‘Echoes of Croatia in the Philippines’

Far Eastern University (FEU), through its Center for the Arts and Institute of Arts and Sciences presented Filipino Croatian soprano Chriztel Renae Aceveda in a special concert, “Echoes of Croatia in the Philippines,” in partnership with the Consulate of Croatia in Manila.

It was in Pampanga where Chriztel and her love for music were born. She moved to Croatia in 2020 when she was nine years old. In just six months, she became fluent in the Croatian language, thanks to her falling in love with her adopted country’s folk songs. She embraced the folk heritage of her second homeland so deeply that Croatian audiences have compared her to celebrated cultural icons. She rose to prominence in Croatia due to her masterful interpretations of Međimurje traditional songs and eventually won the presitigious Croatia’s Got Talent competition when she was 12. Now 14, she returned to the land of her birth for three performances, including in FEU. Her story of bridging two cultures through music resonated strongly with FEU’s mission of inclusivity and cultural exchange.

The concert also featured two distinguished Croatian artists: Blanka Tkalčić, a renowned mezzo-soprano and Chriztel’s vocal mentor at the Varaždin Music School, and Danijel Oto, an award-winning pianist known for his performances across Europe. Together, the trio presented a rich repertoire of Croatian music, an opera aria and musical theater selections, complemented by Filipino traditional pieces.

For FEU, “Echoes of Croatia in the Philippines” was more than a musical showcase. It was a reaffirmation of the university’s long-standing dedication to the arts and culture. By hosting local and international artists and performers, FEU continues to cultivate an artistic and culturally engaged community—enriching student experience and broadening artistic exposure, complimenting academic endeavors.

The event was held last Oct. 14 at the historic FEU Auditorium, highlighting the university’s commitment to promoting diverse artistic traditions and fostering international cultural exchange.