Album Notes

Twelve in Tagalog is LABING DALAWA. This offering of twelve songs culled from the Philippines’ major dialects – Tagalog, Bisaya, Ilocano, and Bicolano – creates a musical image and pays tribute to a rich Filipino ancestry, a people united in spirit. Labing dalawa also means two lips. And so these songs are sung, passed on from one person, one generation to the next, bridging Old and New worlds, keeping memory intact and alive. Internationally acclaimed concert pianist Raul Sunico provides sensitive musical arrangements and impeccable piano accompaniment to enhance each song’s poignancy. Lyrics and translations are included.

Inspired by the centenary celebrations of Philippine Independence (in 1898, Filipinos broke centuries of colonial ties to Spain), this rare album presents song styles and languages that are not often heard together in one collection. The album was launched in 1999, and is now heard worldwide by Filipinos and many other cultures alike. The track "Sarung Banggi" was featured in the award-winning film "Ang Pagdadalaga Ni Maximo Oliveros" by Aureus Solito.

Internationally acclaimed soprano Lilac Caña performed with the Canadian Opera Company, and has enjoyed soloist concert work in symphonic, chamber, oratorio, and contemporary music works with orchestras and choirs in Canada, the United States, Europe, and the Philippines. She has released seven CD albums heard worldwide, and shares her love of singing internationally, with regular concert tours as a member of Canada’s Pop to Opera Trio.

Visit Lilac's website: www.lilaccana.com