N O I R
Noir is
a fresh group of young musicians dedicated to bringing
a higher level of musicality to its audience. Composed of students
from the University of the Philippines College of Music, the group
had turned their friendship into an incredible and exciting venture
when it embarked on a semi-professional journey. NOIR had
a massed an impressive repertoire and an even more impressive
resume in an unbelievably short time, creating ripples in
the serious music scene.
NOIR was
the brainchild of concert pianist and Manhattan School of Music alumnus Professor
Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz, who wanted performers for a Valentine show at the
Alliance Francaise. Originally six friends got together and presented an array
of solos, duets and ensemble works that greatly impressed their audience.
Wisely realizing the "magic" it had woven, Noir decided to stay
together and improved the group's repertoire even further, including Foreign
art songs, Broadway selections, Classical numbers, Jazz, Retros as well as
flattering Piano solos to their line-up of familiar melodies, both old and
new.
At the present, the members are soprano Mae Ann Valentin, alto Maricris Joaquin,
tenor Dondi Ong, bass/baritone Jonaf del Fierro and pianist Noel dela Rosa.
Invitations for functions and affairs started pouring in, from the French Ambassador's residence to the Shangrila Plaza, Intercon Manila, the Podium, the Manila Peninsula Hotel, the Abelardo Hall Auditorium and other similar venues like music bars and private gigs for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and corporate affairs. Lately the group had been very visible in many UP campus activities, providing their unique brand of entertainment to various audiences. Encouraged to turn professional at almost every turn, NOIR remains faithful in their pursuit of academic excellence for the moment. With the option to continuously grow in their musicality, and the friendship to sustain them- the future indeed seems bright for NOIR.
