Greenhills Sessionistas: Clean fun, fresh music

MANILA, Philippines - Launched in 2007, the search for the Greenhills Shopping Center Sessionistas has become an annual gathering of the best college bands from different colleges and universities in Metro Manila.

The contest is coined the Greenhills Shopping Center Sessionistas because the contestants get a chance to have a jamming session with top local bands. Previous guest bands include Rivermaya, Urbandub, Sinosikat?, The Dawn and Sugarfree.

Most of the contestants have simple dreams of bringing their music to a bigger stage and a wider audience. Some just want to jam with their favorite bands. Others believe that the search can be their chance to be discovered. There are also those who believe that they can be the next top local band. The interesting mix of contestants makes Greenhills Shopping Center Sessionistas a much- awaited event.

Every night, at least three competing college bands will try to impress a distinguished panel of judges which includes regular judges, Chikoy Pura of the Jerks and Andre Soler. There is also a guest judge every session. Prizes include cash, gift certificates and a four-night gig in Tiendesitas.

Ortigas & Company, which owns and manages Greenhills Shopping Center, believes the success of the search is a result of what they envisioned it to be: Clean fun and fresh music.

Aside from providing a venue for the youth to express themselves through music and giving them a chance to jam with top local bands, the search also proves that the fusion of clean fun and fresh music can result in an unforgettable gimmick night for the youth.

Previous winners were Southburger (2009), Project (2008) and Dalandan Soda (2007).

So, if you are looking for a Friday night gimmick, come over to the G-Strip Parking Lot in Greenhills Shopping Center on Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24 and on Oct. 1 and join the fun at the free concert featuring the contestants and guest bands.