Classical pianist seeks bigger pond

Although he enjoys many of the things boys his age do, 19-year-old Oliver Salonga is different from many Filipino teeners.

At his age, he is an accomplished classical pianist garnering honors here and abroad. At seven, he was already at the piano. He was named Outstanding Music Graduate at the Philippine High School for the Arts in Mt. Makiling where he was a scholar, won twice in the NAMCYA (National Music Competition for Young Artists), also won twice in US- held concerto competitions, and is graduating summa cum laude from the Lynn’s Conservatory of Music, in Florida where he is on full scholarship.

As a child prodigy in the Philippines, he wanted more. Oliver says, "I was not content with being a big fish in a small pond."

When he went to the US, Oliver met so many excellent musicians. Thus, he had to constantly practice at his craft to stay in the running. And this is what has kept him grounded.

Oliver is in Manila to perform in a concert produced by his mentor and supporter since childhood, Professor Carmencita Arambulo. Arambulo is head of the Greenhills Music Studio and the Philippine Suzuki Association, which teaches children music through the method formulated by the late Japanese violinist Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Oliver is a product of this system that believes children as young as three years old can play a musical instrument even before learning to talk. We have watched these children at performances and are completely amazed at their dexterity and focus at such a young age.

When requested to sit down at the piano for a photo shoot, Oliver agreed and proceeded to play as if he were in a concert hall. While we were taking his picture, he was so engrossed in his playing he hardly noticed we were there. With such passion and dedication, we thought, this boy will go far in his dream of becoming more than just a big fish in a small pond, or for that matter, a small fish in a big pond.

After graduation from Lynn’s in May, Oliver hopes to start his masters at any of the prestigious music schools in the US. He is hoping also to be accepted as a full scholar in this school. This young man seems to have everything going for him – the support of his family, an attitude that is fully grounded, dedication and passion, and the talent that cannot be denied.

Oliver Salonga’s solo piano concert "Spotlight" is on Jan. 7, 4 p.m. at the UP Abelardo Hall. "Spotlight" is produced by the Philippine Suzuki Association for the benefit of the Asia Suzuki Congress in May. For inquiries, call Greenhills Music Studio 724-2543 and 724-0705.