Violinish

The ups and downs of an orchestra member in a place where classical music is lowly appreciated.

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It’s been a long time since I last updated my blog because of my busy schedule. Gigs and schoolwork were piling up and I never had the chance to post anything. Good thing gigs are over. Last Sunday, April 23, 2017, we had a gig in Green Leaf Hotel (General Santos City). It was a post-wedding celebration of a Chinese couple. Before the gig, we were all nervous because we did not have much time to practice. But, we put all our worries in God’s hands. 

As we entered the function hall, we were blown away. For me, everything was perfect. The ambiance was light and happy. As the guests started to arrive, We played classical music just to avoid some “dead air”. We were all astonished because the couple arrived elegantly. They were so sweet. Yeah, I admit that I don’t like cheesy couples but they were an exemption. They were just so in love and everybody can feel it. It took 20 years before they were married and I agree to the groom’s statement that Friendship is the best foundation in love. 

After the gig, we fixed our instruments, took photos, ate delicious food and, just waited. The bride noticed us and said, “Ang galing niyo talaga. Kinabog niyo ang Manila Wedding ko.” We were so flattered of the bride’s comment and decided to take a picture. Also, an international saxophonist joined us in the gig and serenaded the audience and the couple. After that, we went to an orchestra member to extend our condolences for her father because we treat each other as family. I realized that there will always be good and bad times in the orchestra. All we need to do is to stay strong. In conclusion, that day was well spent.

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“Where it All Started”

When I was still a baby (months old), my mom would play “Eine Kleine Nacht Musik” by Mozart on a cassette player. Mozart’s composition became my comfort sound. It would calm me down whenever I’m upset and angry and I remembered that melody until I grew up. When I was around 9 years old, my mom pushed me to learn the violin and as I expected, I learned to love it. I thought playing modern songs is enough to be a good violinist, but it all changed.

Before joining the orchestra, I thought that I was good. But, I was very wrong. They handed out a piece of paper with notes on it and I can’t understand a single note. I wanted to back out at that moment but there is another part of me who wished to play the composition I grew up with. So, I worked hard and I can say that after 3 years of patience, commitment, and hard work, I’ve improved. There are still a lot to learn but at least I’ve improved.

During last year’s Music Camp, we attempted to play “Eine Kleine Nacht Musik”. This is what I am waiting for. I thought it would be easy for me because I grew up with this piece. But again, I am very wrong. It’s a very technical piece and with my little knowledge of technicalities in music, I found it very difficult. With the unconditional efforts of our teacher in the duration of the camp, we gave some justice to Mozart’s famous composition. This video showcases high quality musicians and that is the aim of General Santos Youth Orchestra, to produce high quality musicians from the youth. It is a big challenge for us considering the fact that there is no existing conservatory in the city but someday, we can, in God’s will.

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The main goal why the city built an orchestra is to help the youth. The city wanted to gather the musically inclined yet less fortunate youth and hone their gifts. That is a rather ambitious project. Nothing is impossible with God and we believe that we can reach this ambition with His help. 

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Be my piano in this world full of fortissimo.

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Gigs are awesome but at the same time, tiring. You earn extra cash, have exposure, good food and etc. But, in every good thing is a bad thing. Gigs may affect your studies because of late night practices. But if you can manage your time, all will be well.

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One amazing thing that you gain when you join an orchestra is camaraderie. I think that music makes the strongest bond. We play hard and eat hard. We treat each other like family. Whenever I’m with them, I feel that I would still be friends with them until I’m 70. Even beyond.   

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Our very first concert (Dec 2015). A soloist with the GSYO as a back-up. Find me. HAHA

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My major heartbreak this summer. I can’t join the yearly music camp because I still have classes. But, there is always a way. I’m gonna attend on the evening sessions after school and practice the pieces in advance. Who cares if I won’t sleep for two weeks? At least I’m happy with what I’m doing. And, all the sacrifices will be worth it. I just know.

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Proving that I am not bitter on our valentine’s day gig. Look at my big heart. Spread the love. And music. Nope, just music. 

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3 types of people (musicians) on valentine’s day:

1. The in love.

These type of people are the ones who really appreciate Valentine’s day. They’re so full of love. haha Still, if love is life, music is lifer!

2. The bitter.

Hi ate Pau! haha I’m not saying you’re bitter. This is just in general. lol

Ok, so these people are the ones who want to ruin every heart they see. They even  predict the break-up dates of some couples. “Walang forever” they shout. Music lang ‘di nang-iiwan.

3. The “walang pake”

These people don’t care about valentine’s day. They just treat this as an ordinary day. They’re not bitter, they just don’ care. (I’m a member of this type.) Music is life. And it won’t hurt to earn extra cash on valentine’s day.

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Music is life but not all of it. We have a life too, y’know? We socialize, we take rests, and we go on vacations. Last summer (probably just my summer because of the calendar shift), we had an intense workshop headed by two high-caliber teachers. They’re members of 2 famous orchestras in the Philippines. After the workshop, we thought that we deserve a reward because of the hard work we’ve put in to it. So, hi. Lake Sebu!   

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Our TV guesting on a local morning news show. Hi fans! LOL just kidding! We were invited to promote our concert last December in Magandang Umaga South Central Mindanao. We performed with 3 Music Majors from Central Philippine Adventist College. My stand partner, Aeril, was not there because he had exams. I was the only one present in Violin 2. But, it’s okay. Sanay naman akong mag-isa. Kidding, music is life.

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Being an orchestra member, especially on a starting orchestra, demands a lot of work. It requires a lot of commitment, patience, hard work, time, and even money. You have to balance school and music just to sharpen your skills. There will be times that you feel like giving up but just remember, everything will be worth it. In God’s time.