miss Me?” and “If You Could Read My Mind.”
• One Vo1ce – beloved 2000s R&B trio performing favorites like “When U Think About Me.”
• They’ll be joined by Jesse Barrera, Albert Posis, and Jo-B Sebastian, bringing a new generation of Filipino sound — blending soulful vocals, smooth R&B, and holiday nostalgia with a modern twist.

“Our vision was to bring together Filipino creativity across generations — from music icons to the new voices shaping today’s sound — all with a Christmas twist that celebrates our culture, community, and the spirit of togetherness,” said Stephanie Ramos, Co-Founder and Marketing Director of Baryo Ent.

A Feast of Flavors and Festivities
No Filipino celebration is complete without food. Guests can indulge in holiday-inspired favorites from community vendors including Sampa, San & Wolves, Dollar Hits, Park’s Finest, Café 86, Malaya Coffee, Big Boi, Wanderlust Creamery, Wow Taho, and Eat Pandasals—each serving nostalgic bites that bring the taste of home to Los Angeles.

“Our restaurant partners are bringing the season to life with special holiday dishes — from lechon to bibingka and puto bumbong — celebrating how Filipinos connect through food,” said Miles Canares, Co-Founder and Festival Director of Baryo Ent. “It’s the heart of every celebration and what makes us feel at home.”

The Pasko sa Baryo Stage and Christmas Village will also feature a curated marketplace of Filipino-owned vendors perfect for holiday gift shopping, along with interactive activities including a caroling-style karaoke contest, ornament decorating, and parol-making workshops celebrating beloved Filipino Christmas traditions.

The evening culminates in a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, symbolizing light, hope, and community.

Powered by Partners Who Bring You Closer to Home
Pasko sa Baryo is proudly presented by GCash and Philippine Airlines, with Sendwave and RLC Residences as major sponsors, and Shang Properties, Paysend, and Valerio’s Bakeshop as supporting sponsors.

“Christmas has always been the season that connects Filipinos—wherever they are—to home, to family, and to one another,” said Jun del Rosario, Chief Operating Officer of ABS-CBN Global. “Through Pasko sa Baryo, we hope to bring that same feeling of joy, belonging, and nostalgia to Filipinos in Los Angeles. We want to remind everyone that even if we’re far from the Philippines, we can still celebrate Christmas the way we do back home—filled with music, laughter, and community.”

“Filipinos start celebrating Christmas as early as the ‘-ber months,’ and that’s a tradition we wanted to bring to life,” said Jennifer Taylor, Co-Founder and head of Corporate Affairs for Baryo Ent. “Collaborating with ABS-CBN on Pasko sa Baryo makes this celebration even more meaningful — a true reflection of community and connection.”

Read More

'Echoes of Croatia in the Philippines' concert all set on October 14

The Far Eastern University Center for the Arts and the FEU Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS), in partnership with the soon to open Embassy of Croatia in Manila, proudly present ECHOES OF CROATIA in the Philippines.

Set your eyes and ears on Chriztel Renae Aceveda, a 14-year-old Filipina prodigy and Croatia’s Got Talent 2023 winner, as she captivates you with her stunning voice alongside internationally acclaimed Croatian artists — Blanka Tkalčić (mezzo-soprano) and Danijel Oto (pianist, educator, and chamber musician).

Experience an afternoon filled with harmony that bridges nations on October 14, 3:00 pm at the FEU Auditorium.

Chriztel Renae Aceveda, a 14-year-old soprano originally from Pampanga, Philippines, has been living in Sveti Martin na Muri, Croatia since 2020. She first captured the hearts of the public with her interpretation of a traditional Međimurje folk song on Supertalent, and has continued to delight audiences across Croatia ever since. From the age of five, she showed a passion for music, singing karaoke with her mother. In Croatia, she quickly embraced the local culture, especially the region’s musical heritage and traditional attire. Chriztel is an 8th-grade student at Primary School Sveti Martin na Muri, a member of the school choir and part of the local cultural and artistic society HKUU Sveti Martin. She studies voice in the preparatory program of the Varaždin Music School under the guidance of Blanka Tkalčić. Her performances of authentic Međimurje folk songs have been compared to the legendary "Aunt Liza", and her emotional expressiveness leaves audiences breathless. She has performed at numerous traditional music events, charity concerts, and public festivals, including collaborations with Croatia's folk music icon Lidija Bajuk. She won the Supertalent show, the Prvi glas Zagorja contest, the Mali MEF Grand Prix, and first prize at the Brežice Festival in Slovenia. Through her singing, Chriztel celebrates her second homeland—Croatia—while remaining proudly connected to her Filipino roots.

 
Chriztel Renae Aceveda

Blanka Tkalčić, mezzo-soprano, was born in Čakovec in 1978. She attended the Varaždin Music School and studied voice with Darija Hreljanović, later continuing at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Graz under Ulf Bästlein. She holds both a diploma and master’s degree in lied and oratorio and specialized further under renowned mentors such as Silvia Bazzoni-Bartoli and Lidija Horvat-Dunjko. Blanka has performed widely in Croatia and abroad (Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Hungary, Italy, Estonia, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.), with prestigious orchestras such as the Zagreb Philharmonic, Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, Wiener Johann Strauss Capelle, and Paris Chamber Orchestra. Her repertoire spans oratorios, masses, and operas—from Mozart’s Requiem to roles in operettas like The Merry Widow, Countess Maritza, and Die Fledermaus. She is also an acclaimed pedagogue, teaching voice at the Varaždin Music School and working with Opera BB under maestro Vladimir Kranjčević, with whom she has sung roles in operas by Pergolesi, Menotti, Rossini, Donizetti, and others. She is a member of the Europeisches Musik Zentrum Wien.

Blanka Tkalčić

Danijel Oto, pianist, began his piano studies at the age of 12 and entered the Zagreb Music Academy at 18 under the tutelage of Vladimir Krpan. He graduated in 2009 with top honors and has continued his development through masterclasses with renowned pedagogues such as Franco Scala, Peter Eicher, and Konstantin Krasnitsky. He has performed in prestigious venues across Europe (Vienna, Paris, Rome, Zurich, Zagreb, Belgrade), recorded for Croatian Radio and Television, and collaborated with prominent artists. A sought-after chamber musician and official accompanist at international competitions, Danijel is regularly invited as a jury member in piano competitions across Europe. Since 2008, he has been working as an accompanist and piano teacher at the Varaždin School of Music, and he is currently also an assistant at University North (Department of Music and Media). His students have won over 200 awards at national and international competitions. He is also a regular faculty member at the Grožnjan International Summer Piano School.

Danijel Oto

Admission is FREE!

Secure your seats by registering through this link: https://forms.office.com/r/yx6wzkkxvn

Read More

Cecile Licad Up Close at Gallery Miranila all set on October 1

 

MiraNila Heritage House & Library in partnership with the Erehwon Center for the Arts and the P. Ilusorio Foundation and in collaboration with Gallery MiraNila by The Blue Leaf proudly presents "Cecile Licad Up Close" on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.

World-renowned pianist Cecile Licad graces this country in October with her only solo performance in Metro Manila.

Described by The New Yorker as “a pianist’s pianist,” Ms. Licad will play in the garden-surrounded setting of the Gallery MiraNila bringing to life the music of Beethoven, Chopin, Joplin, Liszt, and Schumann as you’ve never before experienced.

Ms. Licad chose romantic and early modern works believing that these will resonate well with her local audiences.

The repertoire will feature Beethoven’s famous Piano Sonata No. 14 (Moonlight) in C-sharp minor, Op. 27, No. 2, nineteen short compositions from Schumann’s Carnaval, Op. 9, Liszt’s St. Francis de Paolo Walking on the Waves, three pieces from American composer Scott Joplin that Ms. Licad’s performed at the Carnegie Hall last December, and Chopin’s “favorite and dearest” of his ballads, Ballade No. 1 in G Minor.

A recipient of the Leventritt Gold Medal, Grand Prix du Disque, and Pamana ng Pilipino Award, Ms. Licad has also worked with esteemed orchestras and distinguished conductors, including the Philadelphia Orchestra under Eugene Ormandy, the New York Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under Claudio Abbado, as well as Sir Georg Solti, the National Symphony Orchestra under Mstislav Rostropovich, the Boston Symphony Orchestra under Seiji Ozawa, the London Symphony Orchestra under Kurt Masur, the London Philharmonic Orchestra under Andre Previn, and the Russian Academy State Orchestra (Moscow) under People’s Artist of Russia Mark Gorenstein.

She continues to captivate audiences at the Carnegie Hall and, most recently, on tour with famed Wynton Marsalis and his brass band playing alongside Louis, a modern silent film based on the early years of the legendary trumpetist Louis Armstrong.

The Gallery MiraNila concert offers a rare opportunity to hear this most decorated of Filipino classical artists in the intimate setting of the hall.

Tickets for her one-night-only solo concert in Metro Manila: Premium seats at P3,500. and regular seats at P3,000. For tickets, text Bern at 0906-547-8268 or email miranilaheritage@gmail.com.

Doors open at 5:30 pm and the performance promptly starts at 6:30 pm.
A Bizu pasta station and some light snacks will be open during intermission and after the concert.

Separate from concert tickets.
MiraNamin Nest:
Pre-Concert Sunset Cocktail Hour, ₱1,000 per guest. Cocktails and charcuterie with panoramic sunset views. Time: 5:00–6:00 PM

MiraNamin Nest:
Post-Concert Dinner Under the Stars, ₱2,000 per guest. A curated late dinner by Bizu on the rooftop after the concert.

Book your spots now: https://bit.ly/3JvaG9q

MiraNila Heritage House & Library is located at 26 Mariposa Street, Brgy Bagong Lipunan Crame, Q.C. Facebook: MiraNila Heritage House Events.

Cecile Licad Up Close is presented by the Benitez-Tirona MiraNila Foundation in partnership with the Erehwon Center for the Arts, P. Ilusorio Foundation, and Gallery MiraNila by The Blue Leaf.

Read More