Filipino and Italian Musical Traditions Unite in Chamber Concert

Presented by PIA, MSO, Joel’s Place, and 98.7 DZFE-FM on October 16 at Asia Pacific College Auditorium

The Philippine Italian Association (PIA), in collaboration with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), and supported by Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch, proudly presents the Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert on October 16, 2025, at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium, 3 Humabon Place, Magallanes, Makati City. The concert begins at 7:00 PM.

This special evening promises an enriching celebration of Filipino and Italian musical heritage, brought to life by a lineup of acclaimed musicians and a thoughtfully curated repertoire.

A celebration of musical heritage

The program highlights masterpieces by iconic composers such as Nicanor Abelardo, Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Antonio Vivaldi, Tomaso Albinoni, and Gioachino Rossini, among others. Audiences will be treated to a dynamic blend of classical works and beloved folk melodies from both cultures.

A stellar lineup of performers

Leading the performance is Maestro Alessio Benvenuti (Violin I), concertmaster of the Manila Symphony Orchestra and a Makati-based virtuoso with a global career spanning nearly three decades and more than 2,000 performances across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Joining Maestro Benvenuti are:

  • Alfonso Encina – Violin II
  • Sara Gonzales – Viola
  • Arnold Josue – Cello
  • Lawrence Palad – Bass
  • Mariel Ilusorio – Piano

Together, they form a powerhouse ensemble of seasoned performers committed to musical excellence.

Program highlights

The evening’s repertoire includes:

  • Rossini’s Sonata No. 1 for Strings in G Major
  • Tartini’s Sonata in G Minor (“Didone Abbandonata”)
  • Film favorites by Ennio Morricone, including Cinema Paradiso and La Califfa
  • The spirited Funiculi Funicula
  • Debussy’s Piano Trio (3rd Movement)

Also featured are cherished Filipino classics:

  • Bayan Ko by Constancio de Guzman (arr. Orlando Dela Cruz)
  • Cavatina by Nicanor Abelardo
  • Dahil Sa Iyo by Mike Velarde
  • Traditional folk songs: Si Nanay Tatay Di Ko Babayaan (Bicolano), Ili-Ili Tulog Anay (Ilonggo), and Salidumay (Igorot)

About the collaborators

Now in its 63rd year, the Philippine Italian Association (PIA) continues to promote cultural exchange through language education, translation services, and welfare programs via Patronato ACLI.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO)—one of the oldest orchestras in Asia—remains at the forefront of Filipino musical development, known for cultivating talent and bringing orchestral music to diverse audiences across the country.

Joel’s Place, a modern lifestyle “grocerant,” enhances this cultural partnership by offering curated local and international products through its unique blend of grocery, specialty, and dining experiences.

98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch, the country’s only classical music radio service, has been broadcasting classical music and Christian values since 1954. Operated by FEBC Philippines, it remains a pillar of faith-based public service broadcasting.

Ticket information

Ticket price: ₱1,500
Discounts:

  • 20% off for Senior Citizens and PWD
  • 10% off for PIA Members

For reservations and inquiries, please contact Ms. Jan Dacera at 0995-430-5118 or email philitalassociation@gmail.com

#CultureUnites
#PhilippineItalianAssociation
#ManilaSymphonyOrchestra
#MSO
#JoelsPlace
#TheMastersTouch
#FilipinoItalianVibes
#ExpatEssentials
#WhatsOnE
#ExpatPhilippines
#ExpatPH
#MusicalBridges
#CrossCulturalRhythms
#MSOOnStage

YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN




LATEST STORIES