2 Ermita teens perform in fund-raising concert

Two girls from barangay Ermita — Novabella Pelayre, 13, and Ma. Theresa Reyes, 14 — performed before a crowd of more than 400 people in a fund-raising concert titled “Sistemang Pilipino: Transforming Lives Through Music” at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral last Jan. 26.

Pelayre and Reyes are two of the 22 children from barangay Ermita, Cebu City, who have been receiving violin lessons through the Ermita Children’s Art Project, a project initiated by the Dolores Aboitiz Children’s Fund of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), in partnership with Bidlisiw Foundation Inc.

The girls were invited by Lianne Sala, violin teacher and concert organizer, to serve as examples of what children from underserved communities are capable of if only they are given the opportunity.

“Performing in a big crowd while playing a violin is my greatest dream. Through Sistemang Pilipino, my dream came true,” Pelayre said.

The event gave these children the chance to play the violin with other performers such as Quartetto Espressivo, Jimmy Tagala and Peace Philharmonic Orchestra.

Pelayre and Reyes admitted they were nervous before the concert began but felt at ease when they started playing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” variation piece. Their self-esteem grew as the audience applauded their debut performance.

“I really wanted to play the violin even before I was enrolled in the Art Project of RAFI and Bidlisiw Foundation, but there was no opportunity for me that time,” Pelayre recalled.

Theresa, on the other hand, shared that she would love to participate again and play the violin in an orchestra concert.

The Ermita Children’s Art Project provides 98 children and youth from barangay Ermita with lessons in performing arts, choir, visual arts and violin.

The project aims to engage the participants in creative and constructive activities that will divert them from vices and develop their character and skills.

For more information about Ermita Children’s Art Project, contact Joem Degracia at 418-7234 local 208 or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph.