Sofronio Vasquez set to make Filipino American Symphony Orchestra debut
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Filipino American singer and “The Voice” grand winner Sofronio Vasquez will take center stage at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels this Aug. 15 for “Ode to Summer,” an orchestral celebration presented by the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO).
This event will mark his only full orchestra-backed performance in the US this year, which is also an anticipated homecoming of sorts for the rising star and “Tawag ng Tanghalan” alum whose journey has inspired both the Filipino American community and a broader global audience.
Sofronio Vasquez | Photo from sofroniovasquez/Instagram
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“I’ve always dreamed of performing with a full symphony orchestra,” Vasquez previously shared after his “The Voice” victory. Now, that dream comes alive through his collaboration with FASO, a nonprofit group that champions Filipino musical heritage and supports youth music education.
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Led by award-winning founding conductor Robert Shroder, the 70-member FASO orchestra, featuring musicians from a variety of cultural and professional backgrounds, will deliver a rich and varied program that spans Gounod’s Papal Anthem, sacred compositions by Mozart and well-loved Filipino and American pop favorites.
FASO is led by award-winning founding conductor Robert Shroder. CONTRIBUTED
Joining Vasquez in this celebration of heritage and harmony are two acclaimed vocal ensembles, the University of Santo Tomas Singers Alumni, reuniting for a special one-night performance under founder Fidel Calalang and the St. Genevieve Valiant Voices Choir, an award-winning youth group led by Christopher Avendaño, fresh off their strong showing at the World Choir Games 2024.
FASO Kids | CONTRIBUTED
More than a concert, “Ode to Summer” is also a cause. Proceeds will go toward FASO’s youth music education initiatives which are efforts threatened by recent federal funding cuts.
Now in its 17th season, FASO remains committed to preserving the Philippines’ rich musical legacy while nurturing the next generation of Filipino American talent.
Each year, it supports around 500 students through workshops in instrumental training, musicianship, performance, songwriting and vocal development.
FASO has performed at California’s most prestigious venues, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Ford and the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, bringing classical and contemporary Filipino music to multigenerational audiences.
Tickets range from $30 to $125 and are available at fasomusic.org.
