Filipino American Symphony Orchestra Plays Bach and Rock, 7/28

Los Angeles, July 15, 2012 – The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the first Filipino-organized orchestra outside the Philippines, which is based in California, presents "FASO is Bach to Rock!," an eclectic concert featuring classical masterpieces by Johann Sebastian Bach; pop-rock anthems such as Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" and  Led Zepellin's "Stairway to Heaven," arranged by Filipino composer Louie Ramos; popular disco songs; and Original Pilipino Music (OPM) on Saturday, July 28 at Ford Theatres (2580 Cahuenga Boulevard, East Hollywood). 

Robert A. Shroder is principal conductor; OPM icon Joey Albert, and legendary jazz vocalist Mon David are guest singers, together with Mirielle Enriquez, Immaculate Heart of Mary Children's Choir, and FASO's Youth String Ensemble, showcasing the musical talent of youngsters, ages eight to 14.

"Bach to rock is a very interesting combination of repertoire because the Baroque era [1600-1750 C.E.], the era of Bach, is when improvisation started  – even before the birth of jazz and rock.  So it's really a good combination to mix both genres together," said Shroder in a press statement.  "This is [also] very exciting for FASO; it's the orchestra's first time doing this mixture of genres in a major concert."

"FASO is Bach to Rock!" is part of the 21st annual Festival of Philippine Arts and  Culture (FPAC), the largest celebration of Filipino arts and culture, which presents more than 1,000 artists and cultural ambassadors from all over the United States from September 8 to 9 at Point Fermin Park in San Pedro, California. 

For tickets to FASO's concert, visit www.fordtheatres.org. General admission: $30-40.  VIP package: $100, which includes premium seating and pre-show reception.  Students and children tickets: $20. Group discounts are also available.