Denis Santos
- Klassikal Music Foundation brings ‘One With The Stars’
- KMF Scholars gives back on centerstage
Taking centerstage
Back from last year’s hit classical concert “Songs from a Silver World,” the talented scholars of Klassikal Music Foundation (KMF) put a grand twist on some of the most enjoyable songs ever written in “Klassikal Music Foundation presents: One with the Stars,” KMF’s 10th anniversary musical extravaganza.
“One with the Stars”, held on October 12 at Maybank Performing Arts Theatre, shone the spotlight on the KMF scholars and their singing prowess through timeless operatic numbers. Apart from that, they also performed their own renditions of contemporary tracks. Inspired by a song from the musical Fame, the show featured a repertoire that included old favorites such as “Thank you for the Music” and “To All the Girls I Loved Before,” and recent chart-toppers such as “Chandelier” and “Girl On Fire.”
“Our aim is to bring joy to the entire community that supports the brightest scholars of the Klassikal Music Foundation and the organization,” says Dr. Yang, adding that this year’s show will “rock audiences.”
The KMF scholars delighted guests with their heavenly voices together with the Foundation’s founder himself. Dr. Yang, recognized as one of the Philippines’ most sought-after tenors, performed a special number during the show. Rising balladeer Daryl Ong, the night’s special guest, also serenaded the audience with a soulful rendition of the song “How Did You Know?”
The concert was broken into six segments and directed by International Filipino baritone and Musical Theater Director Andrew Fernando, with musical direction by Dingdong Fiel, choreography by Rudy De Dios and Anselmo Dictado of Ballet Manila, and lighting design by John Batalla. KMF Board Members include Dr. Yang, Dr. Raul Sunico, Lily Monteverde, Rachelle Gerodias-Park, Gerard Salonga, and Dr. Raul Navarro.
“One With the Stars” was a concert unlike any other. The young vocalists who took the stage that night are regarded as some of the best of their generation. With KMF’s help, they have perfected their skills through training with the finest voice teachers from the top local conservatories. Now, they are ready to take on the world.
“As the leading scholarship program for classical singers in the country, we will keep on pushing the boundaries for our students. We want our singers to be capable of providing quality entertainment as they perform pop tunes as timeless songs,” says Dr. Yang. “KMF is focused on the future of each scholar. Their success brings joy to the entire community.”
The Foundation takes pride in the level of talent and skill demonstrated by its scholars, whom it considers not only as superb performers but also as symbols of the enduring relevance and importance of the art form. “Classical singers matter in an ever changing, ever forward-moving world by pursuit of excellence,” adds Dr. Yang. “KMF aims to show that young classical singers can also make a meaningful impact in our country’s music industry.”
Founded in 2007 by McDonald’s Philippines Founder and Chairman Dr. George T. Yang, KMF is a scholarship fund that provides assistance to deserving students who are financially incapable of pushing through with costly music degrees. By doing so, this brings these wunderkinds closer to their dreams.
