UPSO captivates Koronadal with their music
The University of the Philippines Symphony Orchestra (UPSO) brought a night of enchanting music to City of Koronadal with their “Seasons of Love” concert held at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center, March 16, 2024.
More than just a musical performance, the show served as a benefit concert for the marginalized students of the University of the Philippines Manila School of Health Sciences, Koronadal City Extension Campus.
The idea for the concert stemmed from the success of a similar benefit event held in Davao City in December 2022, which supported scholars of the UP Mindanao Foundation, Incorporated (UPMFI). Following that concert, organizers, led by Mr. Karl Melegrito, Chairperson and Secretariat for the Koronadal concert, immediately began planning the next event. Throughout January 2023, Mr. Melegrito spearheaded the conceptualization phase, securing legal permits within Mindanao and South Cotabato and establishing connections with potential sponsors. The concert’s realization was made possible through the combined efforts of various stakeholders. Philippine Airlines generously provided transportation for musical instruments, while local government units and private establishments in South Cotabato and SOCCSKSARGEN region also offered their support.
The concert commenced as UPSO presented Antonio Buenaventura’s evocative “Mindanao Sketches.” This piece incorporated the region’s unique instruments and rhythms, setting the stage for a captivating evening. The orchestra then transported the audience to a mythical realm with Richard Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries, which paints a picture of the mythical female warriors swooping over the battlefield to collect the souls of the brave, fallen soldiers. The energy remained high as UPSO delivered a medley from the beloved musical, West Side Story, and Joey Ayala’s Walang Hanggang Paalam (Endless Farewell). After the first part of the concert, the stage was given to two young soloists from Mindanao. Soprano Anya Evangelista graced the stage with her rendition of Bisaya songs, and Regine Velasquez’s classic Pangako (Promise). Malvin Macasaet from Davao City, further enthralled the audience with Giacomo Puccini’s powerful Nessun Dorma from Turandot and Maestro Josefino Toledo’s rendition of Rosas Pandan. The concert continued with UPSO’s rendition of Tanging Yaman Overture, Carmen Fantasy, and one of the highlights of the night – the Phantom of the Opera Medley. The crowd also went wild after hearing the iconic theme music from “Superman Returns,” sending a surge of excitement through the crowd.
Each seat filled in the gymnasium represented a vital contribution. Ticket sales directly translated into financial assistance for students and facilities at the UP School of Health Sciences, Koronadal City Campus. Ticket tiers ranged from Php1,500 for gold, Php1,000 for silver, and Php750 for bronze.
Prior to the concert, the production team and artists were treated to a welcome dinner at The Farm at Carpenter Hill. This event fostered a sense of connection between the city and the visiting performers.
Photo credits to UP Symphony Orchestra