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All praises for FASO

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All praises for FASO
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LOSANGELES-- The prestigious Theatre in Beverly Hills was filled to the rafters the Filipino-American community celebrated the inaugural concert of first and only Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO). As the audience gave the FASO its nth standing ovation after its second magnificent encore number, the theatre rocked swayed. Many thought the impressed and overwhelmingly excited audience were jumping and leaping with that caused the floor to rock. It only later in the evening when we learned that a 4.7 magnitude earthquake hit the city at the exact time FASO was being cheered, rooted applauded for its unforgettable debut performance.

May 17 was an unprecedented date for the Fil-Am community. Roger and Cora Oriel, together with Lito Cruz, were being congratulated by one and all for having the vision and the passion to form America’s first Fil-Am symphony orchestra. Maestro Bob Shroder and his over 50-member orchestra truly gave a most outstanding performance proving to the world that the Filipino is truly world-class in its musical and artistic ability. Adding to the majestic performance of FASO was the superb singing of Joey Albert, Stephanie Reese, Pete Avendano and Kit Navarro, plus the unbelievable power and grace of Ruby Karen. No one came out of the theatre who wasn’t totally impressed and proud to be a Filipino.

The people who trooped to the Saban Theatre to watch the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra gala concert were all one in heaping praises for the evening’s historical performance. Here are some special quotes from some special people:

"The concert more than met my expectations. They truly make us proud to be a Filipino. They’ve given added honor again to the Filipino American community here in Southern California. Not only in Southern California but throughout the United States because they are the first and only Filipino American Symphony Orchestra. So, I encourage everyone to come and support their future performances. I t’s a treat. Invite your friends here in the US to come and witness their great performance." - Philippine Consul General Mary Jo Aragon, Los Angeles Consulate

"This is so phenomenal. I just think it’s about time we have this. I’m so proud to be a part of this evening." - Jennifer Paz, formerly of Miss Saigon

"It was great and I’m so happy and proud that Roger and Cora had the FASO to show the world and the rest of the US that we have it too and to make use of our local talents and not have to import talents from the Philippines to do things here in the US." -- Celia Defato, Kultura Philippines Folk Arts

"The orchestra was amazing. This one is specifically special because it’s really showing the culture of the Philippines. I’ve never seen anything like it. I’ve seen people cry in the event. It’s so emotional. I’m organizing an event with the Los Angeles mayor to get exposure for this orchestra. This is an amazing event." -- Hogan Lee, Asian Professional Exchange



 

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