PHOTO: Facebook/Corazon Kabayao
DAHIL sa undisclosed illness, tuluyan nang sumakabilang-buhay ang renowned Pinoy violinist at National Artist for Music nominee na si Gilopez Kabayao.
Ayon sa Facebook post ng kanyang misis at kapwa-musician na si Corazon, ang music icon ay pumanaw sa Iloilo City sa edad 94.
“After more than seven decades of sharing his music propelled by the generosity of spirit that he so selflessly gave to his audience from all walks of life, the curtain now closes on this artist with a mission,” saad sa post.
Dagdag pa ni Corazon, “At 94, after a brief illness, Gilopez Kabayao now goes on to join His creator, Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, [on] October 12, 2024, in Iloilo City.”
Paglalarawan ng asawa ng yumaong legendary musician, ang talento sa musika ni Gilopez ay isang “legacy” at inspirasyon lalo na sa mga Pilipino na pinapahalagahan ang classical music.
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“The precious legacy of the Philippines’ violin virtuoso and musical crusader, Gilopez Kabayao, has inspired thousands to love and appreciate beautiful Filipino and classical music and his virtuosity on the violin has brought singular honor and prestige to the Philippines,” wika ni Corazon.
Nagbigay naman ng pagpupugay ang Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) para kay Gilopez.
Iginiit ng CCP na ang “remarkable talent” at “lifelong dedication to music” ng iconic violinist ay nagbibigay inspirasyon sa mga Pilipino.
“As the first Filipino violinist to perform at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York in 1950, Gilopez Kabayao broke new ground and brought pride to the nation. Receiving the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1972 underscored his commitment to being a true artist for the Filipino people, as he brought the beauty of classical music to communities across the country in unconventional venues, breaking down barriers and inspiring a love for the arts,” sey sa bahagi ng post.
Taong 2008 nang parangalan si Gilopez ng Gawad CCP Para sa Sining bilang pagkilala sa naging contributions niya sa local music at cultural scene.
Noong Mayo lamang nang i-nominate siya ng Iloilo City government na maging National Artist for Music.