The unparalleled achievements of violin virtuoso Gilopez Lopez Kabayao are poised to inspire young Ilonggo musicians like never before, thanks to his recent official nomination for the “Order of the National Artist.”
This prestigious recognition, endorsed by the City Government through a resolution by the Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council (ICLCAC), is not just a nod to Kabayao’s brilliance but a testament to the enduring legacy of Ilonggo artistry.
Kabayao’s nomination follows a concerted effort by various cause-oriented organizations, including the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc., to foster a deeper appreciation for local talent. Their appeal to the City Government underscores a communal commitment to celebrating and preserving the rich cultural heritage that artists like Kabayao represent.
Highest Honor
The Order of National Artists, the highest honor for contributions to Philippine arts, is a joint effort by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Cultural Center of the Philippines and is conferred by the President of the Philippines.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas rightly emphasized that Kabayao’s contributions to violin mastery have a profound and lasting impact on our cultural heritage. The City Government’s endorsement is not only a recognition of Kabayao’s talents but also a celebration of Filipino artistry as a whole.
City Planning and Development Coordinator Ronald Cartagena, who also serves as the Executive Director and Secretariat of ICLCAC, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Kabayao as a source of immense pride for Iloilo. Kabayao’s roots in Negros Occidental and his settlement in Molo, Iloilo City, further cement his identity as a true Ilonggo icon.
Kabayao's Legacy
Kabayao’s journey is nothing short of legendary. On March 18, 1950, he became the first Filipino to perform at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City, showcasing his virtuosity to an international audience at just 19 years old. Known by many names—“Mozart to the Barrios,” “Father of Outreach for Classical Music,” and “Traveling Salesman of Music”—Kabayao’s passion for bringing classical music to the masses is evident in his unconventional performance venues, from rural basketball courts to hospital corridors.
His international performances also promoted global understanding and strengthened diplomatic relations. Notably, he was the first Filipino violin soloist to perform with a Japanese orchestra post-World War II and was instrumental in organizing Singapore’s first orchestra.
The City Government’s backing of Kabayao’s nomination is more than a mere formal endorsement; it is a declaration of Iloilo’s unwavering commitment to nurturing and celebrating its cultural heritage.
Kabayao’s legacy, marked by his dedication to making classical music accessible to all, serves as an inspiration for future generations of Ilonggo artists.
This nomination is a reminder of the power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people together, a vision that Kabayao has embodied throughout his illustrious career.
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