Conductor Shroder with Gina Ibarrola, a soloist and member of the WIN (Waraynon Initiative Network) Chorale. RICK GAVINO
LOS ANGELES — The only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines is deep into rehearsals for “A Christmas Concert” set for this Saturday.
The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) will be performing on 6:00 p.m. on Dec. 3, at the John Wayne Performing Arts Center in Glendale, California.
Nayah Damasen, 11, practicing her number with Maestro Shroder. RICK GAVINO
In progress are the orchestra’s rehearsals of heartwarming Christmas songs in English and Tagalog, including “O Holy Night,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “White Christmas, “Kumukutikutitap,” “Mano Po, Ninong” and “Simbang Gabi.”
Talented soloists and over a hundred glorious voices from combined adult and children choirs will perform the beloved holiday tunes, with a full symphonic orchestra under the baton of musical director and conductor Robert “Bob” Shroder.
FASO conductor Robert “Bob” Shroder rehearsing with soprano Joan Cano. RICK GAVINO
The beautiful voices now filling FASO’s rehearsal space come from members of Immaculate Heart of Mary Adult Choir, Philippine Chamber Singers-Los Angeles, Prime Note Ensemble, St. Brendan Choir, St. Jane Frances de Chantal Choir, Academy of Visual and Performing Arts Youth Chorus of La Sierra University, Holy Family Children’s Concert Chorus, Immaculate Heart of Mary Children’s Choir and Precious Blood Children’s Choir.
FASO’S chorus members come from choirs of various schools and parishes. RICK GAVINO
Also impressing everyone at the rehearsals are guest performers with their distinct solo voices: Joan Cano, soprano; Gina Ibarrola, a soloist and member of the WIN (Waraynon Initiative Network) Chorale; and Nayah Damasen, an 11-year-old singing sensation who is the “good luck charm” of the Golden State Warriors.
The Christmas concert promises to live up to the reputation of FASO as a presenter of topnotch, memorable concerts, based on its previous shows which earned standing ovations and cheers.
John Wayne Performing Arts Center is located at 1440 E. Broadway, Glendale, California 91205. For tickets, call Andy Tecson (323) 467-5096; Bob Shroder (818) 395-8936; and Arlene Ferrolino (213) 248-9850. Tickets are also available at https://fasochristmas.eventbrite.com/. Tickets are at $25, $45 and $75. More information at www.fasofoundation.org.