Performing duets still a challenge for seasoned performers Martin and Lani

Martin Nievera

Some people may think that exceptional singing is something that comes naturally to Martin Nievera and Lani Misalucha. Well, not in their case, the two seasoned performers said.

If there is one thing about their craft that gives them the most trouble, it would be—they both agreed—blending or doing harmonies.

That is why these two recording artists are putting in the extra work, in preparation for their Valentine show, “Masquerade,” which will require them to perform mostly duets.

“We have been soloists for most of our careers, and we did not have any formal training in music. So, when you put the two of us onstage, it is important that we have someone to teach us how to do all the voicing,” Martin told the Inquirer in a recent interview.

“There are singers in this country who have very sharp ears—Pilita Corrales is one of those. She can harmonize with whomever you pair her with,” the balladeer added. “I, on the other hand, am not pitch perfect, I admit. I do have the tendency to go flat or sharp, depending on how I am feeling on a particular day.”

Lani has had experience singing in a choir. But being a soprano, she was usually assigned the melody. “In the choir, you just stick to your part. For our show, meanwhile, we have to go back and forth between performing harmony and melody,” she said. “It really does take time for me to learn these things; it can be tough.”

Martin has been singing professionally in the local industry for over 30 years; Lani, for more than 20. And as they grow older, so do their vocal cords. They recognize that their instruments are no longer as malleable as they once were. Thus, they need to be more diligent in preserving and making sure that their voices are in tip-top shape for big shows.

“Back in my 20s, 30s, I would wake up in the morning and I would be good to go…I could be lacking sleep, but I could still pull through. But the conditions are different now that I am older,” recalled the 47-year-old pop singer, dubbed “Asia’s Nightingale.” “When I prepare for gigs these days, physical training is just as important.”

Martin, meanwhile, has recently learned that he has a mild case of asthma. “Now, I really have to look after my voice,” said the 55-year-old music artist.

First show

These two vaunted vocalists have worked with each other numerous times in the past, but it was never just the two of them in one show. “Masquerade”—set on Feb. 14 and 15 at grand ballroom Solaire—will be their first (call 8919999 and 4702222).

More than the technical feat Lani achieves with her voice, it is her work ethic that truly impresses Martin.

“It is a given that her range and versatility are topnotch. But this has to be said: Despite already having a name, Lani is one of the few singers who never fails to vocalize—you can hear her from miles away,” Martin related.

As for Lani, it is Martin’s gift of gab that endears him to her. “He is such a charming presence and talker, which I think is his edge. He just draws you in and he always has the audience at his fingertips. His energy is fun and infectious,” she said.

Asked what kind of concert-goers they hope to attract to their show, they said: the throwback lovers.

“We have Broadway songs, romantic ballads—oldies but goodies, if you will. Songs that will surely prompt singalongs,” Martin said.