The concert at the Goldenberg Mansion was a truly remarkable evening, filled with the enchanting melodies of the piano. As the alumni of Santa Isabel College’s Conservatory of Music took to the stage, the historic venue came alive with the sounds of classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions.
The Goldenberg Mansion itself is a treasure trove of history and elegance. Built in the early 20th century, this magnificent mansion has witnessed countless significant events and has been a witness to the changing tides of the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. Its grand architecture and opulent interiors provide the perfect backdrop for musical excellence.
Stepping into the Goldenberg Mansion is like stepping back in time. The grand foyer, adorned with intricate chandeliers and marble floors, sets the tone for the evening. As guests make their way through the mansion’s various rooms, they are transported to a bygone era of sophistication and refinement.
The concert hall, with its high ceilings and impeccable acoustics, is a testament to the mansion’s commitment to providing an exceptional musical experience. The stage, bathed in soft lighting, becomes a stage for the alumni to showcase their immense talent and passion for music.
As the concert unfolds, the audience is captivated by the sheer virtuosity of the performers. The pianists’ fingers dance effortlessly across the keys, breathing life into each note and creating a symphony of emotions. From the delicate melodies of Chopin to the powerful compositions of Rachmaninoff, every piece is delivered with precision and artistry.
The Goldenberg Mansion’s commitment to supporting the arts and nurturing young talent is evident in every aspect of the concert. The alumni of Santa Isabel College’s Conservatory of Music are a testament to the institution’s dedication to fostering musical excellence. Their performances not only showcase their individual skill but also pay homage to the rich musical heritage of the Philippines.
As the final notes of the concert reverberate through the halls of the Goldenberg Mansion, there is a sense of awe and appreciation in the air. The audience rises to their feet, applauding the performers’ outstanding display of talent. The historic venue has once again proven itself to be a haven for musical excellence, a place where the past and present converge to create unforgettable experiences.
A Collaboration Between the Office of the President and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office
The second Goldenberg Concert Series, presented by the Office of the President in collaboration with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, provided a platform for graduates of the Santa Isabel College’s Conservatory of Music to demonstrate their musical prowess. This full-day event was held on a Saturday, offering a unique opportunity for the talented musicians to showcase their skills.
The collaboration between the Office of the President and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office was a testament to their shared commitment to supporting the arts and nurturing young talent. Recognizing the importance of music education and the need to provide a platform for young musicians to showcase their abilities, they came together to organize the Goldenberg Concert Series.
The Santa Isabel College’s Conservatory of Music, known for its rigorous training and exceptional faculty, was chosen as the venue for this prestigious event. Graduates from the conservatory were handpicked to participate in the concert series, ensuring that only the finest musicians would have the opportunity to perform.
The concert series was not only a celebration of musical talent but also a means to raise funds for charitable causes. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, with its extensive network and resources, played a crucial role in mobilizing support for the event. Through their joint efforts, they were able to attract sponsors and donors who generously contributed to the cause.
The full-day event was meticulously planned to provide a diverse and captivating musical experience for the audience. The program featured a wide range of musical genres, from classical symphonies to contemporary jazz. Each performance was carefully curated to showcase the unique abilities and artistic expressions of the participating musicians.
In addition to the performances, the concert series also included workshops and masterclasses conducted by renowned musicians and industry professionals. These sessions provided an invaluable opportunity for the young musicians to learn from experts in their respective fields and further hone their skills.
The Goldenberg Concert Series received overwhelming support from the public, with tickets selling out weeks in advance. The event attracted music enthusiasts, philanthropists, and government officials, all coming together to appreciate the talent on display and contribute to a worthy cause.
The success of the second Goldenberg Concert Series was a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative impact of the arts. Through their joint efforts, the Office of the President and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office were able to create a platform that not only showcased the immense musical talent of the Santa Isabel College’s Conservatory of Music graduates but also raised funds to support charitable initiatives. This collaboration set a precedent for future partnerships aimed at nurturing young talent and promoting the arts in the country.
The first time slot was dedicated to showcasing the classical prowess of Ma. Solinda Garcia-Bautista. As a protégé of Cecile Basilio Roxas, Garcia-Bautista demonstrated her technical mastery and emotional depth through her renditions of pieces by renowned composers such as Chopin, Mozart, and Beethoven. Her fingers danced effortlessly across the keys, breathing life into each note and leaving the audience spellbound.
Following Garcia-Bautista’s performance, it was Amor Marie Reyes who took center stage. Reyes, known for her versatility and ability to seamlessly transition between different musical styles, delighted the audience with her interpretations of jazz and contemporary pieces. Her improvisational skills were particularly impressive, as she effortlessly weaved intricate melodies and harmonies, captivating the listeners with her musical storytelling.
Altair Alonso, the final pianist to perform, brought a unique flair to the concert. Trained by Cecile Basilio Roxas in both classical and Filipino folk music, Alonso showcased his virtuosity through a fusion of traditional melodies and modern interpretations. His performance was a testament to the rich musical heritage of the Philippines, as he breathed new life into familiar tunes, infusing them with his own creative twists.
Accompanying these three exceptional pianists were John Patrick de Jesus Reyes and his wife, Venecia Teresita Tamayo-Reyes. Both accomplished violinists, they added depth and complexity to the performances, creating a harmonious dialogue between the piano and the violin. Their duets were a highlight of the concert, showcasing their technical prowess and musical chemistry.
The Goldenberg Concert Series II: Indak ng Musika was not just a display of individual talent, but also a celebration of the legacy of Cecile Basilio Roxas. Through her guidance and mentorship, these exceptional musicians were able to cultivate their skills and develop their own unique musical voices. The concert served as a testament to the power of music education and the profound impact a dedicated teacher can have on the lives of their students.
Audience Engagement from Various Schools
The 11 a.m. time slot welcomed students from Concordia College in Paco, Immaculate Heart of Mary College in Quezon City, Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School in Malate, and Padre Gomez Elementary School in Sta. Cruz. These young music enthusiasts had the opportunity to witness the exceptional talent showcased during the morning performance.
The 2 p.m. time slot catered to students from the British School in Manila, the International School Manila, and the Philippine Normal University. This diverse audience experienced the beauty of music through the performances of the talented musicians.
The final piano concert, held at 5 p.m., was dedicated to students from Santa Isabel College of Manila, La Salle Greenhills, Ateneo de Manila Junior High, and other cultural aficionados. This evening performance provided a fitting conclusion to the Goldenberg Concert Series II: Indak ng Musika.
Throughout the day, the audience engagement from various schools added to the vibrant atmosphere of the concert hall. The students from Concordia College in Paco were captivated by the melodic tunes that resonated through the hall, their eyes wide with wonder as the pianist’s fingers danced across the keys. Immaculate Heart of Mary College students, on the other hand, were seen nodding their heads in time with the music, fully immersed in the rhythm and harmony.
Meanwhile, Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School students were visibly inspired by the performances, their faces lighting up with excitement as they watched the musicians pour their hearts into each note. And the students from Padre Gomez Elementary School were not to be outdone, their applause filling the air as each piece reached its crescendo.
As the 2 p.m. time slot approached, a new wave of anticipation swept through the concert hall. The students from the British School in Manila, with their impeccable taste in music, were eager to experience the world-class performances that awaited them. The International School Manila students, known for their appreciation of the arts, listened intently, their eyes focused on the stage as the musicians transported them to a world of pure musical bliss.
The Philippine Normal University students, with their deep understanding of music theory, were able to appreciate the intricate nuances of each composition, their faces reflecting a mixture of concentration and awe. The concert hall was filled with a sense of unity as these diverse groups of students came together to celebrate the power of music.
Finally, as the evening approached, the concert hall was filled with a palpable sense of excitement. The students from Santa Isabel College of Manila, known for their passion for the arts, eagerly awaited the start of the final piano concert. La Salle Greenhills students, with their discerning taste in music, were ready to be moved by the virtuosity of the pianist.
And the students from Ateneo de Manila Junior High, known for their deep appreciation of classical music, were eager to witness the culmination of the Goldenberg Concert Series II: Indak ng Musika. As the lights dimmed and the first notes of the piano filled the air, a hush fell over the audience, their anticipation building with each passing moment.
Throughout the day, the engagement of these various schools created an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm, enhancing the overall experience of the Goldenberg Concert Series II: Indak ng Musika. The students’ presence added a youthful energy to the event, ensuring that the love for music would continue to thrive in the hearts of the next generation.
The concert series not only aimed to raise funds for musically inclined students but also sought to provide them with opportunities to showcase their talent. As part of the event, a special segment was dedicated to featuring performances by young musicians who had been selected through a rigorous audition process. These budding artists were given a platform to display their skills and gain recognition from a wider audience.
Moreover, the concert series went beyond just financial support. The organizers also collaborated with renowned music schools and institutions to offer scholarships and mentorship programs to deserving students. These initiatives aimed to provide comprehensive support to musically inclined individuals, ensuring that they not only receive financial aid but also receive the necessary guidance and training to excel in their chosen field.
The Goldenberg Mansion’s rich history and grandeur added a touch of elegance to the concert series. The venue itself became a symbol of the importance placed on the arts and culture, creating an atmosphere of appreciation and reverence for music. The meticulously designed stage and acoustics further enhanced the overall concert experience, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the performances.
The collaboration between the Office of the President and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office underscored the government’s commitment to supporting the arts. This partnership not only provided financial backing but also served as a catalyst for other organizations and individuals to come forward and contribute to the cause. The concert series became a platform for different sectors of society to unite and work towards a common goal – nurturing the talents of young musicians and ensuring a vibrant future for the arts.
Overall, the second Goldenberg Concert Series was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on both the performers and the audience. The event served as a testament to the power of music in bringing people together and inspiring young minds to pursue their passion for the arts. It also highlighted the importance of collective efforts in supporting musically inclined students, proving that when individuals and organizations join forces, they can create a significant impact and pave the way for a brighter future for the arts.
Source: The Manila Times
