Negrense virtuoso violinist Gilopez Kabayao dies
BACOLOD, Philippines – The curtain finally closed for Negrense virtuoso violinist Gilopez Kabayao, who had a career spanning seven decades, on Saturday, October 12.
Kabayao’s demise was announced by his wife, Corazon, via Facebook.
“At 94, after a brief illness, Gilopez Kabayao now goes on to join His creator, Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” Corazon said.
“The heavens must be rejoicing to welcome a child of God, a committed follower of Jesus Christ who spoke of His blessings in a most powerful way through the gift of music, bringing the soaring melodies of his Stradivarius violin wherever people cared to listen,” she added.
For Corazon, the precious legacy of her husband has inspired thousands to love and appreciate beautiful Filipino and classical music, and his virtuosity on the violin has brought singular honor and prestige to the Philippines.
“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,” she also said.
Cadiz City, Negros Occidental and Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) mourn the death of Kabayao.
Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante, Jr. on Sunday, October 13, told Rappler that their entire city now mourns the death of its illustrious son billed as a musical crusader in the country.
“Gilopez Kabayao was peerless. He put Cadiz, Negros Occidental and the Philippines in the musical map across the world,” the mayor described.
Also on Facebook, the CCP on Sunday, October 13 extended its condolences to Kabayao’s loved ones.
“His remarkable talent and lifelong dedication to music have inspired countless Filipinos and enriched our cultural heritage,” added the CCP.
Born and raised in Hacienda Faraon, Barangay Cabahug, Cadiz City, Kabayao was among the most respectable and prized violinists that Negros Occidental, and the country have ever had.
Married to his fellow musician, the former Corazon Pineda of Iloilo City, their 50-year-old union was blessed with children — Sicilienne, Farida and Gilberto.
Prior to his demise, Kabayao was hailed as one among the 10 outstanding Cadizeños during Cadiz City’s 57th Charter Day celebration last July 4.
He was also nominated by the Iloilo City government for the “Order of the National Artist” in 2024.
Results for the national artist plum are expected to be announced anytime this year.
On record, Kabayao was the first-ever Filipino musician to play music using a violin at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York sometime in 1950.
Being a musical crusader, Kabayao brought contemporary music using violin even to the far-flung barangays both on Negros and Panay Islands. For this, Kabayao was awarded the Presidential Merit Award in 1969 and the President Magsaysay Award in 1972.
His performances with a violin resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the international music scene, with globe-spanning performances.
Kabayao’s wake and interment details have not been announced as of publication of this article. – Rappler.com