YOUTH-DOMINATED ensembles comprised the fourth musical concert by Filfest Cultural Foundation titled “Allchestra,” which was staged at the Insular Life Corporate Center Auditorium in Alabang last May 21.
The University of Santo Tomas’ (UST) Symphony Orchestra associate conductor Jeffrey Solares led the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band and the Philippine Research for Developing Instrumental Soloists (PREDIS) Chamber Orchestra as they co-performed with New York Times-acclaimed cellist Wilfredo Pasamba.
Solares commended the ensembles for playing at a professional level despite their age. “Although we only had four days of practice, they (the ensemble) showed an exemplary performance,” said Solares.
PREDIS Chamber Orchestra and Wilfredo Pasamba performed “Himig Nayon” and “Pahiwatig ng Pagsasaya” during the first half of the concert, where the exchange of notes between the chorus and Pasamba harmoniously complemented one another.
Pasamba also rendered a solo performance titled “Cello Concerto in A Minor,” which was lauded for its dramatic and melancholic tune.
On the other hand, the second part of the concert featured the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band as they performed Mozart’s timeless piece “Symphony 40 in G Minor,” which is composed of four movements: Molto allegro, Andante, Menuetto – Trio and Allegro assai. The movements progressed from a graceful and exquisite tune to a dark, yet passionate mood.
It was an unexpected finale when the band’s rendition of the Abba novelty song “Mamma Mia” was played. The number was dedicated to the mothers of the performers in commemoration of Mother’s Day.
Jeffrey Solares was also the acting resident conductor of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) and is currently the associate conductor and orchestra manager of the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO).
Meanwhile, the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band is group of musical prodigies ranging from 8 to 24 years old who hail from various schools such as UST and St. Scholastica’s College, among others.
