Barcelona, 27 July 2024 - The Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona celebrated the remarkable achievement of Filipino baritone Cipriano “Zip” De Guzman, Jr. who was warmly welcomed at the Consulate as he called on Philippine Consul General to Barcelona Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro following his success at the International Music Competition Barcelona “Grand Prize Virtuoso”. Mr. De Guzman’s outstanding rendition of "Júrame" by María Grever, performed on 27 July 2024 at the esteemed Petit Palau housed within the UNESCO World Heritage Site Palau de la Música Catalana, earned him the first prize in the Professional/Senior Category, sharing the honor with Israeli soprano Shiri Magar amid a highly competitive international field.
The Grand Prize Virtuoso, an annual competition held across various European cities, highlights exceptional musical talents across diverse categories and genres. Mr. De Guzman has previously won accolades in Rome for his interpretation of Giuseppe Verdi’s Macbeth Aria and has been recognized in the USA, England, Japan, Italy and Switzerland. He is also a two-time recipient of the "Ani ng Dangal in Music" award from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, underscoring his significant contributions to Filipino musical excellence on the global stage.
A proud alumnus of the Conservatori Superior de Música del Liceu in Barcelona and the Elisabeth University of Music in Japan, Mr. De Guzman continues to honor his roots by conducting master classes and performing in the Philippines, where he graduated with honors from the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music and the University of the East. His deep connection to his heritage was evident during his visit, where he expressed, "Even if I have lived most of my life outside of the Philippines, I am a Filipino by heart. My goal is to win 10 international competitions representing my beloved country." With nine victories already achieved, he aims to secure his tenth in another competition in Solitär Mozarteum Salzburg, Austria on 31 July 2024.
Philippine Consul General to Barcelona Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro lauded Mr. De Guzman’s achievements, recognizing his vital role in promoting Filipino excellence through music. Consul General Lazaro expressed her gratitude for his continued partnership with the Consulate and contributions to cultural diplomacy and the arts.
In celebration of Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino, as decreed by Presidential Proclamation No. 433 (s.2014) Mr. De Guzman capped his visit to the Consulate by serenading consular applicants with the cherished song “Balikbayan” by National Artist for Music Ernani Cuenco, reaffirming his dedication to his cultural heritage. END
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Filipino Baritone Cipriano De Guzman, Jr. at the Petit Palau housed within the UNESCO World Heritage Site Palau de la Música Catalana (Photo credits to Cipriano De Guzman, Jr.)
Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro with Mr. Cipriano De Guzman, Jr.