2 Ermita teens perform in concert

Sunday, February 19, 2012

BEFORE a crowd, two girls from Barangay Ermita—Novabella Pelayre, 13, and Ma. Theresa Reyes, 14—performed in a fundraising concert dubbed as “Sistemang Pilipino: Transforming Lives Through Music,” held at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral last Jan. 26.

Pelayre and Reyes are two of the 22 children from Ermita 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.

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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 in front of a crowd of over 400 people, and with 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 their “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.

Both girls expressed their willingness to practice the violin seriously so as to enhance their skill and new talents. They also dream of havng their own violins.

The Ermita Children’s Art Project provides 98 children and youth from 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 the Ermita Children’s Art Project, one may contact Joem Degracia at 418-7234 local 208, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph.