Violinist Diomedes Saraza Jr. headlines PPO concert "Fantasy"

Violinist Diomedes Saraza, Jr., the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's Artist-in-Residence and current Concertmaster has been impressing audiences with his featured solos in Richard Strauss' Ein Heldenleben (A Hero's Life), Op. 40 and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34 during the last couple of season concerts of the PPO.

Saraza Jr. was originally scheduled to close out the PPO's 40th concert season in April but it seems that the previous season still has a hold on the current one as there has been a switch with him now being the featured soloist for the upcoming concert, billed as Fantasy, happening on December 6, 2024, 7:30 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit, Makati.

Diomedes Saraza, Jr.

While the rest of the program remains unchanged, with Maestro Grzegorz Nowak leading the orchestra with Gioachino Rossini's William Tell Overture and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, the concerto with Saraza Jr. will now be Jean Sibelius' Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47.

Previously scheduled soloist, violinist Andrea Obiso will now close out the season while Saraza Jr. is still slated to perform Dmitri Shostakovich's Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 77 in a special concert outside of the season.

What is more remarkable is that just a day before, on December 5, 2024, 4:30 PM, Saraza Jr. joins pianist Victor Asuncion and cellist John Henry Crawford in a performance of Brahms and Mendelssohn Piano Trios at the Corazon Aquino Hall at St. Scholastica's College, Manila.

Reprinted below is the press release for the upcoming PPO season concert.

PPO's Concert III: Fantasy explores depths of human emotions

Violinist Diomedes Saraza Jr takes music lovers on a journey of imagination with the third installment of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO)’s 40th concert season, slated on December 6, 7:30 p.m., at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

With his 1972 French violin by Eugene Guinot and Rene Morel (given by Standard Insurance), Saraza Jr. will captivate with his exceptional skill and artistry on the violin as he effortlessly meets the virtuosic demands of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius’ Violin Concerto op.47, D minor.

One of the most challenging in the repertoire in the classic music scene, Sibelius concerto premiered in 1904, with violin teacher Victor Novàček as soloist. With lukewarm reception during its premiere, Sibelius rewrote the concerto in 1905, with Berlin concertmaster Karl Halir playing the revised piece.

Music history has revealed that the concerto was initially created for violinist Willy Burmester, who was then the concertmaster in Helsingfors. After Sibelius passed him over during its two premieres, Burmester never touched the work for the rest of his life.

For the PPO Concert III, Saraza will be performing with the PPO and taking the audiences on a profound journey through the emotional spectrum of life, under the baton of acclaimed music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak.

Currently the PPO’s guest concertmaster and artist-in-residence, Saraza received both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in music from The Juilliard School as a full tuition scholar. He studied under the tutelage of Juilliard's Dean Emeritus-violinist Stephen Clapp, American violinist-pedagogue Lewis Kaplan, and Taiwanese-American violinist Joseph Lin (the first violinist of the Juilliard String Quartet from 2011 to 2018).

He also finished his master’s in musical arts from Yale University, under Prof. Hyo Kang. During his time in Yale, Saraza was awarded the Brodus Erle Prize 2016 for best violinist of the school year and the Alumni Association Prize 2017 for important community initiatives that he led.

Since winning the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in the Philippines in 2002 at age 12, Saraza has been performing and giving solo recitals both in the Philippines and abroad. He has won international competitions, including New York’s Friday-Woodmere Young Artist Competition and Associated Music Teacher’s League Competition.

He has performed solo internationally with the New York Symphonic Arts Ensemble, the Sichuan Philharmonic Orchestra, among others, as well as locally with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and the PPO. He has collaborated as soloist with prominent conductors, namely Darrell Ang, Olivier Ochanine, David Bernard, Gerard Salonga, Yoshikazu Fukumura, Joshua Kangmin Tan, and Haoran Li.

Saraza served as concertmaster of MSO and Yale Philharmonia, as well as an associate and assistant concertmaster of The Juilliard Orchestra and Juilliard Lab Orchestra. He was also an educator at St. Scholastica’s College Manila and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra.

Saraza has finished his USA recital tour and album recording with Music Foundation founder and Steinway artist Victor Asuncion.

Completing the program for the Concert III: Fantasy, the PPO will perform Gioachino Rossini’s William Tell Overture and Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 5, op. 64, E minor.

Premiered in Paris on August 3, 1829, the William Tell Overture is part of Gioachino Rossini’s opera Guillaume Tell, which was adapted from Friedrich Schiller’s 1804 drama inspired by the legendary 14th-century Swiss patriot William Tell. In pop culture, this piece is best known for its thrilling final three minutes, which became iconic as the theme music for The Lone Ranger, the masked avenger of the Wild West.

Meanwhile, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, is often interpreted as a reflection of the composer’s personal struggles and doubts. First performed in 1888, with Tchaikovsky conducting, the symphony is known for its sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts, and rich orchestration. Over the years, this masterpiece has remained a favorite in concert halls.

The PPO Concert III: Fantasy is scheduled for December 6, 7:30 p.m., at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. Secure your seats at the CCP Box Office at Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez and/or via TicketWorld. For inquiries, call the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880 or email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph.

Instituto Cervantes Brings Spanish Classical Guitar Virtuoso Miguel Trápaga to Manila

BREAKING:

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the concerts are postponed and rescheduled on February 2025. Instituto Cervantes de Manila apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the rescheduling.

Instituto Cervantes de Manila and the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, in collaboration with the UP College of Music, are proud to present the internationally acclaimed Spanish guitarist Miguel Trápaga in a series of concerts featuring his latest project, The Guitar in the Time of Manuel de Falla.

Performances are scheduled for November 25 at 6:00 PM, at the College of Architecture of the University of the Philippines Diliman, and November 28 at 7:30 PM at Instituto Cervantes in Intramuros. These concerts promise a captivating journey through Spain’s rich musical heritage, brought to life by Trápaga, one of the world’s leading ambassadors of classical guitar.

Born in Cantabria, Spain, Miguel Trápaga is celebrated for his profound commitment to the classical guitar repertoire, from 18th-century masterpieces to contemporary works. Being a graduate of the Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid, Trápaga has earned numerous awards, including top honors at prestigious competitions such as the Andrés Segovia International Guitar Competition or the Guitar Foundation of America’s International Solo Guitar Competition.

With an impressive international career, Trápaga has performed in iconic venues such as the Forbidden City Auditorium in Beijing, the Teresa Carreño Theater in Caracas, or the National Theatre in Taiwan. He has also collaborated with esteemed orchestras including the Real Filharmonía de Galicia, the Seville Symphony Orchestra, and the National Philharmonic of Ukraine.

Trápaga’s discography includes seven albums, with notable recordings for the NAXOS label, such as Concierto de Aranjuez by Joaquín Rodrigo, and the world premiere of Leo Brouwer’s Concierto de Benicassim. His latest album, Double Guitar Concertos, showcases works by renowned Spanish composers.

Miguel Trápaga
Photo © Kazuhiro Yoshizumi

In addition to his active concert schedule, Trápaga is a professor at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid and a sought-after guest lecturer worldwide, having taught masterclasses at institutions such as the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki and the Melbourne University Conservatorium of Music.

The program, The Guitar in the Time of Manuel de Falla, features a carefully curated selection of compositions that highlight the vibrant and evocative spirit of Spanish music.

First Part:

Isaac Albéniz: Asturias, Capricho Catalán, Torre Bermeja

Manuel M. Ponce: Suite in A Minor (Prélude, Allemande, Sarabande, Gavotte I et II, Gigue)

Second Part:

Federico Moreno-Torroba: Sonatina (Allegretto, Andante, Allegro)

Manuel de Falla: Homenaje a Debussy, Romance del Pescador, Canción del Fuego Fatuo

Joaquín Turina: Sonata for Guitar, Op. 61 (Allegro, Andante, Allegro Vivo)

Both performances are free of charge, but seating is limited. Reservations can be made through the following link: https://forms.office.com/e/k48Kkw8NTA

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the artistry of Miguel Trápaga and experience the timeless beauty of Spanish classical guitar.

For updates on the concerts and other cultural activities of Instituto Cervantes, please visit Instituto Cervantes de Manila website https://manila.cervantes.es, or its Facebook and Instagram pages: www.facebook.com/InstitutoCervantesManila and https://www.instagram.com/institutocervantesmanila/

Italian Film Festival 2024 at QCinema

From November 12 to 18, 2024, Italian films are set to make their comeback in Philippine Cinema with the return of the Italian Film Festival in Manila and in Cebu City led by Festival Director Mr. Antonio Termenini. The promotion of Italian Cinema in Manila is part of the extensive annual program of Cineforum Robert Bresson to promote the richness and diversity of Italian Cinema across Asia. This also includes collaborations with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and other initiatives like the Asian Film Festival and Beyond the Mirror (Oltre lo specchio) Film Festival.

The Italian Film Festival is locally organized by the Philippine-Italian Association (PIA) under the auspices and financial support of the Embassy of Italy in Manila and in collaboration with QCinema. The QCinema, over the past 18 months, has been at the forefront of fostering international collaborations, uniting countries with different cultures through films. The Last Shadow at the First Light, for instance, is a pioneering project led by QCinema that is co-produced by the Philippines, Singapore, Slovenia, and Japan. The collaboration with QCinema, therefore, is a fundamental aspect of this festival’s organization and in attracting audiences.

The Italian Film Festival will take place in multiple venues across Metro Manila, with screenings scheduled in Pasig City, Makati City, and Quezon City. The venues include Shangri-la Red Carpet, Power Plant Cinema, and Gateway Cinema. It will feature the following six contemporary films, carefully selected to reflect the current landscape of Italian cinema:

La Chimera (2023)

Director: Alice Rohrwache

Cast: Josh O'Connor, Carol Duartem Alba Rohrwacherm Isabella Rossellini, Vincenzo Nemolato, Lou Roy-Lecollinet

Josh O’Connor plays Arthur, an English archaeologist who has just been released from Italian prison. It doesn’t take him long to fall back with his old crew, who take advantage of Arthur’s supernatural gift for finding ancient tombs, which they loot for Etruscan artifacts to sell. Director Rohrwacher crafts a very unusual depiction of capitalist conflict: a rowdy tale of chaos borne of people fighting over commodities ripped from their historical contexts, and made little more than trinkets to be bought and sold.

Diabolik Chi sei? | Diabolik: Who are You? (2023)

Directors: Antonio Manetti, Antonio Minetti

Cast: Giacomo Gianniotti, Miriam Leone, Valerio Mastandrea, Monica Bellucci, Pier Giorgio Bellocchio, Chiara Martegiani

Based on the popular comic series created by Angela and Luciana Giussani. The titular master thief (Giacomo Gianniotti) has been captured by a ruthless criminal syndicate, along with his constant pursuer, Inspector Ginko (Valerio Mastandrea). Their partners, Eva Kant and Altea di Vallenberg (Miriam Leone and Monica Belluci), form an uneasy alliance in order to save the men they love.

Io Capitano (2023)

Director: Matteo Garrone

Cast: Seydou Sarr, Moustapha Fall, Issaka Sawadogo, Hichem Yacoubi, Doodou Sagna Khady Sy

Winner of the Silver Lion. Cousins Seydou and Moussa (Seydou Sarr and Moustapha Fall) leave their hometown of Dakar, Senegal in hopes of finding a better future in Italy. This journey takes them through several countries, where they encounter all manner of corruption. It has them crossing the dangerous Sahara Desert. And they will face the broad apathy of Europeans over the plight of refugees.

Palazzina Laf (2023)

Director: Michele Riondino

Cast: Michele Riondino, Elio Germano, Vanessa Scalera, Anna Ferruzzo, Domenico Fortunato, Giovanni D'Addario

Based on a true story. Set in 1997, the film follows cleaner Caterina Lamanna (played by director Michele RIondino), who works in the massive Ilva Steelworks in Taranto. He is forced by his superior to spy on his co-workers, reporting on any talk that might prove detrimental to the company and its bottom line. What he finds along the way is a systematic attempt by the company to psychologically crush its employees, the revelation of which would set an important precedent in Italian labor laws.

Quell’estate con Irène | My Summer with Irène (2024)

Director: Carlo Sironi

Cast: Noée Abita, Maria Camilla Brandenburg, Claudio Segaluscio, Gabriele Rollo, Beatrice Puccilli, Anna di Luzio

Shy Clara (Maria Camilla Brandenburg) meets the outgoing Irène (Noée Abita) at a summer camp organized by the hospital where they are both being treated. The two seventeen-year-olds form a quick bond, in spite of the differences in their personality. The two impulsively decide to go on a trip together to Sicily, putting off their return to their families, and instead going on a journey to discover who they really are, and what they want out of this tragically short life.

Rapito | Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara (2023)

Director: Marco Bellocchio

Cast: Enea Sala, Leonardo Maltese, Paolo Pierobon, Fausto Russo Alesi, Barbara Ronchi, Andrea Gherpelli

Recounts the true story of Edgardo Montara, a Jewish child from Bologna who in 1858 was abducted by the Catholic Church due to having been secretly baptized by his family’s Christian maid back when he was an infant. Montara was taken to Rome, where he would end up being raised and tutored personally by Pope Pius IX, who sought to preserve the primacy of the Church and its laws. This choice would prove to be controversial, causing an uproar that reverberated throughout Italy and Europe.

The esteemed directors of the Diabolik saga, Antonio and Marco Manetti, are likely to attend as guests of honor, adding a distinguished presence to the event. If confirmed, audiences and filmmakers will be given a unique opportunity to engage with the internationally acclaimed Italian directors.

The festival will include special screenings, Q&A sessions, and interactive discussions, creating a rich, immersive experience for attendees. Through the collaboration between Cineforum Robert Bresson, the Asian Film Festival, the MAECI, the Embassy of Italy, PIA, and QCinema, the event will engage the Italian community in Manila as well as the Filipino cinema enthusiasts, sparking meaningful dialogue around contemporary Italian cinema while pr

omoting cross-cultural exchange between Italy and the Philippines.

All screenings except for La Chimera and Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara will be will be free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Here is the schedule of the Italian Film Festival 2024.

November 12, 2024

5:55 PM La Chimera (Gateway Mall, Cinema 16)

November 13, 2024

12:00 PM Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara (Gateway Mall, Cinema 16)

November 14, 2024

11:00 AM Diabolik: Who are You? (Shangri-La Plaza, Cinema 4)

12:30 AM My Summer with Irène (Gateway Mall, Cinema 16)

6:45 PM La Chimera (Shangri-La Plaza, Cinema 4)

9:20 PM Io Capitano (Shangri-La Plaza, Cinema 4)

November 15, 2024

12:00 PM Palazzina Laf (Powerplant Mall, Cinema 6)

2:00 PM Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara (Powerplant Mall, Cinema 6)

Grammy Award-winning cellist Sara Sant'Ambrogio makes Philippine debut at PPO's concert

Grammy Award-winning cellist Sara Sant'Ambrogio makes her Philippine debut at the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's upcoming concert on November 15, 2024, 7:30 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit, Makati.

Billed as Triumph, the second concert of the PPOs 40th season sees Sant'Ambrogio take on one of the most popular pieces in the cello repertoire, Edward Elgar's Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85.

Other pieces programmed for this evening include the lushly orchestrated Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34 by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and the uplifting Symphony No. 2, Op. 61 by Robert Schumann to be conducted by PPO Music Director and Principal Conductor Grzegorz Nowak.

Always pushing the boundaries of classical music and looking for new ways to draw in new audiences, the award-winning cellist first leapt to international attention when she was a winner at the International Tchaikovsky Violoncello Competition in Moscow, Russia. From then on, she has appeared as a soloist in concerts of various orchestras in Beijing, Boston, Budapest, Chicago, Prague, Osaka, and San Francisco, USA, among others.

Sara Sant'Ambrogio

A founding member of the Eroica Trio, the award-winning cellist has performed with Sting and Joshua Bell in the production of Twin Spirits, featuring the love affair between composer Robert Schumann and pianist Clara. Tracks from her Dreaming solo CD have been featured in various film soundtracks, including the opening title of HBO award-winning documentary A Matter of Taste.

Sant’Ambrogio started her cello studies with her father John, a principal cellist of the St. Louis Symphony. At 16, she was invited on full scholarship to study with David Soyer at the Curtis Institute of Music where she received her high school diploma.

Three years later, world renowned cellist Leonard Rose invited Sant’Ambrogio to study at The Juilliard School. Within weeks of arriving, she won the All-Juilliard Schumann Cello Concerto Competition, resulting in the first of many performances at Lincoln Center.

Art Appreciation and identity exploration with CCP Children's Biennale 2024: Let's Play!

Wander through a whimsical world where creativity meets technology with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Children’s Biennale 2024: Let’s Play!. Through colorful exhibits, interactive workshops, animated film screenings, and live performances, young artists will inspire joy from November 9 to 10, 2024, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati.

While children are born with boundless curiosity and imagination, it is essential to nurture their innate appreciation for the arts and culture. Children’s Biennale: Let’s Play! invites kids of all ages, their nurturers, and the young at heart to embark on a delightful adventure.

Offering an enriching experience by building interactive spaces, the CCP Children’s Biennale: Let’s Play! encourages hands-on participation for children to develop artistic expression. It aims to nurture young children through exposure to diverse Philippine arts and indigenous cultures.

For this edition of the Children’s Biennale, children can watch the animated film Before Brabant and a special performance of Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad, featuring the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP).

Before Brabant is an animated film directed by Alberto “Chino” Rodriguez about young Helyas who searches for his true family amid his tragic destiny. The screening will be enhanced by a captivating live soundtrack by the music of composer Jeffrey Ching to be performed by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) under the baton of Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, featuring tenor Ervin Lumauag, soprano Stefanie Quintin, baritone Byeong-In Park, and acclaimed soprano Andion Fernandez. The screening is made possible by Mrs. Milagros Ong How, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and Morph Animation Inc.

Catch the animated film that will surely resonate deeply with young audiences on November 9 (Saturday), with screenings at 10am and 4pm.

Specially designed for the Children’s Dance Theater, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad crosses a magical journey with simple life lessons on perseverance. Choreographed by Erl Sorilla under the guidance of National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes and artistic director Ronelson Yadao, the story follows the quest of Juan Tamad, the iconic Philippine character, to find the “Gintong Niyog” and eventually win the hand of his beloved.

With inspiring music by Toto Sorioso, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad taunts unlimited imagination as its protagonist encounters talking animals from different renowned children’s stories.

Reintroducing the classic Filipino children’s stories Filipinos grew up with, watch Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad on November 10 (Sunday), with performances at 10am and 4pm.

This children’s festival is a multidisciplinary biennale that promises other engaging activities at the Samsung Theater lobby. The pre-show activities are slated on November 9 and 10, from 8am to 11am and 2pm to 5pm.

With a neon-lit arcade theater backdrop, participants can partake in select CCP projects designed for young audiences such as Young at ART, a web series that features conversations between young children and veteran artists, where the older generations share their passion for arts and culture.

Children can explore the joyous spirit of traditional games intertwined with the dynamism of Philippine indigenous dances in Tara, Laro Ta(y)o. Learn about the Philippine lullabies and hele in Himig Himbing: Mga Heleng Atin.

As the country’s leading art institution cultivates an inclusive and conducive environment for art appreciation, the CCP Children’s Biennale: Let’s Play! motivates its young audiences to explore their identities. The festival innovates the children’s perspective of Philippine culture through utilizing up-and-coming technology in its artistic presentation.

The CCP Children’s Biennale: Let’s Play! will follow the Pay-What-You-Can scheme, reminiscent of the CCP Pasinaya: The Open House Festival to make the experience all the more accessible. You may register for the event via: https://bit.ly/4f8YDJJ.

Get the latest updates on CCP Children’s Biennale 2024 on CCP’s website and official social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. For more information on CCP's current and future productions, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph).

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines premieres Juan Tamad ballet at CCP Children's Biennale

No time for slacking as Alice Reyes Dance Philippines' presents its newest addition to its ever expanding repertoire, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad, that is set to premiere at the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Children's Biennale on November 10, 2024 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit, Makati.

This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.

Rebzen Arboleda as Juan Tamad

The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and BroadwayDesigner, Loy Arcenas.

Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.

Karla Santos as Maria Masipag

The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy Buwaya, the Gintong Niyog. A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.

Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of Pagong at Kuneho, Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara, and Buwaya at ang Paboreal. Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the Gintong Niyog. Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of Juan Tamad, this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.

Dan Dayo as Matsing

The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.

This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.

Mga Kuwento ni Juan Tamad will have its debut performances on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Register to the various activities by scanning the QR code below.

Raul Sunico holds music history lecture/performance at the FEU Auditorium

Brush up on music history with one of the country's world-renowned pianist as the FEU Center for the Arts presents Music 101: 600 Years of Music, an Informance featuring Dr. Raul Sunico in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the FEU Auditorium this November 5, 2024 at the historic FEU Auditorium.

The lecture/performance will comprise of two sessions with the first, morning session at 9:00 AM covering the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical Periods while the second, afternoon session covers the Romantic, Post Romantic, and 20th Century Periods.

Dr. Sunico earned his Bachelor of Music (cum laude), Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, and Master of Statistics from the University of the Philippines. He completed his Master of Music at Juilliard in New York City and his Ph.D. in Piano Performance at New York University through a scholarship provided by former First Lady Imelda Romualdez-Marcos by way of the Young Artists Foundation of the Philippines.

Dr. Sunico was conferred an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree (honoris causa) by Far Eastern University in 2005. He earned praise from The New York Times for his “well-developed technique” and "genuine connection to the music" when he performs. He was also dubbed as a “brilliant pianist” by WNCN Radio. He has played in numerous countries around the world.

Dr. Sunico had several performances in the FEU Auditorium including a concert on September 22, 1988 titled: An Evening of Gershwin Songs with Della Besa, Josephine Roces, Joel Navarro and Antonio Maigue.

On September 17, 1997 he performed in a concert titled The Songs of the Philippine Revolution 1896-1898 with Antonio Maigue and Nanette Moscardon.

The last performance of Dr. Sunico in the FEU Auditorium was when he shared the stage with blind tenor-pianist, Carlos “Chuckie” Ibay to perform Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18 on 2 Steinway grand pianos.

Additionally, Dr. Sunico has been a soloist of various orchestras worldwide including but not limited to the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, Szczecin Philharmonic Orchestra (Poland), Towson Community Orchestra (Maryland, USA), Taipei Symphony Orchestra, Taiwan Normal University Wind Orchestra, Tokyo Sinfonia, Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra, Ho Chi Minh Symphony Orchestra and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

Music 101: 600 Years of Music, an Informance featuring Dr. Raul Sunico is open and free for all. Registration is required through this form: https://forms.office.com/r/jVE896xVh4

For more information on the concert, please follow or message the Far Eastern University Center for the Arts on their Social Media accounts:

Facebook: Far Eastern University Center for the Arts

Instagram: @feucenterarts

Lithuanian, Slovenian films to debut at Cine Europa 27 at the Shang

The biggest foreign language film festival in the Philippines gets even bigger as films from Lithuania and Slovenia debut in the 27th edition of Cine Europa happening this October 18-27, 2024 at the Red Carpet Cinema, Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong.

The Lithuanian and Slovenian films join the 20-strong film line up presented by the European Union Member States, the Alliance Française de Manille, the Goethe-Institut, the Instituto Cervantes, the Philippine-Italian Association, and guest country Ukraine. This year's selection is a mix of returning film festival favorites giving viewers another chance to see these movies, modern classics, and current releases that have never been shown in Philippine cinemas before.

Cine Europa 27 will also have screenings at the University of the Cordilleras in Baguio, University of San Agustin in Iloilo, University of the Philippines in Cebu and University of St. La Salle in Bacolod on 18 to 27 October 2024.

Here are the 20 films to be screened at Cine Europa 27.

Another Franko (Ukraine, 2024)

Director: Igor Visnevsky

Cast: Vyacheslav Dovzhenko, Akhtem Seitablaev, Nadiya Levchenko, Roman Kulish, Andriy Fedinchyk, Lilia Yushkevich, Maxim Donets, Irina Kudashova, Yana Kovernik, Oleg Voloshchenko, Vsevolod Shekita

This film chronicles the life of Peter Franko, the son of a renowned Ukrainian writer, exploring his love for his wife Olga, his rivalry with friend Andriy, and the historical events that shaped the destinies of millions, all while the mystery of his death remains unsolved.

Diabolik (Italy, 2021)

Directors: Antonio Manetti, Marco Manetti

Cast: Luca Marinelli, Miriam Leone, Valerio Mastandrea, Alessandro Roja, Serena Rossi, Claudia Gerini, Stefano Pesce, Luca Di Giovanni, Vanessa Scalera, Antonino Iuorio

In 1960s Clerville, the thrilling encounters between the enigmatic Diabolik and the alluring Eva Kant blend romance and crime, with Inspector Ginko determined to foil their plans.

Icare | Icarus and the Minotaur (Luxembourg, 2022)

Director: Carlo Vogele

In this animated film, Icarus, the apprentice of Daedalus, forms a secret friendship with the Minotaur before facing disillusionment and a tragic choice when King Minos confines his friend to the labyrinth and Prince Theseus arrives to confront the monster.

La Flota de Indias | The West Indies Fleet (Spain, 2021)

Director: Antonio Perez Molero

A powerful documentary exploring the historical and cultural impact of the Spanish fleets that transformed the New World and fuelled globalization over two centuries.

Lang historie kort | Long Story Short (Denmark, 2015)

Directors: May el-Toukhy, Maren Louise Käehne

Cast: Mille Lehfeldt, Jens Albinus, Trine Dyrholm, Peter Gantzler, Cecilie Stenspil, Danica Curcic, Marijana Jankovic, Ola Rapace

A heartfelt ensemble comedy-drama, chronicling the tangled love lives of a group of friends, each seeking romantic redemption over the course of eight parties.

L'uomo senza colpa | The Man without Guilt (Slovenia, 2022)

Director: Ivan Gergolet

Cast: Valentina Canelutti, Branko Zavrsan, Enrico Inserra, Livia Rossi

In Trieste, Angela, a widow whose husband died from asbestos exposure, takes a caregiving job for Francesco, her husband's former employer, to seek revenge but ultimately discovers that her actions lead to unexpected truths and the possibility of forgiveness and a new beginning.

Mai departe | This World is My Arena (Romania, 2023)

Director: Tedy Necula

Cast: George Balta, Adrian Paduraru, Dan Murzea, Nuami Dinescu, Sara Cuncea, Cristian-China Birta, Diana Bagdasar, Ela Ionescu, Liviu Cheloiu, Ana-Maria Pandele

A biopic of George Baltă, a paralyzed rugby player turned marathoner and motivational speaker, this inspiring film is a testament to perseverance and self discovery.

Mancs | Paw (Hungary, 2015)

Director: Robert-Adrian Pejo

Cast: Zsolt Trill, Orsolya Holecskó, Tamás Keresztes, Oszkár Nyári, László Szacsvay

Inspired by true events, this family drama follows the heart-warming journey of Zoli and his rescue dog Paw, as they overcome personal and professional challenges together.

Mermaids Don’t Cry (Austria, 2022)

Director: Franziska Pflaum

Cast: Stefanie Reinsperger, Karl Fischer, Nico Ehrenteit, Julia Franz Richter, Inga Busch

Annika, a supermarket saleswoman struggling with her chaotic life, dreams of acquiring a glamorous mermaid fin that costs 2.458 euros, despite facing family challenges, potential layoffs at work, and a complicated love life.

Niebezpieczni dżentelmeni | Dangerous Gentlemen (Poland, 2022)

Director: Maciej Kawalski

Cast: Tomasz Kot, Marcin Dorociński, Andrzej Seweryn, Wojciech Mecwaldowski

In "The Mountain Retreat of Zakopane," Joseph Conrad and three artists wake up after a wild party to find a dead man on their couch, leaving them bewildered and facing the gendarmerie at their door.

O anthropos me tis apantiseis | The Man with the Answers (Cyprus, 2021)

Director: Stelios Kammitsis

Cast: Vasilis Magouliotis, Anton Weil, Stella Fyrogeni, Marc Pistono, Chiara Ore Visca, Brando Rossi, Mauro Racanti

After his grandmother's death, Victor leaves his village in a dilapidated car to find his estranged mother in Germany, picking up hitchhiker Mattias along the way, leading to a profound bond despite their differing personalities during their journey through the Italian countryside.

Per Arti | Remember to Blink (Lithuania, 2022)

Director: Austėja Urbaitė

Cast: Ajus Antanavicius, Anne Azoulay, Arthur Igual, Dovile Kundrotaite, Inesa Sionova

A French couple adopts two Lithuanian children and hires Gabi, a bilingual student, to help them adapt, but cultural differences and conflicting attitudes lead to tensions among the adults.

Přišla v noci | She Came at Night (Czech Republic, 2023)

Directors: Jan Vejnar, Tomáš Pavlíček

Cast: Simona Peková, Annette Nesvadbová, Jiří Rendl

This black-humor-infused home invasion horror follows a couple whose lives are turned upside down when one of their mothers takes over their home—and their sanity.

Sonne und Beton | Sun and Concrete (Germany, 2020)

Director: David Wnendt

Cast: Levy Rico Arcos, Rafael Luis Klein-Heßling, Vincent Wiemer, Aaron Maldonado-Morales

A gripping coming-of-age crime drama set in a heatwave-scorched Berlin, where a group of teens devises a high-stakes plan to escape their grim reality.

Souvenir (Belgium, 2016)

Director: Bavo Defurne

Cast: Isabelle Huppert, Kevin Azaïs, Johan Leysen, Carlo Ferrante, Sophie Mousel

A once-famous chanson singer’s life changes when a young boxer encourages her to return to the stage. A moving story of rediscovery and romance in this heart-warming drama-comedy.

The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou (France, 2022)

Director: Lucas Delangle

Cast: Thomas Parigi, Edwige Blondiau, Lou Lampros, Jean-Louis Coulloc'h, Romain Laguna, Georges Isnard, Sivan Garavagno, Jean Marc Ravera

In a mountain village in the French Alps, young Jacky Caillou, who lives with his grandmother Gisèle, a renowned magnetizer-healer, becomes determined to heal a perform a miracle.

Taste of Freedom (Ukraine, 2024)

Director: Alexander Berezan

Cast: Iryna Kudašova, Tetiana Malkova, Tomasz Sobczak, Kosťantyn Temljak, Irma Vitovska, Pavel Li, Rimma Zjubina

In the vibrant streets of Lviv, a young cook pursues her dream of becoming a chef at a prestigious restaurant, but her life takes a surprising turn when she discovers a 1929 cookbook by the legendary chef Olga Franko, leading her on a journey of self discovery and belief in herself amidst the challenges of success.

That They May Face the Rising Sun (Ireland, 2023)

Director: Pat Collins

Cast: Barry Ward, Anna Bederke, Ruth McCabe, Lalor Roddy, Sean McGinley

A tender adaptation of John McGahern’s celebrated novel, portraying a year in the life of a small Irish lakeside community in the 1970s.

Tigrar | Tigers (Sweden, 2021)

Director: Ronnie Sandahl

Cast: Erik Engelen, Frida Gustavsson, Johannes Kuhnke, Maurizio Lombardi, Alfred Enoch, Liv Mjönes, Antonio Bannò, Lino Musella, Gianluca Di Gennaro

Based on a true story, this gripping drama delves into the harsh world of professional soccer, where a young talent’s dreams turn into a nightmare of obsession and pressure.

Toivon tuolla puolen | The Other Side of Hope (Finland, 2017)

Director: Aki Kaurismäki

Cast: Sakari Kuosmanen, Sherwan Haji, Kati Outinen, Tommi Korpela

This poignant drama about a Syrian refugee and a middle-aged Finnish salesman explores the deep humanity and unexpected kindness amidst adversity, spiced with Kaurismäki’s trademark humor.

Here is the schedule of screenings for the Red Carpet, Shangri-La Plaza Mall leg of Cine Europa 27.

October 18, 2024

6:00 PM Lang historie kort | Long Story Short

9:00 PM Niebezpieczni dżentelmeni | Dangerous Gentlemen

October 19, 2024

1:30 PM Icare | Icarus and the Minotaur 

3:30 PM Toivon tuolla puolen | The Other Side of Hope

5:30 PM Přišla v noci | She Came at Night

7:30 PM Tigrar | Tigers

October 20, 2024

1:30 PM Taste of Freedom

3:30 PM Sonne und Beton | Sun and Concrete

5:30 PM Mancs | Paw

7:30 PM Souvenir

October 21, 2024

5:30 PM Mai departe | This World is My Arena

7:30 PM Mermaids Don't Cry

9:30 PM That They May Face the Rising Sun

October 22, 2024

5:30 PM The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou

7:30 PM La Flota de Indias | The West Indies Fleet

9:30 PM O anthropos me tis apantiseis | The Man with the Answers

October 23, 2024

5:30 PM Diabolik

7:30 PM Per Arti | Remember to Blink

9:30 PM Sonne und Beton | Sun and Concrete

October 24, 2024

5:30 PM Another Franko

7:30 PM Niebezpieczni dżentelmeni | Dangerous Gentlemen

9:30 PM Icare | Icarus and the Minotaur 

October 25, 2024

1:30 PM Toivon tuolla puolen | The Other Side of Hope

3:30 PM  Přišla v noci | She Came at Night

5:30 PM Tigrar | Tigers

7:30 PM L'uomo senza colpa | The Man without Guilt

October 26, 2024

1:30 PM Mancs | Paw

3:30 PM Mai departe | This World is My Arena

5:30 PM Mermaids Don't Cry

7:30 PM The Strange Case of Jacky Caillou

October 27, 2024

1:30 PM La Flota de Indias | The West Indies Fleet

3:30 PM Diabolik

5:30 PM Souvenir

7:30 PM That They May Face the Rising Sun

Admission to Cine Europa 27 is for free on a first come, first served basis. All films will be shown in their original language with English subtitles.