Fil-Am jazz performers cheer up pandemic-weary fans

Philippino-American Jazz Fiesta featured veteran jazz artists (left to right) Winston Raval, Eric Baul, Sandra Viray, Mon David, Charmaine Clamor and Alvin Reyes. INVESTIGATOR/Florante Ibanez

LOS ANGELES – On a sunny afternoon on the first Sunday in January, one hundred fully COVID-controlled jazz fans vibrated to beautiful sounds that hovered above the outdoor grounds of the Conference Room restaurant and bar in Playa Vista, in California.

The welcome pandemic break, held just below Los Angeles bluff Loyola Marymount University, was hosted by Jazz Phil-USA and featured singers Charmaine Clamor, Alvin Reyes, Mon David, Sandra Viray and Eric Baul.

Musical selections included jazz standards as well as original compositions. Performances by pianists Winston Raval and Robert Perez were also featured, with Abe Lagrimas Jr. on drums and ukulele, and Ahment Türkmenoğlu on double bass.

Multi-talented Abe Lagrimas, Jr. soars on ukulele while being backed on bass by Ahment Türkmenoğlu at the Fil-Am Jazz Fiesta on January 2nd. INQUIRER/Florante Ibanez

Strict COVID protocols were in place with proof of vaccination or recent negative test required. Jazz aficionados also feasted on excellent menu choices and drinks from the conference room kitchen and bar.

All in all, it was a great way to safely welcome 2022 among friends and artists. As Charmain Clamor proclaimed, “Let’s greet the new year together with much hope, love, joy and positivity!” It’s time for a Filipino American jazz fiesta!”