Gilopez Kabayao, the renowned Ilonggo violinist and National Artist of Music nominee, died at the age of 94 on Saturday, October 12.
His wife, musician Corazon Kabayao, expressed her sentiments, stating, “After more than seven decades of sharing his music, propelled by the generosity of spirit that he so selflessly gave to his audience from all walks of life, the curtain now closes on this artist with a mission.”
Kabayao is celebrated as the first Filipino to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City, achieving this feat at the young age of 19 on March 18, 1950. His illustrious career included performances in major cities across Europe, North America, and Asia. However, it was his commitment to making classical music accessible to ordinary Filipinos that garnered him immense respect and admiration.
Throughout his life, Kabayao brought his music to remote areas in the Philippines, performing in humble venues like schools, basketball courts, cockpits, and marketplaces, from Aparri to Jolo. His dedication earned him various titles, such as “Mozart to the Barrios,” “Father of Outreach for Classical Music,” and “Traveling Salesman of Music.”
Kabayao was also the first Filipino violin soloist to perform with a Japanese orchestra following World War II and played a vital role in establishing the first Singapore orchestra. His contributions to music were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1972 and the Presidential Award of Merit in 1969.
Born in Negros Occidental with family roots in the Molo district, Kabayao eventually settled in Iloilo City, where he inspired countless aspiring musicians. Together with his wife and three children—Sicilienne, Farida, and Gilberto—he formed the Kabayao Quintet, performing both nationally and internationally.
Earlier this year, the Iloilo City Government endorsed Kabayao’s nomination for the prestigious Order of National Artists title, recognizing his substantial contributions to Philippine culture and music. The Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council (ICLCAC), led by City Planning and Development Coordinator Ronald Cartagena, passed a resolution honoring Kabayao as “a conduit between the skills of the past and the future.”
This endorsement followed the nomination initiated by the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. (IDFI) in December 2023, which emphasizes Kabayao’s impact on local and international music.
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