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pictures: Mandy Salonga
VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Celebrated Filipino classical singer Cipriano “Zip” Mercado De Guzman Jr., widely recognized as “The Filipino Baritone,” paid a diplomatic courtesy call on Her Excellency Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo-Bernas, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to the Republic of Austria and Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Vienna.
The meeting marked a warm reunion following De Guzman’s previous official visit in 2024, which took place after he secured First Prize at the prestigious Grand Prize Virtuoso International Music Competition held at the Solitär Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria.
During the diplomatic call, De Guzman provided updates on his artistic evolution and expanding international career since 2024. Discussions focused on his upcoming classical performances, including the staging of Giuseppe Verdi’s classic opera La Traviata, as well as potential cultural exchange initiatives and future artistic collaborations aimed at promoting Filipino talent across Europe.
Highlighting the visit, De Guzman performed a select set of musical pieces for Ambassador Arroyo-Bernas, embassy officials, and staff members, showcasing the vocal excellence that has earned him acclaim on world stages.
About Cipriano “Zip” Mercado De Guzman Jr.
Cipriano “Zip” Mercado De Guzman Jr. is an internationally acclaimed Filipino baritone, opera singer, and vocal pedagogue. A graduate of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music and the Elisabeth University of Music in Hiroshima, Japan, De Guzman has established himself as one of the Philippines’ prominent classical cultural ambassadors.
Throughout his distinguished career, De Guzman has earned top honors at numerous international competitions across Asia, Europe, and North America. His repertoire spans major operatic roles, sacred works, and traditional Filipino art songs (Kundiman), earning him wide praise for his vocal resonance, dramatic versatility, and commitment to elevating Philippine classical music on the global stage.
- Hector Pascua
- Photo Credits: Mandy Salonga
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