Cebuano orchestra to hold debut concert

A Cebuano orchestra will have its first public concert on Dec. 10 at the Cebu Cultural Center in Lahug, Cebu City.

The launching of the Cebu Symphony Orchestra (CSO) brings together Cebuano musicians who are former members of the Cebu Youth Symphonic Orchestra (CYSO) and Peace Philharmonic Philippines (PPP).

The new group was formed last March.

“Our goal is to develop a high standard in music, and to revive the popularity and appreciation of classical music,” said Rey Abellana, one of the founders.

Musicians will perform under the baton of Professor Roberto del Rosario, the musical director and conductor of the orchestra.

Renowned pianist Ingrid Sala Santamaria will perform with the group as piano soloist.

The CSO started with only seven members meeting on a weekly basis.

Today, it has grown to 87 members. The group is also supported by the Cebu City government and the Cebu Provincial government.

The new orchestra is expected to offer two to three major concerts in a year, working toward the vision of putting Cebu in the world’s cultural map.

They will be playing classical pieces, Visayan folk songs, Broadway hits and Christmas songs.

There will be a matinee show at 3 p.m. and a gala show at 8 p.m.

For inquiries and ticket reservations, contact Naila Beltran at 0926-7478441.  UP Masscom student Annie Fe G. Perez