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INDIO: BROWN AND PROUD TO BE FILIPINO
The word "Indio" originally means Indian, as in Native American. For other people, like the Spanish and Mexicans, "Indio" is a derogatory word, being used to refer to native indigenous people. From the 16th to the 19th century in the Philippines, "Indio" was a racial term that the Spaniards used for Filipinos. The native Filipinos who generally have darker skin than the Europeans were referred to as "Indios." The colonizers not only used the term to refer to the darker-skinned natives, but to the poor, the uneducated, the lower bottom of the economic and social ladder as well. Today, three of the most talented Filipino musical artists in California have formed themselves into a group and they have chosen to be known as Indio. "We are proud of our heritage, proud to be Filipinos," said the three.
Indio is the vocal duet comprised of accomplished music director Gelo Francisco and Pete Avendaño and guitarist/music producer Ric Ickard.
Gelo Grancisco explains, "Passion formed the group. Although just barely a few months old, Indio promises to be one world-class performing group. With its fresh arrangements and the soaring wide vocal range, Indio gives life to new renditions of old classics and new music combined."
Indio is a delight to listen to and will surely make every Filipino proud of this very talented trio. They are excellent in every way – the excellent voices, the masterful playing, and the choice of material and superb sound quality. Their varied repertoire covers a broad musical spectrum, evoking so many moods and feeling, and moving and inspiring audiences to no end.
Truly, having Indio in our midst is an honor and a privilege to experience.
Anthony Angelo "Gelo" Francisco
Hailing from a family of singers, Gelo’s vocal training came in early as he sang in different school presentations and joining the music ministry at his Parish in Mandaluyong City where he was born and raised. Although it seemed music was the obvious choice as a course, he pursued a different path after graduating from high school taking up Nursing.
Realizing his passion for music and the arts, Gelo did a huge leap of faith and tried out at the College of Music at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. From there, he was exposed to the very gratifying world of the music, which opened a lot of opportunities for him.
"One major life-changing experience that steered me to what I am now was joining the world-renowned UP Madrigal Singers," said Gelo. " The rest, as they say, is history," he added.
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