To become the next Callas, Pavarotti
To be a Callas? Or another Pavarotti?
This must be the dream animating promising young Filipino opera singers who will participate in “Progetto Puccini” (Puccini Project), a series of master classes to be held Oct. 1 to Oct. 4 at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila. The master classes will be held by renowned mentors from Italy and the Philippines.
The series will culminate in a recital on Oct. 5, 5 p.m., which will put what the participants have learned into performance practice. The concert will celebrate the music of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, whose great operas—like “La Boheme” and “Madame Butterfly”—have resonated with Filipino audiences.
This was announced at a recent press conference at the National Museum’s Senate Hall, where one found it hard to listen to the proceedings because he was surrounded by a spectacular pageant of Philippine history by the great Botong Francisco.
Speakers at the media event included Irene Marcos-Araneta, “Progetto Puccini” executive producer; Kaye Tiñga, president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), main organizer; and soprano Camille Lopez Molina, head of Viva Voce, representing the artists.
The master class will be headed by Fabio Armiliato of Italy, a master teacher and tenor known for his vocal range and stage presence. In a video message aired at the presscon, Armiliato said, “I am very glad to come to the Philippines for the first time and to be able to work with these gifted young artists … ”
Joining him is Mariano Panico, another Italian, a conductor and vocal teacher known for blending classical and contemporary styles in his productions. Two other artists with impeccable credentials complete the lineup of mentors: Lorna Zaccaria, diction coach; and John Florencio, répétiteur (vocal coach).
Cultural synergy
“‘Progetto Puccini 2024’ represents more than a tribute to a legend’s genius,” said Marcos-Araneta. “It is a bold celebration of the rich cultural synergy between the Philippines and Italy. It is affirmation of the country’s commitment to Filipino musicians.”
For the CCP president, the project “is a vital step in showcasing Filipino artistry and opera excellence, and brings together world-class maestros to nurture and develop our own talents.”
A highlight of the presscon was the performances of operatic talents from Viva Voce: Anna Migallos, soprano; Roby Malibay, bass-baritone; and Myramae Meneses, soprano. Migallos sang “Ch’il bel sogno” from Puccini’s “La Rondine;” Malubay, “Vecchia zimarra” from “La Boheme,” and Myramae, the popular “Un bel di Vedremo” from “Madame Butterfly.”
At the piano was Oliver Salonga.
Selected participants in the master class will include Namcya (National Music Competitions for Young Artists) winners and up-and-coming opera singers from Viva Voce’s forthcoming production of “La Boheme.” The master classes are open to observers, including aspiring classical singers, students from leading music schools, universities, conservatories and opera enthusiasts.
Even more exciting is the second phase of the project, which will feature performances of “La Boheme” at the Teatro Orfeo in Taranto, Italy, from June 15 to June 30, 2025. “This international collaboration aims to strengthen cultural ties and celebrate the rich connection between the Filipino and Italian communities through the timeless beauty of opera,” a Progetto Puccini partisan raved.
“Progetto Puccini” is organized by the CCP in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Metropolitan Theater, Namcya, the Arturo Toscanini Foundation and the Filipinas Opera Society Foundation.
