CPO, Santamaria perform at Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod

CEBU, Philippines - A thanksgiving concert dubbed “Faith & Music: Glorious Gifts,” will be presented by SM Seaside Complex and the Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod in cooperation with Arts Council of Cebu  on Thursday, April 18,  8pm at the newly opened Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod at the South Road Properties.

The first orchestra performance at the Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod will feature the Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra with the special participation of world-renowned pianist Dr. Ingrid Sala Santamaria. 

The Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) was founded by Reynaldo Abellana in 2011. Some of the members were formerly members of the Cebu Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO) and some existing members of Peace Philharmonic Philippines (PPP) which was established by the Salvador and Pilar Sala Foundation and some international musicians. Through its performances in different venues and social events in Cebu community, it hopes to revive the popularity and appreciation for classical music.           

Born in Cebu City, Dr. Ingrid Sala Santamaria received her Bachelor of Music degree from the Battig Piano School in Cebu under her mother, Pilar Blanco Sala. Further studies followed at the Juilliard School in New York. She received a Master’s Degree from Sta. Isabel College in Manila. De La Salle University conferred on her the Doctor of Music degree in Music Education, honoris causa, in 2006.

Awards were very much a part of Santamaria’s years. In 2004, she was a recipient of the Chevalier dans I Ordre National du Merite, from the French government. In 2006, she was honored with a degree of Doctor of Music, honoris causa, from the De La Salle University. In 2012, Dr. Ingrid Sala Santamaria marked her 50th year as concert pianist. (FREEMAN)