Guitarist Favis Has Second CD Released Featuring Music of Philippines

Date: 2/8/07
Contact: Marc Lebovitz

Although he has lived in the United States for 18 years and has performed in many musical genres, Angelo Favis’ musical heart remains in his native Philippines. To share his love of the music he grew up with, the Illinois State University associate professor and classical guitar virtuoso has recorded his second CD, volume two of “Philippine Treasures: A Collection of Favorite Songs,” produced by VGo Recordings of San Bruno, Calif.

The new recording, and the first CD, released five years ago, are available on the vgorecordings.com web site, along with musical samples. The new CD is also available by contacting Favis directly at alfavis@ilstu.edu or by calling (309) 438-7123.

Favis, who is in his 13th year on the Music faculty, taught himself guitar with a do-it-yourself chord book when he was in sixth grade. He started lessons when he entered high school and came to the U.S. in 1989 to study at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, from which he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He later completed his doctorate at the Manhattan School of Music in New York.

His soulful and skillful interpretations of Filipino folksongs and Spanish-influenced serenades on the CDs give the musical culture of the Philippines universal appeal. Both CDs emphasize the 19th and early 20th century roots of contemporary Filipino music, giving the listener stories and lessons about what was and is Filipino. The latest CD continues that trend but includes pieces that are both folk music and art music.

Favis has performed throughout the U.S. and abroad, both as a soloist and in chamber groups, in concerts and festivals and has given many master classes. He is the co-founder, with School of Music colleague and flutist Kimberly M. Risinger, of the Linden Duo. For 10 years, the Duo has performed contemporary music in concerts and festivals in the U.S. and Canada. They will perform in a free recital on Wednesday, March 7, in Kemp Recital Hall at Illinois State.