Negrense violinist Gilopez Kabayao dies

“His remarkable talent and lifelong dedication to music have inspired countless Filipinos and enriched our cultural heritage,” says the Cultural Center of the Philippines

BACOLOD, Philippines – The curtain finally closed on Negrense violin virtuoso Gilopez Kabayao, whose career spanned seven decades, on Saturday, October 12.

Kabayao’s death was announced by his wife, Corazon, via Facebook.

“At 94 years old, after a brief illness, Gilopez Kabayao now joins His creator, Lord and Savior 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 the most powerful way through the gift of music, carrying the soaring melodies of his Stradivarius violin wherever people wanted to hear .” she added.

For Corazon, her husband’s precious legacy inspired thousands of people to love and appreciate beautiful Filipino and classical music, and his violin virtuosity brought singular honor and prestige to the Philippines.

“After more than seven decades of sharing his music, driven by the generosity of spirit he so selflessly gave to his audiences from all walks of life, the curtain now closes on this artist with a mission,” she also said.

The City of Cadiz, the Western and Cultural Center of Negros of the Philippines (CCP) mourn the death of Kabayao.

Cádiz Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. on Sunday, October 13, told Rappler that the entire city now mourns the death of his illustrious son, considered a musical crusader in the country.

“Gilopez Kabayao was incomparable. He put Cádiz, Negros Occidental and the Philippines on the musical map of the world,” described the mayor.

Also on Facebook on Sunday, October 13, the CCP 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,” the PCC added.

Born and raised in Hacienda Faraon, Barangay Cabahug, Cadiz City, Kabayao was one of the most respectable and valued violinists Negros Occidental and the country has ever had.

Married to fellow musician, the former Corazon Pineda of Iloilo City, their 50-year union has been blessed with children – Sicilienne, Farida and Gilberto.

Before his death, Kabayao was hailed as one of the 10 outstanding Cadizeños during the celebration of the 57th Charter Day of the City of Cádiz last July 4.

He was also nominated by the Iloilo City government for the “Order of National Artist” in 2024.

The results of the national artist plum are expected to be announced later this year.

On record, Kabayao was the first 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 the violin even to the distant barangays in both Negros and Panay Islands. For this, Kabayao received the Presidential Merit Award in 1969 and the President Magsaysay Award in 1972.

His violin performances resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the international music scene, with performances across the world.

Details of Kabayao’s wake and burial had not been announced at the time of this article’s publication. –Rappler.com