Spotlight on Ernesto Vallejo - The Filipino Violin Virtuoso
Born in Manila on December 19, 1909, Ernesto Vallejo started his musical training from his parents. His father, Jose Vallejo of Ilocos, was himself a violinist and was for a long time, leader of the Army and Navy Club Orchestra. His mother, Feliza Arriola of mixed Bisayan/Capiz and Tagalog roots, was a skilled harpist. The sixth in the brood of twelve, three of Ernesto's brother played the piano while a sister was an accomplished singer. (Fely Vallejo, became an actress and was married to Filipino Film director Gerry De Leon) Vallejo spent his elementary schooling at Santa Cruz Primary School and, from there, went to Mabini Intermediate School and later to Manila North High School. He was always presented in music programs in schools and was also featured at the Zorrilla Theater, the Army and Navy Club, and at the Columbia Club, not only on the violin but also on the guitar, an instrument he also mastered. His talent was soon noticed by the likes of...