By: Antonio Gabriel Abad (DLSZ 2027)
Antonio Gabriel Abad, Ms Mary Armine Carpio, Mr. Linwell H. Lalic, Regina Victoria Bautista, Hannah Thea Resurreccion, & Zachary Thomas Collier
On March 28, 2025, the annual DLSZ Symphonic Band Grade 10 Graduation Recital happened. This was a special moment in the lives of the Batch of 2027. The recital was a heartwarming finale to their experience, providing them with one last chance to demonstrate the musical abilities and talents they developed through the years. The recital was hosted by Joaquin Inigo Daroy (DLSZ 2030) and Cris Angel Lesanque (DLSZ 2030).
This recital was particularly significant, as it marked the end of an era for the Grade 10 members of the Symphonic Band. After this performance, the Special Music: Symphonic Band Program is over. Since the program is until Junior High School, so it is a bittersweet event for everyone involved. For these pupils, this would be their last concert as members of the DLSZ Symphonic Band family, a sentimental goodbye to a chapter in their lives characterized by music, friendship, and development.
The works we played were allocated at the start of the academic year, giving us plenty of time to practice and fully grasp the depth and music of each work. Individual rehearsals were difficult, but we persevered, never failing to find time during recess to rehearse our ensemble works until perfection. Through perseverance and discipline, we were able to hone our performance and give our pieces life.
The recital started with an opening prayer led by Hannah Thea Resurreccion (DLSZ 2025) followed by the Philippine National Anthem. Afterward, the opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Daryl V. Galicia, Music Unit Head. Following the remarks, the recital commenced.
The recital consisted of five (5) pieces, each representing varying musical styles and historical eras, from classical to the 20th century. Among them was the Clarinet Concerto No. 3, 1st movement by Carl Stamitz, which was performed by Antonio Gabriel Abad (DLSZ 2027). With its rapid tempo and a recurring theme that changed in unpredictable manners, it posed both a dynamic challenge for the players and a thrilling experience for the audience. Up next is Irlandaise composed by Claude Bolling. It was performed by Regina Victoria Bautista (DLSZ 2027). The piece was a lovely slow-tempo tune that highlighted the light and expressive quality of the flute. Although Regina just joined the symphonic band after four (4) years of hiatus. She gave justice to the said piece. Next is another composition of Claude Bolling which is Sentimentale, this piece also used the flute but with a quicker tempo, showing the full range of the instrument in a lyrical and engaging manner. They also performed two (2) ensemble works: Waltz No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich, a combination of classical and jazz, and our last work, Merry Go Round of Life by Joe Hisaishi, which portrayed the theme that life is mostly a repetitive cycle, but there are always good things that make it worthwhile. The three (3) solo pieces were accompanied by our assisting pianist Ms. Jaydee Lalic.
The ensemble was joined by their teachers Mr. Linwell H. Lalic on euphonium and Ms. Mary Armine Carpio on alto saxophone. Hannah Thea Resurreccion joined the ensemble as a flute player.
Our adventure together in the band started in 2019 when we initially joined as Grade 5 students. This means we have spent six (6) years being part of this amazing group now, not only growing as musicians but as individuals as well. Looking back now, I can safely say we all did have a great time together. The band was not only about the music; it was about the friendships we forged, the memories we made, and the experiences we shared which will remain with us for the rest of our lives. As we look ahead to new pages, we will always have the essence of the band in our hearts, realizing that this magical place will always be a part of us.
