Love, music create perfect harmony

The Goldenberg Mansion was abuzz with emotion and artistry on Friday, as First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos and former First Lady Imelda Marcos graced the 11th installment of the Goldenberg Concert Series, aptly themed “Pag-Ibig.”

The First Lady, a devoted advocate for artistic expression, was visibly moved throughout the evening, her teary gaze reflecting the profound emotional impact of the music. Meanwhile, the former First Lady, a long-time patron of the arts, was unable to resist the magic of the evening and sang along in her seat.

At the heart of the event were three internationally acclaimed artists whose spellbinding performances held the audience in awe.

Renowned soprano Rachelle Gerodias-Park, hailed as the Philippines’ premier soprano, regaled listeners with her decades of international experience and unparalleled vocal artistry. Her husband, Byeong-In Park, a celebrated Korean baritone, charmed the audience with his rich, velvety tones and dynamic stage presence.

The evening carried an extra layer of intimacy and joy for the famed couple, as they revealed it coincided with their wedding anniversary. This personal milestone added warmth to their performances, making the event even more memorable.

Joining them on stage was Albert Jude Areopagita, an exceptional Filipino pianist whose masterful accompaniment elevated every piece to the firmament. His intricate harmonies and nuanced interpretations created a seamless foundation for the evening’s repertoire.

The First Lady firmly believes in the exceptional talent of Filipino artists. She established the Goldenberg Concert Series as a platform to celebrate and showcase their remarkable skills.

The program unfolded as a beautifully curated journey through love, blending timeless classical pieces, Broadway favorites and beloved Filipino songs.

W.A. Mozart’s “Papageno, Papagena” from Die Zauberflöte opened the program with its playful duet capturing the bliss and humor of love — a perfect prelude for Valentine’s Day.

Giacomo Puccini’s “Chi il bel sogno di Doretta” from La Rondine followed, its dreamy aria evoking visions of perfect love and the fleeting beauty of romantic dreams. Richard Wagner’s “O Du, Mein Holder Abendstern” from Tannhäuser offered a poignant moment as Wolfram’s aria expressed unrequited love, using the evening star as a symbol of devotion and longing.

The concert also included George Gershwin’s “Bess, You Is My Woman Now” from Porgy and Bess, a tender duet in which Porgy professes his deep love and commitment to Bess.

From the Broadway stage, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “If I Loved You” from Carousel explored the complexities of love, while Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “All I Ask of You” from The Phantom of the Opera brought tenderness and hope amidst drama.

The powerful “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific captured the transformative power of love, while Leonard Bernstein’s “Tonight” from West Side Story shared Tony and Maria’s hopeful embrace of love in the face of adversity.

The concert’s Filipino classics added a heartfelt cultural dimension to the evening. Manuel Velez’s “Ako’y Kampupot” charmed with its lively melody, likening the singer to the simple yet beautiful kampupot flower.

Leopoldo Silos’s “Dahil Sa Isang Bulaklak” conveyed the sacrifices of love through the metaphor of a single flower. Mike Velarde’s “Minamahal Kita” affirmed unwavering love and devotion, while Ernani Cuenco’s “Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal” delivered a tender expression of boundless love.

The emotional pinnacle of the evening came during the performance of “Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal.” As the deeply moving strains of the song filled the air, the First Lady was brought to tears, visibly moved by its profound emotion.

The former First Lady was equally captivated, singing along softly from her seat. This moment underscored the transformative power of music and its ability to connect deeply with the human soul.

The Goldenberg Mansion itself added to the evening’s splendor. With its timeless elegance and storied history, the venue served as a fitting backdrop for this celebration of love and artistry.

The concert also featured two special performances aimed at engaging and inspiring young minds. At 2 p.m., the mansion welcomed musically inclined students from Sta. Ana Elementary School, National Teacher’s College, STI Sta. Mesa and Fernando Ma. Guerrero Elementary School.

Later, at 5 p.m., students from Carlos P. Garcia High School and the University of the East Manila filled the venue.

The Goldenberg Concert Series XI: “Pag-Ibig” transcended its role as a mere musical event, becoming a celebration of cultural heritage, exceptional talent, and the enduring power of love. It reminded everyone of music’s unique ability to bring people together, bridge generational gaps, and evoke emotions that words alone cannot express.

As the final notes of “Gaano ko ikaw kamahal” faded into the night, a collective sense of awe lingered among the audience. The evening reaffirmed the timeless magic of music — its power to inspire, heal and create memories that linger long after the last note is played.