By Cyrus A. Natividad

The CPU Symphonic performing their signature songs during the Barrio FIesta Opening Celebration of the Grand Alumni Homecoming.

The Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020 could not have been so lively and festive on the first two days of the celebration without the CPU Symphonic Band led by Band Master Ascencion O. Bautista. Local cultural music played, filling the air with sentimental music to the excitement of alumni from here and abroad.

On Day 1, February 5, Wednesday, the musical theme was local folk music during the opening of the Grand Alumni Homecoming event. Alumni from all over the world almost filled the whole field for the opening program with dinner (ala Barrio Fiesta).

On Day 2, February 6, Thursday, the Symphonic band played International Music from the 50’s to the present at a Fellowship Lunch at the CPU Gymnasium. According to Bautista, the symphony prepared long before the Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020, with about 30 musicians playing the drums and percussions, wind and brass instruments under his baton.

“My musicians are dedicated students who play music for Central Philippine University in exchange for their scholarship,” Bautista said.