The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, serenaded the crowds in a sunset concert held at the Tanghalang Maria Makiling of the National Arts Center in Los Baños, Laguna recently. Billed as “PPO Sunsets at Makiling,” the concert featured trumpet player Rhoxene Octaviano, banduria player Nikki Zen Obmasca, and harpist Jane Banta.
Photo by Orly Daquipil
The said event is one of the CCP’s flagship outreach programs in the arts. It aims to bring the Philippine classical music, through the PPO, closer to audiences in Los Baños and other cities and towns outside Laguna.
Established in 1976 as a haven for young and aspiring artists, the National Arts Center is tucked away in mythical Mt. Makiling, Laguna. Its various buildings and facilities are scattered over 13.5 hectares of the Makiling Forest Reservation and also houses the Philippine High School for the Arts, a government-run secondary educational institution for gifted young artists. The NAC’s unique location offers a perfect vacation hideaway and its laid-back and contemplative atmosphere sets the mood to relax, unwind and recharge one’s energies.
