Four Pianists Across Generations Celebrate a Legacy of Mentorship

Manila, Philippines – On December 28, 2024, the Steinway Boutique Manila will host an extraordinary piano concert titled 4 Pianists, 4 Generations, featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Raul Sunico, esteemed educator Anthony Say, award-winning pianist Steven Ferrer, and his protégé Jennifer Pua.

The concert’s title reflects the teacher-student lineage among the performers: Jennifer Pua is a current student of Steven Ferrer, who was trained by Anthony Say, a former protégé of Raul Sunico. This rare collaboration exemplifies the enduring impact of mentorship in classical music, uniting the performers across decades of piano excellence.

Raul Sunico, a pianist of international acclaim, has made his mark as a performer, composer, and educator. A graduate of the Juilliard School, Sunico has performed with leading orchestras worldwide and is distinguished as the only Filipino pianist to perform all four Rachmaninoff concertos in one evening, later followed by all three Tchaikovsky piano concertos in a similar setting. He has held significant roles, including Dean of the UST Conservatory of Music and President of the Cultural Center of the Philippines from 2010 to 2017.

Anthony Say, one of the most sought-after piano pedagogues in the Philippines, is a graduate of the UST Conservatory of Music. He has dedicated his career to nurturing young talents, many of whom have gone on to win national and international piano competitions. Say also served as the president of the Piano Teachers’ Guild of the Philippines Foundation (PTGPFI) and continues to inspire future generations through his teaching.

Steven Ferrer, an award-winning pianist and accomplished teacher, has gained recognition for his achievements in competitions. A graduate of the UST Conservatory of Music, he has been mentored by Anthony Say and has performed as a soloist in prestigious events, such as the Manila Pianos Artist Series and the New York Young Performers Prize. Beyond performing, Ferrer is an active arranger, guitarist, and producer of this remarkable concert.

Jennifer Pua, the youngest performer in the lineup, is a 14-year-old pianist and a student of Steven Ferrer. Despite her young age, Jennifer has already garnered accolades, including being a grand finalist in the 2024 PTGPFI Etude Category Piano Competition. A passionate musician, Jennifer also plays the violin and is disciplined in martial arts, holding a brown belt in taekwondo.

The event promises an unforgettable afternoon showcasing the artistry of pianists from four different generations. Supported by Veniccio as their sole sponsor, 4 Pianists, 4 Generations is a celebration of the timeless bond between mentor and student, highlighting the importance of music education across time.