One of the struggles of Filipino artists is the limited access to formal art education, which would help them develop their skills. But even for those lucky one who get the chance to pursue further training abroad, the challenges never end.

As such, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), brings back its CCP International Scholarship Program, which aims to help young musicians become the next generation of global Filipino artists.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines' Young Music Scholars (from left) Mark Kenedy Rocas, Adrian Nicolas Ong, Lizzie BettEstrada and Aidan Ezra Baracol. PHOTOS BY J. GERARD SEGUIA

"This is actually the first batch of scholars sent abroad for international studies by the CCP for the past 37 years. So for the past 37 years, the talented Filipino artists have been going on their own without support from CCP and we proud that we're given the chance to continue this program at this time," CCP Chairman Jaime Laya said at the formal introduction of this year's CCP Young Music Scholars.

"Some of the Filipino scholars abroad take odd jobs to support themselves. While it's good character development, they are unable to really focus on their work.

"And this is really something that all of us Filipinos, both CCP as well the general public, ought to look into and support. Unknown to many, Filipino artists abroad have been making a name for themselves. We want to build on this momentum and continue our efforts, and we are proud of our four new scholars," Laya added.

These young scholars — introduced formally at an event held in Admiral Hotel Manila — are pianist Aidan Ezra Baracol, soprano Lizzie Bett Estrada, flutist Mark Kenedy Rocas and violinist Adrian Nicolas Ong.



Ong is pursuing his artist diploma at The Royal Conservatory's Glenn Gould School in Canada

Ong, a 24-year-old violin virtuoso, made his orchestral debut with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) at the young age of 17. He has performed at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall in New York in 2023. He is currently studying at The Royal Conservatory's Glenn Gould School in Canada, working towards his artist diploma under the guidance of Min-Jeong Koh and Paul Kantor. His talent has been recognized with awards like the NYC Recital Debut Award from the Fil-Am Music Foundation.

Estrada, a 21-year-old soprano, is studying under renowned teachers like Camille Lopez-Molina and Pablo Molina at Philippine High School for the Arts (PSHA).

Her dedication to her craft has earned her recognition, including winning first prize in the Kathleen Ferrier Bursary for Young Singers Competition in 2023. She is currently pursuing her studies at the Royal Academy of Music in London, under the guidance of professor Susan Waters.

Rocas is finishing his masters in flute performance at the Longy School of Music of Bard College in the US

Baracol, a 19-year-old piano prodigy, has won numerous local and international piano competitions, including the Namcya Junior Piano Competition. He is currently studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London, learning from renowned instructors like Roberta Rust and Wael Farouk.

Finally Rocas, a 29-year-old flutist, has been a member of various ensembles, including the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band. He performed his first recital at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theater) in 2011. He is currently pursuing his master's degree in flute performance at the Longy School of Music of Bard College, under the tutelage of internationally acclaimed flutist Sooyun Kim.


These four talented musicians are not only focused on their individual careers but also on giving back to the community. They have participated in benefit concerts and coaching young musicians, sharing their love for music and inspiring the next generation.

During the media conference, the scholars expressed their gratitude to the institution and shared the weight of CCP's support in their careers."Studying abroad and being supported by CCP gives you more weight as an artist. You are bringing not only the Philippines but representing Philippine art as well. We are very grateful that we are now well-supported financially and, consequently, mentally," Estrada said.


Baracol is currently mastering piano at the Royal Academy of Music in London.

"Since CCP is the main hub of cultural events here in the Philippines, it allows artists like us to be exposed to performances and a wide audience," Ong added.

Established under Presidential Decree No. 15, the CCP International Scholarship allows CCP, supported by its dedicated Board of Trustees, to provide financial and other crucial support to Filipinos artists.

After their formal presentation, these four CCP Young Music Scholars will take the stage for Young People's Concert, a music appreciation program for youth headed by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO). The concert is set on July 27, 5 p.m. at the Rizal Park Open Auditorium.

WITH REPORTS FROM VIANY FARO

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