In the middle of the Christmas concert of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Band last December 17, while “My Way” was playing, only the third in the repertoire, the rain started to fall mainly on the plain that is now the Brebeuf Grounds.
As raindrops kept falling on their heads, the Band, followed by the audience already enchanted by the evening’s music, proceeded to the Multi-Purpose Covered Courts (MPCC). The show went on. Although the weather forecasted that the sun will come out, Concert director Marco Alfino “Kiko” Miranda, had set up the MPCC “just in case”.
At the MPCC, the Music went on, living up to the show’s title. Sans the ambiance of the Brebeuf Grounds with its lights and sounds, the Band played on. Members of the audience were appreciative, clapping their hands and stomping their feet to the beat of the Sound of Music. The Band was unstoppable. Nothing could stop it from playing. Neither the July fire that burned all the Band instruments, nor the Rain that poured only 30 minutes into the show.
Fr President Karel San Juan, SJ, in his message, recounted the fateful July fire that scorched all the Band instruments and music sheets, and how the Band and the entire University has risen from the ashes. He thanked the Leader of the Band, Maestro Apolonio “Poli” Enriquez, for the latter’s dedication in reorganizing and revitalizing the University’s Pride.
For its finale, the Band serenaded the audience with a medley of Christmas carols.
Truly, it was a Night to Remember.
