An Austrian evening in Manila
“Let life happen to you. Believe me: life is in the right, always.”
The Johann Strauss Society of the Philippines (JSSP) recently shared the flavors, sights and sounds of Vienna, Austria as it hosted the Vienna New Year Concert at the Lobby Lounge of the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. Serving as the start of a series of cultural events to signify the binding ties of JSSP with the Austrian culture, the festive gathering was well-attended by guests from various sectors who were delighted with waltzes and polkas by the waltz king Johann Strauss and other Austrian composers. The authenticity of the event resembled that of the traditional Vienna concert held at the Musikverein in Vienna, Austria especially with the presence of eminent conductor Dr. Ernest Hoetzl who flew in from Austria. The Manila Symphony Orchestra featuring Austrian flutist Raphael Leone made the celebration extra special with impeccable musical numbers. Aside from enriching the bond between JSSP and the rich culture of Austria, the concert aims to deepen the love for the arts, dance and music while inspiring social awareness among its members and the youth geared towards extending support for cultural, socio-civic and charitable organizations.
Congratulations to the steering committee composed of JSSP president Olga Severino Martel, joint event chairpersons Mila How and Consul Betty Chua, JSSP chairman Monaco Consul General Fortune Ledesma and JSSP vice president Gambia Consul Agnes Huibonhoa who outdid themselves in ensuring the success of the event!
GREETINGS
Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Sander Tantoco, restaurateur Louie Cruz and Hoseki’s Knoi Esmane.
Advance birthday greetings to Remé Ramos, Miguel “Mikey” Cojuangco, STAR’s Rica Delfinado and Raul Daza, May 2; Dusit Thani Manila GM Prateek Kumar, lawyer Katrina del Rosario, Ryan Cayabyab, Monique Wilson and Bb. Pilipinas Charities head Stella Marquez-Araneta, May 4; Conchitina Bernardo and Joysie Rufino, May 5; Nestor Torre Jr., May 6; superb actress Helen Gamboa-Sotto and Gilberto Teodoro, May 7.
So, how was your week?
(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com.)
