Artists like sculptor Ramon Orlina are figures to look up to, given the combination of their talent, depth, and humanitarian virtues. Paying tribute to the UST 499th Anniversary, the internationally acclaimed sculptor had arranged his birthday celebration to coincide with the first anniversary of his iconic monument entitled “Quatro Mondial”. The dinner-concert was held at the UST College of Law lobby, and was attended by a diverse mix of noteworthy guests, among them: Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., Atty Nilo Divina, Dean of the UST College of Law, visual artists, Betsy Westendorp, Pandy Aviado, Egai Fernandez, Gus Albor, Nemi Miranda; gallery owners Silvana Diaz, Lori Juvida, Amy Loste, Jonathan Sy and Jack Teotico and others.
The evening was one of synchronicity, when all seemed to come together. Three of the country’s foremost artists who gave rousing numbers were: international concert pianist Raul Sunico, soprano Rachelle Gerodias and violinist Gina Medina. They performed favorite kundimans to the appreciative audience, and were given a standing ovation. The surprise performance of the evening was young soprano, Cris Go, a student at the Philippine High School for the Arts. She amazed the crowd with the song “Our Father”, which she sang in A capella and popular Kundiman songs. The infectious energy drew in good friends, Batangas luminary and ancestral home restorer, Tony Pastor, Fedore Yap, Carmen Clavecilla and Tata Poblador who regaled the celebrator with their songs. (Do visit my website: www.tinajacinto.com and like me in Facebook: Tina Hidalgo Jacinto)
