Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert set for Oct. 16 at Asia Pacific College
During a leisurely afternoon at Joel's Place, a modern lifestyle grocerant at the Proscenium in Rockwell, world-class musicians Maestro Alessio Benvenuti and Sarah Gonzales played three well-loved pieces--Antonio Molina’s Hating Gabi, Violin Duo by Nicolo Paganini, Usahay by Gregorio Labja--that collectively show the lasting beauty of both Italian and Filipino cultures.
It was but a teaser of the Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert set for October 16, 2025 at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium that will also feature an ensemble of exceptional talent that include Alfonso Encina (Violin II), Sara Gonzales (Viola), Arnold Josue (Cello), Lawrence Palad (Bass), and Mariel Ilusorio (Piano).
The must-not miss concert is presented by the Philippine Italian Association (PIA), in collaboration with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), and sponsored by Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master's Touch.
According to PIA Director Joanna Altomonte-Abrera, they have been organizing sociocultural, educational, and artistic events that not only inspire communities through the transformative power of music but also further the relationship between the Philippines and Italy.
"For us, given that Maestro Benvenuti is the concert master of the MSO, it's only natural for us to do something with them to strengthen those ties," Altomonte-Abrera said.
With Maestro Alessio Benvenuti (Violin I) at the helm, the event promises its guests an unforgettable celebration of Filipino and Italian cultures through the universal language of music, which will feature works by esteemed composers Nicanor Abelardo, Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Antonio Vivaldi, Tomaso Albinoni, and Gioachino Rossini.
Audiences can look forward to timeless works such as 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 (arr. 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).
Benvenuti shared that his father was a photographer and encouraged him to visit the Philippines when he was younger. Currently the concertmaster of the Manila Symphony Orchestra, the Makati-based musician has captivated audiences worldwide, having been featured in over 2,000 concerts across the United States, South America, Central America, Asia, Tunisia, and Europe since 1996.
Now celebrating its 63rd year, PIA continues to fulfill 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.
The concert is also quite timely as October is the celebration of the Settimana Della Lingua Italiana Nel Mondo (Italian Language Week Worldwide), The PIA also partners with the Societa Dante Alighieri to help promote the Italian language.
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.
Joel’s Place, which offers a curated mix of local and international products and blends the grocery and dining concept seamlessly, further complements this collaboration. 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.
"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" programs 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 programs.
The concert starts at 7:00 PM at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium located at 3 Humabon Place, Magallanes, Makati City. By Dexter R. Matilla
Ticket price: ₱1,500. 20% discount for Senior Citizens/PWD or 10% discount for PIA Members.
For ticket inquiries and reservations, please get in touch with Ms. Jan Dacera at #09954305118 and/or at this email address: philitalassociation@gmail.com
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Facebook: The Philippine Italian Association
Instagram: @philitalian
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