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Remembering the Legacy of Renowned Violinist Gilopez Kabayao

Renowned violinist Gilopez Kabayao, a beloved figure in the world of classical music, passed away on October 12 at the age of 94. His wife, Corazon, announced his passing on Facebook, sharing the news of his peaceful departure after a brief illness.

Kabayao’s musical journey spanned an impressive seven decades, marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the Filipino musical landscape. Known as a musical crusader, he brought Filipino folk songs and classical pieces to communities across the Philippines through grassroots concerts, earning him the title of “Father of Outreach for Classical Music.”

In 1950, Kabayao made history as the first Filipino violinist to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City, a milestone that brought pride to the nation and broke new ground in the world of classical music. His legacy as an artist and educator was honored with awards such as the Presidential Merit Award, the Ramon Magsaysay Award, and the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra, where Kabayao served as music director and conductor, paid tribute to him, highlighting his Filipino folk song arrangements as the gold standard in the industry. His contributions as a musical diplomat and advocate for Filipino music were recognized by the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc., which nominated him for the Order of National Artist earlier this year.

Kabayao’s impact on the Filipino musical landscape will be remembered for generations to come. His passion, dedication, and artistry have left an indelible mark on the hearts of music lovers worldwide. As we bid farewell to this musical legend, we celebrate his life and legacy, honoring the transformative power of music in building a nation.

Who was Gilopez Kabayao?

Gilopez Kabayao was a renowned violinist and Illongo musician who was nominated to the Order of National Artists earlier this year. He passed away on October 12 at the age of 94 after a brief, undisclosed illness. His wife, Corazon, a UST Conservatory of Music alumna, announced his passing on a Facebook post.

What was Kabayao’s Contribution to Music?

Kabayao’s career in music spanned seven decades and was marked by multiple achievements. He was known as a musical crusader, bringing Filipino folk songs and Mozart pieces to far-flung Philippine communities through grassroots concerts. He was eventually nicknamed the “Father of Outreach for Classical Music” for his efforts in spreading cultural awareness through music.

How Did Kabayao Leave a Mark in the Music Industry?

Kabayao adapted over 20 folk songs and kundimans into violin and piano compositions. In 1950, he made history as the first Filipino violinist to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City, breaking new ground and bringing pride to the nation. His legacy as an artist of the Filipino people was built upon numerous concerts he did all over the Philippines.

What Recognition Did Kabayao Receive?

For his contributions as a musical crusader, Kabayao received the Presidential Merit Award in 1969, the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1972, and the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining in 2008. In June, he was nominated to the Order of National Artist by the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. for his illustrious career as a violin virtuoso, educator, advocate, and musical diplomat.

How Was Kabayao Remembered?

The UST Conservatory of Music paid tribute to Kabayao, highlighting his artistry and passion that greatly contributed to the transformation of the Filipino musical landscape. The Manila Symphony Orchestra, where Kabayao served as music director and conductor in the 1970s, described his outreach concerts as a constant inspiration and his Filipino folk song arrangements as the gold standard.

Kabayao’s wake was held at Gegato-Abecia Memorial Homes in Iloilo City until October 18. His remains were brought to the Central Philippine University in Jaro on October 19 before interment at Iloilo Memorial Park.

Through his music and dedication to his craft, Gilopez Kabayao left a lasting legacy in the world of music and touched the hearts of many with his talent and passion. [Source](https://varsitarian.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/gilopez-kabayao-obit.png)