On Sunday, September 22, family, friends, and Filipino musicians worldwide celebrated the 88th birth anniversary of Nena Del Rosario Villanueva, one of the Philippines’ most esteemed pianists, with simultaneous concerts in Manila and New York City. The NYC event at Klavierhaus in Midtown Manhattan featured performers honoring Villanueva’s legacy through her beloved classical pieces.
A child prodigy, Villanueva debuted at Carnegie Hall at just 12 years old, profoundly influencing the classical music scene. The concerts served as a tribute to her remarkable contributions to the field.
She first performed publicly at age 4 and made history as the first Filipina soloist at Carnegie Hall in 1949, also performing with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Her illustrious career included performances for numerous notable figures, such as U.S. Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon, Czech President Vaclav Havel, and various Philippine Presidents.
Her daughter-in-law, Myla, shared, “She performed 200 times over her 60-year career, many at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. We’re proud she returned home to teach at the University of the Philippines for 11 years.”
Villanueva’s talents earned her a place at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music, where she quickly excelled. Following a competition win, she made her orchestral debut with the New York Philharmonic Symphony, performing Mozart’s Concerto in D Minor, under conductor Igor Buketoff.
Studying under the renowned Isabelle Vengerova and attending master classes with Vladimir Horowitz, her journey in music began with her Carnegie Hall debut at just 12, after winning a New York Times-sponsored competition.
Her talent led her to significant radio exposure in the early 1950s, becoming the first Filipino pianist to reach mainstream American audiences through CBS Radio and other programs.
In New York, the concert, co-produced by her son Jun and daughter-in-law Myla, featured Filipino musicians performing Villanueva’s favorite pieces. Pianists Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz and Rene Dalandan, soprano Margarita Giannelli, and violinist Jeanne Marquez honored her with personal anecdotes and music, reflecting on her mentorship and influence.
Giannelli expressed her gratitude, saying, “She taught me so much. Even as a singer, her musical insights were invaluable.”
Performances included heartfelt renditions of Nicanor Abelardo’s compositions and solo piano pieces by Cruz, showcasing Villanueva’s enduring impact on her peers.
The gathering drew dignitaries like Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile and Trade Representative Ben Uy, alongside various industry leaders and guests who shared stories and celebrated Villanueva’s contributions to music and Filipino culture.
Nena Del Rosario Villanueva passed away in 2016, leaving a rich legacy as one of the Philippines’ most influential classical musicians. Her achievements continue to inspire generations, and as her loved ones gathered to honor her memory, they celebrated not only her life but also the beautiful music she created, touching all who experienced her brilliance.
The evening wrapped up with light refreshments and cocktails, filled with stories of Villanueva’s remarkable career, her spirit resonating in the hearts of all present.
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