That the Cebuano music industry has been experiencing breakthroughs and gaining recognition and attention for having been able to produce original Cebuano music is something to be happy and proud about.
This year is a good year to celebrate this success. The local songs that you hear everyday are worthy of more recognition-more than just the countless airplays.
Cebuanos are considered to be notable musical talents. Most of the famous singers of the nation trace their roots in Cebu province such as Pilita Corales, Verni Varga, Dulce, Anna Feji, Sheryn Regis, Vina Morales, Raki Vega and a whole lot more to complete the line-up of great singers, who in one way or another, made the Cebuanos proud.
The Cebu Malay Society of Composers and Producers, Inc. (CEMSCAP), a newly organized group who envisions to hone the talents and skills of Cebuano composers, authors and lyricists who have remained untapped, will pay tribute to the Cebuano and Visayan music through a concert dubbed as "Halad, Kunsiyertong Bisaya: Paghigugma sa Kulturang Bisaya diha sa Huni, Awit ug Sayaw."
The HALAD performers will render Visayan songs and this time, the composers of some favorite songs will be recognized. This is a night wherein the group "will give credit to whom it is due." Artists who are from the neighboring provinces are not exempt - they will also be given the much-needed acknowledgement. Their contribution to the music industry will be known through this concert after they have remained unheard for the past years, despite the fact that their songs have been heard over the radios/TV.
Everyone will hear Cebuano songs during the concert, which will take place at the Mandaue City Sports Complex on September 30, 7pm. Eleven talented singers will be joined by a 20-piece Orchestra plus the Cebu Normal University Diwa Sugbu Dance Company will grace the event. Each performer will sing two Visayan songs with a modern kick. The following are chosen as the concert's performers: Dr. Warfe Engracia, Mario Jadraque, Baby Condeno, Chit Ortiz, Armistice Abayan, Dr. Bernard Elvis Pino, Lady Michelle, Thea Domingo, CEMSCAP Choir Ensemble, CNU Diwa-Sugbo Dance Company, Sam Costanilla and Edison Monternel.
This fast-running concert will be replayed on INTV - CCTN. The HALAD organizers also wished to thank Hon. Mayor Thadeo M. Ouano for providing the venue; Committee on Arts and Culture of the Cebu Provincial Board through its chairperson, Board member Rosemarie Judy Durano and Dr. Ester Velasquez - President, Cebu Normal University.
Tickets are available at the venue, through their sponsors, Travelwise office (416-5868 ask for Janice) and at CNU Diwa Sugbu Dance Co. office.