DLSZ Strings Ensemble bags gold, 4th place in Europe music festivals

The De La Salle Santiago Zobel (DLSZ) Strings Ensemble won two awards at music festivals in Europe held earlier this month.

In a press statement, the De La Salle Santiago Zobel School said the ensemble won the Gold Award at the 2023 Bratislava Youth Music Festival Competition at the Slovak Radio Concert Hall in Slovakia, on July 7, 2023.

They also won the 4th place award with an outstanding rating at the 15th Summa Cum Laude (SCL) International Youth Music Festival held in Vienna, Austria, on July 1.

This world-renowned international celebration is for young musicians from across the globe. Among the participants were choirs, bands, and orchestras from Australia, Austria, Canada, China, Italy, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Taipei, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, and the USA.

“Representing the Philippines as the sole ensemble, the DLSZ Strings performed the Holberg Suite by E. Grieg, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by W.A Mozart, Tryptch and the traditional Filipino music, Tatlong Awiting Pilipino as their competition pieces,” DLSZ said in a press statement. 

They also performed at a festival concert at the Pfarrgarten Probstdorf and MuTh in Vienna.

In Bratislava, the group likewise performed in St. Martin’s Cathedral, Klarisky Concert Hall, Primate’s Palace, and Hviezdoslav Square.

On June 28, the ensemble arrived in Prague, premiering at the beautiful Smetana Hall.

“The DLSZ Strings' participation in these events is a testament to the Filipino’s remarkable talent, rich culture, and pride in musical excellence,” it said.

Mr. Leopoldo Sumera Jr. conducted the DLSZ Strings with Strings Teacher Ms. Shelly Isaga, Music Unit Head Mr. Daryl Galicia, and Cultural Affairs Head Ms. Lynette Feliciano. —Sherylin Untalan/KG, GMA Integrated News