18-song set shows off Xian’s instrument-playing skills

Xian Lim can play the trombone, piano and guitar proficiently.

While he’s known primarily as an actor, Xian Lim insisted that he’s just as passionate about music—so much so that he sees it becoming a “permanent” part of his life.

“Some people say na ‘walang forever.’ But, for me, there is—in music, at least. I’m fascinated by anything related to it. I always look forward to trying out new instruments and gaining new knowledge from playing them. I want to get better,” he told the Inquirer at a press conference for his coming concert, “Songs in the Key of X.”

The 27-year-old star, who took up music as an elective in high school in the United States, can play the trombone, piano and guitar proficiently, and knows the basics of a dozen more. It’s not uncommon to see instruments lying around in his place. So, when he doesn’t have work, he would rather stay in.

“A lot of people ask me what I do during my free time, or which bar I go to. But I don’t [go out]; I usually just play,” he related, adding that music takes him to “a different place. I can sit for hours in front of the piano and eventually lose track of time. It puts me in another state of mind.”

His coming show, which will be held at The Theatre at Solaire on July 15 (call 8919999), will be Xian’s second. The high he gets from being onstage is unlike anything he gets from doing movies or television shows.
“The sense of fulfillment is different. Seeing your fans react to your performance is priceless and indescribable,” he said.

Like his solo concert last year, “Key of X” will have Xian showing off his instrument-playing skills. His 18-song set list will have what he refers to as the “Hugot Medley,” which will feature him on the grand piano and singing such Brian McKnight hits as “Back at One,” “6, 8, 12” and “Marry Your Daughter.”

“I was given creative freedom. I was involved in choosing the songs to make sure that each one reflects my experiences in life,” he said. “I want it to be as personal as possible.”

Has he ever thought of eventually holding court at bigger venues, like the Araneta Coliseum or Mall of Asia Arena? “I will be happy whether you put me in front of 20 people or a big crowd,” Xian said. “But if that happens someday, then great!”

The show is made even “more special” by the fact that it’s being produced by the fan group Kim Xian Around the Globe Inc., along with Cornerstone Concerts. He couldn’t have asked for better supporters.

“That our fans are willing to do this for us is heartening and inspiring. And I reciprocate the love by being accessible to them. There’s no wall between us. In fact, I dislike using the word ‘fan.’ I would rather call them ‘friends’ or ‘family.’ At times, I ask myself what I’ve done to deserve this kind of support,” he said.

Meanwhile, asked if actress Kim Chiu—who has been linked to him for the longest time—will guest in the show, Xian said: “Not this time. But she will be watching and promised to buy lots of tickets!”