MANILA, Philippines — A real star in her own right and dubbed by New York Times as the “pianist’s pianist,” internationally acclaimed Filipino pianist Cecile Licad was treated to a welcome dinner last Dec. 3 on the heels of her very successful all-Chopin piano concert at the Manila Polo Club.
Hosted by Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco and Nedy Tantoco, the intimate gathering was attended by members of the Tantoco family, and close friends of Cecile Licad like Irene Araneta and Pablo Tariman.
Patrick Jacinto, Irene Marcos-Araneta, Cecile Licad, Nestor Jardin and Nedy Tantoco.
Cecile was treated to her favorite dishes and raclette, jamon jabugo pata negra, paella negra, lengua estofado, spaghetti with truffles prepared and catered by the Tantoco household. The beautiful flower arrangements were, of course, by Rustan Flower Shop.
The biggest treat for the night was when Cecile played Chopin’s Etude Op.10 No. 3, much to the delight of Amb. Tantoco and everyone present. Indeed, it was a welcome dinner fit for a star!