Two cultures, one stage, and a shared devotion to the beauty of music—this is the spirit behind the Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert happening on October 16, 2025, at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium, 3 Humabon Place, Magallanes, Makati City.

Presented by the Philippine Italian Association (PIA) in collaboration with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), and made possible through the support of Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch, the concert highlights the seamless harmony between Filipino emotion and Italian musical tradition.

A Cross-Cultural Evening Led by Maestro Alessio Benvenuti

At the forefront of the performance is Maestro Alessio Benvenuti, the MSO’s concertmaster and a Makati-based violinist whose career has spanned continents. Since 1996, he has performed in over 2,000 concerts across the United States, South America, Central America, Asia, Tunisia, and Europe—each stage sharpening the unmistakable artistry he brings back to the Philippines.

He is joined by an ensemble of exceptional musicians:

Alfonso Encina (Violin II), Sara Gonzales (Viola), Arnold Josue (Cello), Lawrence Palad (Bass), and Mariel Ilusorio (Piano). Together, they will weave a tapestry of sound that bridges cultural histories and musical legacies.

A Program That Moves Through Time, Place, and Emotion

The evening’s repertoire mirrors the concert’s purpose: to celebrate the shared soul of Filipino and Italian music.

From Italy, audiences can expect:

• Rossini’s Sonata No. 1 for Strings in G Major

• Tartini’s dramatic Sonata in G Minor (Didone Abbandonata)

• Film music made immortal by Ennio Morricone, including Cinema Paradiso and La Califfa

• The lively classic Funiculì Funiculà

• Debussy’s Piano Trio, 3rd Movement

The Filipino selections bring warmth, nostalgia, and national pride to the stage:

• Bayan Ko by Constancio de Guzman (arr. Orlando Dela Cruz)

• Cavatina by Nicanor Abelardo

• Dahil Sa Iyo by Mike Velarde

• Beloved folk tunes: Si Nanay Tatay Di Ko Babayaan (Bicolano), Ili-Ili Tulog Anay (Ilonggo), and Salidumay (Igorot)

This thoughtful mix of European classics and Filipino gems promises a program that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

A Collaboration Rooted in Shared Vision

Now marking its 63rd year, the Philippine Italian Association continues to champion cultural exchange through language instruction, translation services, and welfare programs via Patronato Acli.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra, one of Asia’s oldest and the Philippines’ longest-running artistic institution, remains committed to nurturing Filipino talent and inspiring a national appreciation for music.

Joel’s Place adds a modern perspective to this collaboration. Known for its curated blend of grocery, dining, and specialty concepts, the grocerant supports the event through its advocacy for healthier, elevated lifestyle experiences.

Meanwhile, 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch—the country’s only classical music radio service—extends its decades-long mission of bringing “masterworks and the Master’s Word” to the public. As part of FEBC Philippines, the station continues its non-profit, non-commercial service rooted in education, inspiration, and community care.

Event Details

📅 Date: October 16, 2025

🕖 Time: 7:00 PM

📍 Venue: Asia Pacific College Auditorium, Makati

🎟 Tickets: ₱1,500

Discounts:

– 20% for Senior Citizens / PWD

– 10% for PIA Members

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The Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert is more than an evening of performances—it’s a reminder of how music transcends borders, nurtures friendship, and allows two cultures to speak the same beautiful language.