Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

Mom, I want be a part of this," Jerico excitedly told his mother. "It’s not just any orchestra; it’s gonna be the first Fil Am Symphony Orchestra. I don’t want to miss the opportunity," he added. Jerico’s parents equally shared his excitement and called up the Asian Journal for more details.

Upon arriving at the Barrio Fiesta, they were thrilled to meet many other FilAm musicians who took time out from the busy election day to be a part of the historic meeting. It was the first rehearsal of the FASO --- a dream come true for many.

"I’ve long dreamed of having this Filipino American Symphony Orchestra and I’m sure many of our other talented Pinoy musicians have felt the same," said Bob Shroder, musical and executive director of FASO. "It’s time has finally come and we’re so grateful that Asian Journal spearheaded the project. You know, the Chinese, Koreans, Vietnamese –other races—matagal na silang may kanya-kanyang sariling orchestra. And some of their members are Filipino musicians. Eh kasi nga wala namang Filipino orchestra eh. Tayo pa namang mga Pinoy, we’re naturally gifted in music. So, this is truly historic," Bob stated enthusiastically.

The other FilAms who were present in the first rehearsal were a mix of young musicians and veteran chamber orchestra virtuosos.

Art Octamio plays the cello and is a member of 3 orchestras. One is an African American orchestra called the Southeast Symphony and they are scheduled to go to Washington to play during the inauguration of the US President-elect, Oback Obama. Art’s experience goes a long way, having played classical music in cruise ships that traveled the world over.

Angelito "Botchok" Molina plays the viola. A former member of the Manila Symphony Orchestra, the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and the San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra with Ryan Cayabyab, Botchok came from Texas where he played with the Laredo Symphony Orchestra. In LA, he is a member of the Valley Symphony Community Orchestra and plays in several assisted-living facilities for the patients’ music therapy. Botchok is also a resident musician of Barrio Fiesta where he entertains patrons from Wednesday to Sunday nights 6:30-9pm.

Kendro Calica is a Music major graduate of UCLA. He plays the piano and the violin.

Cecilia Coo-Cruz is a violinist. A graduate of Music from UP Diliman, Cecilia has a Masters in Violin Performance. She was a member of various orchestras before she moved to California.

Cheryl Lopez plays the flute. Together with Cecilia, she is a member of the musical group, the Renaissance Trio, which has been performing around LA for over a year now.

Bob Shroder is happy about the turn-out in the first practice but he said they want more to join. "We continue to invite Fil-Am musicians to join us at FASO. Even non-Pinoys are welcome, so long as they are skilled and experienced. Yung mga kabataan din na tumutugtog, we hope they join us. Our goal at FASO is to form 2 groups –a junior and a senior group," Bob said.

The next rehearsal will be on Tue November 11 at the SIPA office at Temple St, Historic Filipinotown. For more details, call Andy Tecson at (213) 300-4870 or Bob Shroder at (818) 395-8936.