MANILA, PHILIPPINES — To celebrate the 10th anniversary of its program, Ayala Museum hosted a two-part concert series featuring world class Filipino performers: Manila Symphony Orchestra and Philippine Madrigal Singers.
Coinciding with the MADZ’s 60th anniversary, the “Isang Dekada ng Musika” repertoire included pieces written and debuted this year such as “Sixty of Plenty.”
“When we first launched our concert program in 2013 to celebrate Filipino musical talent, we never imagined that it would grow into what it has the past 10 years,” said Mariles Gustilo, Ayala Museum’s Director.
To celebrate their roots, the MADZ also sang madrigals, the secular genre that inspired the choir’s conception: “Sound the Trumpets,” and “Jubilate Deo,” The audience also heard well-loved Filipino songs and kundiman, and Christmas carols.
Mark Anthony Carpio, Conductor of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, said, “We invite you to continue to celebrate the season and every blessing we see in our lives.”
The concert ended with the museum’s Christmas Tree lighting. Brought to life by events maven and stylist Vivien Sheryl Villanueva, the tree was inspired by the Juan Luna painting “Hymen, oh Hyménée!”
“It doesn’t look like any other tree I’ve seen in town,” said Mariles. With a fusion of the imagery of ancient Roman wedding and Filipiniana flair, the Christmas tree makes use of native materials such as jusi, sinamay, capiz shells, and Inabel and Igorot fabrics.
“The artist, Beng Villanueva, was challenged by the opportunity to take the beauty that’s captured in that artwork and imbued it with some Christmas feel,” added Mariles.
Catch the Ayala Museum Christmas tree every Monday to Thursday until 9 PM and Friday to Sunday until 10 PM. Book your visit here.
