It is a genuine love affair which many years ago between an accomplished internationally acclaimed concert pianist and a notable institution of learning, whose aims are to enhance its students’ potential, contribute to the betterment of society, and transform the world into a better place to live in. And the relationship continues to flourish to this day.
Recently, the Cebu-born-and-bred Ingrid Sala Santamaria, a much respected and admired artist who has received several awards, recognition, accolades and bestowments of public entities and private organizations—both at home and overseas—felt it was time to give back through the Ingrid Sala-Santamaria Endowment Fund for Education, an initiative that assists financially challenged-students, and has chosen the De La Salle University (DLSU) as the benefactor of some aspects of her memorabilia collection, spanning 88 compendiums of books, 34 series of audio CDs, 52 volumes of DVDs, and an entire Christmas Village.
Dr. Santamaria, a recipient of the Chevalier, Ordre des Palmas Academiques and the Chevalier, Ordre du Merite Nationale, both from the Government of the French Republic, with a Doctor of Music degree in Music Education from DLSU, honoris causa in 2006, recalled her history of involvement through the lens of her career.
“At an early age of 10, I gave my first solo recital—then called the Premiere Recital—something every budding pianist aspires for. On this very evening, I clearly knew what I wanted to do in life —to be a performing pianist on stage. I had found my purpose,” she proclaimed.
From this modest beginning, she has gone to exhibit her prowess through brilliant execution of over a thousand piano performances for the past half-century—and five more years, for good measure—all adequately, and perhaps too excessively, chronicled in all manner of media.
Her desire and revered dream to perform in prestigious concert halls have been more than realized, as she has thrilled audiences in various venues to include palaces, with royalty and aristocracy, premiers and presidents, global leaders and business icons in attendance.
The traveling pianist, through land, sea, and air, has reached crowds of all ages, from all walks of life, in various venues, such as open fields, barangay halls, and covered basketball courts, remote barrios and even isolated islands.
Today, she faithfully and meticulously archives her performances through two Youtube Channels where she posts 10-minute performance clips and entire concertos, for the world to access and enjoy, reminisce and cherish memorable experiences.
She has always been surrounded by “La Sallites” —the term before Lasallians came into vogue—from her late husband Joe to his brothers and their respective families; son Joey, daughter Cecile, son-in-law Senic; and seven grandchildren.
“I would like to think that this humble act would concur with St. John Baptist de La Salle’s vision of completing and enhancing one’s education with the knowledge and love of the arts, culture, and music.” she continued.
“With this hopefully aligned educational aspiration then, I wish to donate this modest representation of a purposefully lived life, in an earnest wish that those whose lives these will touch, will be inspired to fulfill their own fullest potential, not necessarily in music, but in their own chosen fields. I would wish for these young adults to aspire to make a difference in their lives and in our world.” she ended.
DLSU President Brother Raymund Suplido FSC, during his acceptance speech, noted the importance of accessible learning, specially for those in need, during the intimate Donation Turnover Ceremony at The Learning Commons, 9th Floor Mezzanine, Henry Sy, Sr. Hall of the Taft campus, with only members of her immediate family and dear friends in attendance.
“If there is one tool that we can wield to dispel much of the inequality, ignorance, and exclusion present in the world today, it would be education. With it, we can better ourselves and contribute to society, becoming instruments for positive change in the world. In investing and supporting the cause of education, we enable disadvantaged individuals to overcome ignorance, poverty and social exclusion,” he said.