Among the celebs who are singing at the recital are Atasha Muhlach, Caitlin Stave, John Arcenas, Scarlet Snow Belo, Vivoree Esclito, Pepe Herrera, Zia Dantes and Tali Sotto.
The students of RMA Studio Academy, a music school and creative hub led by soprano Jade Riccio, will have their recital entitled “Be Our Guest” this December 1 at the Podium Hall in Ortigas Center, Pasig.
Jade – an accomplished singer and multi-awarded performer – is probably most known for being the mentor who made Maymay Entrata into a legit singer by coaching the latter in recording “Amakabogera.” Released in 2021, “Amakabogera” became an instant hit that gained millions of streams, and an iconic tune for its empowering message. The song remains popular to this day as it is used in advertising jingles. Also, Maymay has released an English version of it in November 2024.
Jade’s success with Maymay sealed the soprano’s reputation as a premier voice coach – leading Jade to establish the RMA Studio Academy. From a music school, RMA has become an all-in-one venue for performers as it also houses classrooms, plus studios for pictorials video shoots, recording, and rehearsals.
RMA had its first major recital last year. The said concert was so successful that this year’s recital is going to be bigger. From less than 30 performers in 2023, the number of singers is now at 44. Preparation for “Be Our Guest” began as early as January of this year.
“I am confident and proud of each and every one of them,” Jade said of her student-performers. In the lineup are celebrities (both experienced singers and those who want to improve their singing skills) and youngsters who sing as a hobby, and unsigned artists who want to get a break in the entertainment industry.
Among the celebs who are singing at the recital are showbiz royalty Atasha Muhlach, GMA Sparkle talent Caitlyn Stave, John Arcenas who is playing April Boy Regino in the biopic “Idol”, social media star Scarlet Snow Belo, actress-singer Vivoree Esclito, stage/film/TV star Pepe Herrera, and showbiz heirs Zia Dantes (daughter of Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes) and Tali Sotto (daughter of Pauleen Luna and Vic Sotto).
Maymay, who missed last year’s recital because she was abroad, is now going to perform.
Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee and her good friend, GMA star Rhian Ramos are going to do a duet.
Whether the performer is a familiar figure or not known yet, every number is set to be a showstopper said Jade. For one, they are all going to be accompanied by an orchestra. “Everyone is so inspired,” said Jade. “Singing with an orchestra is different from singing with piano as accompaniment… As the concert date draws nearer, nakikita ko na all the students are smiling because they get inspiration from each other.”
The performers and the production team are not the only ones who are excited. “The parents, too!” revealed Jade. “Sina Marian Rivera and Pauleen Luna pumupunta sila sa bawat practice to root for their kids. Just like the other parents.”
So, if you want to discover the future of Philippine music, “Be Our Guest” might just be that venue for the next Maymay, or even the next Regine, Martin or Gary.
At any rate, Jade promises a great show. Addressing the audience, the voice mentor declared, “We’ll make sure to leave you inspired more than ever.”
