Stellar Philippine pianists Sunico and Arrieta perform for an NY nonprofit
By Marilyn Abalos
New York - Renowned Filipino international pianists Raul Sunico and Rowena Arrieta performed for a benefit concert on Nov. 10, 2023 for the Handang Tumulong Foundation at the Merkin Hall.
Dr. Sunico is the dean of St. Paul College of Music and Performing Arts in the Philippines. Ms. Arrieta is on the faculty of the National Piano Teachers Guild USA.
The two multi-awarded pianists performed the master pieces of noted Filipino composers as well as classical music masters. I enjoyed Rowena’s expressive and eminent performance. Raul’s superior musicality was a great delight.
Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile described Raul’s performance as “spectacular” while Ambassador Mario de Leon Jr. found Rowena’s playing “energetic.”
Edwin Josue of San Beda Alumni Association said that the program “showcased a blazing display of bravura, exceeding all expectations.”
Raul and Rowena performed duet works by Juan Hernandez, Ryan Cayabyab, George Canseco & Louie Ocampo, as well as pieces by Rachmaninoff, Khachaturian, Borodin, Piazzolla, Strauss and Lutoslawski.
Solo pieces played by Raul were that of Julio Nakpil, Jose Estella while Rowena performed Carmencita Arambulo, Juan Hernandez, and Manoling Francisco. Raul together with Dennis Bernardo performed “Pahilago” by Ryan Cayabyab.
The Kayumanggi Chorale led the Philippine National Anthem and American National Anthem. The encore presentation was a composition by Rowena which she and Raul both played.
The Handang Tumulong Foundation was founded to support victims of disasters and catastrophes world-wide, most recently victims of Typhoon Egay in the Philippines. Headed by Dr. Dennis Bernardo, president, and Alex Esteban as vice president. The benefit concert was chaired by Dr. Dely Go. #
About the writer: Marilyn Abalos (SPCM HS ‘69) is an arts writer. She has been published with the US based Filipino Reporter, Philippine Express, Asian Journal as well as Backstage. Marilyn is also the national chair of St. Paul Alumnae USA. For more info, contact spmausa@gmail.com
