She has long been an enduring accomplished artist in the Philippines’ cultural landscape — an internationally acclaimed concert pianist, an impassioned champion for music education, and a celebrated philanthropist whose indelible generosity continues to echo through the halls of the De La Salle University.

And then, all of a sudden, and for quite some time, silence.

Was it a well-planned retirement, perhaps? A quiet slipping away from the gracious spotlight, after decades of recitals in provincial basketball courts, global concerts in iconic halls, symphonic collaborations from the four corners of the world and institutional leadership here and abroad?

For many of her admirers and followers, colleagues and associates, the forever elegant terno-clad stunner who once brought life to Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Mozart had seemingly taken her final deep bow.

Until, on a quite subdued Saturday afternoon — the 6th of July to be precise — the ever-cooperative performing arts curtains were once again raised.

Inside the intimate Jaime Zobel Hall of the BGC Maybank Performing Arts Theater, a discerning all-too-eager crowd gathered with much anticipation, sans any fanfare. Instead, it was a warmly familial atmosphere, composed of loyal friends, music lovers, aspiring young pianists with tutors in tow, and generations of doting loved ones.

The affair? Lyric Piano and Organ Corporation, under the leadership of president Joy Cristobal, organized An Afternoon of Piano Music, a rather modest recital which marked the graceful re-emergence of Dr. Ingrid Sala Santamaria to an all-once-familiar concert stage.

Gone were the stiletto heels, among other usual standouts. In their place, unassuming black rubber shoes. No embroidered Filipiniana long gown in sight, but rather, a pink comfortable blouse with cutouts paired with slacks. Dressed down? Yes. But less stunning or dignified? No, a big no!

We then realized the sophisticated lady, the toast of society, who once conquered the world’s most prestigious concert halls and totally captivated its audiences now carefully walked with the aid of recovery. The result: We would come to learn, of a double knee surgery and a long rehabilitation, mutely endured yet never publicly paraded, lovingly surrounded by supportive family, attentive doctor and dedicated therapists.

Even the audience reflected this atmosphere with a super casual get-up — sneakers and deck shoes. Even loyal friend from way-back-when former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, all in emerald green, was in attendance, seen in no-fuss humble green slip-ons.