Talent is God-given and these kids sure have it.
With persistence, enthusiasm and passion, the group of pupils from Lumbia Elementary School take pride in their gift in playing banduria, a plucked chordophone primarily known to be the instrument of the Philippine folkloric songs.
Two years ago, when Ms. Vilma Larede, one of Lumbia Elementary School’s talented and supportive teachers, saw the students’ interest and ability to learn how to play banduria, she founded the group which is now known as the Lumbia Elementary School Rondalla.
“I am not only passionate about teaching these children, I’m also very honored to give them more of what I think I can impart to them—strengthen their talents and mold them into better individuals as they grow up,” Larede expressed.
The banduria players, some of whom came from Xavier Ecoville Resettlement Site after Typhoon Sendong hit their respective homes last 2010, continue to hone their talents in playing the instrument, while more kids from the school convey their interest in joining the group. However, lack of funds to buy more instruments for training is still the biggest hurdle that stands between them and their goals.
“The kids have grown to be passionate with their music. In fact, lack of funds doesn’t stop them from doing what they love to do. Their passion inspired teachers and parents to actively reach out to the public to solicit funds for the kids’ instruments,” Joy Talirongan, Lumbia Elementary School Principal, said.
One of the teachers, Mrs. Ramos, helped in soliciting funds for the group. Currently, four instruments came from Mrs. Ramos’ efforts and two more came from the Pedro Calungsod Foundation. The purchase of six additional banduria were made possible by the donations coming from kind-hearted, generous individuals. To date, the group is still accepting banduria donations for their ever-growing pool of talents.
“I am really happy that Ms. Jane Duterte of Primavera Residences appreciated these kids’ passion to play banduria,” Talirongan expressed.
Last September 26, 2014, as Primavera Residences celebrated the Topping Off ceremony of its second tower, the Rondalla of Lumbia Elementary School conducted their first ever out-of–school performance in the event attended by huge names from different industries in the Philippines and abroad.
“It was an experience I will never forget and these kids will treasure it the most. I do hope they [kids] have inspired many to appreciate the beauty of Filipino folk music,” Larede expressed.
Primavera Residences first came across the delightful group during their performance at the launch of the school-based feeding program where Primavera was one of the sponsors.
“Seeing these kids and hearing them play is indeed very inspiring. Despite the challenges they are facing, they continue to embrace their music with such passion. For that we’re very happy to have them in our event, and we hope to see more of them in future activities,” says Jane Duterte, PR and Marketing Manager of Primavera Residences.
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Primavera Residences is a twin tower, ten-storey mixed used property located in uptown Cagayan de Oro City. It was recently awarded as the Best Mixed-Use Development in the Philippines by the Asia Pacific Property Awards. Units are available for sale or for rent.
For inquiries, call 088-880-5002 or visit wwwprimaveraresidences.com.
