CLASSICAL JAPANESE ARTISTS COMES TO MANILA

Press release

THREE, TWO, ONE, ARAI

CLASSICAL GUITAR ARTISTS FROM JAPAN SETS ONE NIGHT CONCERT ON
MARCH 20 - 5:30 PM
UP ABELARDO HALL
UP COLLEGE OF MUSIC, DILIMAN QC

Independent Philippine Art Ventures, Inc., presents an afternoon of contemporary and classical guitar music with three outstanding artists from Japan who will play solos, duets, and trios at 530 pm on March 20, at the Abelardo Hall Auditorium in UP Diliman.

Concertgoers are encouraged to enjoy the UP campus that bustles with activity on Sundays. People hike, bike, walk, picnic, fly kites. The family-oriented concert will be a good way to cap a Sunday.

Featured artists: Tomonori Arai and Duo Trussardi

TOMONORI ARAI was born in Shibuya, Tokyo. He started guitar studies  at the age of six with his father Kazuo Arai. In 1991, he began to take lessons from Yoshinobu Hara. Tomonori won First prize at Junior Guitar Competition, Student Guitar Competition, and Spanish Guitar Music Competition that year.

In 1992, he entered the Cologne Music University where he received his diploma in 1998. He continued to study in Aachen and finished Concert Examinations in 2000. During his stay, he has studied withTadashi Sasaki, Zoran Dukic , Thomas Müller-Perring.

Tomonori won many prizes at numerous guitar competitions in Europe 

such as the Austria International RUST 2000. He has held recitals in Germany, Austria, France, Czechs Republic, Belgium, and Italy, and the Philippines. He is now expanding his carrier as concert guitarist and teacher. Tomonori has also recorded at least 5 outstanding CDs. DUO TRUSSARDI

Both born in 1985, Eisei Tanigawa and Takashi Endo studied classical guitar and music theory under Japanese guitarist Tomonori Arai.

After taking a liking to classical Brazilian music, especially the work by composer Egbert Gismonti, they started playing as a guitar duo  focusing on Brazilian music.

They have performed all over Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki,  and Kanagawa and have received rave reviews.

In 2015, they played in the Pattaya guitar festival in Thailand with Tomonori Arai to outstanding acclaim.

In June 2015, they premiered " Journey to the far Valley," composed by Hirokazu Sato, one of the most talented Japanese guitar composers, who dedicated the piece to them.

In October 2015, they released their first CD, "Double Roots" featuring both Brazilian and Japanese repertoire, prompting Gendai Guitar magazine 

to hail them as "one of the most talented and sophisticated young guitar duos" in Japan.

As solo players, they have garnered prizes in several domestic and international guitar competitions in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Manila.

As a duo, they have taken master classes from such players as Duo Melis, and Maccari-Pugliese---one of the best guitar duos in the world.

They have also taken private lessons from virtuoso Japanese guitar players Shingo Fujii and Yasuji Ohagi.

CALL TICKETWORLD at 8919999.

Early Bird Promo (Until February 29) 

VIP: P 1,776.50

Patron: P 888.25

Regular: P 444.13

Regular Prices (Starting March 1)

VIP: P 2,090

Patron: P 1,045

Regular: P 522.50

3 Stars and A Sun review

Francis Magalona may be gone but he is alive because of his music and those who understand his message. The message of FrancisM's songs also came to life because of PETA's latest musical production, "3 Stars and A Sun".

After the success of Rak Of Aegis, PETA once again compiled the music of one of the Philippines' respectable music icon and rap pioneer and made a story out of it. Just like Rak Of Aegis, I never expected these specific rap songs can tell a story. Thanks to the writing of Rody Vera and Mix Villalon.

The story takes place in a possible future after a nuclear holocaust that made the Filipinos fled to a domed shelter called Stormdome. The surviving Filipinos were subjected to mind wipe when the democratic government falls and the rise of a new dystopian society. The next generation that follows has no idea about their true heritage.

Living inside the Stormdome, the dystopian society has two existing factions. Those who live in Lumina is the one who governed and the working class in Diliman. The status quo is the theme of the story.

It is also interesting that Francis M's songs fit right in the story and the society. Just like Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady, it is also has sci-fi element to it. But the best part of the production was how relevant and timely this story is in Philippine's current events. This is probably the best time to consider this coming election.

I like how they designed the set. It is combined of futuristic and post-apocalytic with a touch of steam punk. The sci-fi element is not far off.

"3 Stars and A Sun" opens at PETA starting February 4 until February 7. A tip before watching. Be sure to sing the National Anthem up to the end so you can understand how significant it is to the story. For more musical productions, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.

MUSIC-FILLED CROSS-COUNTRY ODYSSEY IN “ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS 4: THE ROAD CHIP”

Press release

Strutting and dancing their way into their latest movie installment, Alvin, Theodore and Simon star in the latest addition to the hit franchise “Alvin and the Chipmunks” in “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip” with the returning voice cast of Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney. 

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

                In “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip,” the Chipmunks hit the road and embark on a journey to stop their guardian Dave (Jason Lee) from what they believe to be a wedding proposal in Miami.  Alvin, who’s charming and musical with boundless enthusiasm and animal magnetism; Simon, whose I.Q. is just north of Einstein’s; and Theodore, who’s shy, good-natured, loving and sensitive along with new equally mischievous pal, Miles (Josh Green) son of Dave’s special friend, Samantha (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) are not thrilled on the idea of Dave and Sam tying the knot. ‘

                “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip” shakes things up, musically.  Each stop on the ‘Munks’ and Miles’ quest has its own special character and different musical influence – from modern, hip-hop/country vibe of an Austin, Texas bar to the great jazz, blues and funk of New Orleans, and finally to the Latin flair of Miami.

                Continuing a soundtrack tradition for the series, Alvin and the Chipmunks put their own delightful new spin on smashes including “Uptown Funk,” “Turn Down For What,” and more. In addition, Redfoo and the boys trade verses on “Juicy Wiggle (Munk Remix).” The soundtrack also features Sheppard’s platinum-certified international hit “Geronimo” and The Score’s “Oh My Love.”   Mark Mothersbaugh is the composer and the executive music producer is Alana Da Fonseca. 

                “Alvin and the Chipmunks 4: The Road Chip” opens January 20 in cinemas from 20^th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner 

IN PERFECT TUNE WITH MEGHAN TRAINOR AND AWARD WINNING LEGENDARY ARTISTS IN “SNOOPY AND CHARLIE BROWN THE PEANUTS MOVIE” (3D)

 Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved Peanuts Gang make their big-screen debut, like they’ve never been seen before, in state of the art 3D animation.  Charlie Brown, the world’s most beloved underdog, embarks upon an epic and heroic quest, while his best pal, the lovable beagle Snoopy, takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis, the Red Baron.  From the imagination of Charles M. Schulz and the creators of the “Ice Age” films, “Snoopy and Charlie Brown The Peanuts Movie” will prove that every underdog has his day.

 

                “Snoopy and Charlie Brown The Peanuts Movie” features the iconic music of Vince Guaraldi, who composed the beloved “Linus and Lucy” song from the television specials.  “Let me put your concerns to rest,” confirms Martino, “the ‘Linus and Lucy’ song and all the cues you know and love are in the film!”

               

                Martino turned to longtime Peanuts collaborator, jazz legend David Benoit, to perform the memorable title tracks for the film.  To bring to life the iconic “voice” of Ms. Othmar (the kids’ teacher) and all the other adult voices in the cast, the filmmakers tapped New Orleans jazz legend Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. 

 

                At the helm of all the music is composer Christophe Beck (“Frozen,” “Ant Man,” “Pitch Perfect”).   In one memorable scene, Snoopy teaches Charlie Brown to dance (so he can impress the Little Red-Haired Girl).  Knowing the scene called for a song, Martino turned to one of the world’s top new musical artists, Billboard Music Award winning and Grammy nominated Meghan Trainor, to pen an original tune for the film.  “Meghan has written a wonderful song that expresses Charlie Brown’s optimistic attitude as he works with Snoopy to become a better dancer,” says Martino.  “She is such an amazing singer songwriter and a shining example of the thematic heart of our story.” 

 

                Trainor met with the team at Blue Sky and seemingly overnight captured the essence of the film in song.  “Musically, Meghan had me from her very first rough demo,” Martino says.  “My foot was tapping and I had a huge smile on my face as I could see this moment in the movie being lifted by her unique talents.”

 

                Trainor commented: “As a lifelong fan of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts Gang, I was thrilled to be offered the chance to see an early version of “Snoopy and Charlie Brown The Peanuts Movie” —and to then be inspired to write a song that captured the film’s spirit, energy and sense of joy.  And it was a pleasure to work with director Steve Martino to make sure the song did right by the incredible characters and world he’s bringing to the big screen.”

 

                Two-time Academy Award winner Randy Thom, Supervising Sound Editor and Supervising Sound Mixer on “Snoopy and Charlie Brown The Peanuts Movie,” is no stranger to the world of animation.  A legend in the craft of sound design and mixing, Thom, who is based at Skywalker Sound, has worked on over 20 animated films, including the “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Rio” films and “The Incredibles” (for which is won an Oscar).

 

                “Even though we used contemporary equipment we employed special techniques to antique them, incorporating characteristic sounds you’d recognize from the specials,” Thom continues.  In a nod to the classic specials and to the legacy of Charles M. Schulz, Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson, the filmmakers were granted access to the library of Melendez’s recordings of Snoopy’s voice.  “It was really important for us to use Bill’s voice, so I approached his studio and secured a majority of the recordings he had made over the years,” says Craig Schulz.

 

                The warmth and merriment of the holiday season continue as “Snoopy and Charlie Brown The Peanuts Movie” opens January 8 (also in 3D) in cinemas nationwide from 20^th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

UST Christmas concert at CCP

Press release

The University of Santo Tomas' Conservatory of Music, in cooperation with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, celebrates Christmas with a concert on December 15, 8:00pm at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater).

The Christmas concert features the UST Symphony Orchestra, band, choruses, UST Singers, vocal and instrumental soloists, and Russian guest violinists. Program includes excerpts from Handel's Messiah, Broadway music from the West Side Story and Sister Act; Veni, Veni Emmanuel (A Cappella); Brass Christmas Funfare, Silong/Calalang's Kampana ng Simbahan, Bach-Gounod's Ave Maria, Pietro Yon's Gesu Bambino, Adolphe Charles-Adam's O Holy Night, La Virgen Lava Panales, and Pablo Sarasate's Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), among other works.

For tickets, contact the CCP Box Office at 832-3704.

MET OPERA SHOWS IN HD SEASON 3 AT GREENBELT 3 CINEMAS

Press release

Ayala Malls Cinemas recently unveiled its MET OPERA IN HD SEASON 3 at Greenbelt 3 Cinemas featuring the movie “La Donna Del Lago” that started last December 8. 

Photo courtesy of MET Opera

                Ayala Malls Cinemas brings the world-class experience opera in the country, presenting operatic productions to a wider audience.  Its debut feature on its third season, “La Donna Del Lago” tells about a time when Scotland under King James V (reigned 1513–1542) was in a state of unrest.  Amongst the rebels were Douglas (Elena's father), Rodrigo (to whom she has been betrothed) and Malcolm (whom she loves).  The King is in the habit of going about his lands disguised as Uberto.  Seeing Elena he instantly falls in love with her, but she repels his advances stating that he is confusing hospitality and friendship for romantic interest.  In the meantime he has realized that she is related to his enemies.  The clans gather to overthrow the king, and Rodrigo and Douglas discover Elena's secret love for Malcolm.  She tries to keep the peace, but the call to arms diverts the soldiers.  The battle does not go well, and Rodrigo is killed. Again the king in disguise encounters Elena and gives her a ring to take to the king if she is ever in trouble.  She decides to use it and goes to Stirling Castle where she finds that both Malcolm and Douglas are prisoners.  She pleads their cases, and the king magnanimously pardons them and blesses the union, now unimpeded by Rodrigo, between Elena and Malcolm.

                Bel canto superstars Joyce DiDonato and Juan Diego Flórez join forces for this Rossini showcase of vocal virtuosity, set in the medieval Scottish highlands and based on a beloved novel by Sir Walter Scott.  DiDonato is the “lady of the lake” of the title, and Flórez is the king who relentlessly pursues her, their vocal fireworks embellishing the romantic plot in this Met premiere production conducted by Michele Mariotti.

                Succeeding shows will be on January 12 (“Tosca”), February 9 (“Iolanta/Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle”), March 8 (“Carmen”),April 12 (“The Merry Widow”) and May 10 (“Macbeth”).

                Log on to www.sureseats.com for more details of MET OPERA IN HD SEASON 3 AT GREENBELT 3.

Revolution is happening

In celebration of the World AIDS Day, a music festival is dedicated for the awareness. This is not just for anyone who likes music but it is also to spread awareness about the campaign. Most are still not aware especially those who are judgmental, self-righteous people who knows nothing but stooping people down who are considered HIV+.

Because most of these people are not oriented about HIV and AIDS because most of them are either conservative or religious. But if you have seen the HBO movie or the theater production The Normal Heart, you could understand.

I know I am sounding too preachy this is still a problem not only because of the epidemic but socially. This event may lead you to a more positive outlook without being infected and it's happening this Saturday December 5 at SM MOA concert grounds. For more updates, follow this blog and like L.E.N.S. blogs on Facebook.