REY VALERA has been writing songs for 37 years.
With eyes shut and head bowed, Rey Valera listened to the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, as it filled Dolphy Theater with lush renditions of some of his finest works: “Pangako sa ‘Yo” surged to a crash of cymbals before seamlessly dissolving to “Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo.”
After the final note was played, the singer-songwriter rose from his seat and joined the ensemble and its conductor, Gerard Salonga, onstage. “Salbahe kayo! Pinaiyak ninyo ako (You’re bad. You made me cry),” Valera quipped.
The performance was part of the orchestra’s rehearsals for its tribute
concert for the 61-year-old hitmaker, which will be held tomorrow, The Theatre at the Solaire Resort and Casino. Titled “The Music of Rey Valera,” the one-night concert will feature choice songs from the artist’s expansive catalogue.
Expected to join the concert are Sharon Cuneta, Martin Nievera, Vina Morales, Rico J. Puno, Edgar Allan Guzman, Morisette Amon, Tippy Dos Santos, Michael Pangilinan and Antonio Ferrer.
Magical
Hearing his compositions performed by an orchestra, Valera related, was like being transported back in time. “It was magical. Even without words, I can feel the music talking to me,” he said.
Valera, who has been in the business for 37 years, said: “Shows like this usually happen after an artist has passed away.” He thanked the orchestra and Salonga profusely.
“We’re the ones who should be grateful. Because of you, we have more great songs to play,” Salonga said.
Asked which among his compositions he considers his masterpiece, Valera chose “Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo,” the first song he penned on a minor scale.
The impact of “Pangako sa ‘Yo”—which has been used in a movie and in the original and remake of a soap opera of the same title—is also undeniable.
“It’s great because the song continues to live on. Young people may not know who I am, but at least they know the words to the song,” Valera said.
For tickets, call 8919999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.