An all-female classical and crossover group performed over the weekend as part of Silliman University’s 53rd cultural season. The Opera Belles, the country’s first young pop opera group, is composed of Allison Tanner, Lara Maigue, and Jam Valdes.
The trio first released their self-titled debut album in 2011. Some of their unique renditions include pop hits such as Taylor Swift’s Love Story, Paramore’s Only Exception and Bryan Adams’ Heaven. Other songs which they covered include Like a Prayer (Madonna), Burn (Tina Arena), Officially Missing You (Tamia), and Sundo (Imago).
Their interpretations of songs are described as “uniquely interpreted with rhythmic changes and opera overtures, making the sound totally new to the ear.”
Before joining forces, the three songstresses were trained early in the performing arts. Allison started singing at the age of eight and trained at the University of the Philippines. She was introduced to opera and classical music. Jam started honing her skills at seven and joined glee clubs in high school. She eventually became took part in several of the Repertory Philippines’ summer workshops. Her interests include acting, dancing and joining beauty pageants. Born to parents who are musicians and music professors, Lara studied Music Education at UP. Her musical influences include Charlotte Church, Andrew Lloyd and Michael Bublé. They went through auditions and rigid training. Later, they became one group through the Philippine Opera Company.
They appeared in Eat Bulaga, performing the song Heaven for the network’s Koreanovela, Big Hit. They also appeared as guest judges in Showtime. (Lester Reyes/CAC)
