Jovita  Fuentes

Jovita Fuentes (February 15, 1895 – August 7, 1978) was a renowned Filipino soprano and a pioneer in the field of classical music in the Philippines. Born in Capiz, Panay Island, Philippines, she showed early musical talent and began her formal vocal training in Manila under the guidance of the National Artist for Music, Francisco Santiago. 

She became a prominent figure in the cultural scene and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Conservatory of Music at the University of the Philippines. Throughout her career, she received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to music and culture. 

Jovita Fuentes' legacy lives on, not only through her remarkable performances but also through the many Filipino artists she inspired. Her dedication to the arts and her pioneering efforts in classical music continue to be celebrated in the Philippines and beyond. 

Ay! Kalisud

The first public performance of Fuentes' folk song, Ay! Kalisod, took place during a concert organized by the Asociacion with the aim of promoting folk songs from all parts of the nation. 

‘’Iris’’ by P. Mascagni 

Iris is an opera in three acts by Pietro Mascagni to an original Italian libretto by Luigi Illica. 

Madama Butterfly

In April 1925, Fuentes made her international debut as Cio Cio San in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, staged in Italy’s Teatro Municipale di Piacenza. Her portrayal of the tragic character Cio-Cio San demonstrated her ability to convey deep emotions through her singing. 

'Donde lieta uscì' from La boheme

Puccini's famed opera "La Boheme" tells the story of a group of misfit bohemians in Paris during the mid 19th century. In the aria "Donde Lieta Usci," lovers Mimi and Rodolfo agree to part because he fears he is too poor to care for her in her ill health. 

Kundiman "Magandang Diwata" (1920) 

Based on the folk song "Kundiman de 1800," this song is popularly known as "Kundiman ni Abdon" (Abdon being the writer of the three-part piece). A song about love for the country, it was turned into a protest song entitled "Mutya" in the 1980s.