Like the unexplainable urge to say po and opo is a sign of respect, watching opera and listening to orchestra music, whether classical or modern, should be a part of the Filipino’s national consciousness, as stated by CCP earlier this year in a statement. After all, we have produced some of the music world’s finest artists that we revere as National Artists for Music, such as Lucio San Pedro, Felipe Padilla de Leon, José Maceda, Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Jovita Fuentes, Lucrecia Kasilag, Ernani Cuenco, Levi Celerio, Andrea Veneracion, Francisco Feliciano, Ramon Santos, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, and Ryan Cayabyab. Though known for unearthing the rich Filipino ethno-music, kundiman, and more, their artistic foundations have been deeply rooted in classical Western tutelage.
Moreover, CCP has staged various full-length opera productions in the past years, such as Puccini’s Turandot, Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, and Lucia di Lammermoor. Through the generous support and leadership of the late Nedy Tantoco, these productions have been watched by opera enthusiasts—from the elites in the art and culture scene to the young students in nearby public schools.
Read more: The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates 50 years and beyond
