More than 3 decades in existence, this institution is a weekly gathering of friends and music lovin

Saturday, June 17, 2017

PETE'S PLACE MUSIC ROOM 37th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION - JUNE 16, 2017

By far, last night’s 37th year celebration at the music room was totally and unquestionably unparalleled. To this minute, believe it or not, i am absolutely lost for words on how to justly describe the gratitude and elation I had experienced before the night was finally over. Celebrating our yearly music room anniversary is the ultimate highlight of it all. It was never about a celebration focused just for one person but rather a celebration, collectively as one family, being its truest purpose.
Even if indeed my birthday falls technically on the same day (June 19th is the exact music room anniversary date and also my birthday. If it doesn’t fall on a Friday, the anniversary celebration will be set on the nearest Friday before the official date), excluding close friends and relatives, no one really knows about it. That’s purely intentional. As i am never and will ever be the person who gets pleasure being put on the limelight at anytime and anywhere. Last night’s proceedings was bizarre and unexpected for me. In truth , i’d rather be the instigator than the recipient anytime. It was definitely a surreal experience. Don’t get me wrong, i was totally but positively blown away. I felt the love enormously!
As expected, the much anticipated event started early with guests and food donations pouring in as early as 8pm. Immediately, an influx of guests arrived consistently in droves. Soon the place was packed with family, friends, merrymakers and musicians who were more than willing to start the ball rolling. Immediately, things fell into place. A music room newby and sexagenarian veteran folk singer by the name of Gab Cristobal became the starter of the evening’s musicale. Next on the list were duo Ed Evangelista and Lito Godani.
With the stage warmed up, it was time for the main attraction. Flag bearer “Bandang Tetel” spearheaded by Richard Parcia with Tete Serra, Mark Longos, Roger Salazar, Erwin Dimaculangan, Bubui Colico, Zyrus Judan and Ralph Gulapa was the star of the show. Straight from 2 weeks of rigid studio rehearsals, they were more than ready. Their performance was impeccable and very much entertaining to the delight of the appreciative and applauding crowd. All their efforts definitely paid off. To add, Anton Atengco, Rj Pineda, Xtine Mercado, Rick Trinidad, Dennis Espiritu, Nitoy Adriano, Kiko Montecillo, Pj Cura, Nick Mangubat among others were just some of the musical greats around. It is a no-brainer as to how awesome the live music was. Kudos to everyone who shared their talents and time to make this possible.
THE BOMBSHELL: At the stroke of midnight the entertainment suddenly halted and was briefly side tracked. There was suddenly tranquility onstage. Kumpadres Rick Trinidad and Monchie Henares (along with all those others who had secretly conspired) suddenly took over. Hmmm, i can tell they had something up their sleeves. But I must admit, i had no idea what was coming. After some prodding, they finally succeeded in summoning me up stage. Uncomfortable and anxious of what was to come, the 2 finally made their heartwarming pronouncements. I was to be greeted and honored for my birthday. One after the other, they presented before me surprises they had put together for my birthday in conspiracy with genuine loving friends and family working behind them. Allow me to share what i was given. First was a cute oversized replica of a Senior Citizens Card with a funny photo of myself attached to it, second was a decoy and “pang inis”gift which was a “Kahon” (musical wooden box simulating the drums which I banned and still is from being used in the music room..grrrr) and finally the big big surprise…a whopping new yamaha alto saxophone (once upon a time my most favorite instrument to play). Yes, i used to tinker with it way back in the 90’s. Apparently, there was a secret conspiracy of soliciting contributions from loving friends and relatives since a couple of months back in the quest of putting up the amount to buy me one of this expensive musical instrument. Frankly, i can never ever afford to buy one of these myself even if i wanted to. This to me is a miracle. Thank you Lord God for the blessing. You never cease to amaze me everytime!
Admittedly, i can never ever be any close to music room saxophonist greats such as Lorry Zamora, Anton Marquinez, Pete Canson, John Ray Pangan, Paul Casili, Maryana Arinez and the likes, but I will definitely try to make the most of it just like what I do with the other instruments I play. Time to practice.
I will forever be grateful to these loving friends and family who contributed and made it all happen…May God bless you and your family even more!
After the gift giving, the live music continued unabated. As if there was no tomorrow, the jam did not lose its steam and persisted till past 6am. Kiko was still up and about along with Chef Phillipe and the rest of the band with Monchie still on vocals and myself playing bass. At 6:35 the jam was officially over. Time to go home. Philippe was the last to leave at 5mins to 7am. What can I say but what an awesome celebration! Praise and thank God!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
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