VIOLIN GREAT. Ilonggo violin virtuoso and music crusader Gilopez Kabayao dies at 94 in Iloilo City on Sunday (Oct. 12, 2024). Kabayao was dubbed “Father of Outreach for Classical Music,” bringing the music of the masters to the masses starting in the 1950s. (Photo courtesy of Gilopez Kabayao: Artist for the Filipino People Facebook)
ILOILO CITY – Ilonggos are mourning the death of violin virtuoso and musical crusader Gilopez Kabayao, who passed on Sunday after a brief illness.
He was 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,” his wife, Corazon, said in a social media post on Sunday.
Kabayao was born in 1929 in Negros Occidental, with roots are from Iloilo.
He was the first Filipino to play at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City at 19 years old.
He was dubbed “Father of Outreach for Classical Music,” bringing the music of the masters to the masses starting in the 1950s and holding classical concerts for the grassroots in even the most unconventional venues from Aparri to Jolo.
Through his transcriptions, 24 Philippine folk songs and kundiman (folk love songs) were transformed into virtuosic gems for violin and piano, enriching the violin literature of Filipino music.
He earned a Presidential Award of Merit in 1969 and a President Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1972.
“We deeply mourn the loss of Maestro Gilopez Kabayao, an exceptional Ilonggo violinist and a cultural icon whose legacy will always live on, not just in Iloilo City, but across the country,” Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said in a statement on Monday.
He added that Kabayao’s music connected people worldwide, fostering understanding between nations. At home, he had a profound impact, especially on young Filipino musicians who admired him as a role model.
The mayor said his “music wasn’t just art. It brought hope and unity to our people.”
“In Iloilo City, we are especially grateful for his contributions. His legacy will live on through the music he inspired in others,” Treñas added.
He was nominated to the Order of the National Artist in June this year.
Kabayao is survived by his wife, Corazon Pineda; children Sicilienne, Farida, and Gilberto; son-in-law Jose Roy Paniza; daughter-in-law Michelle Alhambra; and a grandchild. (PNA)
