Guitarist Forcione in local shows

Antonio Forcione is not known as the Jimi Hendrix of the acoustic guitar for nothing. This guy’s playing is simply incredible. He is out to give not only Hendrix but other legends a big run for their money. This is thanks not only to his virtuosity but also to his guts to keep trying the new and presenting the unexpected. In fact, given what I have heard from him, I honestly believe Forcione has already gone the limit that time unfortunately set on the accomplishments of the much lamented rocker. This is because he has been able to develop an interesting blend of classical, jazz, flamenco and Afro-Cuban rhythms distinctly his own.

I do not know if any of Forcione’s albums are available in local shops. I hope they are and I heartily recommend that all of you out there who are interested in the guitar and in World Music get one or two. I am sure that like me, there would be times while listening to his music when you would wonder how on earth he produced those notes. Where on earth did he get those beguiling passages? Surprisingly, those new turns that he initiates always seem to work. He must have magic fingers, is the first answer that comes to mind. That and perhaps a unique feel for what mesmerizes his audience best.

Maybe we will have the answers to those questions from Forcione himself when he arrives with the Antonio Forcione Quartet to do some shows in the Philippines next month. The Quartet is composed of Nathan Thomson on double bass and flute, Jenny Adejayan on cello, Adriano Adewale on percussion and Forcione of course, on guitars. They will perform back to back with Filipino artist Cynthia Alexander and her group at Crossroad 77 Convenarium on Thursday, May 4 and at SM Cebu on May 6.

The great thing about this visit is that both Forcione and Alexander will also conduct workshops in both cities. Aside from these, an exhibit at the Art Plaza of Shangri-La Mall at Ortigas Center will coincide with the event. This will feature paintings by the prolific, ever uncompromising Cynthia that were inspired by music from her own albums. In turn, there will also be works by other Filipino artists inspired by Forcione’s music.

Forcione performs both as solo artist as well as with the group. Aside from being one of UK’s foremost musicians, he writes, directs and performs music-comedy productions. One of his recent recordings and another acclaimed one at that is an album with famous comedian Boothy Graffoe.

For inquiries on how to get tickets or better yet attend the workshops, you may call 914-1011 to 14 extension 130 or email susan.arcega@britishcouncil.org.ph. The shows are co-presented by the British Council with Creative Futures and Strats Plus.

Songwriting tilt finalists

Still from the British Council is this announcement on the names of the finalists in the Anti-Corruption Songwriting Competition. They are Mahiya Naman Kayo by Lemuel "Peter Parker" Samblero; Tigilan Mo Na ‘Yan by Edilberto G. Reyes III; I Am a Shield by Ruben Lopez, Jr.; Ang Kailangang Gawin by Gary Granada; Crossroads by Warren D. Christie; Sabay Tayong Magpalaki ng Maganda Ngayon by Mike Villegas; Walang Kurap by Gideon Marcelo; Kahit Na by Roberto M. David; Simulan Natin by Chona Borromeo; Tayo Nang Maglingkod Sa Bayan also by Roberto M. David.

A joint undertaking by the British Council with the Office of the Ombudsman, the European Union, the Philippine Information Agency, Katha the Organization of Filipino Composers and the Kapisanan ng Brodkasters ng Pilipinas, contest theme is building a culture of integrity and excellence. Winners will be announced at the Grand National Finals set at the AFP Theater in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on May 12.

We all know it will take more than a winning song to solve the problem of corruption. But hearing music that reminds us of the greatness we can still aspire for can help put us and hopefully, also our country, on the right road.