PH & IT synced in Symphonies: PIA, MSO, Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch collaborate in new Concert Set on October 16

The Philippine Italian Association (PIA), in collaboration with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), and sponsored by Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch, proudly presents the Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert on October 16, 2025, at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium located at 3 Humabon Place, Magallanes, Makati City.

This event promises an unforgettable celebration of Filipino and Italian cultures through the universal language of music, featuring works by esteemed composers Nicanor Abelardo, Antonio Molina, Antonino Buenaventura, Antonio Vivaldi, Tomaso Albinoni, and Gioachino Rossini.

At the helm of the performance is Maestro Alessio Benvenuti (Violin I), concertmaster of the Manila Symphony Orchestra and a Makati-based musician whose artistry has captivated audiences worldwide. Since 1996, he has been featured in over 2,000 concerts across the United States, South America, Central America, Asia, Tunisia, and Europe.

Joining Maestro Benvenuti on stage are Alfonso Encina (Violin II), Sara Gonzales (Viola), Arnold Josue (Cello), Lawrence Palad (Bass), and Mariel Ilusorio (Piano), together forming an ensemble of exceptional talent.

Their performance will present an exquisite blend of Italian and Filipino masterpieces.

Audiences can look forward to timeless works such as Rossini’s Sonata No. 1 for Strings in G Major, Tartini’s evocative Sonata in G Minor (Didone Abbandonata), and Ennio Morricone’s beloved film scores Cinema Paradiso and La Califfa. Adding further variety are the spirited classic Funiculi Funicula and Debussy’s Piano Trio, 3rd Movement.

Complementing these European works are Filipino gems, including Constancio de Guzman’s patriotic Bayan Ko (arr. Orlando Dela Cruz), Nicanor Abelardo’s lyrical Cavatina, and Mike Velarde’s enduring Dahil Sa Iyo, as well as treasured folksongs such as Si Nanay Tatay Di Ko Babayaan (Bicolano), Ili-Ili Tulog Anay (Ilonggo), and Salidumay (Igorot).

This collaboration is made possible through the shared vision of the PIA, the MSO, Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch.

Now celebrating its 63rd year, PIA continues to fulfill its mission of fostering unity between Filipino and Italian cultures through Italian language instruction, translation services, and social security and welfare assistance provided via the Patronato Acli.

Likewise, the MSO, one of the oldest orchestras in Asia and the longest surviving artistic institution in the Philippines, remains steadfast in its goal of discovering and nurturing Filipino musical talent, while making the appreciation and practice of music a vibrant part of Filipino life.

Joel’s Place, further complements this collaboration. A modern lifestyle grocerant seamlessly blends grocery, specialty, and dining concepts, offering a curated mix of local and international products. With its commitment to healthy living and distinctive shop and dine experiences, Joel’s Place brings a contemporary edge to the partnership while celebrating cultural exchange.

“The Master’s Touch” on 98.7 DZFE-FM is the only classical music service in the country today and has delivered “masterworks and Master’s Word” programs to its listening community since 1954. DZFE belongs to FEBC Philippines, a non-profit, non-commercial and non-denominational Evangelical media network serving Filipinos and their communities with biblical commentary and public service programs.

The concert shall start at 7:00 PM.

Ticket prices: ₱1,500.

20% discount for Senior Citizens/PWD or 10% discount for PIA Members.

For ticket inquiries and reservations, please get in touch with Ms. Jan Dacera at #09954305118 and/or at this email address: [email protected]

Through this landmark collaboration, PIA, MSO Joel’s Place, and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch reaffirm their commitment to bridging cultures and inspiring communities through the transformative power of music.