Dreams don’t move on their own, they need drivers.
For many aspiring singers, shy beginners, and young music lovers, these drivers come in the form of coaches and mentors who believe in their potential long before they believe in themselves. At RMA Studio Academy, owned by singer and celebrity vocal coach Jade Riccio, this philosophy has always been at the heart of her mission.
Through structured guidance, compassionate teaching, and strong teacher-student support, the academy has become a launchpad for students who once only dreamed of performing. This year’s That’s Amore: A Night at the Movies concert proved just how powerful that kind of mentorship can be. Even one of the strongest typhoons that hit the country today was conquered.
The successful event held on November 9 showcased how far students can go when given space, training, and people who genuinely want them to succeed. Throughout months of rehearsals, RMA coaches helped students strengthen their vocal abilities, handle their nerves, and embrace the stage as a home.
These efforts culminated in a concert overflowing with confidence, joy, and artistry. Some of them were captured on video excitedly preparing hours before the show. Their families and friends witnessed the moments that defined their musical journeys.
The night also highlighted the wealth of talent nurtured at RMA. Beyond vocal performances, students impressed the audience with their use of a variety of musical instruments. Adding to the grand event, many numbers were performed live with the Philippine Events Orchestra, giving the young artists a professional experience that few student performers ever get.
Another highlight of the evening was the participation of RMA’s celebrity students. Rhian Ramos had a powerful take on “One Way or Another,” Michelle Dee brought emotional depth to her rendition of “Dilaw.” Celebrity kids, often tagged as “showbiz royalty,” also shone brightly, like Scarlet Belo, Tali Sotto, Renzo Jaworski, and Zia Dantes each offering unforgettable moments. Tali charmed the crowd with “Wannabe” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” and “The Climb.”
Zia was so confident in singing “Scars to Your Beautiful” in front of mom Marian Rivera and dad Dingdong Dantes. Ina Raymundo had her rendition of Bette Davis Eyes, Jema Galanza and Chloe San Jose performed high-energy “Proud Mary,” Rain Celmar stunned with her version of Whitney Houston’s “Run to You,” and Vivoree gave us her take on hit OPM song “Dadalhin.” OPM icon Jose Mari Chan and RMA Studio Academy CEO Jade Riccio elevated the concert even further with their duet of “Let Love Be the Gift.”
Beyond the show’s artistry, That’s Amore: A Night at the Movies carried a deeper and more meaningful purpose. The concert served as a benefit event for the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP), aligning with RMA’s vision of using music to uplift lives. As Jade previously shared, the concert was about giving students the chance to shine while also opening the spotlight to performers from one of the most vulnerable sectors, individuals on the autism spectrum.
Selected ASP members delivered a moving rendition of “True Colors,” reminding the audience of what inclusion, empathy, and expression can do. Their performances demonstrated that talent knows no boundaries and that music remains a universal language. With the overwhelming number of people who showed up, one wouldn’t think a super typhoon was happening. The leap of faith was worth it.
The evening ended with a memorable group performance of K-Pop Demon Hunters’ hit track “Golden,” filling the Aliw Theater with pride and the glow of dreams realized. That’s Amore: A Night at the Movies was a celebration of growth, mentorship, artistry, and community.
Through RMA Studio Academy, many young performers found not only their voices in “That’s Amore: A Night at the Movies” but also the belief that they are capable of conquering anything—the concert stage and a super typhoon. As they say, amore (Italian for love) conquers all.
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