The historic Goldenberg Mansion embraced the holiday spirit as it opened its doors for the 21st installment of the Goldenberg Concert Series—an evening celebrating Christmas music, culture, and heritage. The program featured exceptional performances by Mr. Frank Liwag, Mr. Arman Miranda, Mr. Rominick Reyes, Mr. Alejandro Fernandez & Mr. Jonnel Angeles.
The ensemble filled the mansion with rich, vibrant arrangements of beloved holiday pieces, including the classic Filipino Christmas love song “Pasko Na Sinta Ko” and the iconic “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit.” The evening also featured lively renditions of international favorites such as “Frosty the Snowman,” “Winter Wonderland” & “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” adding warmth and festive charm to the evening.
FRANK LIWAG
Frank began playing the trumpet at the age of 8. He comes from a musically-inclined family with their own ensemble, the Liwag Band.
Trumpet Performance student at the University of the Philippines
College of Music
Member of the University of the Philippines Symphonic Band
Member of Zabat Band, recognized as the oldest band in the country since 1820
ARMAN MIRANDA
Arman is a seasoned musician whose versatility as a trumpeter has made him a respected figure in the Philippine brass community.
Principal Trumpeter of the Tourism Affairs Office of Quezon City
Former Lead Trumpeter of the Metro Manila Community Orchestra
Performed with several of the country’s top brass bands as a soloist
ROMINICK REYES
Rominick is a talented French horn player and a member of various distinguished orchestras in the country.
Graduated with a Major in French horn at the University of the Philippines
College of Music
Performed with some of the country’s leading orchestras
Has recording credits in film soundtracks and with artists such as Rivermaya
ALEJANDRO FERNANDEZ
Alejandro is a distinguished Filipino trombonist who has showcased his talent on world-renowned stages, including Carnegie Hall, New York City, USA.
Honorable mention in Category C [Brass] at NAMCYA in 1997
Earned his diploma in Creative and Performing Musical Art
at the University of the Philippines College of Music
First Filipino trombonist to represent the Philippines at the Asian Youth Orchestra, touring nine countries across Southeast Asia
Assistant Principal Trombonist of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra
JONNEL ANGELES
Jonnel is one of the premier tuba players in Manila. He began playing the tuba in 1988, showing remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
Graduated with a Major in Tuba at the University of Santo Tomas
Conservatory of Music
A member of several distinguished bands and ensembles in the Philippines
About Goldenberg Concert Series
Now on its 21st concert, the series highlights both established and emerging artists, offering students the opportunity to experience live classical music through performances by homegrown talents, with international recognition. It aims to highlight the potential and possibilities for the next generation of musicians.
The Significance of the Goldenberg Mansion
The Goldenberg Mansion was built in the 1800s by the Eugster family and acquired in 1950 by cosmetics magnate Michael Goldenberg, which it is named after. The government has included this property as part of its Malacañang Heritage Mansions. It has undergone a meticulous renovation and preservation process. With the addition of a modern glass house, it now stands as a premier venue for cultural events, artistic showcases and exclusive private functions—embodying both historical legacy and contemporary sophistication.
The Audience
The beautiful concert took place on the 5th of December 2025, at the majestic Goldenberg Mansion. The show had two sets with a special audience from various educational institutions at 2pm and 5pm.
The 2pm show saw the arrival of 150 students from Quezon City High School, Quirino High School, Manuel Roxas High School & San Isidro Labrador Catholic School of Quezon City.
The 5pm show welcomed more students from Carlos P. Garcia High School & Villagers Montessori College comprising a total of 60 guests for the second concert.
As the show came to a close, the musically-inclined attendees left the grounds motivated by the seasoned artists’ awe-inspiring performance. Their joyful reactions concluded the concert’s success in expressing the spirit of Christmas through song. We remain hopeful that the show provided inspiration, encouragement and support to those considering a career in music.
The evening’s performance affirmed the Concert Series’ goal of preserving tradition, while educating and nurturing future Filipino musicians and audiences. Collaborations and initiatives like this, allow the Goldenberg Concert Series to highlight the power of music in connecting communities and igniting passions — while honoring the artists who have paved the way for the next generation.
