In a joyful ode to National Art Month, Justine Narvios, teacher of Contemporary Art in Philippine Regions at Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu, alongside the HUMSS strand and The Gavel Club under Ms. Relvielyn Caballes, orchestrated a heartwarming event that celebrated the vibrant artistic culture of Cebu. The Cebu Homegrown Music Expo, held at the esteemed Virginia Chongbian Theater, was not just an event but a journey into the soul of Cebu’s music scene, featuring the illustrious multihyphenate “Mother Folker”, Ms. Cattski Espina.
The event, scheduled on February 24, 2024, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, welcomed Grade 12 STEM students to delve into the captivating world of music and artistry. Ms. Cattski Espina, a revered figure in the Cebu homegrown music scene, graced the occasion as the keynote speaker. Through her insightful talk, students were offered a rare glimpse into the profound journey of a professional artist, guided by Espina’s illustrious career spanning as a Cebuana artist, producer, CEO of 22 Tango Records, and proprietor of Room Eleven Recording Studio.
Set against the backdrop of the Virginia Chongbian Theater, the event resonated with the essence of cultural appreciation and artistic exploration. Supported fervently by Mme. Tina Canete, the HUMSS Strand Coordinator, and Mr. Sanchez, the HUMSS CMA Cluster Head, the expo embodied the school’s commitment to cultural preservation and artistic appreciation.
The Cebu Homegrown Music Expo held immense significance, offering students a profound opportunity to connect with their cultural heritage while honing crucial skills in art appreciation and songwriting. By immersing themselves in the local artistic landscape, students gained invaluable insights into the depth and diversity of Philippine culture. Moreover, the expo nurtured their confidence to express themselves creatively and authentically.
In essence, the success of the Cebu Homegrown Music Expo underscored the pivotal role of events in shaping students into socially and culturally astute individuals. By fostering artistic sensibilities and cultural awareness, the expo epitomized the school’s mission to mold individuals who are not only academically proficient but also empathetic and culturally enriched, poised to make meaningful contributions to society. As the curtains drew to a close on this remarkable event, it left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who attended, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art and music in our lives.
