December 3, 2009

Two mathematicians

As part of the countdown to the Ateneo de Manila University's 150th anniversary, Philippine pianist Raul M. Sunico performed at the Church of the Gesù on Tuesday evening. Trained at the University of the Philippines, Juilliard School and New York University, Dr. Sunico's wonderfully eclectic program included pieces from Frederic Chopin, Isaac Albeniz, Claude Debussy, Franz Liszt and George Gershwin. The list of Dr. Sunico's many accomplishments as a concert pianist, orchestral soloist and musical arranger—both internationally and locally—is too long to include here, but beyond his brilliant piano playing, there are two things that endear him most to me: he arranged Filipino folk songs and kundiman (traditional love songs) for classical piano and recorded them in fifteen volumes—a legacy that will forever enrich Philippine culture; and his many projects on music education, especially for grade school children.

the Ateneo Church of the Gesù during the concert of Raul M. Sunico

I do not have a photo of Raul Sunico at the piano, unfortunately. The conditions during the concert—dim ambient light, strong spotlights, a pianist that performs with his entire body—were just too tough for my little camera. But I did get one during the photo-op before the concert. So, without further ado, let me introduce to you the president of the Ateneo de Manila University, Fr. Bienvenido F. Nebres, SJ and Dr. Raul M. Sunico, Artistic Director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Dean of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music and pianist extraordinaire.

Fr. Bienvenido F. Nebres, SJ and Dr. Raul M. Sunico

20 comments:

roentare said...

Incredible rewards as they are.

I would love to have rewards myself for my mathematic capability

Chattahoochee Valley Daily said...

Sounds like it was a great program.

Debbie Courson Smith said...

What an interesting event.

Lowell said...

Another fascinating post, Hilda. And your photo is stunning...what a beautiful colorful place! I can imagine how exciting this concert must have been!

You have every right to be proud of your countryman!

Leif Hagen said...

A wonderful, musical performance in a fantastic, unique church! Bravo! Encore!

Don and Krise said...

Good for you Hilda. What a fantastic venue. I'm actually glad you were far enough back to get that much in the photo. It must have been an emotional concert for you. Again, I'm very happy you went. Thanks for sharing.

Olivier said...

la premiere photo est magnifique, avec toutes ces couuleurs, j'adore

escape said...

more should be recognized for their great dedication.

penny said...

This is a wonderful tribute, Hilda. Everyone will benefit from the music.

Anonymous said...

Such nice and colorful photos. The music is wonderful for the ear I am sure of that. Thanks for your visit.

Ming the Merciless said...

The colors in the first photo is spectacular! And the architecture of the church is magnificent.

Anonymous said...

Very impressive decor. I bet the performance was even more hypnotizing and mesmerizing!

Halcyon said...

I love the lights and the atmosphere in the first photo. Must have been a great concert!

Lois said...

What an accomplished musician and it sounds like it was a wonderful evening Hilda!

Cezar and Léia said...

He looks so young!A beautiful event for sure, I'm so envious because I would love to attend this concert as I love classic music!
Hugs
Léia

Unknown said...

The concert shot is just fantastic, Hilda! Well done!

Gunn said...

Beautiful and interesting. (As so many of your other postings too.)

Anonymous said...

Music - continues where words stop.

Please have a wonderful Friday.

VP said...

First photo is stunning, a great post!

Lisa Wilson said...

What a wonderful thing to attend!