WE ARE blessed to bless others. That’s what Noel Buan, conductor of SMB Wind Ensemble, believes. Thus, SMB’s second concert on March 22 at the Celebrity Center in Hollywood, is a Concert for a Cause. The proceeds of the unique concert will go to an educational fund that will sponsor the college education of 10-20 less fortunate students in Sta. Maria Bulacan, Buan’s hometown.
“Growing up, I saw how financially difficult it was for my parents to send my siblings and me to school,” admitted Noel who also plays Tuba at the Fil-Am Symphony Orchestra (FASO) under Maestro Bob Schroeder. “So, I want to give back to our hometown of Sta. Maria by sending poor students to college,” he said.
Buan, who graduated from UP Diliman with a degree in Bachelor of Music, major in tuba performance, was a member of Banda 31, Sta. Maria Bulacan and a former tuba player of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under Maestro Oscar Yatco. Coming from a family of musicians, Noel’s parents and grandfather were also tuba players. His wife, Josie, also used to be a member of the Sta. Maria Band, playing the French horn. Their four children are all musicians - NJ plays the trumpet; JJ plays the clarinet; Kristine, the flute; and RJ the trombone. Their whole family is a part of the SMB Wind Ensemble.
The ensemble originally began with 8 members within his immediate family and relatives and was invited to monthly meetings to play religious hymns such as Ave Maria. After continuous practices and small gigs, Noel began to expand the size of his band. He first asked his sister, Ning Manahan, a talented vocalist who will be performing a solo at the upcoming concert, to teach her two young and talented sons how to play percussion instruments. From there, a handful of friends and family joined in through word-of-mouth and constant networking. The group now performs at occasions such as Filipino town fiestas,playing many requested songs and marches. The SMB Wind Ensemble had their first concert back in December 2006 and received tremendous appreciation from the audience.
On March 22, the 35-strong SMB Wind Ensemble will perform at the Celebrity Center Garden Pavilion Hall with a variety of music such as Classical Overtures, Kundiman and Popular music. Solo acts will feature principal clarinetist Rommel Agatep who will perform Carnival De Venice and returning guest Soprano, Ning Manahan, who will sing one of Francisco Santiago’s compositions, Pakiusap. The 20-member St. Denis Filipino Choir will also be featured under the direction of Joe Manahan.
SMB welcomes everyone to come to the concert where a vast variety of music will be played for your entertainment. Noel says, “all the proceeds of this concert will contribute towards scholarships for students who are less fortunate in the Philippines. Your attendance will be greatly appreciated and your help will make a tremendous effect on the lives of many.” For tickets please call (714) 329-4422 or (562) 858-5188.
For directions, please call (323) 960-3100.
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