Cebu musicians in Japan

CEBU’S Classic Youth Orchestra (CYO) participated in “Tchaikovsky on a Midsummer Night,” a special concert by the NPO Japan Junior Orchestra Association held at the Takasaki City Theatre to commemorate its 40th anniversary on Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023.

The Philippine delegation, led by Prof. Reynaldo Abellana (founder of Classic Orchestra Music Studio, music director of CYO and Hong Kong Adventist Academy Orchestra), and his wife Geraldine Abellana (flute) consisted of the following student players: Keifer James Ababon (violin), Kesler John Ababon (violin), Rhian Jeuel Casinillo (violin), Cecile Angela Abellana (viola), Grant Eythan Lim (viola), Louie Gexelle Bugtai (viola), Raoul Jemuel Casinillo (cello), Frianne Ruth Boholst (double bass), Reuel Jethro Casinillo (double bass), France Mabalcon (double bass) and Mariella Beverly Bugtai (percussion).

The group joined two days of masterclasses which culminated in the event.

Participants from five countries, namely Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Hong Kong and the Philippines, captivated the audience with their graceful performances. The first part of the program was “Swan Lake Suite,” conducted by Prof. Fumiko Shinozaki. Lively and playful. Mesmerizing and alluring. All eight scenes, 35 minutes in length, were played with beauty and charm. Shinozaki then conducted Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35,” featuring soloist Prof. Sumire Hirotsuru. It is one of the best-known violin concertos, 35 minutes in length. Sweet and blissful, yet steadfast and optimistic. Its melodies and phrases capture the essence of the human spirit.

“Marche Slave” then followed, conducted by Dr. Paye Srinarong, the conductor of the Thailand Youth Orchestra. The march was flamboyant and dramatic.

To cap off the night, Prof. Abellana conducted the encore, “Sleeping Beauty Waltz...” enchanting and magical.