98.7 DZFE | The Master's Touch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0411 | Christiana Serafin de Ocampo

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:55:59 +0000

For love of the art and a school of singing that takes us back to the age of mid 20th century opera giants: Milan-based soprano Christiana Serafin de Ocampo talks about the path to mastery this MAESTRO FILIPINO ahead of 𝑹𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒂 𝑽𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒕𝒐𝒓! — a heroic program of Wagner, Verdi, Puccini and Massenet, to be performed together with Dr Peter Porticos as pianist, on April 19. DZFE's Tiffany presents.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0328 | Kundiman After Dark

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:52:04 +0000

As night falls over a small sanctuary in the heart of Cubao, the songs of Nicanor Abelardo are spun out to an audience transfixed, many of whom are encountering this music for the first time. In this program excerpt, DZFE's Tiffany hears from soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila, tenor Ervin Lumauag and pianist Agot Espino this MAESTRO FILIPINO on the unexpected magic of the Sine Pop chamber music series 𝑲𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒌 in which all three are involved. (Music features with permission.)

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0321 | Jeffrey Ching (PPO 41-08)

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:43:39 +0000

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra has been putting its composer-in residence to serious work! Following a string of debuts including the cinematic premiere of his 80-minute 𝑅𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑆𝑦𝑚𝑝ℎ𝑜𝑛𝑦 and ahead of yet another first outing in the last concert of the season come April 17, DZFE's Tiffany catches up with Jeffrey Ching on MAESTRO FILIPINO. The composer teases for 𝑷𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒊 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒆 and talks about the many tantalizing ways he dialogues with the music of past masters in this interview.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0314 | Paul Ryan Arcolas

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:38:23 +0000

Countertenor Paul Ryan Arcolas is prepared to display the versatility and range of what is arguably the most otherworldly of voice types. This MAESTRO FILIPINO, he joins DZFE's Tiffany ahead of 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑳𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓, a jewel box of a program opening the Manila Chamber Orchestra Foundation's 2026 Young Artists Series on March 28. Meet Ryan in conversation and song in this program excerpt. (Music features with permission.)

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0228 | Belford King Mabunga: Kindertotenlieder

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:34:17 +0000

Amidst the festive bustle of December, baritone Belford King Mabunga stepped before an intimate crowd and delivered Gustav Mahler's five-song contemplation on the nuances of grief — the 𝐾𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟 or 𝑆𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑠 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝐶ℎ𝑖𝑙𝑑𝑟𝑒𝑛. DZFE's Tiffany interviews the thoughtful, self-described "old soul", a singer, church musician and athlete, and we hear the third of the 𝐾𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟 this MAESTRO FILIPINO podcast edition.

* Music features with permission. Find the Belford’s performance of the complete 𝐾𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑑𝑒𝑟 here: https://youtu.be/Dmc2WyczY2M?si=IdZZaD-sRtp36z4M

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0214 | 51st International Bamboo Organ Festival (Pt02)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:16:10 +0000

This February 25, Thomas Tallis' iconic 40-part motet 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒎 𝒊𝒏 𝑨𝒍𝒊𝒖𝒎 unfurls in the spaces of the San Ezekiel Moreno Oratory in a much-anticipated lecture-performance featuring the Collegium Vocale Manila and the ALERON male choir under the baton of Dr Beverly Shangkuan-Cheng. Join this conversation with Aleron's Karl San Jose, Kevin Maske and Rimher Manubay on MAESTRO FILIPINO, the second of a two-part spotlight on the International Bamboo Organ Festival. DZFE's Tiffany also shares highlights from last Festival's 𝑆𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑜𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝐶ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑙 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑐 concert. Music features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0207 | 51st International Bamboo Organ Festival (Pt01)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 07:42:29 +0000

The atmospheric Las Piñas Church throws open its doors this February welcoming concertgoers to the convergence of early, sacred, and pipe organ music that is the International Bamboo Organ Festival. In the first of a two-program spotlight, MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Tiffany features the sounds of last year's milestone Festival, villancicos and a conversation with Ateneo de Manila College Glee Club director Phoebe Bitoon and Spanish organist Andreas Cea Galan. Music features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0131 | NAMCYA Winners 2025 Pt03 (feat. Gian Franco Ambrosio)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:53:58 +0000

It's a festival of plucked strings, for the last of our three-part NAMCYA 2025 spotlight! Junior Guitar Category first prize winner Gian Franco Ambrosio shares the inspiration that began his guitar journey this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany, and we take in competition performances by Children's Solo Rondalla Category first prize winner Sophia Ashley Presentacion Asor and the Junior Rondalla Category first prize winner the Sto. Tomas National High School – Special Program in the Arts.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0124 | NAMCYA Winners 2025 Pt02 (feat. Gabriel Domagas)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:16:53 +0000

It took a detour for violinist Gabriel Domagas to come to terms with his musical calling. Get to know the Senior Strings Category first prize winner on this week's MAESTRO FILIPINO spotlight — Part 2 of a series of three on the 2025 National Music Competitions for Young Artists. Also on the program, performances by the Davao National High School SPA Centennial Choir (Children's Choir Category, first prize) and Joshua Agapito (Woodwinds Category, first prize). DZFE's Tiffany presents.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0117 | NAMCYA Winners 2025 Pt01 (feat. Clement Acevedo, Kris Gonzales)

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:38:33 +0000

Each year, and now for over fifty years, the National Music Competitions for Young Artists has superintended a hive of activities intended to seek out and nurture musical talent. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, Tiffany is joined by NAMCYA's Artistic and Program Director 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗱𝗼 and by baritone 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝗻𝘇𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 (Senior Voice A Category, first prize) in the first of a three-program spotlight on NAMCYA 2025 and its harvest of emerging artists. Also, we capture renditions by Kris and pianist 𝗝𝗶𝗺 𝗧𝗮𝗻 (Senior Piano Category, second prize) of a pair of beautiful night songs by Debussy and Rachmaninov.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0110 | MSO100 & Legacy: Jeffrey Solares, Inna Montesclaros

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 03:08:49 +0000

The Manila Symphony Orchestra’s executive director Jeffrey Solares has a habit of saying "Yes!" to the opportunities Providence sends their way. As a result, the MSO charges out of the gate this new year with two big concerts this January, happening within days of each other — the orchestra's 𝟏𝟎𝟎𝒕𝒉 𝑨𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒕 on January 22, and 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒄𝒚 on January 25, featuring pianists Carmencita Sipin-Aspiras and Inna Montesclaros — Inna tackling the formidable 𝘗𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘰 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘰. 2 of Johannes Brahms. This week's MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany (complete episode), Jeffrey takes stock of a breathless 99th Season and plans for the centenary season ahead; Inna shares her perspective on the humanity of Brahms' music.

*Music features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 26 0103 | Raffi Kasparian (Philippine visit)

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 03:00:40 +0000

Multifaceted American pianist Raffi Kasparian has the head of an engineer and the heart of an artist. The two come together in a program of evolving musical landscapes, 𝑻𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆: 𝑨 𝑴𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍 𝑶𝒅𝒚𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒚, which he performs at various Manila venues this January, on a visit back to the land of his wife's birth. Also a demonstration of musical art and engineering and part of the concert roster is Raffi's 𝐹𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑠𝑦 𝑜𝑛 𝑇𝑤𝑜 𝐻𝑦𝑚𝑛𝑠, whose creation we explore this MAESTRO FILIPINO (complete episode) with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1220 | Los Cantantes de Manila: Darwin Vargas

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 07:28:21 +0000

From the flower markets of Dangwa to the stars: Los Cantantes de Manila is the community choir which in the course of a decade (and a pandemic hiatus) has gone from no note-reading facility or significant exposure to classical repertoire, to a competition juggernaut which this year trod the elite platform of the European Grand Prix for choral singing and took top prizes at the Busan Choral Festival and Competition. The cherry on top — an Aliw Award for Best Choral Group. In this MAESTRO FILIPINO excerpt, DZFE's Tiffany hears their extraordinary story from conductor Darwin Vargas.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1213 | Zero to Debussy: John Daniel Rotap

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:46:04 +0000

When John Daniel Rotap went in to audition as a piano performance major at the UST Conservatory, he came armed only with a piece of Christian contemporary music he had learned to play by ear. His extant knowledge of and exposure to (or love of!) classical music? Zero. Note reading skills? Also zero. In fact, he had no idea that his life was about to take a completely unexpected turn. In the wake of his doctoral recital comprising the complete Debussy preludes, he recounts his journey in this MAESTRO FILIPINO excerpt with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1206 | Colores de Guitarra: Raffy Ronquillo

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:39:28 +0000

Guitarist Rafael Ronquillo is a storyteller. His recent concert, presented by Double Pentagon Concerts, and called 𝐶𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑠 𝑑𝑒 𝐺𝑢𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎, was an evocative narrative built on 20th and 21st century music. Raffy unpacks his insights and influences in this MAESTRO FILIPINO interview with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1129 | Krzysztof Moskalewicz (Philippine visit)

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:32:37 +0000

Why are there twin posters of Poland and the Philippines hanging on the wall in pianist Krzysztof Moskalewicz's London flat? There is more to it than his impending return to Manila to perform ravishing recitals of romantic music on December 5 and 7. DZFE's Tiffany hears more from the Polish pianist in this MAESTRO FILIPINO interview.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1122 | Victor Asuncion and the American Recital Debut Award

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:29:51 +0000

The playing field isn't level, so Filipino-American pianist Victor Asuncion established an award to help give emerging classical musicians a fighting chance. Asuncion performs in Manila with cellist Gabriel Martins, one of two awardees this year, as part of the American Recital Debut Award On Tour, on December 3. What does it take for an artist to make a mark? Victor Asuncion gives his reply in this MAESTRO FILIPINO interview with DZFE’s Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1115 | Sunshine: Vien Ignacio & Mariel Ilusorio

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:16:33 +0000

The current season of Mariel Ilusorio's Sunshine Classics International Series culminates in grand style — with 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐺𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑢𝑒𝑡, spotlighting works for harp and piano. Mariel's duet partner is the young harp luminary, Vien Ignacio. In the run-up to the sold-out concert, Mariel looks back over the season and we catch up with Vien, just back from Germany and (amazingly) her first in-person lessons with teacher Olga Shevelevich on this MAESTRO FILIPINO excerpt. Tiffany presents this MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1108 | Jonathan Velasco

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:00:56 +0000

Jonathan Velasco has been making things happen on the choral scene for decades. In the wake of the recent national convention of the Philippine Choral Directors Association and its affectionate recognition of his contributions with a lifetime achievement award, Sir Jojo muses on his choral roots, Philippine choral sound, and much more, in an interview with DZFE’s Tiffany.

#classicalmusic #maestrofilipino #dzfe #MastersTouch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1025 | Job Polvoriza & the baroque cello

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:09:04 +0000

Job Polvoriza's steps are set toward Germany, where he will embark on further studies in baroque cello—a pioneering decision for a musician from our country, where historically informed performance is a path still barely trodden several decades into the movement. Meet the Baguio cellist, and the baroque cello, on this week's MAESTRO FILIPINO.

#classicalmusic #maestrofilipino #dzfe #MastersTouch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1018 | Jenna Salliman

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:48:33 +0000

What goes on in musical studies and what advantages do our musicians gain from pursuing them abroad? Jenna Salliman — a science high school product and Statistics degree holder with undergraduate and master's degrees in music — fell in love with the process and is looking to take her commitment further in doctoral studies. She lifts the lid on the craft in an interview with DZFE’s Tiffany.

#classicalmusic #maestrofilipino #dzfe #MastersTouch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1011 | Espino plays Espino

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:40:23 +0000

Well-established and loved as a pianist, pedagogue, composer and arranger, Sir Agot has managed to evade much of the limelight that is due him. But on October 16, he makes a rare appearance as a soloist playing a full concert of his own music. 𝑬𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝑬𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒐 is a benefit concert for cancer-stricken missionaries of the Translators Association of the Philippines. Augusto Espino and TAP Executive Director Ptr. Joseph Villaflor join this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany.

#classicalmusic #maestrofilipino #dzfe #MastersTouch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 1004 | Remembering Basilio Manalo: Filipino String Teachers Association

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:19:49 +0000

Behind some of the most remarkable Filipino violinists of the last few decades is the violinist, conductor and teacher Basilio Manalo. Ahead of his centenary in 2027, the Filipino String Teachers Association is mounting a tribute concert set for October 21 at the Metropolitan Theater. Two familiar violinists in the leadership of FSTA, Gina Medina and Bernice Go, join DZFE's Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO.

#classicalmusic #maestrofilipino #dzfe #MastersTouch

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0913 | Alessio Benvenuti & Iqui Vinculado, Duo Debut

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:35:15 +0000

There's no reason to be scared of classical music, and this duo has set out to prove it with a debut offering of Paganini sonatas and other beguiling fare. Violinist Alessio Benvenuti and guitarist Iqui Vinculado, each a familiar figure with a following, are a new violin-and-guitar tandem. They join this MAESTRO FILIPINO to deliver a mini sampling of music from their August debut and to chat with DZFE's Tiffany.

Reformation Month 2025: Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? (feat. Dr Mikel Del Rosario)

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:43:14 +0000

"𝐼𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑖𝑚𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝐽𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑓𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔." This Reformation Month, Dr Mikel Del Rosario joins DZFE's Tiffany to explore the historicity of Jesus' divine claims— the subject of his new book, 𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝑱𝒆𝒔𝒖𝒔 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝑺𝒂𝒚 𝑯𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒔 𝑮𝒐𝒅? Dr Mikel Del Rosario is professor of Bible and theology at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago and host of The Apologetics Guy Show. More about Dr Mikel, his YouTube channel and his book (available from Oct. 23) can be found here: https://apologeticsguy.com/about/

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0927 | UP Symphony Orchestra: Tunog at Kulay

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:12:51 +0000

The UP Symphony Orchestra opens a new academic year with 𝑻𝒖𝒏𝒐𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝑲𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒚 on October 3, bringing together an evocative program with visual art for a charitable cause. Orchestra manager Bernice Go and assistant conductor Noemi Binag join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO to muse on the connections between music and image, the orchestra's commitment to new music, and the projects laid out for the season.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0920 | As It Was: Aleron & Jan Schumacher

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:36:42 +0000

From meme to mortality to music-making: The award-winning male choir ALERON joins DZFE's Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 2400, Thu 2000) to talk about the craft of "giving voice to the human experience" — in particular, for the group's largest project yet, the Oct 3 & 4 concert 𝑨𝒔 𝑰𝒕 𝑾𝒂𝒔 and upcoming workshops to be led by German conductor Jan Schumacher. Guests are Schumacher, Aleron's manager Kevin Maske, resident conductor Karl San Jose and trainer Ryan Arcolas. (*Music features with permission.)

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0906 | Diomedes Saraza: PPO 41st Season (segment)

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 01:56:09 +0000

There's electricity in the orchestra as the PPO ushers in its 41st season, titled 𝑉𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑙𝑒. Joining this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany is the artist who has been a major contributor to that, violinist Diomedes Saraza Jr, recently appointed concertmaster of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0830 | Pasipo: Cosi fan tutte

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:07:01 +0000

In a feat of artistic derring do, the vocal ensemble PASIPO launches its most ambitious project yet — a full staging of Mozart's 𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑖̀ 𝑓𝑎𝑛 𝑡𝑢𝑡𝑡𝑒. Studio performances and an interview grant us a glimpse of the upcoming performances, set to unfold September 6, 10, 12 & 13. PASIPO joins DZFE's Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0823 | Arthur Espiritu: The Art of Singing Art Song

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:36:17 +0000

Tenor Arthur Espiritu's cherished memories in the realm of art song include singing Beethoven for Ernst Haefliger, and coaching with Mitsuko Uchida and Ken Noda. He plumbs these experiences and more to lead a comprehensive four-day art song workshop together with longtime collaborator, pianist Najib Ismail, September 1-4, and culminating in a concert September 5. Join DZFE's Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO as Arthur Espiritu explains why art song is fundamental to the art of singing.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0816 | Monching Carpio: Kaliwa’t Kanang Kalabitan

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:30:28 +0000

Guitar ensembles from all over the country converge at the first Kaliwa’t Kanang Kalabitan (“3Ks”) Guitar Ensemble Festival at St Scholastica’s College August 29 to 31. Festival co-director Monching Carpio hopes to draw both the classical guitar curious and the enthusiast, further strengthening the dynamism the guitar community has cultivated in recent years. Join DZFE’s Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

* Music featured courtesy of PIMA Guitar Quartet

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0809 | Emmanuel Aller: Italia!

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 03:20:54 +0000

As a child growing up in humble circumstances, Emmanuel Aller never imagined he would find his voice and his life in the wonderful world of classical music. Join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO to meet this promising tenor, fresh off a successful debut recital of Italian music.

* Music featured courtesy of Sy-Facunda Production.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0726 | Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz: The Opus 88 (interview)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 10:27:40 +0000

Pianist and pedagogue Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz returns to MAESTRO FILIPINO ahead of the inaugural concert of The Opus 88 — a multi-faceted piano initiative headquartered in the South Metro. He tells DZFE's Tiffany about 𝑪𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒅 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 this August 9 and 16 — and the X-factor shared by each of the pianists contributing to a program of Classical era and turn-of-the-20th-century masters.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene. (For a broadcast schedule, visit dzfe.febc.ph.) Music on the program features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0719 | Manila Chamber Music Ensemble with Herald Sison (interview & music)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:14:37 +0000

Formed over a decade earlier by music-loving Japanese expats, the Manila Chamber Music Ensemble stepped out into new territory last year with a public concert ushering in an exciting era of engagement with local audiences and Filipino artists. The ensemble's violist Hideki Nagae and pianist Mariko Okeda are joined by clarinetist Herald Sison in a trio offering of Mozart, Bruch and Glinka this coming July 27. DZFE’s Tiffany presents.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene. (For a broadcast schedule, visit dzfe.febc.ph.) Music on the program features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0712 | Alejandro Consolacion II: English Organ Music (interview)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 06:58:24 +0000

Technology might spell the difference between organists surviving and thriving. AJ Consolacion II joins this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany as he shares music from his second Hauptwerk Organ Concert, a beautiful program of English organ music.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene. (For a broadcast schedule, visit dzfe.febc.ph.) Music on the program features with permission from the artist. For the full concert on Alejandro Consolacion II's YT channel, visit https://youtu.be/EZH6iSBmCnE?si=M-6sc9Ct-2JX3YbJ.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0705 | Rimher Manubay: The Sacred Veil (interview)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 06:38:44 +0000

A late bloomer by his own admission, Rimher Manubay closed a decade of studies in choral conducting by mounting and conducting the Asian premiere of Eric Whitacre's 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑆𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑉𝑒𝑖𝑙. Moreover, he is the newly-appointed Secretary General of the Philippine Choral Directors Association. Rimher joins Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO as we take in excerpts from the stirring Whitacre debut.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene. (For a broadcast schedule, visit dzfe.febc.ph.) Music on the program features with permission.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0614 | Bernardo Soler

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 06:33:29 +0000

Who doesn't love a good comeback story? Guitarist Bernardo Soler sold his guitar, thinking it the end of a glorious dream. Never did he imagine he would return to classical guitar some three decades later. Join DZFE's Tiffany on this week’s MAESTRO FILIPINO to hear more from Soler, in an interview and a couple of pieces captured in-studio.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0531 | Male ENsemble Philippines

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:54:10 +0000

The last time Male ENsemble Philippines featured on DZFE in 2023, the ensemble had no idea they would be taking home laurels from their first international competition just months later. We have them back as they prepare to set off on tour this year — and just in time (as of the first airing of this program) for their send-off concert, 𝗔 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗨𝗦, happening tonight. MEn's Ily Maniano, Tomas Vertucio and Amiel Liwanagan join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0524 | Pianist Brian Berino

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 02:21:29 +0000

One does not become a musician to be comfortable. Pianist Brian Berino is at a crossroads. He joins this week’s MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Tiffany (Sat 1200h, Sun 2400h, Thu 2000) to deliver a studio recital — Bach, Granados, Scriabin, Chopin — and to muse on the path ahead.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0517 I 𝑰𝒃𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒈, 𝑴𝒂𝒉𝒂𝒍 𝑲𝒊𝒕𝒂! A Sylvia La Torre Tribute

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:43:42 +0000

This National Heritage Month, Rachelle Gerodias-Park is Sylvia La Torre in a new concert tribute to the legend of stage, studio, airwaves and screen — 𝑰𝒃𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒈, 𝑴𝒂𝒉𝒂𝒍 𝑲𝒊𝒕𝒂! Rachelle and baritone Byeong-In Park join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO for studio performances of music associated with La Torre, and to discuss the big question that set the tribute in motion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0510 | MSO: Music for Peace

Wed, 21 May 2025 02:28:46 +0000

The Manila Symphony Orchestra begins on the road to its centenary year with 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑐 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑃𝑒𝑎𝑐𝑒, 80 years after the orchestra mounted a landmark series of concerts in post-liberation Manila.

Classical music was not mainstream them; neither is it today, says the MSO's Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, but it continues to have a vital part to play, and the long history of the orchestra shines a hopeful way forward. He joins MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany as well to talk about the eventful season ahead.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0503 | Aleron: While I Was Sleeping

Tue, 06 May 2025 06:52:10 +0000

With 𝑾𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝑰 𝑾𝒂𝒔 𝑺𝒍𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈, the debut album of the Aleron Early Music Ensemble, the all-male choral ensemble ALERON begins realizing a long-held dream to create recordings completely devoted to early music. Manager Kevin Maske and resident conductor Karl San Jose talk motivation, music, sound-creation and how the album is not actually about sleep — this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0426 I Pasipo: Opera Heroines

Tue, 06 May 2025 05:25:17 +0000

Young musicians of the ensemble Pasipo have arranged a pageant of some of opera's colorful heroines. Ahead of the Cultural Arts Events Organizer concert 𝑂𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑎 𝐻𝑒𝑟𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑠 on May 3, sopranos Angeli Benipayo and Marielle Tuason, together with Pasipo's musical director, pianist Gabriel Ferros Paguirigan, join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0412 | Kuwerdas Filipinas: Diwang (interview)

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:42:44 +0000

The country's first symphonic rondalla, Kuwerdas Filipinas, and an international roster of eight composers meet on the uncharted frontier of literature newly written for the pioneering ensemble: A concert series, 𝐷𝑖𝑤𝑎𝑛𝑔: 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑘𝑎 𝑛𝑔 𝑅𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑎, 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑘𝑎 𝑛𝑔 𝑃𝑎𝑔𝑘𝑎𝑘𝑎𝑖𝑠𝑎, recently marked the 20th anniversary of the Strings of Unity, the rondalla and plucked string festival out of which Kuwerdas Filipinas members were drawn.

Joining DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO, members who have been part since the ensemble's inception in 2018 — Fides Topico (octavina), Jezreel Lastra (laud), and Brian Uy (double bass) — share the thrill of playing in the elite ensemble and exploring the possibilities of new and often experimental literature.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0405 | Pilato, the musical

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:48:09 +0000

"What is truth?" The urgency of the need to explore the question drove the creators of 𝑃𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑜 from idea to a full-fledged original musical of epic scope in just one year. Writer-director Eldrin Veloso, composer Yanni Robeniol and musical director Pauline Arejola explain why they staked everything on this ambitious musical, a first for all three in many ways, and why you should go see Pilato, running this week at the PETA Theater, as the nation girds itself for the May elections. They join DZFE's Tiffany on MAESTRO FILIPINO. [*Music in this podcast included with permission.]

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0329 | Michelle Mariposa, post-Met Laffont (interview)

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:00:21 +0000

Mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa is one of five victors at this year's Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition, one of the most prestigious and influential singing competitions globally, distinguished by its scale, history, and career-launching potential on the landscape of international vocal contests. On this MAESTRO FILIPINO, Michelle joins DZFE's Tiffany to reflect on the win.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0322 | UP Symphony Orchestra, By Her Hand

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:05:13 +0000

The UP Symphony Orchestra's commitment to new music and Filipino composers, generous initiatives such as its Repertory Reading events, make it one of our most vibrant local orchestras. Ahead of its April 11 concert "By Her Hand" featuring orchestral works by women, assistant conductor Noemi Binag and orchestra manager Bernice Go join DZFE's Tiffany for some very lively conversation on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0315 |ACOPEI 11th National Conference

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:46:57 +0000

The fight for the arts can be lonely, but it doesn't have to be. ACOPEI (the Association of Cultural Offices in Philippine Educational Institutions) was formed over a decade ago to bring together educators, culture workers, arts administrators, student artists — anyone at all advocating for the arts in an academic context — in collaborative synergy. Ahead of ACOPEI's 11th National Conference, which seeks to strengthen the local arts ecosystem, DZFE's Tiffany talks to current ACOPEI president Elenita Cruz (Director, Pamantasan ng Lunsod ng Marikina Center for Culture & the Arts) and one of ACOPEI's founding members Martin Lopez (Senior Director, FEU Center for the Arts) on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0308 | Violinist Alessio Benvenuti

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 07:46:40 +0000

In the wake of international successes and personal loss, he came to the Philippines for love and found a musical rebirth besides. Violinist Alessio Benvenuti's story is one for the books; hear it this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany (Sat 1200h, replaying Sun 2400h & Thu 2000h) ahead of his performance with pianist Mariel Ilusorio in "Musica Sine Tempore", the inaugural concert of this year's Classics in Sunshine International Series on March 22.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0301 | PPO 40-V “Homecoming” (Rowena Arrieta interview)

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:44:56 +0000

Pianist Rowena Arrieta vividly remembers her landmark win at the 1982 Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition, her student years at the Moscow State Conservatory under the tutelage of Russian National Artist Yevgeny Malinin, and the selfless guidance of teacher Carmencita Arambulo, that helped get her there. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, she joins DZFE’s Tiffany for an interview ahead of her solo stint with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra this coming March 14, playing Franz Liszt’s thrilling 𝘛𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘻.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0222 | Lyric Opera Philippines: Tosca (interview)

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:02:02 +0000

The theatrical is as essential as the musical, and so this small opera company has set itself a goal of granting new audiences the opportunity to experience a fully-staged opera annually. In the wake of the Puccini centenary, Lyric Opera of the Philippines goes for big drama with 𝘛𝘰𝘴𝘤𝘢. DZFE's Tiffany is joined by the three singers taking on the main roles — soprano Ana Feleo, tenor Sherwin Sozon, and bass-baritone Isaac Droscha.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0215 I 50th International Bamboo Organ Festival (Feat. Pauline Arejola and UP Los Baños Choral Ensemble)

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 05:58:56 +0000

Early music and the preservation of Philippine organ culture are one aspect of The International Bamboo Organ Festival; another is the broader advocacy for the pipe organ in liturgical music. Featuring in the culminating concert of the International Bamboo Organ Festival this year, "The Splendor of Choral Music" Singer Pauline Arejola and UP Los Baños Choral Ensemble join this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0208 I 50th International Bamboo Organ Festival

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 01:44:20 +0000

A landmark Philippine performance of Claudio Monteverdi's Vespers — with the Collegium Vocale Manila, Manila Baroque Ensemble and Belgian period ensemble InAlto — is at the center of the 50th International Bamboo Organ Festival. This MAESTRO FILIPINO, singers Karl San Jose and Rimher Manubay join DZFE's Tiffany in the first of two programs on this special iteration of the country's sole music festival devoted to early music.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0201 I Grzegorz Nowak

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:56:29 +0000

It may well be the most striking and adventurous concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's 40th season, with a program consisting entirely of Philippine premieres, including the world debut of "Wings of Hope", commissioned from Polish-British composer Roxanna Panufnik. To realize its vision, the PPO moves to the Manila Metropolitan Theater. PPO Music Director Grzegorz Nowak grants a glimpse of what's in store for the February 14 concert "Hope", a tribute to peace eighty years after the wartime destruction of Warsaw and Manila. DZFE's Tiffany presents this week's MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0125 I Raul Sunico and The Manila Symphony Orchestra

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:34:21 +0000

It's been 50 years since Raul Sunico not only learned Sacramento's "Maharlika" concerto, but memorized it overnight, and so performed it for its first audience at Malacañang at two o'clock in the morning. Another incredible fact: The MSO and Jeffrey Solares will be performing with Dr Sunico for the first time at the February 6 concert. Lots to cover this MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Tiffany, spotlighting MusikaPilipinas' Gabi ng Piyano Konsyertong Pilipino.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0118 I NAMCYA 2024 Winner (St. Paul College Pasig High School Chorales)

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:27:56 +0000

History repeated itself for the Ligao National High School Voice and the St. Paul College Pasig High School Chorales—both winning in their respective categories at NAMCYA 2014, they did so again at NAMCYA 2024. Conductors Celger Venzon and Sheila Fetalvero tell us how that came about as the winning choirs wrap up the MAESTRO FILIPINO feature on last year’s National Music Competitions for Young Artists. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0111 I NAMCYA 2024 Winners

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:27:20 +0000

First time’s a charm for our next batch of NAMCYA winners: violinist Gavril Tiburcio—first prize winner of the junior strings category—and pianists Daniel Asis and Zildjian Viray—who share the top spot in the junior piano category. All share how they learned about NAMCYA, and how they prepared for their maiden competition. DZFE’s Daniel is the host as MAESTRO FILIPINO continues the feature on the winners of the 2024 National Music Competitions for Young Artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 25 0104 I Victors of NAMCYA 2024

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 02:01:07 +0000

A new year brings a new set of winners for the National Music Competitions for Young Artists. On MAESTRO FILIPINO DZFE’s Daniel speaks with three plucked string musicians—Lance Capitan, senior guita, John Sacley, junior solo rondalla, and Nelson Espejo, conductor of the Plectra Corde Rondalla, senior rondalla—to inaugurate the three-part spotlight on the victors of NAMCYA 2024.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1228 I Aylen Pritchin

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 08:08:40 +0000

Violinist Aylen Pritchin reacquaints himself with Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D major for the next concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. In doing so, he intends to see the work in a new light—and invites the audience to do the same. Pritchin talks about the concerto’s complexities and more as he speaks with DZFE’s Daniel on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1221 I Manila Symphony Junior and Children's Orchestras

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 02:40:49 +0000

A Christmas showcase concert has become something of a tradition for the Manila Symphony Junior and Children's Orchestras. This year, they mounted Children of Christmas for a particular cause: the MSO Academy and its teacher training program. Joining DZFE’s Daniel is MSO Foundation, Inc. Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, who discusses the importance of the Academy’s mission of teaching teachers. Hear that and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1214 I Conrado del Rosario III

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 02:04:42 +0000

From a kundiman for orchestra to freshly-minted pieces for his specially-tuned bamboo ensemble—composer Conrado del Rosario III’s body of works is both rich and broad, built over several decades and three continents. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, del Rosario joins DZFE’s Daniel to look back on his years in music, and share some of his compositions.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1207 I Sharlene Morta

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 01:19:23 +0000

Hearing impairment is no barrier to a life of music for Sharlene Morta, who actively performs as a pianist and Hearlife Verein artist. With Hearlife Verein program director Tosh Jacob-Soliven, Sharlene shares her journey and music, and talks about her mother’s book recounting her story, on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1130 I John-Henry Crawford (Cellist), Victor Asuncion (Pianist) & Diomedes Saraza, Jr. (Violinist)

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 04:10:22 +0000

Last year, cellist John-Henry Crawford became the first recipient of the American Recital Debut Award, founded by pianist Victor Asuncion. This week, he and Victor are in the country presenting masterclasses, and music from their album, Corazón: The Music of Latin America. They will also present a recital with violinist Diomedes Saraza, Jr., who also plays the solo in Sibelius’ Violin Concerto in D minor for Fantasy, the next season concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. Hear all about that on MAESTRO FILIPINO, hosted by DZFE’s Daniel.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1116 I Rafael Adobas Bayog

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:18:06 +0000

It is not often that Spanish-Filipino flutist Rafael Adobas Bayog visits the Philippines. And while he is here, he would be remiss if he did not give something to the community before flying back to Spain. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, he talks about his upcoming masterclasses and concert where he shares his award-winning expertise, and some of the music that has accompanied him throughout his career.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1109 I Sara Sant’Ambrogio

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 02:19:07 +0000

When she plays, cellist Sara Sant’Ambrogio not only pours out her heart and soul—she also invites her listeners to do the same. This month, she pours out her heart and soul in Edward Elgar's Cello Concerto for the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra season concert, Triumph. She tells us how she approaches that work on MAESTRO FILIPINO hosted by DZFE's Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1102 I Jeffrey Ching

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 07:25:37 +0000

Jeffrey Ching, composer-in-residence of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, takes us through the mists of time and legend in Before Brabant—an opera recounting the early years of the Swan Knight, Lohengrin. First staged in a concert performance ten years ago, the work comes to Manila with fuller orchestration, and accompanied by an animated film to capture the story’s magic and enchantment.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1026 I Manila Pianos Artist Series

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 02:07:17 +0000

There is nothing like an in-person concert. That is why, after performing Nino Rota’s Trio online in 2020, clarinetist Jayson Rivera, cellist Gerry Gonzales, and pianist Dingdong Fiel rendered the work once more for Manila Pianos Artist Series, this time in front of a live audience. Shortly before their concert—which happened earlier this month—DZFE’s Daniel spent time with the trio to talk about how they first came together, their plans for the future, and Rota’s music that so closely reflects the group’s personality.

Reformation Month 2024: Imaging God (feat. Dr. Mark Garcia)

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 08:54:59 +0000

What does it mean to be human? The answers are to be found in what Scripture teaches, that God made us in His image and to image Him. DZFE's Tiffany and Daniel discuss the rich implications of this fundamental gospel truth on DZFE’s special Reformation month feature, IMAGING GOD, with Greystone Theological Institute founding president, professor and pastor, Dr. Mark Garcia.

00:00:29 Made beings, unmade God

00:06:06 The fundamental ways we image God

00:08:57 Image-bearing as communal

00:13:38 Importance of the church in image-bearing

00:15:44 Protestant vs. Roman Catholic view of the image of God in man

00:18:44 Gender references to God in Scripture

00:23:24 How do men and women in their maleness and femaleness image God?

00:29:04 Eternal purpose of our maleness and femaleness

00:34:30 Clarity for those who struggle with embodied existence

00:38:16 ... cognitive and physical disabilities

00:44:30 A positive view of our embodied limitations

00:51:24 Looking for a God-glorifying spouse

00:58:40 The significance of singlehood

01:05:13 Acedia: Refusal to live out our calling

01:13:00 A Christian approach to marital intimacy

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1019 I Los Cantantes De Manila

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 01:51:06 +0000

It was as much a concert and competition tour as it was a European campaign. Earlier this year, Los Cantantes de Manila traveled the breadth of Europe, performing and bagging several prizes along the way. Among their spoils: three first prizes at the Concorso Polifonico Internazionale “Guido d’Arezzo,” and a qualification for next year’s Grand Prix for Choral Singing. On MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 2400, Thu 2000), DZFE’s Daniel spends time with Los Cantantes bass, assistant conductor, and marketing and PR head Jaed Aure to talk about the impetus behind the group’s latest European tour, the events they took part in, and their preparations for next year’s grand prix.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1012 I Award-winning German Pianist Jonas Stark

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:23:42 +0000

From Beethoven to Szymanowski—award-winning German pianist Jonas Stark shares music from both ends of the Romantic period at his upcoming masterclass and recital later this month. He gives us a foretaste on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 1005 I Guitarist Monching Carpio

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:20:35 +0000

Guitarist Monching Carpio casts some of the most recognizable Philippine folk songs in a new light in his recently-published collection, Play Filipino. Speaking with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, he shares its pandemic origins and the method behind his arrangements.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0928 I Tribute to Nena del Rosario-Villanueva (feat. Dr. Alegria Ferrer)

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:16:17 +0000

Three years after her passing, pianist Nena del Rosario-Villanueva returns to the limelight as Dr. Alegria Ferrer shares her life and legacy on MAESTRO FILIPINO. Ahead of two tribute concerts by the Keyboard Department of the UP College of Music, Dr. Ferrer talks about how del Rosario-Villanueva blazed a trail for Filipino pianists on the international stage, became a household name, helped create institutions for the promotion of culture, and, over a career spanning six decades, served as a beacon, not only of music, but also of hope. We also hear two of her remarkable recordings, and a performance by pianist Danica Antazo. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0921 I PPO 40-01: Fiesta (with Grzegorz Nowak)

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:05:31 +0000

A new work by Jeffrey Ching, a new concertmaster, and a brilliant guest soloist in violinist Shlomo Mintz—FIESTA sets the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s 40th concert season off to a strong start. On MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 2400, Thu 2000), PPO music director and principal conductor Grzegorz Nowak shares what lies ahead, and his goals for both the orchestra and its audience. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0914 I John Karlo dela Cruz

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:00:13 +0000

From Las Piñas’ Banda San Jose to the UP College of Music, flautist John Karlo dela Cruz shares his story, and music, on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0907 I University of Mindanao Chorale

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:31:45 +0000

Within the span of a month, the University of Mindanao Chorale has earned a place at two international choir competitions next year. Their most recent win, at the Taipei International Choral Competition, saw the group earn gold in two categories, as well as in the grand prix. We hear about the UM Chorale’s most recent victory from tenor, projects coordinator and social media manager Christian Garay as he speaks with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0831 I Sophie Bantilan

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:26:28 +0000

Even before she became a violinist, Sophie Bantilan was already comfortable at the piano. She returns to her first instrument in Gerygone—a milestone concert heralding a new stage in Sophie’s career, and where she performs with her beloved Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra. She tells us the history behind that event and its name on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0824 I Clarizz Petrasanta

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:16:11 +0000

Opera arias have long occupied an important part of flautist Clarizz Petrasanta’s repertoire. Now, they take the spotlight again in the Manila Pianos Artist Series concert, Opera Fantasies, as Clarizz prepares for her master’s degree in the birthplace of opera, Italy. She speaks with DZFE’s Daniel on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0817 I George Harliono

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:05:16 +0000

British-Indonesian pianist George Harliono has performed for many different audiences all over the world, each with its own unique energy. However, there is one thing he hopes happens at every concert: that the audience enjoy the music as much as he enjoys playing it. Hear Harliono in conversation with DZFE’s Daniel ahead of his first Manila performance, on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0810 I KayCee Galano

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:58:45 +0000

A Carnegie Hall performance and an album of Bach’s solo sonatas and partitas—these are but part of violinist KayCee Galano’s remarkable list of achievements. Soon, she will share her expertise in a masterclass mounted by the Filipino String Teachers Association, and in the concert, Felix, Gustav & Igor On Campus, where she performs with the UP Symphony Orchestra in one of the pillars of the violin repertoire: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor. KayCee talks about these events, and her musical journey, on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0803 I MPAS: Songs My Mother Taught Me

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:55:59 +0000

After two years in the UK, soprano Lizzie Estrada is back in the Philippines, and is set to perform in the homecoming recital, Songs My Mother Taught Me, mounted by Manila Pianos Artist Series. The title, of course, comes from Dvorak, but the inspiration behind the recital comes from very close to Lizzie’s heart. She tells us more about that, and her other performances while she’s here, on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0727 I Chino Soberano

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:47:43 +0000

Violinist Chino Soberano has all but set down roots in the United States. Even so, he regularly turns his sights back to the Philippines to give back to the communities that set him on his path to a career in music. On a recent visit, he dropped by our studio to share, not only a couple of wonderful recordings, but also his work both here and abroad. Hear his conversation with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0720 I Aleron: To Where I Wait

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:30:06 +0000

What hope do we have in suffering? Under the baton of guest conductor Dr. Joel Navarro, Aleron explores that question in their upcoming concert, To Where I Wait. Dr. Navarro, Aleron resident conductor Karl San Jose, manager Kevin Maske, and vocal trainer Paul Ryan Arcolas share how this theme came about, and what Aleron has planned for the future, on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0713 I Ballet Philippines Stages, La Sylphide

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:32:50 +0000

Ballet Philippines will make history when it mounts the first Philippine staging of the first Romantic ballet, La Sylphide. What should we expect from a ballet that isn’t quite the more familiar Tchaikovsky? BP Artistic Director Misha Martynyuk and President Kathleen Liechtenstein talk about that, and what is in store for the company’s 55th season, on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0706 I Violinist Matias Mercurio

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:06:10 +0000

Violinist Matias Mercurio is no stranger to long commutes—he has to travel all the way from his native Quezon Province to play with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth. It will be an even longer commute to play with the Asian Youth Orchestra, but one that’s definitely worth it. Before he flies abroad, Mercurio performs in a send-off recital with Jascha Decena. And before that, he spent time with DZFE’s Daniel to share his story, and why he does what he does.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0629 I Flautist Mark Kennedy Rocas

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:36:21 +0000

Flautist Mark Kennedy Rocas is back in the Philippines to share what he has learned after the first year of his master’s degree at the Longy School of Music. This he did in the recent concert, Summer Solstice, mounted by Manila Pianos Artists Series and Cultural Arts Events Organizer. Before that, he spoke with DZFE’s Daniel to share how he started out as a musician, and why he chose to take his master’s degree at Longy.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0622 | Harmonies of the Heart

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 17:46:18 +0000

All roads lead to Vienna for the concert, Harmonies of the Heart—mounted by the non-profit organization, Hearlife Verein, whose headquarters are in the Austrian capital, and featuring soprano Isabela Madero, who will soon be joining the Vienna Opera Academy as an understudy. Isabela and Hearlife program director Tosh Jacob-Soliven join DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to share what went into Harmonies of the Heart, the fruit that it bore, and the Vienna stint that is just around the corner for Isabela.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0615 | Conductor Glenn Aquias

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 17:41:30 +0000

Cellist, composer, arranger, and now, conductor—Glenn Aquias, the first recipient of Casa San Miguel’s Ruggero Barbieri Conducting Fellowship, joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to share why he set off on this new path, and what it takes to wield what he describes as the heaviest instrument—the conductor’s baton.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0525 | MPAS: Manila Chamber Music Ensemble

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 17:34:17 +0000

Established fifteen years ago by Japanese expats, the Manila Chamber Music Ensemble makes its concert debut in Blooming, mounted by Manila Pianos Artist Series. DZFE’s Daniel is joined by members, violist Hideki Nagae, pianist Mariko Okeda, and cellist Paul Natividad, who talk about the origins of the ensemble, their upcoming concert, and how they maintain their musicality despite the members having day jobs. All that and more on the next episode of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0518 | Chiara Cox on the life and career of Evelyn Mandac

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:19:43 +0000

Those who know about soprano Evelyn Mandac know she is the first—and so far, only—Filipino to grace New York’s Metropolitan Opera Theater. Besides that, we find little else written about her online. Driven by the scarcity of information—and drawn by Mandac’s rich, crystalline voice—art historian Chiara Cox set about uncovering her many astounding achievements to discover who Evelyn Mandac truly is. And what has she learned so far? That Evelyn Mandac does not define herself by her operatic success.

They join DZFE’s Daniel to talk about Evelyn’s career, Chiara’s research, the short documentary it produced, and more, on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0511 | MPAS: Amore Fatale

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:18:21 +0000

Fatal love binds the works featured in the Manila Pianos Artist Series recital, Amore Fatale. But more importantly, Krissan Manikan-Tan, with tenor Nomher Nival and pianist Gabriel Paguirigan, explore the repertoire of the operatic mezzo-soprano. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, they join DZFE’s Daniel to share the story and reasons behind Amore Fatale, and how the mezzo repertoire can be just as challenging and dazzling as any.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0504 | Zildjian Viray

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:17:05 +0000

Make the piece your own—that is the philosophy that helped Zildjian Viray win in last year’s Kayserburg International Youth Piano Competition, and in two categories in the recent PTGPFI piano competition. He speaks with DZFE’s Daniel to share his story and his music on the next program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0427 | Chopin Fest

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:14:13 +0000

Frederic Chopin stands at the spotlight from May to July, as Manila Pianos Artist Series and Cultural Arts Events Organizer mount a six-week Chopin Fest, marking 175 years since the passing of Poland's most famous composer. Launching the series are the two piano concertos of his unblooded youth, to be performed by pianists Gabriel Paguirigan and Ricardo Abapo. They join DZFE's Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk not only about these works, but also about Chopin's legacy, and his music at large.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0420 | Cohaesio

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:12:46 +0000

After a lengthy hiatus, UST’s Sibol Guitar Octet emerges once more on stage, this time with the St. Scholastica’s College Guitar Trio in the concert, Cohaesio. Telling us how this collaboration came about, and what music is in store, are guitarists Karra Custodio of the SSCGT, and Gabriel Reyna, Karl Sabado and Zach Dugay of Sibol. Hear their insight, and their music, on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0413 | Sprezzatura

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:11:17 +0000

Sure, you’ve come across the word, nonchalant. But what about nonchalant virtuosity? That’s sprezzatura—a term often used in the Baroque Period to describe an attitude of effortless grace. We witness that later this month as guitarist Dr. Ivar Fojas and his students perform in the recital Sprezzatura. He and three of his proteges—Kyle Lorenzana, Agung Sicam and Beatrice Cena—join DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to give us a glimpse of that event, and talk about the sound that marks Dr Fojas' style of playing.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0406 | Laarni Dawn Ilan: Passion

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:10:07 +0000

Laarni Dawn Ilan is an IT professional with a passion for playing the piano. In fact, Passion is the name of her upcoming Manila Pianos Artist Series recital, where she delivers works by Scarlatti, Chopin, Beethoven, and more—all for the benefit of Cancervants PH. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, she shares how that event came to be, and how she maintains her edge as a musician even while working a day job. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0331 | Beatrice Rose Cena graduation recital

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:09:01 +0000

From making her first public performance in 2022, guitarist Beatrice Rose Cena now embarks on her high school graduation recital. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, she shares what’s in store for that performance, and how she has grown as a musician at the PHSA, and under the mentorship of Dr. Ivar Fojas. Irene Obligacion is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0330 | Alejandro Consolacion II Shanghai recital

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:07:39 +0000

Built by Diego Cera Organ Builders, the new organ of St. Ignatius Cathedral in Shanghai was inaugurated by Alejandro Consolacion II, who put it through its paces in a recital last December. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, he shares the music he performed, and talks about the character of the instrument at the heart of that event. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0324 | Paul Arejola sings with the World Youth Choir

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:06:22 +0000

After three attempts—the second thwarted by the pandemic—soprano Pauline Arejola will soon sing with the World Youth Choir. She joins Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL to share the story behind her applications, and what she hopes to glean from her experiences with the WYC.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0323 | Pundaquit Virtuosi: Haydn's Seven Last Words of Christ

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:04:46 +0000

Between new members of the Pundaquit Virtuosi and returning alumni, Haydn’s Seven Last Words of Christ continues to receive new life, even as it approaches its 31st annual performance at CASA San Miguel. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, violinist Miggy delos Santos, violist Gabriel Regojos, and cellist Pocholo Gutierrez share how the Virtuosi—under the guidance of founder and artistic director Coke Bolipata—prepare for a work of such solemnity, how it returns fresh to CASA San Miguel every year, and how it shapes the lives of its performers.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0317 | Zion Montebon: Of Good Tidings

Thu, 23 May 2024 10:00:30 +0000

Pianist Zion Montebon leaves high school on a high note: he performs in the Manila Pianos Artist Series concert, Of Good Tidings, leading up to his graduation recital at the National Arts Center next month. He talks about these performances with Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL, and shares how he has grown during his years at the PHSA and what he hopes to learn in the new chapter of his budding career.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0316 | Carlo & Sofia Piano Duo

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:59:08 +0000

What does it take for two pianists to play at the same keyboard? Skill, practice—and magic. This month, the Carles and Sofia Piano Duo bring the magic of their music to Manila, where they will perform transcriptions of stage works and Spanish compositions. They join DZFE's Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk about the concert, the philosophy that drives their music, and the work that lies behind their partnership.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0310 | Jose Marie Eserjose goes to Indiana

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:57:43 +0000

Having performed with various ensembles—including the Asian Youth Orchestra, the Ring of Fire Chamber Orchestra, and the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth where he once served a concertmaster—violinist Jose Marie Eserjose now sets his eyes on the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. He shares his reasons for studying abroad, and its challenges, on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0309 | PASAMBAP: Tribute Concert

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:55:19 +0000

Lucio San Pedro and Francisco Feliciano are but two of Rizal’s host of band composers and arrangers. The Pambansang Samahan ng mga Banda sa Pinas recently paid tribute to these illustrious figures, many of whom deserve far greater recognition. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE’s Daniel spoke about this event with PASAMBAP’s newly-incumbent president, Satur Tiamson, who also shared his insight on how Rizal and its nearby areas have maintained their band tradition, and how the organization intends to enrich the band culture in the entire country.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0302 | Ily Matthew Maniano: Amihan

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:52:24 +0000

Rising like the breeze it is named after, Ily Matthew Maniano’s Amihan is a gentle, understated piece. Far from a display of technical bravura, it nonetheless won the top prize in the 2022 Busan International Choral Festival Composition Competition. We’ll hear that work on MAESTRO FILIPINO, where Maniano also shares the process behind his deceptively simple work. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0225 | Alexis Vallejos

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:10:40 +0000

It was Andres Segovia’s peerless performances that put the classical guitar on the world stage. This March, Chilean guitarist Alexis Vallejos celebrates Segovia’s legacy in a concert mounted by the Guitar Friends. He joins Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL to talk about that event, and Segovia’s lasting imprint on the world of classical guitar.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0224 | IBOF 2024, pt. 3/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:08:17 +0000

Since its inception, the Manila Baroque Ensemble has accompanied—elevated, really—the performances of the Collegium Vocale Manila at the International Bamboo Organ Festival. This year, the ensemble gets its own concert evening, spotlighting the works of Vivaldi, Corelli and Sammartini. Capping the feature on the 49th IBOF, DZFE’s Daniel discusses this performance—and all the work that has gone into it—with conductor Noemi Binag, concertmaster JM Eserjose, and cellist Paul Natividad, on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0218 | Hearlife Verein: 4@24

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:01:57 +0000

Hearlife Verein has been helping deaf Filipino children, now for four years. The institution celebrates its anniversary with the charity concert, 4@24, featuring a quartet of sopranos, pianist Mary Anne Espina, and the String Fusion quartet. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, Irene Obligacion spends time with Nina Jacob-Soliven, program director of Hearlife Verein, sopranos Isabela Madero, Sherine Koa and Angela Cortez, and their teacher, Perpy Heath.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0217 | IBOF 2024, pt. 2/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:29 +0000

Marking the 300th year of its completion, Bach’s St. John Passion comes to the 49th International Bamboo Organ Festival in its full splendor. Tenor Karl San Jose and Festival Director Dr. Beverly Shangkuan-Cheng tell us more about this shorter, but more dramatic, Bach passion, and tenor Jan van Elsacker sheds light on the importance of his role as Evangelist. Catch their conversation with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0211 | PIMA turns One

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:48:59 +0000

What started out as a partnership between Adrik Cristobal and Monching Carpio has since grown into a full-fledged series, and the establishment of the PIMA Guitar Quartet, comprising guitarists Patrick Roxas, Iqui Vinculado, and, of course, Adrik and Monching. The group now celebrate their first anniversary with a concert this February. They join Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL to talk about the upcoming event, some of the highlights of the past year, and what lies in store for their group.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0210 | IBOF 2024, pt. 1/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:46:58 +0000

Three hundred years ago, in 1724, Johann Sebastian Bach completed what is now considered one of his greatest works, the St. John Passion. A hundred years after that, in 1824, Diego Cera installed the metal trumpets of the Las Piñas bamboo organ, completing the construction of the venerable instrument. These are just two of the anniversaries that will be celebrated in the 49th International Bamboo Organ Festival. MAESTRO FILIPINO covers the IBOF over three programs, beginning with a birds’ eye view of the festivities with Leo Renier, the Festival’s Executive Director and founder; Cealwyn Tagle, one of the founders of Diego Cera Organ Builders, itself marking its 30th anniversary; and Belgian organist Luc Ponet, who returns to the Festival to perform with the Bach Academie Alden Biesen. DZFE’s Daniel presents.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0204 | PPO: Roustem Saitkoulov

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:44:04 +0000

What concert of Polish music is complete without Chopin? For the next season concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Russian pianist Roustem Saïtkoulov plays the solo in the Polish master's Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor. Irene Obligacion speaks with Saïtkoulov on the next edition of CULTURE CAROUSEL.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0203 | NAMCYA, pt. 3/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:42:52 +0000

Ensembles take to the spotlight as DZFE’s Daniel caps the NAMCYA@50 feature on MAESTRO FILIPINO. We hear performances from the De La Salle University Chorale and the Davao City National High School SPA Centennial Choir—winners of the two choir categories. Daniel also speaks with Avender Pong, Children’s Solo Rondalla winner, and Slavsky Ybañez, conductor of the City of Bogo Science and Arts Academy Rondalla, winner of the Junior Rondalla Category.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0128 | Thomasian Trombone Choir

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:41:29 +0000

What do you do when you have an abundance of trombonists? Form a trombone choir, of course. The Thomasian Trombone Choir makes its debut in the concert, Fanfare, part of Manila Pianos Artists Series, which they will be telling us about on CULTURE CAROUSEL. Joining host Irene Obligacion are Thomasian Trombone Choir members, Lio Alumno, Vince Ignacio and Almira Cardeñas.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0127 | NAMCYA, pt. 2/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:39:32 +0000

Familiar faces return to the broadcast as DZFE’s Daniel continues the MAESTRO FILIPINO spotlight on the National Music Competitions for Young Artists: joining us again are soprano Angeli Benipayo, clarinetist Franz Andra, and guitarist Bea Cena—winners of the Senior Voice, Open Woodwinds, and Junior Guitar categories

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0121 | Victoria Rapanan masterclass

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:38:14 +0000

A teacher and performer for more than thirty years, over five continents and across various genres, Victora Rapanan brings her expertise to Makati for a masterclass. She talks about this and more as she spends time with Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0120 | NAMCYA, pt. 1/3

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:35:50 +0000

It’s time to meet the winners of last year’s NAMCYA! Our first batch of guests are no strangers to the competition: third time’s the charm for pianist Pauline Aguila; while it’s the fourth attempt that bagged gold for violinist Luigi Torres; for violist Minn Mendoza, it was not only her second try, but also her second win. They join DZFE’s Daniel to open the MAESTRO FILIPINO spotlight on the 50th National Music Competitions for Young Artists.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0114 | Marian Mayuga, orchestral auditions

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:32:43 +0000

What are orchestras looking for in a string player? What music will you play, and how should you play it? Violinist Marian Mayuga—violin fellow of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago—will share tips and insight on how to prepare for an orchestral audition in an upcoming webinar for the string sector of the Music Teachers Network Alliance Philippines. She tells us more about this on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0113 | Jonathan Coo Chopin workshops

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:31:06 +0000

This February, Frederic Chopin will be at the center of pianist Jonathan Coo’s circle: his 11-year-old student, Franco Lim, will give a concert at the Liceo de Cagayan University highlighting the Polish master’s works, and Coo himself will plumb the depths of Chopin’s etudes in a series of hybrid workshops. With two more of his students—pianists Jovelyn Yu and Mariane Avendaño—they join DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 24 0107 | Lizzie Bett Estrada, Kathleen Ferrier Society prize winner

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:29:44 +0000

Christmas came early for soprano Lizzie Bett Estrada: about a year after she moved to London for college, she won first prize in the 28th Kathleen Ferrier Society Bursary for Young Singers competition. She joins Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL to talk about that competition, and the experiences of her first year in the UK.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 24 0106 | Nilo Alcala: dabda

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:22:27 +0000

Composer Nilo Alcala was initially commissioned to write a finale piece for flutist Norman Menzales. Instead, what came out was dabda: a musical exploration of the stages of grief. Alcala walks us through that work on MAESTRO FILIPINO, where we also hear the premiere recording by Menzales and pianist Hae-Yun Jeun. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1231 | PPO: Jerome Rose

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:02:51 +0000

For its next season concert, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra brings us “the last great Romantic of our age”: pianist Jerome Rose. How did he earn that title, and, after a decades-long career of recording and performing, what advice does he have for young musicians aspiring for the concert stage? Hear more from Rose as he speaks with Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1230 | Alejandro Consolacion organ recital

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:47:29 +0000

Organ recitals are a constant for Alejandro Consolacion II—before, during, and after the pandemic. As we bid farewell to the old year and greet the new one, we listen to music from one of Consolacion’s steadfast recitals, recorded last year at the Union Church of Manila, and featuring the unique combination of organ and cello. He tells DZFE’s Daniel more on the next program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1224 | Raffy Lata, Gitara sa Kanto

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:45:32 +0000

Guitarist Raffy Lata has been living in the US for decades. Even so, he has contributed much to the Philippine classical guitar repertoire with his many online recordings. He tells us how he started on the guitar, and why he keeps on playing, on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1223 | Pasipo: Hodie

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:38:29 +0000

For the first time since the pandemic, Pasipo returned to the stage in force, for Hodie—a Manila Pianos Artist Series Christmas concert featuring music by Bach, Vaughan Williams, and more. Pasipo president tenor Jose Javato and pianist Gabby Paguirigan talk about the history of this event, and its significance for the group, on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1112 | PPO: Nikolay Khozyainov

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:32:50 +0000

Pianist Nikolay Khozyainov is the guest soloist in the next Philippine Philharmonic Concert, Russian Masters. How does he approach performing as both a pianist and a composer, and how is he preparing to meet his Filipino audience? He tells Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1217 | Lisztomania

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:25:45 +0000

Ten years after his last Philippine performance, Europe-based pianist Michael Cu comes home in more ways than one: he returns to Manila, and to the music of his formative years in the concert, Lisztomania. He joins Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL to share the story of this grand spectacle built on the music and philosophy of Franz Liszt.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1216 | Kabataang Gitarista

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:19:00 +0000

DZFE's Daniel catches up with Kabataang Gitarista on MAESTRO FILIPINO. Seven years after their last DZFE recording, the group returns to the studio to share how its mission and members have grown over the years, and how, after all this time, its cause remains worth pursuing. Joining us in conversation are program director Menchi Mantaring, and guitarists Daryll Tiongson and Kyle Lorenzana.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1210 | MPAS: La Vien en Harpe

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:17:24 +0000

Harpist Vien Ignacio returns to Manila Pianos Artist Series to perform some of her favorite works. She tells us more about the event, and how she balances music with her studies, on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1209 | Paskong Cuerdas

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:11:34 +0000

The PIMA Guitar Quartet, with soprano Stefanie Quintin, presents some of our favorite Christmas tunes in Paskong Cuerdas. More than that, it also champions the cause of mental wellness with its partner organization, Family Wellness Center Foundation, and reaches out to a new crowd in Quezon City. We hear more from guitarist Adrik Cristobal, with Peter Sarmiento and Rechie Cristobal of FWC, as they speak with DZFE's Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1126 | Agung Sicam

Thu, 23 May 2024 07:10:29 +0000

NAMCYA winner and finalist, guitarist Agung Sicam embarked on his first international competition not too long ago when he joined the Asia International Guitar Festival earlier this year. He shares his experiences and music on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1125 | Michelle Mariposa, Sullivan Awardee

Thu, 23 May 2024 05:52:23 +0000

Mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa is certainly making the most of her time abroad: among other victories, she was recently declared on of the winners of the much-coveted Sullivan Award. She tells us more about that, and how she keeps up with the hectic pace of the competing ring—all on MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1119 | MSO Rush Hour Isang Dekada ng Musika

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:49:57 +0000

Last week, the Manila Symphony Orchestra celebrated ten years of Rush Hour concerts—that is, ten years of bringing together pop and classical music, and of bringing in new audience members. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, Irene Obligacion speaks with MSO Executive Director Jeffrey Solares about the milestones of their Rush Hour concerts, and where the series will go to next. The program also features music from the concert, Video Game Symphonic.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1118 | Matty Lim

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:40:49 +0000

“Prodigy” is a word often used to describe pianist Matty Lim. Recently, he added another plume to his already feather-laden cap when he won a gold prize in the latest Grand Maestro International Music Competition. Matty joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk about his music, his other interests, how they shape his performances, and more.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1111 | NAMCYA@50 pt 2

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:37:07 +0000

The climax of NAMCYA’s 50th year is nearly upon us. With the finals, and the closing celebratory concerts, just around the corner, we return to Dr. Renato Lucas' conversation with DZFE's Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO. We hear how NAMCYA has shaped the country’s entire concert scene, and why, after all these years, it still deserves our support. We also listen to excerpts from Wagi Lagi—a series of concerts featuring previous competition winners, all in celebration of NAMCYA’s Golden Legacy.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1105 | Viva Voce does La Boheme

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:15:07 +0000

La Boheme is back! Thanks to public clamor, Viva Voce Voice Lab re-stages its 1960s-set production of Puccini’s opera, this time at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, Irene Obligacion speaks with music director Camille Lopez-Molina, soprano Anna Migallos, and tenor Carlo Falcis about the story behind this production, and some of the details we shouldn’t miss.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1104 | The Young Voices of the Philippines - Back from the States

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 08:46:59 +0000

What began as an invitation to Jude and Ma. Theresa Roldan came to a cathartic conclusion last August, when the Young Voices of the Philippines debuted at Carnegie Hall, and won prize after prize at the Golden Gate Choral Festival. Now that the dust has settled, we catch up with the Roldans to talk about what they’ve brought home from their US tour, and what lies ahead for their choirs—such as the 4th Lux Spei Festival. Their conversation with DZFE’s Daniel, as well as the Young Voices’ recordings from Golden Gate, feature on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

Strings in the Air, ep. 4

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:45:00 +0000

STRINGS IN THE AIR concludes with music for the most wonderful time of the year! Polo, Rafa, Allie and Kendice also talk about the orchestra's mission of bringing classical music to Filipino communities both here, and, hopefully, abroad, as well, as the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra brings the series to a festive close.

Strings in the Air, ep. 3

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:23:08 +0000

Forms and orchestras expanded in the Romantic Period. Even so, there was still a place for the string orchestra. Samarra, Aiden, and Basti of the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra explore the works of Saint-Saëns, Grieg, and other Romantic composers on the third episode of STRINGS IN THE AIR.

Strings in the Air, ep. 2

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:21:08 +0000

Some of classical music's most iconic pieces ring out on STRINGS IN THE AIR as the program take us through the Classical Period, represented by no other than Mozart himself. Join Wayne, Breanna and Sinead of the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra.

Strings in the Air, ep. 1

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:14:16 +0000

DZFE celebrates the upcoming National Children’s Broadcasting Day with the four-part series, STRINGS IN THE AIR—an exploration of the music and history of the string ensemble with the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra. Join PSYO members Teddy, Jamie and Kayleigh as we begin our journey in the Baroque, and two of its greatest masters: Johann Sebastian Bach, and Antonio Vivaldi.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep91) 23 1015 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 95

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: To whom is Baptism to be administered?

A: Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible church, till they profess their faith in Christ and obedience to him; but the infants of such as are members of the visible church are to be baptized.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 95

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1014 | UP Rondalla @14

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The University of the Philippines Rondalla turns 14 and celebrates with its customary concert highlighting the group’s mission: expanding the rondalla’s repertoire and producing new compositions and arrangements. Ahead of the concert, they dropped by the DZFE studio to tell us more about that and share some of their music. Artistic director Dr. Marie Jocelyn Marfil and president Janroni Max speak with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1015 | Kyle Tingzon

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Countertenor Kyle Tingzon has found something of a second home in San Francisco. He catches up with Irene Obligacion, and shares some important lessons and his plans, on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep90) 23 1008 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 94

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is baptism?

A: Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, doth signify and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord’s.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 94

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 1007 | Rudolf Golez plays Rachmaninoff

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Rachmaninoff's Russia came to the Liceo de Cagayan, as pianist Rudolf Golez performed the preludes and Etudes-Tableaux, Op. 39 to celebrate the great composer’s 150th birth anniversary. That was in August. Now, Golez joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to share some of those works, and to talk about Cagayan de Oro’s growing love for classical music that prepared the ground for that concert.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1008 | PPO: Wenn-Sin Yang

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Cellist Wen-Sinn Yang is the guest musician in the next concert of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, and Irene Obligacion’s guest on CULTURE CAROUSEL. Catch their conversation on life, music, and more, and Yang’s recording of Dvorak’s Cello Concerto.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep89) 23 1001 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 93

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which are the sacraments of the New Testament?

A: The sacraments of the New Testament are, baptism,191 and the Lord’s Supper.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 93

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0930 | Radlee Lacquian

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Two months after Bangkok, guitarist Radlee Laquian competes again, this time in the Saigon International Guitar Festival and Competition. He joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to perform, and walk us through, his contest piece: the breathtakingly intricate Libra Sonatine by Roland Dyens.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 1001 | Andrea Manuel

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Soprano Andrea Manuel is now back in the UK, where she recently graduated from the Guildhall School of Music. During the time she was home, she mounted the concert, Sampaguita, and dropped by the DZFE studio to record a couple of songs and an interview. Here these on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep88) 23 0924 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 92

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is a sacrament?

A: A sacrament is a holy ordinance instituted by Christ;189 wherein, by sensible signs, Christ, and the benefits of the new covenant, are represented, sealed, and applied to believers.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 92

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0923 | Rachmaninoff Festival, Concert III

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Although few, Sergei Rachmaninoff’s chamber works well represent his deeply Russian romanticism. They take the spotlight in the third concert of the Rachmaninoff Festival, mounted by Cultural Arts Events Organizer and Manila Pianos Artist Series, to celebrate the composer’s 150th birth anniversary. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE’s Daniel spends time with violinist Sara Maria Gonzales, cellist John Paolo Anorico and pianist Mariel Ilusorio to talk about the Russian composer’s works, and coming together to present music that is far more than the sum of its parts.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0924 | Ritmo at Romansa

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

After thirteen years, pianists Raul Sunico and Rowena Arrieta perform together again in Ritmo at Romanza—a concert of little-known pieces and rediscovered Filipino works. They tell us more about that event, and MusikaPilipinas, on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep87) 23 0917 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 91

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation?

A: The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, or in him that doth administer them; but only by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 91

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0916 | Em Alcantara-A Mother's Aria

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Soprano Em Alcantara celebrates her 40th and—more importantly—motherhood in the concert, A Mother’s Aria for Manila Pianos Artist Series. She shares some of the music she will perform, and talks about the three mothers these will honor, as she joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0917 | Jomel Garcia

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Irene Obligacion takes us out of Luzon on CULTURE CAROUSEL, where we meet Iloilo-based tenor Jomel Garcia. He shares the work he does at the University of San Agustin Conservatory of Music, and what the classical music scene is like in his city.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep86) 23 0910 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 90

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How is the word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation?

A: That the word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation and prayer; receive it with faith and love, lay it up in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 90

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0909 | Remembering Mrs. A (pt. 2/2)

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Carmencita Arambulo's mentorship extended far beyond the piano community: for violinist Cynthia Sanchez, Mrs. A was practically a second mother, and a fount of much-needed encouragement through all seasons of life. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, she and Carolyn Cheng join DZFE's Daniel to look back on the life, work, and legacy of Mrs. A. (pt. 2/2)

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0910 | Grzegorz Nowak

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra welcomes its new music director! Irene Obligacion meets Maestro Grzegorz Nowak on CULTURE CAROUSEL, where he shares his vision for the PPO, and how he and the PPO might contribute to the Philippine musical landscape at large.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep85) 23 0903 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 89

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How is the word made effectual to salvation?

A: The Spirit of God makes the reading, but especially the preaching, of the word, an effectual means of convicting and converting sinners, and of building them up in holiness and comfort, through faith, unto salvation.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 89

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0902 | Remembering Mrs. A (pt. 1/2)

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

A peerless piano teacher, Carmencita Arambulo was also the life of many a party, an indefatigable photographer, and, to many, a second mother. To those who knew her, she was Mrs. A, who gave her life and resources to her students. Two of them—Janna Peña and Carolyn Cheng—join DZFE's Daniel on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO, as we look back on the legacy of Mrs. A. (pt. 1/2)

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0903 | Kris Gonzales

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:30:00 +0000

Baritone, photographer, entrepreneur, and recently, communications graduate—how does Kris Gonzales do it all, and what lies in the near future? Join him and Irene Obligacion on this edition of CULTURE CAROUSEL.

The folk song transcriptions of Gilopez Kabayao (Gilopez and Corazon Kabayao for HAIN 2023)

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 07:25:14 +0000

How should Gilopez Kabayao's folk song transcriptions sound? Sweet, but not too sentimental; never too flashy; and always, always subject the lyrics. The nonagenarian violinist and his wife, pianist Corazon Pineda-Kabayao, gave a masterclass on just that, after which they joined DZFE's Daniel to discuss the history and character of these works. Also sharing their thoughts are violinist Jimmy Tagala, Jr., MSO executive director Jeffrey Solares, and Gilopez and Corazon's daughter Faridah Kabayao.

Music of the Ata of Boracay (Dr Maria Christine Muyco for HAIN 2023)

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 06:55:47 +0000

The white beaches of Boracay are home to the Ata—or Ata, as they call themselves. The Ata have harnessed music in the struggle to preserve their island home, which was recorded by Dr. Maria Christine Muyco in the album, The Music of the ATA/ATI of Boracay. Joining DZFE's Daniel, she shares how their music connects the Ata to the land, and upholds their identity.

Harana, the documentary (Florante Aguilar for HAIN 2023)

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 06:34:02 +0000

More than ten years ago, guitarist and composer Florante Aguilar set out in search of the original haranistas—singers of the traditional Philippine serenade. At first unsure where to look, he eventually found the three Harana Kings—Celestino Aniel, Romeo Bergunio and Felipe Alonzo—whose music lies at the heart of the documentary, Harana. That film recently found new life online, and Aguilar joins DZFE's Daniel to talk about what went into its creation, and the future of the music that it celebrates.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep84) 23 0827 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 88

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Q: What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?

A: The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are his ordinances, especially the word, sacraments, and prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 88

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0827 | Niño Tiro, Octurnals

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:27:59 +0000

Night-time music takes center stage on CULTURE CAROUSEL, where composer Niño Tiro tells us about his new album, Octurnals, written for, and performed, by his sister, pianist Marie Antonio. Irene Obligacion is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0826 | Horacio Nuguid, Philippine Piano Pieces

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Philippines has always been at the heart, and the fingertips, of Minnesota-based pianist Horacio Nuguid, who numbers Filipino pieces in the core of his performing repertoire. He shares some of these works in the newly-launched anthology, Philippine Piano Pieces, which he talks about on the next program of MAESTRO FILIPINO, with DZFE’s Daniel.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep83) 23 0820 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 87

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is repentance unto life?

A: Repentance unto life is a saving grace, whereby a sinner, out of a true sense of his sin, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ, does, with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God, with full purpose of, and endeavor after, new obedience.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 87

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0819 | Melodies across borders

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Guitarist Sting—now Samuel—Asistores is back in the Philippines, and in the DZFE studio, all in anticipation of his concert, Melodies Across Borders. On MAESTRO FILIPINO he joins DZFE's Daniel in a conversation about that event, his time in France, his own personal sound, and building his repertoire.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0820 | Iona Borja

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

It is not easy balancing motherhood and an onstage career. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, soprano Iona Borja talks about what keeps her going, and what other projects she would like to undertake. Irene Obligacion is the host.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep82) 23 0813 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 86

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is faith in Jesus Christ?

A: Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace, whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 86

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0812 | Homenaje

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Guitarist Raffy Ronquillo had previously played part of a Weiss lute suite, and of a set of impromptus by Ric Ickard. Soon, he will finish what he started in the concert, Homenaje—an homage to both the pillars of the guitar repertoire, and his mentor, Ruben Reyes. Hear more as Ronquillo joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0813 | Nomher Nival

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Tenor Nomher Nival recently starred in Viva Voce’s production of La boheme—but the latest in a long list of performances. After years of singing, is he anywhere near his life’s goal? He shares his insight and music—with pianist Gabriel Paguirigan—on CULTURE CAROUSEL hosted by Irene Obligacion.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep81) 23 0806 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 85

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What does God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us for sin?

A: To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life, with diligent use of all outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 85

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

On Spanish-era Filipino Music & Organ Culture (Dr David Kendall for HAIN 2023)

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 23:59:10 +0000

After long neglect, scholars both here and abroad have been drawn in recent years to the study of Philippine music in the Spanish era. Dr David Kendall is among them. He talks to DZFE's Tiffany about the trove of documentary riches that have only begun to be discovered and the fact that it supports with ever growing certainty: There was indeed a Filipino music and organ culture in colonial Philippines.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0805 | Ena Maria Aldecoa, Jerzy Maciejweski

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The past month, pianist Jerzy Maciejewski has been giving masterclasses at the UP College of Music, at the invitation of keyboard department chair Ena Maria Aldecoa. Shortly before he returns to Poland, Maciejewski and Aldecoa—now donning her soprano hat—celebrate 50 years of Philippine-Polish relations with art songs and piano works from both countries. They join DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk about their musical partnership spanning years and continents, and, of course, to give an inside view of the music of Poland.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0806 | Radless Lacquian

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Having played on radio and television, guitarist Radlee Laquian is set to make his mark as a classical guitarist on the international competition stage. He shares his story, and his upcoming events, on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0730 | Joshua Morales

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Joshua Morales has not outgrown his love for the tiple repertoire: he now leads the Tiples de San Jose, and sings as a countertenor. He spends time with Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep80) 23 0723 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 84

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What does every sin deserve?

A: Every sin deserves God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and that which is to come.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 84

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0722 | Aleron - For Light I Close My Eyes

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 05:31:35 +0000

ALERON embark one one of their most ambitious projects: a two-act exploration of the struggles and joys of love, loss, life, and death, entitled For Light I Close My Eyes. We hear about the roots of this theme, and the daunting music the choir will perform as DZFE’s Daniel spends time with ALERON ensemble director baritone Christopher Arceo, assistant conductor tenor Karl San Jose, and countertenor Ryan Arcolas, on this episode of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0723 | Ballet Philippine: Coppelia

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Ballet Philippines opens its 54th season with the romance, jealousy, and early animatronics of Leo Delibes’ Coppelia. Ballet Philippines president Kathleen Liechtenstein joins Irene Obligacion to talk about the upcoming performance and what the new season has in store, today on CULTURE CAROUSEL.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep79) 23 0716 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 83

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous?

A: Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more heinous in the sight of God than others.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 83

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0715 | MPAS - Paul Casiano

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

After four years of graduate studies in the United States, pianist Paul Casiano takes a break to reunite with friends and family, and, along the way, give a concert for Manila Pianos Artist Series and Cultural Arts Events Organizer. He talks about the music he will perform—a mix of concert staples and rarer treats—on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0716 | Roby Malubay

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

After completing his first bachelor’s degree in E-Commerce Technology, bass-baritone Roby Malubay has found his niche singing onstage. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, Malubay joins Irene de Jesus-Obligacion to share his music, and where you might catch him perform in the coming months.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep78) 23 0709 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 82

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God?

A: No mere man since the fall is able in this life perfectly to keep the commandments of God, but does daily break them in thought, word and deed.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 82

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0708 | Leanne Tavita in Tiklado

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Good music is not just for stage and studio: soprano Leanne Tavita and pianist Aidan Baracol will be performing in Tiklado—a benefit concert for the patients of the Calamba Cancer Center. Tavita, home from her studies in Singapore, joins DZFE’s Daniel in a conversation about that event, and her first year at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. Hear that and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0709 | Sunshine Classics - Tomorrow's Musical Leader

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Sunshine Classics gives the stage to three of Tomorrow’s Musical Leaders: clarinetist Franz Andra, violinist Adrian Ong, and pianist Jet Chong, all of whom have studied at the Philippine High School for the arts, and are at significant landmarks in their career and education. On CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200, Tue 1630), Andra and Ong talk about the common bond among PHSA musicians, and the music that they will be performing in Tomorrow’s Musical Leaders.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep77) 23 0702 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 81

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment?

A: The tenth commandment forbids all discontentment with our own estate, envying or grieving at the good of our neighbor, and all inordinate motions and affections to anything that is his.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 81

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0701 | Monching Carpio records Jose Valdez

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

It really is the best of Philippine classical guitar: the works of Maestro Jose Valdez, recorded by Monching Carpio on historic instruments from the GTY collection. Ahead of this album’s release, Carpio and Valdez join DZFE’s Daniel to tell us more about their collaboration, and the history and sentiments that make Philippine music. All this and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0702 | PPO at 50

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra turned 50 this year! To celebrate, it recreated its first concert in an event that happened last May. Joining us to talk about that is PPO resident conductor, Herminigildo Ranera, who also shares what exiting things lie ahead for the orchestra. We also hear music from Serenata—an album featuring Ryan Cayabyab's orchestrations of Filipino folk songs, re-issued for the PPO's 50th. Join Ranera and DZFE's Irene de Jesus-Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Tue 1630).

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep76) 23 0625 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 80

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the 10th Commandment?

A: The tenth commandment requires full contentment with our own condition, with a right and charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbor, and all that is his.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0624 | Michelle Mariposa - L'Amour, La Mort

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

It was a recital years in the making: last month, mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa completed her master’s degree with L’amour, La mort. Joining us in an online interview, Mariposa traces back the roots of that performance, and shares how its program of Messiaen, Respighi and Bach explore the themes of love and death. She speaks with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 2400, Thu 2000).

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep75) 23 0618 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 79

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the tenth commandment?

A: The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbor’s.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 79

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0617 | Joshua Marquez

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Clarinetist Jason Marquez recently graduated from Andrews University in Michigan, and is all set for a master’s degree in Texas. In the meantime, he is home, and will bring a selection of 20th century works in Walking Tall, happening this evening as part of the Manila Pianos Artist Series. We meet Marquez on MAESTRO FILIPINO, where he shares his experiences at Andrews, alongside studio recordings of Bach, Bela Kovacs, and Kaija Saariaho. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep74) 23 0611 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 78

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 01:03:59 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment?

A: The ninth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth, or injurious to our own, or our neighbor’s, good name.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 78

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

Dr David Kendall on The Music of the Spheres in the Western Imagination (THE GOOD MEASURE 23 0528)

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 07:56:00 +0000

Long ago, the idea of music went beyond the concepts of musical performance or the literature for it, to a cosmic harmony that underpinned everything in the created order. On the anniversary week episode of THE GOOD MEASURE, DZFE's Tiffany invites Dr David Kendall to talk about the central premise of his book, /The Music of the Spheres in the Western Imagination/.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep73) 23 0604 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 77

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the ninth commandment?

A: The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man, and of our own and our neighbor’s good name, especially in witness-bearing.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 77

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0603 | NAMCYA@50

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 02:27:00 +0000

NAMCYA in June? Why yes—all in celebration of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists’ 50th anniversary. NAMCYA president and secretary general Dr. Renato Lucas joins DZFE’s Daniel to look back on how the competition has developed in the past decades, and forward to the events marking this new milestone. We also hear recordings from last year’s concert of winners on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0604 | Nenen Espina

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 05:46:00 +0000

Soprano Nenen Espina is a singer, stage manager, musical director and teacher, as well as one of the most sought-after vocal coaches in the Philippines. But what does she look for in a student? She joins Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL, where we also hear her recordings of jukebox standards, arranged by Eudenice Palaruan for classical performance.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep72) 23 0528 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 76

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the ninth commandment?

A: The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 76

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0527 | New Beginnings, Jet Chong

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 02:23:10 +0000

Pianist Jet Chong embarks on New Beginnings—a concert featuring Scarlatti, Schubert, Schumann and Scriabin, and marking a new chapter in his career after his studies at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, Chong shares what he takes home from Singapore, what he hopes for in the near future, and what he will be playing in his upcoming concert.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0528 | Mark Christian Bautista

Wed, 31 May 2023 04:41:00 +0000

The thrill of performing, his time in London, the Virtual Opera Stage, and his plans to sing in Europe—UK-based tenor Mark Bautista is Irene Obligacion’s guest on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200, Tue 1630), where we also hear his UK premiere recordings of two works by Joed Balsamo.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep71) 23 0521 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 75

Fri, 26 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the eighth commandment?

A: The eighth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth, or may, unjustly hinder our own,

or our neighbor’s wealth or outward estate.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 75

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0520 | Klyde Ledamo

Thu, 25 May 2023 02:09:00 +0000

Pianist Klyde Ledamo comes home from Iowa to perform. With him, he brings music by Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and—a rare visitor to our concert scene—Leos Janacek. Speaking with DZFE’s Daniel, he tells us more about the works he will deliver, his performing philosophy, and the history of this concert mounted by the HSTL Foundation. We also get a taster of Janacek from one of Ledamo’s recent recitals, all on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0521 | Musica FEUropa 14

Wed, 24 May 2023 04:04:00 +0000

Musica FEUropa takes its final bow after fourteen years of bringing together the country’s choirs. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, Irene Obligacion talks about Musica FEUropa’s legacy, and our hopes for the Philippine choral circle, with Martin Lopez, chair of the FEU’s President’s Commission on Culture, Angelo Tangco, Musica FEUropa festival chair, and representatives from this year’s participating choirs: Jay Galo of the National University Chorale, Anthony Villanueva of Kammerchor Manila, Aristeo Butial of the Salinlahi Serenata Singers, John Aniceto of the Philippine Normal University Chorale, and Paul Andrew Lopez of the Tarlac Mannerchor.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep70) 23 0514 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 74

Fri, 19 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the eighth commandment?

A: The eighth commandment requireth the lawful procuring and furthering the wealth and outward estate of ourselves and others.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 74

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0513 | Jane Wee goes to Austria

Thu, 18 May 2023 01:47:00 +0000

Last year, soprano Jane Wee moved to Denver to study at the Lamont School of Music. Soon she will fly again, this time to Salzburg to sing as Dorabella in Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte, mounted by the Austrian-American Mozart Association. She joins DZFE’s Daniel to share her experiences in the Mile High City, her journey to discover Dorabella, and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0514 | Anna Migallos

Wed, 17 May 2023 02:54:00 +0000

It takes more than just a pretty voice to sing opera. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, soprano Anna Migallos shares the challenges of the stage, and what it takes to overcome them. Irene de Jesus is the host.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep69) 23 0507 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 73

Fri, 12 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the eighth commandment?

A: The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism Question 73

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0506 | Joshua Cerdenia

Thu, 11 May 2023 01:39:00 +0000

Joshua Cerdenia was fresh from grad school when we first met him in 2017. Since then, he has made a composing career in New York, until the pandemic turned what was supposed to be a short visit to the Philippines into a long-term stay. Cerdenia drops by our studio to share his experiences, as well as insight on musical innovation, identity as an immigrant-come-home, and more. Catch his conversation with DZFE’s Daniel is the host on MAESTRO FILPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0507 | Inna Montesclaros

Wed, 10 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Pianist Inna Montesclaros returns to public performance in Classics for a Cause. On CULTURE CAROUSEL, she joins Irene de Jesus to shares some of the music she will perform, the cause she is playing for, and what lies ahead.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep68) 23 0430 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 72

Fri, 05 May 2023 07:13:11 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the seventh commandment?

A: The seventh commandment forbiddeth all unchaste thoughts, words, and actions.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 72

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep67) 23 0423 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 71

Fri, 05 May 2023 07:10:21 +0000

Q: What is required in the seventh commandment

A: The seventh commandment requireth the preservation of our own, and our neighbor's chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 71

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0429 | Andrea Manuel

Fri, 05 May 2023 06:58:27 +0000

Soprano Andrea Manuel entered Guildhall in 2019. With her studies coming to a close, she organized the recital, Harana, to celebrate her years in London and the people who supported her—and, of course, to perform Filipino music. MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 00, Thu 2000) features excerpts from that event, as well as Manuel’s conversation with DZFE’s Daniel. She shares her experiences in the English capital, the importance of community—especially for an international music student—and her reasons for sharing her music in a foreign land.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0430 | NYYPP winners, pt. 1

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The New York Young Performers Prize Competition has seen an influx of international participants. This year, four Filipinos finished second place in various divisions. We meet two of them on this edition of CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200, Tue 1630): join NYYPP winners Paolo Abarquez and Steven Ferrer in their conversation with Irene Obligacion.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0423 | Male Ensemble Philippines

Mon, 01 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Created by the Philippine Madrigal Singers, the Male ENsemble Philippines carries on the advocacy of championing Philippine art and culture through music performance. We learn more about this group, their history, and their upcoming events on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200, Tue 1430). DZFE’s Irene Obligacion speaks with MEN members countertenor Ily Matthew Maniano, tenor Tommy Virtucio, and bass Nil's Flores.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0422 | Denise Santos

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:20:13 +0000

Initially, Denise Santos wasn’t planning on a composing career. In 2021, she won an Emmy for a documentary score she wrote with Adam Lukas, and more recently, one of her works was performed by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in its March 17 concert conducted by Dr. Beverly Shangkuan Cheng. Santos flew to the Philippines for that event, and, shortly before she returned to the United States, spent time with DZFE’s Daniel to talk about her career in music, elevating stories through her scores, and more. Catch her works, and their conversation, on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep66) 0416 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 70

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the seventh commandment?

A: The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 70

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0416 | Daniel Asis

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

At first, Daniel Asis wasn’t so sure about taking piano lessons. Now, mentored by his teachers and his mother, pianist Katherine Fernandez-Asis, he makes his recital debut in Youth Resound. Daniel tells us more on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Tue 1630) with Irene Obligacion.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep64) 23 0402 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 68

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 02:58:51 +0000

Q: What is required in the sixth commandment?

A: The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeavours to preserve our own life, and the life of others.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 68

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep65) 23 0409 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q 69

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 01:00:27 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the sixth commandment?

A: The sixth commandment forbiddeth the taking away of our own life, or the life of our neighbor unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 69

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0409 | De La Cruz Family

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Music runs in this family. Joy Allan, Aimee, and Gio dela Cruz are together for the first time on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200) with Irene Obligacion. Hear their music and their interview, where they tell us what it's like playing as a family and share their many upcoming performances.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0401 | PSYO - Risen

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 11:11:41 +0000

Guests are back in the DZFE studio! And these guests—violinists Sophia Bantilan and Teddy Tan, and cellist Zeyee Rapadas—return to the concert stage as the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra performs in the Easter concert, Risen. This isn’t just any comeback concert, as the ensemble of Suzuki-trained musicians will play in no less splendid a venue than the Manila Cathedral, projected to become a center of culture and the arts. Join Bantilan, Tan, and DZFE’s Daniel in their conversation on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0402 | MTNA 2ND ANNIVERSARY

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:18:39 +0000

Two years ago, the Music Teachers Network Alliance Philippines was created to connect private music teachers from all over the country—including those in the remotest regions. Shortly after MTNA Philippines celebrated its second anniversary, chairperson Rosemarie Bendoy and Region 13 coordinator Noel Balugo shared the group’s vision and development on CULTURE CAROUSEL with DZFE’s Irene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep63) 23 0326 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q67

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the sixth commandment?

A: The sixth commandment is, Th.ou shalt not kill.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 67

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0325 | Por la Mujer

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The PIMA Quartet performs in Por la Mujer—a concert as much for women, as it is by women. The event also gives a platform to the organization, I Am Hope, which works to help single mothers gain economic independence. Executive director Cariz Peregrino tell us more about their group, and quartet members, guitarists Iqui Vinculado and Adrik Cristobal, gives us a preview of the program, featuring music by, and about, women. Hear them on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’ Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0326 | FCCP: The Ilustrado

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines presents The Ilustrado: an event to delight all the senses, all for the benefit of the FCCP’s scholars. Joining Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200) are FCCP President Martin Lopez to give us a taste of what lies in store, and baritone Kris Gonzales, guitarist Lance Capitan, and harpist Vien Ignacio to tell us about the music they will be presenting.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep62) 23 0319 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q66

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment?

A: The reason annexed to the fifth commandment, is a promise of long life and prosperity (as far as it shall serve for God's glory and their own good) to all such as keep this commandment.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 66

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0318 | Rowena Arrieta: Piano Favorites

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Through three decades of raising a family and mentoring students, pianist Rowena Arrieta has not forgotten her own teachers—especially Carmencita Arambulo. She expressed her gratitude with the album, Piano Favorites, released as a present for Arambulo who recently celebrated her 85th birthday. Arrieta talks us through the music in Piano Favorites, and some of the lessons she learned from her teachers that she now passes on to her own students, on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0319 | Mezzo-soprano Reneé Fajardo

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 06:07:37 +0000

Just as important as hitting the right notes is finding the right community. That from Canada-based mezzo-soprano Reneé Fajardo, who joins Irene de Jesus on CULTURE CAROUSEL to share her experiences abroad, and her hopes for the opera scene back home.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep61) 23 0312 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q65

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the fifth commandment?

A: The fifth commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of, or doing anything against, the honour and duty which belongeth to every one in their several places and relations.1

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 65

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0312 | Keep the Music Playing, Pt 02

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion returns to “Keep the Music Playing” to share music from the concert featuring pianist Rudolf Golez, violinist Sara Maria Gonzales-Solares and cellist John Paul Anorico.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0311 | Schubert in Sunshine

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 07:13:05 +0000

Happy infatuation, jealousy, despair—and an ever-present brook. The new season of Sunshine Classics is off to a strong start with Schubert in Sunshine, spotlighting Franz Schubert’s song cycle Die schöne Müllerin, to be performed by tenor Arthur Espiritu and pianist Mariel Ilusorio. How do they bring together piano, voice, and poetry to create music transcending centuries? Listen in on their conversation with DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep60) 23 0305 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q64

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 08:25:48 +0000

Q: Which is required in the fifth commandment?

A: The fifth commandment requireth the preserving the honor, and performing the duties, belonging to everyone in their several places and relations, as superiors, inferiors, or equals.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 64

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0304 | Dingdong Fiel Takes the Solo

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 07:06:57 +0000

For the past few years, pianist Dingdong Fiel has worked tirelessly as a collaborating artist. This year, he takes to the spotlight in not one, but twelve recitals—a year-long affair hosted by Manila Pianos Artist Series. So why has he been so prolific as a collaborator, and why the new emphasis on solo performance? Speaking with DZFE’s Daniel, Fiel answers these questions and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0305 | All Music

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

CULTURE CAROUSEL (1200) puts together a half-hour of music from collected recordings previously unaired. We’ll hear performances by Jane Banta, soprano Myramae Meneses, and singers Stefanie Quintin-Avila and tenor Reis Luke Aquino, among others.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep59) 23 0226 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q63

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 09:00:39 +0000

Q: Which is the fifth commandment?

A: The fifth commandment is, Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 63

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0226 | 48th International Bamboo Organ Festival, Pt02

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 07:26:39 +0000

Requiring a double choir and double orchestra, besides soloists, and an evangelist, to boot, Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. Matthew Passion is a towering work, even when mounted as an excerpt. Soprano Noemi Binag and tenor Karl San Jose join us on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk about this work—the highlight of the 48th International Bamboo Organ Festival—and their preparations. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0226 | Keep The Music Playing

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The music keeps on playing for the HSTL Foundation: after an all-Mozart concert, it launches a series of chamber performances featuring pianist Gabriel Paguirigan, violinist Sara Maria Gonzales-Solares, and cellist John Paulo Anorico. Irene de Jesus speaks with Gonzales-Solares—who makes her chamber debut—and Anorico on this edition of CULTURE CAROUSEL.

EDIT: Pianist Rudolf Golez will substitute for Paguirigan in the next two concerts of the series.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep58) 23 0219 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q62

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment?

A: The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us six days of the week for our own employments, his challenging a special propriety in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the Sabbath-day.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 62

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0218 | 48th International Bamboo Organ Festival, Pt01

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The International Bamboo Organ Festival is back onsite—in fact, it happens on multiple sites—and back with it is Eudenice Palaruan. After eight years, he again conducts the Villancico Vocal Ensemble, now the Collegium Vocale Manila. He joins us to open the MAESTRO FILIPINO spotlight on the 48th International Bamboo Organ Festival, and tells us more about Collegium Vocale’s growth over the years, the music they will perform—including an incomplete work by the little-known Christobal de Belsayaga—and more. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0219 | Sounds & Senses “Nagmamahal”

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Guesting on CULTURE CAROUSEL, the Guitar Friends are set to extend the season of love with a concert for a cause, /Nagmamahal/.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep57) 23 0212 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q61

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The fourth commandment forbiddeth the omission or careless performance of the duties required, and the profaning the day by idleness, or doing that which is in itself sinful, or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works, about our worldly employments or recreations.

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0211 | Keep the Music Playing: Carmencita Sipin-Aspiras

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Pianist Carmencita Sipin-Aspiras was eleven years old when she played her debut concerto: Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor. That was about seven decades ago. Now, she is billed for another performance for Keep the Music Playing—an all-Mozart concert also featuring clarinetist Andrew Constantino, the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, and conductor Darrell Ang, mounted by the Henrietta Sydeco Tayengco-Limjoco Foundation. Catch her on MAESTRO FILIPINO, where she talks about her upcoming events, the concerto in D minor, and how her approach to Mozart has matured over a lifetime of playing. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0212 | Frenvee and Franz Andra

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Like father, like son: CULTURE CAROUSEL guests wind players Frenvee Andra and clarinetist Franz Andra.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep56) 23 0205 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q60

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How is the sabbath to be sanctified?

A. The sabbath is to be sanctified by a holy resting all that day, even from such worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days; and spending the whole time in the public and private exercises of God's worship, except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 60

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0204 | NAMCYA 2022, Pt02

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

With in-person competition returns in-person fellowship over music. We see as much on our second program on NAMCYA 2022, where our guests share not only in music, but also in victory: violinists Theodore Tan and Cedric Uson share the first place in the Junior Strings category; the Calasiao Treble Chorus under Gilbert Dispo, and the Ilocos Norte National High School Youth Choir under Sherween Cabrales share second, in the Junior Choir category. Join them and DZFE’s Daniel as we close the feature on last year’s National Music Competitions for Young Artists on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0205 | Pianist Klyde Ledamo

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 06:37:34 +0000

Iowa-based pianist Klyde Ledamo visits CULTURE CAROUSEL (Sun 1200) and shares a recent recorded-live performance of Liszt.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep55) 23 0129 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q59

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be the weekly Sabbath?

A: From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 59

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0128 | NAMCYA 2022, Pt01

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The National Music Competitions for Young Artists—last year themed Maglayog, or Lumipad—is once again on the ground. That is, after two years of online competitions, NAMCYA is onsite, and in-person. Maestro Filipino opens the feature on the latest batch of winners with guitarist Edel Mark Bitao, pianist Benedict Magboo, French hornist John Gerald Calma, and soprano Ina Saban. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0129 | Soprano Bianca Lopez-Aguila

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Culture Carousel gives a glimpse of the art and life of soprano Bianca Lopez-Aguila, who joins the program and host Irene Obligacion.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep54) 23 0122 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q58

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the fourth commandment?

A: The fourth commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set times as he hath appointed in his word; expressly one whole day in seven, to be a holy sabbath to himself.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 58

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0121 | Cardona 8

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 07:00:31 +0000

For generations, the San Joses of Cardona have cultivated music in their community through their band, Cardona 8. But how does one keep its century-long legacy alive? Techie Ramirez—the band’s conductor since 2016—tells us on MAESTRO FILIPINO. With DZFE’s Daniel, she also shares the band’s history and milestones, as well as her reasons for championing the music, not only of Cardona 8, but also of her predecessor and grandfather, Amando San Jose.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0122 | MSO 97th Anniversary

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Manila Symphony Orchestra has every reason to celebrate its 97th Anniversary! Jeffrey Solares visits with Irene Obligacion on CULTURE CAROUSEL, and we hear the orchestra under Marlon Chen with soprano Rachelle Gerodias in music from Samuel Barber’s lush /Knoxville: Summer of 1915/.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep53) 23 0115 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q57

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the fourth commandment?

A: The fourth commandment is, Remember the sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: but the seventh is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, they man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath-day and hallowed it.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 57

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0114 | UP Concert Chorus: Sama-Sama Together

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Singers, not only from different places, but also from different generations, gather for Sama-Sama Together—the UP Concert Chorus’s 60th anniversary celebration. And there is much to celebrate, including a legacy that pervades much of the country’s culture, and a vast body of singers that, although finding niches in diverse careers, remain firmly united in their music. Telling us about all of these things are UPCC alumni, Prof. Popo Suanes, Atty. Dot Balasbas-Gancayco, and Dr. Melfred Hernandez, who join DZFE’s Daniel on this program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0115 | CLEMENT ACEVEDO

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Pianist Clement Acevedo plays Espino, Nakpil and Kasilag and stops by for a short chat on CULTURE CAROUSEL with Irene Obligacion.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep52) 23 0108 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q56

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the reason annexed to the third commandment?

A: The reason annexed to the third commandment is, that however the breakers of this commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not let them escape his righteous judgment.’

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 56

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 23 0108 | PAS Philippines Chapter - Outstanding PAS Chapter 2021

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Philippine chapter of the Percussive Arts Society was created at a less than opportune time: months before the pandemic. Instead of shelving the project, however, its members made full use of the online sphere. Their efforts were recently rewarded when the group was recognized as one of the Percussive Arts Society’s outstanding chapters for the year 2021. Returning to MAESTRO FILIPINO, chapter president Saturnino Tiamson, along with vice president Isaac de Alva III, broadcasting manager Ryan Peralta, and Ernie Severino, spend time with DZFE’s Daniel to talk about this achievement, as well as the group’s activities, plans, and challenges.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

CULTURE CAROUSEL 23 0108 | JAYSON RIVERA

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

CULTURE CAROUSEL is back! Irene Obligacion welcomes clarinetist Jayson Rivera to the show in the first edition of a new season.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep51) 23 0101 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q55

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the third commandment?

A: The third commandment forbids all profaning or abusing of anything whereby God makes himself known.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 55

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1231 | CCP: MESSIAH

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Tis the season for Handel’s Messiah! This year’s CCP production—part of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s 38th concert season—came after a pandemic delay, and features a 200-member choir, as well as a sparkling roster of soloists, all under the baton of Maestro Mark Carpio. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, PPO Orchestra Director Eugene Delos Santos joins DZFE’s Daniel to talk about how this grand production came about, and came together.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep50) 22 1225 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q54

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the third commandment?

A: The third commandment requireth the holy and reverent use of God's names, titles, attributes, ordinances, word, and works.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 54

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1225 | MPAS: BRASSKUHAN 2022

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Formed by students from the University of Santo Tomas, The Brass Department performed in-person for the first time to bring festive cheer in Brasskuhan 2022, part of Manila Pianos Artist Series. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, we hear their music, as well as the history and mission of the group as told by president Lio Alumno, David Magdayo, and Marianne Latina. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep49) 22 1218 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q53

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the third commandment?

A: The third commandment is, You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 53

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1217 | MPAS: The Nutcracker

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

No Christmas season is complete without Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. It comes to MAESTRO FILIPINO from the Silangan Chamber Guitar Ensemble, which performed the suite in their recent concert for Manila Pianos Artist Series. More than a Christmas celebration, the event marks Silangan’s return to concertizing, and their commitment to championing the legacy of the group’s founder, Maestro Ruben Reyes. Members Raffy Ronquillo, Joseph Ramos, and Mario Echipare talk about these and more with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep48) 22 1211 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q52

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment?

A: The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, his propriety in us, and the zeal he has to his own worship.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 52

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1210 | NCCA Composition Prize: Alejandro Consolacion II

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Band music is both familiar and new territory for Alejandro Consolacion II. Growing up surrounded by it, he broke new ground when he wrote his Celebration Suite, with which he won the symphonic band category of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Composition Prize. Consolacion joins DZFE’s Daniel to talk about the genesis of the suite, and the foundation that holds its various movements together. We also hear the works of the other category winners, Franz Mallari and Jonathan Domingo, as MAESTRO FILIPINO caps our feature in this year’s competition.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep47) 22 1204 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q51

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the second commandment?

A: The second commandment forbids the worshipping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in his Word.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 51

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1203 | NCCA Composition Prize: Franz Mallari

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Until entering university, Franz Mallari was a self-taught composer who wrote decidedly pop music. Last November, he won the solo piano category of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Composition Prize. Joining DZFE’s Daniel, Mallari shares his story and music as MAESTRO FILIPINO continues its feature on the winners of the NCCA Composition Prize.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep46) 22 1127 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q50

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is required in the second commandment?

A: The second commandment requires the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God has appointed in his Word.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 50

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1126 | NCCA Composition Prize: Jonathan Domingo

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 08:06:28 +0000

Having written for numerous international competitions, Jonathan Domingo recently won in his first major Philippine composing competition, the NCCA Composition Prize, where he bagged, not one, but two categories. He opens the MAESTRO FILIPINO feature on the winners: joining DZFE’s Daniel, Domingo shares his philosophy and process as a composer, and some of his recent works.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1119 | Sounds and Senses

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

A concert series to help the deaf and hearing-impaired—that was what Adrik Cristobal, Patrick Roxas, Monching Carpio, and Prof. Lester Demetillo launched last Tuesday with the first concert of Sounds and Senses. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, Cristobal and Roxas talk about the work of the concert’s beneficiary, Anfini global; the birth of Sounds and Senses; and what the series, and the Guitar Friends, have yet in store.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep45) 22 1113 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q48

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are we specially taught by these words before me in the first commandment?

A. These words before me in the first commandment teach us, that God, who seeth all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with, the sin of having any other God.125

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 48

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1112 | Ang Misyon: Ten Years of Music

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Guitarist Ivar Fojas extends an invitation to rediscover the magic of the in-person concert, as he also rediscovers the thrill of concert performance. Returning to the stage for the first time since the start of the pandemic, he plays some of his favorite pieces, along with new transcriptions, to close the Special Concert Series of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Fojas and DZFE’s Daniel talk about these works and more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep44) 22 1106 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q47

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is forbidden in the first commandment?

A: The first commandment forbids the denying, or not worshipping and glorifying, the true God as God, and our God; and the giving of that worship and glory to any other, which is due to him alone.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 47

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1105 | Ivar Fojas: CCP Special Concert Series

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt7/7

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr. Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. What are Christians to make of remaining sin? Today on Pt7/7.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt6/7

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. Are some sins worse than others? And how do we tell? Today on Pt6/7.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep43) 22 1030 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q46

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the preface to the ten commandments?

A: The preface to the ten commandments is in these words, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 46

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt5/7

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr. Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. What is sin exactly and what is the right way of understanding the concept of is? Today on Pt5/7.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1029 | A Bel Canto Evening

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Soprano Marielle Tuason returns to the stage for A Bel Canto Evening—after building up her repertoire during the pandemic, she and pianist Gabriel Paguirigan present a program of opera excerpts from Vivaldi, Mozart, Donizetti, and more. Tuason joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to talk about the origins and music of A Bel Canto Evening.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones) Pt4/7

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. What exactly does Adam’s sin and the historical Fall have to do with our sin today?Today on Pt4/7.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt3/7

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. We like to think of infants as the very picture of innocence, and yet excuse our errors as the result of being born the way we are. Why this dissonance? Today on Pt3/7.

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt2/7

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. In Pt2/7, Why examine sin through the Puritans’ perspective? And, is it a sin to be tempted?

Knowing Sin (Dr Mark Jones), Pt1/7

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Dr Mark Jones joins DZFE’s Tiffany this year’s Reformation Week on DZFE for an interview-vignette series on KNOWING SIN, based on Dr Jones’ recent book “Knowing Sin: Seeing a neglected doctrine through the eyes of the Puritans”, ahead of his visit to Manila in January. In Pt1/7, why is knowing sin, and about sin, so vital?

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep42) 22 1023 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q45

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Which is the first commandment?

A: The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 45

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1022 | Clarion - Romancing with Max Bruch

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 07:48:47 +0000

Clarion Chamber Ensemble is back! On MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel, we spend time with pianist Hyun Joo Lee shortly before CCE’s return to the live stage as part of the Manila Pianos Artist Series.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep41) 22 1016 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q44

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What does the preface to the Ten Commandments teach us?

A: The preface to the Ten Commandments teaches us, that because God is the Lord, and our God, and Redeemer, therefore we are bound to keep all his commandments.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 44

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1015 | Young Voices of the Philippines: Katha

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

After about a decade of work, Jude and Ma. Theresa Roldan, with the Young Voices of the Philippines, released KATHÂ. KATHÂ is the first in a series of collections of Filipino folk songs arranged for treble choir—a much-needed addition to the treble choir repertoire, and a welcome resource in the preservation of Philippine folk music. KATHÂ also serves a more pressing need: its proceeds will help finance the Young Voices of the Philippines’ long-awaited performance at Carnegie Hall next year. The Roldans tell us more on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep40) 22 1009 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q43

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the preface to the Ten Commandments?

A: The preface to the Ten Commandments is in these words, I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 43

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 1008 | Dr. Jocelyn Marfil: Likha Rondalya

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

A deep intimacy with rondalla music, and a decades-long composing career—for Dr. Jocelyn Marfil, these recently flowered in the collection of folk song arrangements and new works, entitled Likha Rondalya. Initially written for the UP Rondalla, the book was publicly launched for the benefit of the repertoire at large. Dr. Marfil joins DZFE’s Daniel to talk about the origins of Likha Rondalya, what went into writing her music, and more. We also hear some of the pieces from her book on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep39) 22 1002 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q42

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q. 42. What is the sum of the Ten Commandments?

A. The sum of the Ten Commandments is, to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and our neighbor as ourselves.

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0924 | Felicito Sacdalan, Hiyas Awardee

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

“Active” does not quite capture the work of Felicito Sacdalan, whose tireless efforts as a musician, music teacher, and conductor of numerous ensembles have recently earned him a Hiyas Award—among several other recognitions throughout his career. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, Sacdalan talks about helping communities through music, steering his various groups through the pandemic, and more. We also hear music performed by the Hiyas ng Bulacan Provincial Band. the Jose Depiro Kabataan Orkestra, the St. Scholastica's College Wind Orchestra, and Sacdalan himself. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep38) 22 0925 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q41

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 01:03:44 +0000

Q: Where is the moral law summarily comprehended?

A: The moral law is summarily comprehended in the ten commandments.

Westminster Shorter Catechism 41

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep37) 22 0918 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q40

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience?

A: The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the moral law.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 40

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0917 | Joseph Mirandilla Doctorate Recital

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Guitarist Joseph Mirandilla has taught Fernando Sor's Introduction and Variation on a Theme by Mozart countless times. For his first doctorate recital, he revisited this piece with fresh eyes, along with two other warhorses of the guitar repertoire. He talks about the music he performed, and the instruments on which he performed them, on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE's Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep36) 22 0911 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q39

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the duty which God requireth of man?

A: The duty which God requireth of man, is obedience to his revealed will.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 39

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MFL 220910 | Remembering Andrew Fernando

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

With an eminent international career under his belt, the late baritone Andrew Fernando remained a champion of opera at home: he was working on a Filipino opera translation at his untimely passing, which was met with a flood of recollections on how he was mentor and father figure to countless classical singers. MAESTRO FILIPINO looks back on Andrew Fernando’s life with his friend and colleague, tenor Ivan Nery, and revisits his performances from the DZFE concert, Simple Gifts.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep35) 22 0904 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q38

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection?

A: At the resurrection, believers being raised up in glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoying of God to all eternity.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 38

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0903 | Soprano Angella Lista

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

As a child, soprano Angella Lista dreamed of performing as a pop singer. Earlier this year, she performed in her graduation recital and soon made her debut at Manila Pianos Artist Series. We hear her story and music in this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep34) 22 0828 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q37

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death?

A: The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 37

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0827 | Guitarist Bea Cena

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Shy and quiet at first, guitarist Bea Cena has grown in leaps and bounds under the mentorship of Dr. Ivar Fojas—and not only musically. She recently reached a significant milestone with her first public solo performance, excerpts of which we hear on MAESTRO FILIPINO. We also hear her conversation with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep33) 22 0821 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q36

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification?

A: The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 36

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0820 | FCCP: Minamahal Kita

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The influence of the kundiman—the Philippines’ romantic art song—can be still be heard on radio, stage, and screen. The next installment of the FCCP’s Minamahal Kita celebrates just that with New York-based tenor, Rogelio Peñaverde, Jr. With him are a host of other artists and FCCP scholars, including pianist and harpist Jane Banta. With Martin Lopez, Scholarship Committee Director of the Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines, they tell us about the kundiman, its related art forms, and what other celebrations are in store for Minamahal Kita. All that on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep32) 22 0814 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q35

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life?

A: They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 35

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0813 | A French-ship Concert, Pt. 2

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Everything was set for the French-ship Concert celebrating 75 years of Filipino-French amity. Then the soloist fell ill. Stepping up to the plate, cellist Kyongmin Nam Fiel scaled Camille Saint-Saens’ Cello Concerto No. 1 in a few days, and so made her debut with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. She joins DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO (Sat 1200, Sun 00, Thu 2000) to talk about the music she performed, and her rapid fire preparations for the French Embassy’s French-ship Concert.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep31) 22 0807 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q34

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is adoption?

A: Adoption is an act of God’s free grace, whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 34

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0806 | A French-ship Concert, Pt. 1

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Celebrating 75 years of Philippine-French ties, conductor Michaël Cousteau led the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in A French-ship Concert, highlighting a triumvirate of French musical giants: Camille Saint-Saëns, Claude Debussy, and Maurice Ravel. That was not the only cause for celebration, as the concert saw the PPO return to the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, we spend time with Cousteau and Martin Macalintal, audiovisual attaché of the French Embassy, to talk history—of both the French-ship concert, and of the decades of friendship and cultural exchange between France and the Philippines. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep30) 22 0731 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q33

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is justification?

A: Justification is an act of God’s free grace, wherein he pardons all our sins, and accepts us as righteous in His sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 33

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0730 | Sunshine Classics: Manila Piano Trio

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

True to the spirit of chamber music intimacy, the Manila Piano Trio patiently waited for a year until they could perform in-person for Sunshine Classics. The concert, which took place last July 15, has now been made available online. Shortly before their performance, DZFE's Daniel spoke with two members of the trio—pianist Dr. Abelardo Galang and cellist Anjo Inacay—about the history of the group, their preparations for the concert, and how they remained intact through two years of separation. Listen to their conversation, and their music, on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep29) 22 0724 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q32

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Q: What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life

A: They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.’

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 32

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0723 | MPAS: John Vincent Burgos

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Last year, Manila Pianos Artist Series put out a call for bass clarinetists to take on Bach’s suites for unaccompanied cello. The call was answered: last April, this exploration of Bach’s Cello Suites, transcribed for bass clarinet, was inaugurated with a performance by John Vincent Burgos. This series will soon see its second installment, so ahead of that, DZFE’s Daniel spent time with Burgos to talk about the music, the instrument, and the challenges of bringing the two together. We also hear some of Burgos’ other music for the Manila Pianos Artist Series on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep28) 22 0717 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q31

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is effectual calling?

A: Effectual calling is the work of God’s Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he does persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 31

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0716 | Soprano Lizzie Bett Estrada

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Last July 9, soprano Lizzie Bett Estrada performed with pianist Nathan Gemina for the Artists and Friends Series of the Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines. The event was but one of her recent performances, which Estrada shares with us on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. We also hear some of her music, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Exsultate, jubilate, K. 165. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep27) 22 0710 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q30

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How does the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ?

A: The Spirit applies to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 30

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0709 | Serenata Española: Adrik Cristobal and Monching Carpio

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Over the past two years, guitarists Monching Carpio and Adrik Cristobal have steadily cultivated their online presence, while pursuing different paths. Now the two come together as they return to in-person performance at the Yuchengco Museum. Ahead of that event—entitled Serenata Española—Carpio and Cristobal joined DZFE’s Daniel to talk about the Spanish music they will be presenting, the reasons behind their collaboration, and some of their in-person performances heralded by Serenata Española. Catch their conversation on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep26) 22 0703 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q29

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ?

A: We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by his Holy Spirit.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 29

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0702 | PPO Recital Series VI: Dino Decena

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Dino Decena, concertmaster of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, celebrated Filipino talent for the sixth installment of the PPO’s Recital Series last April: with pianist Mary Anne Espina, he performed music by Nicanor Abelardo, on a violin made by the late Amador Tamayo. Decena joins DZFE’s Daniel to tell us more about Abelardo’s music and Tamayo’s instrument on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission rom the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep25) 22 0626 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q28

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Wherein consists Christ’s exaltation?

A: Christ’s exaltation consists in his rising again from the dead on the third day, in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 28

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0625 | Baritone Kris Gonzales

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Kris Gonzales—a baritone with a love for Baroque music—finished second runner-up in the first International Youth Opera Festival and Competition of New Opera Singapore—a body that works to bring opera to young people and into our age. Gonzales joins DZFE's Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO to share his music and what he brought home from the event.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission rom the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep24) 22 0619 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q27

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Wherein did Christ’s humiliation consist?

A: Christ’s humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition, made under the law, undergoing the miseries of this life, the wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross; in being buried, and continuing under the power of death for a time.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 27

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0618 | Musica FEUropa 13

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Musica FEUropa 13 premiered last May 28, and will go online on June 25. Ahead of that, join DZFE’s Daniel, as he speaks with Festival Chair Martin Lopez and Festival Director Angelo Tangco on MAESTRO FILIPINO. They talk about the lessons on virtual performance learned last year, and what they bring into the coming festivals. Also with them are some of this year’s participating conductors: Vivian Apuang and John Michael Lauron of the Capiz State University Main Chorale; Steve Collado of Saring Himig and Himig Scientia; and Reiner Aguilar of the Rizal Technological University’s Himig Rizalia.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep23) 22 0612 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q26

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How does Christ execute the office of a king?

A: Christ executes the office of a king, in subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 26

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0611 | Manila Pianos Artist Series: The Bach Project

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

One might call it a case of one thing leading to another, but ultimately, it is an endeavor driven by a love for Johann Sebastian Bach: under the guidance of Richard Sy-Facunda, the Manila Pianos Artist Series takes on The Bach Project. The concert series does more than stage the music of the great Baroque master. It also marks a return to in-person concertizing at Manila Pianos, and brings together both up-and-coming and well-seasoned musicians. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, Sy-Facunda joins DZFE’s Daniel to tell us about the history, goals and inspiration behind The Bach Project.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep22) 22 0605 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q25

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How does Christ execute the office of a priest?

A: Christ executes the office of a priest, in his once offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to God, and in making continual intercession for us.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 25

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0604 | Balanga Choral Artists

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Balanga Choral Artists became a community choir in 2019, shortly before the pandemic. The grand plans they had in store had to be kept in store—until now. The group intend to make their in-person competing debut at this year’s Busan International Choral Festival and Competition, and have already launched their fundraising campaign. Shortly before that, DZFE’s Daniel met virtually with two of the BCA’s members—conductor Joven Magbanua and bass Ross Loresto—to talk about the group’s history and activities. Hear the Balanga Choral Artists in conversation, and in performance, on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep21) 22 0529 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q24

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How does Christ execute the office of a prophet?

A: Christ executes the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by his Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 24

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0528 | Nel Giardin di Verdi

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

What does one do while recovering from COVID? In the case of mezzo-soprano Krissan Manikan - Tan, she drew up a list of Verdi arias to expand her usual fare of French works. This endeavor bears its first fruits in Nel Giardin di Verdi—part of Manila Pianos Artist Series. We listen to excerpts from the concert, performed with Raki Gendrano at the piano, and hear about Krissan’s early forays into new territory on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep20) 22 0522| Westminster Shorter Catechism Q23

Fri, 27 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What offices does Christ execute as our Redeemer?

A: Christ, as our Redeemer, executes the offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 23

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0521 | Sunshine Classics: Summer

Thu, 26 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The rainy season is upon us, but pianist Katherine Asis and flutist Jay Gomez deliver bright, sunny music for Summer—the latest installment of the Sunshine Classics concert series. Premiering onsite last May 15, the concert will be released online on May 25. Before that, hear about the concert’s origins, and the music it features, as DZFE’s Daniel speaks with Asis and Gomez on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep19) 22 0515 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q22

Fri, 20 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How did Christ, being the son of God, become man?

A: Christ, the son of God, became man by taking to himself a true body and a reasonable soul, being conceived by the power of the holy spirit, in the womb of the virgin Mary, and born of her yet without sin.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 22

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0514 | Violinist Jovelle Ong

Thu, 19 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Following a two-year hiatus, violinist Jovelle Ong competed again, winning a Gold Award at the recent European Classical Music Awards. We hear about that, and her music—both for the church and for the stage—on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep18) 22 0508 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q21

Fri, 13 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Who is the Redeemer of God’s elect?

A: The only Redeemer of God’s elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, became man, and so was, and continues to be, God and man in two distinct natures, and one person, forever.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 21

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0507 | Soprano Kimmi Adam

Thu, 12 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Kimmi Adam has gone a long way: from the Philippines to Juilliard, and from shy little girl, to a soprano who thoroughly enjoys the stage. She has also recently joined, and won, a flurry of competitions. We listen to some of her winning pieces as Adam tells us about herself, her music, and her reason for singing on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep17) 22 0501 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q20

Fri, 06 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery?

A: God, having out of his mere good pleasure, from all eternity, elected some to everlasting life, did enter into a covenant of grace to deliver them out of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them into an estate of salvation by a Redeemer.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 20

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0430 | Manila Pianos Artist Series: The Reluctant Virtuoso

Thu, 05 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Manila Pianos Artist Series shines the spotlight on The Reluctant Virtuoso: PFC Omshanti B. Panlilio PA Presidential Security Group Assistant Band Conductor, clarinetist, composer, and winner of seven first prizes in 2021. Speaking with DZFE's Daniel, Panlilio tells us more about himself, his music, and his recital on today's edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY (Ep16) 22 0424 | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q19

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the misery of that estate into which man fell?

A: All mankind by their fall lost communion with God, are under his wrath and curse, and so made liable to all the miseries of this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 19

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0423 | In Pursuit of Excellence, Pt. 3: Kyla Coronel and Monica Bacus

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

For the online series, In Pursuit of Excellence, the Manila Symphony Orchestra celebrates not only the recent achievements of its soloists, but also some of the finest concerti for strings. Despite that, some of these pieces do not get the recognition they deserve. Two such works cap the MAESTRO FILIPINO feature on the series: Henri Vieuxtemps’ Violin Concerto No. 4, and Alexander Glazunov’s Violin Concerto in A minor. Joining DZFE’s Daniel to talk about these pieces are soloists Kyla Coronel and Monica Bacus.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0417 (Ep15) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q18

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate into which man fell?

A: The sinfulness of that estate into which man fell, consists in the guilt of Adam’s first sin, the lack of original righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called Original Sin; together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 18

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0416 | In Pursuit of Excellence, Pt. 2: Damodar Das Castillo

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

MAESTRO FILIPINO returns to its feature on In Pursuit of Excellence—the online concert series of the Manila Symphony Orchestra. DZFE’s Daniel is joined by cellist Damodar Castillo, who tells us about his recent competitions abroad, and the piece he performs for the series: Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0410 (Ep14) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q17

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?

A: The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 17

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0409 | Composer Nilo Alcala

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The elegiac music of Nilo Alcala and a recent string transcription by the dynamic young composer are heard and discussed on this week’s MAESTRO FILIPINO. DZFE's Tiffany presents.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the composer.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0403 (Ep13) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q16

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Did all mankind fall in Adam’s first transgression?

A: The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity; all mankind, descending from him by natural birth, sinned in him, and fell with him, in his first transgression.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 16

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0402 | 47th Int'l Bamboo Organ Festival, Pt. 2

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Soprano and conductor Noemi Binag returns to MAESTRO FILIPINO. Joining DZFE’s Daniel, she shares how her studies at Eastman have enriched her performance at the IBOF; the Villancico Vocal Ensemble’s Romantic program for this year’s Festival; the origins of the Manila Baroque Ensemble, and more on the second of our two-part feature on the 47th International Bamboo Organ Festival.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the Bamboo Organ Foundation, Inc.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0327 (Ep12) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q15

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What was the sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created?

A: The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created, was their eating the forbidden fruit.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 15

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0326 | 47th Int'l Bamboo Organ Festival, Pt. 1

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Onsite and online: the 47th International Bamboo Organ Festival makes the best use of both modes as it presents in-person recordings, and aspects of the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ usually unseen by the audience. On the first of two features on MAESTRO FILIPINO, we hear about this year’s featured instruments, and expanded repertoire from Dr. Beverly Shangkuan-Cheng—conductor of the Villancico Vocal and Manila Baroque Ensembles—and Dr. Armando Salarza—titular organist and artistic director of the IBOF and conductor of the Las Piñas Boys Choir. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the Bamboo Organ Foundation, Inc.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0320 (Ep11) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q14

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is sin?

A: Sin is any lack of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 14

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0319 | Remembering Ruben Reyes, Pt. 2

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Like any great pedagogue, guitarist Ruben Reyes pushed and led his students to greater mastery and artistry. But apart from that, he also brought them together, not only as an ensemble on the stage, but also as colleagues and friends around the dinner table. MAESTRO FILIPINO continues its tribute to Ruben Reyes with another former student, Leo Nebrija. With DZFE’s Daniel, he recounts how Maestro Ruben was, in many ways, the glue that held together much of the classical guitar community.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the copyright owners.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0313 (Ep10) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q13

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Did our first parents continue in the estate in which they were created?

A: Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the estate in which they were created, by sinning against God.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 13

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0312 | Remembering Ruben Reyes, Pt. 1

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

It is not just the guitar circle, but indeed, the Philippine classical music community, that mourns the passing of Ruben Reyes last January. He left behind a palpable void, and a lasting legacy as a teacher, mentor, friend, and pillar of the country’s classical guitar circle. MAESTRO FILIPINO dedicates two weeks to his legacy and memory: on today’s program, DZFE’s Daniel spends time with guitarist Rafael Ronquillo, who looks back on his time studying and performing under Maestro Ruben, and shares how his influence has enriched and shaped the country’s guitar tradition.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the copyright owners.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0306 (Ep09) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q12

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What special act of providence did God exercise towards man in the estate in which he was created?

A: When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 12

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0305 | MSO: In Pursuit of Excellence, Pt. 1

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The year 2021 gave the Manila Symphony Orchestra more than its usual share of ups and downs. Through it all, in the words of executive director Jeffrey Solares, “the MSO is here to stay.” In celebration of Filipino talent, and of its members’ indefatigable commitment to music, the orchestra presents seven soloists in eight works for the concert series, In Pursuit of Excellence. Ahead of its premiere this Monday, Solares joined DZFE’s Daniel to talk about the reasons for the MSO’s celebration, and what the series has in store. Join their conversation on the first of three features, on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0227 (Ep08) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q11

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are God’s works of providence?

A: God’s works of providence are, his most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures, and all their actions.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 11

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0226 | Alejandro Consolacion II: 1st prize winner, Timpalak Kundiman 2021

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Many know Alejandro Consolacion II as a pianist, organist, and composer of sacred music. Apart from that, he is also a devotee of the kundiman, winning first prize at the second Timpalak Kudiman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, he and DZFE’s Daniel talk about the work that went into writing his winning piece, Wagas Kitang Mahal, and the character if the quintessential Philippine art song, the kundiman.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0220 (Ep07) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q10

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: How did God create man?

A: God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 10

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0219 | Filipino String Teachers Association

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The Filipino String Teachers Association is an endeavor decades in the making. Founded last year, it has already done much for the benefit of the country’s string teachers and players, including hosting its first masterclass, with violinist Igor Yuzefovich, last January. DZFE’s Daniel speaks with violinist Gina Medina-Perez, one of the founders of the FSTA, to talk about the group’s background and aims, as well as with violinist Paul Gilbert Ramos who shares his music and his experiences at FSTA’s masterclass. All that on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0213 (Ep06) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q9

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the work of creation?

A: The work of creation is, God’s making all things out of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 9

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0212 | Rivera Woodwind Quintet

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Next on Manila Pianos Artist Series: the Rivera Woodwind Quintet. Assembled by clarinetist Jayson Rivera, flautist Crystal Rodis-Concepcion, oboist Renato Resurreccion, bassoonist Alvin Sison, and French hornist Irvin Rosacay come together to deliver Adolphe Deslandres’s Trois piece en quintette, and cast a new light on Maurice Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin and Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Rivera and Rodis-Concepcion join DZFE’s Daniel on today’s program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0206 (Ep05) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q7 & Q8

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What are the decrees of God?

A: The decrees of God are his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, he has foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 7

Q: How does God execute his decrees?

A: God executes his decrees in the works of creation and providence.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 8

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0205 | MTNA Philippines Anniversary 2022

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

MTNA Philippines celebrates one year of bringing together the country’s music pedagogues, and bringing music pedagogy to the entire country. Among its achievements is reaching even more people through language-specific sectors, some of whose coordinators we hear on MAESTRO FILIPINO: Geo Molina of the Ilocano Sector; Paul Gayanilo of the Bicolano Sector, Alfie Encina of Leyte Province, and Sherah Esquillo of the Bisaya Sector. Joining DZFE’s Daniel, they talk about the impact MTNA has made in their regions, and what we can look forward to as the group celebrates its anniversary throughout the month.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0130 (Ep04) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q5 & Q6

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: Are there more Gods than one?

A: There is only one, the living and true God.’ The first part of the doctrine is an affirmation of the Bible’s teaching that there is only one, true, and living God. We can see this clearly in the Shema, which is recorded in Deuteronomy 6:4, and reads as follows: ‘Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 5

Q: How many persons are there in the Godhead?

A: There are three persons in the Godhead: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 6

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0129 | NAMCYA Winners 2021, Pt 03

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 07:00:00 +0000

We go south to cap our three-part feature on the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) 2021. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE’s Daniel is joined by bandurria player Raysell Anne Manipol, 1st prize winner in the Junior Solo Rondalla category, and her teacher Ro-Ann Manipol Casimiro; Charles Dumdum, conductor of the South Cotabato Family Rondalla, 3rd prize winner in the Junior Rondalla category; and Ricky Solero, conductor of the Coro Bikolano, 1st prize winner in the Senior Choir category.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0123 (Ep03) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q4

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is God?

A: God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 4

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0122 | NAMCYA Winners 2021, Pt 02

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

MAESTRO FILIPINO continues its feature on the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) 2021. Giving centerstage to the strings, DZFE’s Daniel spends time with violinist Jose Marie Eserjose, 2nd prize winner in the senior violin category; violist Jann Minn Mendoza, 3rd prize winner in the senior lower strings category; and guitarist Agung Sicam, 1st prize winner in the junior guitar category.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0116 (Ep02) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q2 & Q3

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What rule has God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy Him?

A: The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 2

Q: What do the Scriptures principally teach?

A: The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 3

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0115 | NAMCYA Winners 2021, Pt 01

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Pagbangon, Paghilom—the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) looks forward to better days, while continuing its mission of giving a stage to the country’s young musical talents. Much new ground has been broken, not only by the competition, but also by its participants. We hear about that from tenor Jomel Garcia, Senior Voice Second Prize winner; bassoonist Marvic Espino, Open Winds First Prize winner; and pianist Reynaldo Gendrano, Senior Piano First Prize winner. Join them and DZFE’s Daniel as MAESTRO FILIPINO begins its three-part feature on NAMCYA 2021.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

HOLY and HAPPY 22 0109 (Ep01) | Westminster Shorter Catechism Q1

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Q: What is the chief end of man?

A: Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

— Westminster Shorter Catechism 1

Journey with Pastor James Chu through the Westminster Shorter Catechism in HOLY & HAPPY. This weekly series is presented by Pilgrim Community Church and 98.7 DZFE.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0108 | Pianist Aidan Baracol

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Pianist Aidan Baracol capped a year of competitions with two wins: second prize in the International Clara Schumann Competition, and silver in the World Classical Music Awards. Joining DZFE’s Daniel, he shares his experiences joining those events, and talks about his winning pieces: Brahms’ Intermezzo, Op. 118/2, and Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2. We also hear Baracol performing those works on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 22 0101 | Tagumpay de Leon: National Heritage Fellow

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

It is difficult to overstate Tagumpay de Leon’s influence as a champion of rondalla music in the United States. Over the decades, he has performed with various ensembles, co-founded the Rondalla Club of Los Angeles, and taught at the University of California, Riverside. All of this work came to a head last year when he was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts.

And yet, it was to support his family, not to play music, that Tagumpay de Leon—son of National Artist for Music Felipe de Leon—migrated to the US fifty years ago. However, although he did not go to America to look for a rondalla, it was the rondalla that found him. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, we are privileged to hear from Tagumpay de Leon as he recounts his experiences leading up to his recognition by the NEA, and shares insight on the rondalla music that he so loves. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1225 | Ena Maria Aldecoa in Bach's Christmas Oratorio

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Performing in Johann Sebastian Bach’s Christmas Oratorio BWV 248, soprano Ena Maria Aldecoa says that she was, at times, speechless. Two years on, and the experience remains just as vivid: with DZFE’s Daniel, she revisits that 2019 performance in Hofheim am Taunus, and tells us more about Bach’s celestial Christmas Oratorio. We also hear excerpts from that recording on this edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1218 | Alejandro Consolacion II: John Rutter's Christmas Music

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Comfort, hope, and healing—these are the themes of John Rutter’s Christmas Music, an online concert featuring Alejandro Consolacion II and flautist Crystal Concepcion in Rutter’s Suite Antique and Christmas piano music. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, Consolacion joins DZFE’s Daniel to tell us more about his years-long relationship with Rutter’s compositions; rekindling old friendships onstage; and the qualities that make Rutter a remarkable composer for any time of the year.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1211 | The Choral Music of Nilo Alcala, Pt02

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE's Tiffany returns to the vibrant sound world of Nilo Alcala's choral music. The composer talks about his compositional tool box, the landscape of Filipino music, and the Filipino composer's mission. We also listen to three of his characteristically evocative works.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the composer.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1204 | The Choral Music of Nilo Alcala, Pt01

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

In the upcoming MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE's Tiffany is in conversation with the exuberant composer Nilo Alcala, whose work — particularly choral music — has been on the ascent among Filipino ensembles, and has also been performed abroad. Part 1 of our two-week feature on his choral music ventures into the texturally and thematically diverse world of his album /Onomatopoeia/ with the Philippine Madrigal Singers.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the composer.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1127 | Vidmar-Tiro-Tiro Trio: Pinocchio

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The Vidmar-Tiro-Tiro Trio brings music—and color—into Giulio Antamoro’s 1911 silent film, Pinocchio. Pinocchio was featured in the 15th International Silent Film Festival Manila, courtesy of the Embassy of Italy and the Philippine Italian Association in the 140th year of Carlos Coloddi’s Le avventure di Pinocchio. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, violinist Tullio Vidmar, composer and pianist Niño Tiro, and sound engineer Ena Tiro talk about their process and influences in composing a score for the mischievous wooden puppet.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1120 | Will There Really Be A Morning?

Thu, 25 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Will there really be a morning? That was the question posed, and answered, earlier this year in soprano Anna Migallos’ eponymous recital for Manila Pianos Artist Series. As the year begins to wind down, we look back to the songs of hope featured in that event, and forward to the morning to come. Soprano Anna Migallos joins DZFE’s Daniel on this program of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1113 | FEU Marching Band Festival: Braving Boundaries

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This year, the FEU Marching Band Festival is Braving Boundaries—going from parade ground to virtual stage, the festival made up for last year’s hiatus by featuring both past and recent recordings, as well as marching bands from both here and abroad. Joining DZFE’s Daniel are FEU Center for the Arts Director Martin Lopez, and FEU Drum and Bugle Corps Artistic Director Illumar Togado. We also hear performances from part 2 of Braving Boundaries, and insight from some of the participating bandleaders, on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1106 | Seeing Double

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Range is just one of the numerous strengths of OperaJuan. Celebrating its members’ love for all of music theater, the group caps this concert season with Seeing Double—a two-part recital featuring both classical art songs and musical numbers, mounted in collaboration with Manila Pianos Artist Series. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO are artistic director, baritone Red Cruz, tenors Nathan Sasing and Michael del Rosario, and soprano Nerissa de Juan to tell us more about the ideas behind Seeing Double, and how the group has been reaching more people, in more ways than one, during the pandemic.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1030 | Nakpil Music Project with Dr Sandy Iñigo-Chua

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Julio Nakpil: His stately funeral marches and his longest work, a patriotic masterpiece for large orchestra, belong to Vol. 4 of the recordings of the Julio Nakpil Music Project. Musicologist and project head Dr. Sandy Iñigo Chua joins DZFE's Tiffany to talk about the composer-revolutionary's music for symphonic band and orchestra this MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1023 | PTGPFI: Beethoven and Beyond, Pt. 2

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The stage may be closed, but the virtual piano classroom is thriving, thanks in large part to the Piano Teachers' Guild of the Philippines Foundation, Inc. In part 2 of the MAESTRO FILIPINO spotlight on PTGPFI’s Beethoven and Beyond, Guild president Anthony Say and competition chair Carolyn Cheng tell us more about how the Guild has been helping to sustain—and advance—the piano teaching profession. We also talk about the importance of the discipline of music during the pandemic, and what lies ahead for the Guild. DZFE’s Daniel is the host.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1016 | PTGPFI: Beethoven and Beyond, Pt. 1

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

It has been the tradition of the Piano Teachers' Guild of the Philippines Foundation, Inc. to hold a piano festival and a piano concert every year. 2020 was the exception, when the celebrations of Beethoven’s life and music had to be postponed to a later date—that is, early 2021, when the Guild held Beethoven and Beyond online. MAESTRO FILIPINO features music from that event, as well as Guild president Anthony Say and competition chair Carolyn Cheng who discuss the story of Beethoven and Beyond, and the impact it has had on organizers, performers, and audience alike. Join DZFE’s Daniel on the first of a two-part program.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1009 | Love in the Time of Pandemic

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Music is not an end in itself, but a celebration of life. Take it from cellist Renato Lucas, who, with pianist Dingdong Fiel, presents "Love in the Time of Pandemic" — a birthday offering to "all the people we carry in our heart". Music and life are, aptly, the topic of conversation this MAESTRO FILIPINO, in which the cellist and Secretary General of NAMCYA joins DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 1004 | The Kuwerdas Filipinas Symphonic Rondalla

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The Kuwerdas Filipinas Symphonic Rondalla has launched its debut album. Released exactly three years after the group’s inaugural concert, the album features original works for the rondalla, all previously performed at past festivals of the Strings of Unity, and brought together to uphold the purpose of Kuwerdas Filipinas: to establish the rondalla as a serious music-making force, and to explore its capabilities. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, DZFE’s Daniel speaks with Kuwerdas Filipinas music director and conductor Chino Toledo, octavina players Gen Dumaicos and Fides Topico, and bandurria player Rojan Max, who tell us more about their album, and what the group has yet in store.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0925 | Pianist Inna Montesclaros

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

From Bugs Bunny cartoons to the highs and lows of romance—pianist Inna Montesclaros brought these together in the latest installment of the Sunshine Classics online series, Nostalgia. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, she tells us more about the program and the pieces she performed, as well as how she has been expanding her repertoire beyond music.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0918 | Violist Joven Aquisap

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Manila Pianos Artist Series shines the spotlight on The Viola: joining DZFE’s Daniel, featured musician Joven Aquisap tells us more about the viola repertoire—larger than many might expect—and his upcoming online concert with pianist Dingdong Fiel. We also hear excerpts from their recordings of Schubert and Forsyth on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0911 | Guitarist Rafael Ronquillo

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Guitarist Rafael Ronquillo had long wanted to add more modern pieces to his repertoire. With concert schedules largely emptied by the pandemic, he grabbed the opportunity to cross that item off his list. Now he presents the fruits of his labor in the concert, La Guitarra Moderna—a celebration of guitar music from the 20th and 21st centuries, and the next event in Manila Pianos’ Artist Series. Joining DZFE’s Daniel on MAESTRO FILIPINO, Ronquillo tells the story—and gives us a sample—of La Guitara Moderna.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0904 | Composer Ryle Custódio

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

After completing a music degree, what next? The answer, for composer Ryle Custódio, is law school. It is naturally the next step on the path to becoming a composer who writes music for the cause of the downtrodden. Along the way, Custodio also managed to win first prize in the recent Busan Choral Festival and Competition. On MAESTRO FILIPINO, he joins DZFE’s Daniel to talk about that, his ideas about contemporary music, and the principles that drive his art.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0828 | Nakpil Music Project with Dr Sandy Iñigo-Chua

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

From a parlor pianist to purveyor of deeply-felt funeral marches: The shift becomes palpable in the vocal and chamber music of Julio Nakpil, subject of the third volume of the Nakpil Music Project, into which we get a glimpse this MAESTRO FILIPINO. Heading the project, Dr. Sandy Iñigo-Chua returns for more conversation with DZFE's Tiffany.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0821 | French hornist Deiniel Sanchez

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

French hornist Deiniel Sanchez takes his audience Beyond the Common in more ways than one—as well as featuring Hindemith’s Horn Sonata which he performs with pianist Dingdong Fiel, the event is also Sanchez’s first solo recital. Join us on MAESTRO FILIPINO where he and DZFE’s Daniel talk about exploring his own personal sound, his experiences as a conservatory student in the online classroom, and the works Sanchez will be performing in the Manila Pianos recital, Beyond the Common.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0814 | Sing As One 2021

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Jude and Maria Theresa Roldan renew the call to Sing as One. Recently, the Roldans, at the head of the Young Voices of the Philippines, once more brought together an international ensemble of choristers, this time to premiere Lumen fidei. The work bears a message of hope to both listeners and performers, and is evidence of the Roldans’ work to keep chorale performance alive in the pandemic. Join them on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel to hear more about the waves they have been making in the chorale circle both here and abroad, and to hear the piece, Lumen fidei—Light of Faith.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO | Mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa recently made the news for graduating summa cum laude—for the second time. Just as important is her rediscovery of music’s purpose following some of the darkest days of the pandemic. Now, as she prepares to embark on her post-graduate studies, Mariposa extends an Invitation to Voyage: a send-off recital where she invites her audience to look both inward, and toward the many possibilities that lie beyond. Mariposa joins DZFE’s Daniel to tell us more on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0731 | Zach Tad-y: Mystique

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Before flying overseas, flautist Zach Tad-y recorded a Manila Pianos Artist Series recital entitled Mystique. Joining DZFE’s Daniel, he gives us a sneak peek of his performance, and tells us more about his musical journey from piano student, to choir singer, to flautist, to music teacher, to graduate student in Queens, New York. Join us on MAESTRO FILIPINO.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0724 | Zion Montebon, 5th Steinway Youth Piano Competition grand prize winner

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

On MAESTRO FILIPINO, we meet pianist Zion Montebon—grand prize winner of the 5th Steinway Youth Piano Competition, and the Philippines’ representative at the Steinway Regional Finals Asia Pacific. Speaking with DZFE’s Daniel, Montebon shares his experiences in the competition, his love for Liszt and Prokofiev, and his winning pieces.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artist.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0717 | The Nakpil Project

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The advent of printed music and domestic music making in the middle of the 19th century also gave rise to the country's first known composers. One of the most extraordinary is the subject of a large-scale project: Julio Nakpil, composer and revolutionary. Dr Maria Alexandra Iñigo-Chua, who is spearheading the Nakpil Music Project, talks to DZFE's Tiffany this MAESTRO FILIPINO to introduce Julio Nakpil and the first volume of a set of new releases, containing music for piano.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0710 | The Ripieno Ensemble PH

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Looking back to the past, the Ripieno Ensemble PH stages a mini-series specifically designed for the present stage—all in their commitment to keep music moving forward. Entitled Pagtanaw, the four-part online series examines the themes of love, nation, nature, and faith through kundiman pieces recast with new sonorities. Conductor AJ Villianueva and soprano Pauline Arejola tell us more on MAESTRO FILIPINO with DZFE’s Daniel.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

This is 98.7 DZFE

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 02:07:00 +0000

98.7 DZFE-FM "The Master's Touch", Metro Manila, is the classical music service of Far East Broadcasting Company, Phils. It is a donor-supported, non-commercial station whose terrestrial broadcast covers the Greater Metro Manila area; it can also be heard over the internet.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0703 | Sunshine Classics: Singing in Sunshine

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:50:00 +0000

Sunshine Classics has certainly gone through a lot. Headed by pianist Mariel Ilusorio, the series premiered last year, was postponed due to the pandemic, and then moved online. More than just surviving, the series positively thrived, and has even returned for a second season. In anticipation of the next concert of Sunshine Classics 2021, MAESTRO FILIPINO features its latest installment, Singing in Sunshine. Joining DZFE’s Daniel are soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila and tenor Ivan Nery, who give us a sample from their all-French program.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.

MAESTRO FILIPINO 21 0626 | Munchies Quartet

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:50:00 +0000

The Munchies Quartet makes its concert debut with Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel’s string quartets! Before that, get to know its members on today’s edition of MAESTRO FILIPINO. Speaking with DZFE’s Daniel, violinists Gabriel Mendoza and Marian Mayuga, violist Joven Aquisap and cellist Glenn Aquias tell us about the formation of their group, the remarkable musical pairing they will perform, and the story behind the Munchies Quartet’s memorable name. The Munchies Quartet’s concert is part of Manila Pianos Artist Series: On Stage.

MAESTRO FILIPINO is DZFE's program on the Philippine classical music scene.

All music on the program features with permission from the artists.