Reginald V. Bernaldez
Reginald V. Bernaldez earned his Bachelor of Music in Composition and Arrangement from Silliman University, following his early studies in classical guitar at the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music.
From 2004 to 2007, he served as Head of Guitar Studies at the International Music House in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, and conducted the SMK St. Teresa All-Female Concert and Marching Brass Band.
As a founding member of Kwerdas, he became a mainstay of the 1st and 2nd Philippine International Rondalla and Plucked String Festivals, leading the group to represent the Philippines at international events such as the Asian and Caribbean Music Fest (Miami, Florida), the Sarawak International Festival of Music and the Arts (Malaysia), and the Yilan International Music and Arts Festival (Taiwan).
In 2007, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) invited him as a resource person to lecture on Rondalla Arrangement Techniques. His contribution to Philippine music continued with the inclusion of his composition Bathala in the Kuwerdas Filipinas Symphonic Rondalla Compilation Album (2021), produced by the Asian League of Composers of the Philippines under the auspices of the NCCA.
As a performer, Mr. Bernaldez has appeared on numerous stages in the Philippines and abroad. He toured the United States with the Silliman University Campus Choristers (1999, 2001) and Ating Pamana (2003), and performed extensively in the Visayas and Mindanao as a trombonist with the Silliman University Concert Band (1998–2003). From 2013 to 2015, he worked as a solo guitarist under contract with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, showcasing his artistry to international audiences.
He has also made significant contributions to guitar advocacy and education in the Philippines. Since 2009, he has been a board member of the Guitar Foundation of the Philippines, Inc., and served as Festival Director of the 1st and 2nd Cebu International Guitar Festivals (2017 and 2019).
Beyond performance, Mr. Bernaldez is also active in entrepreneurship and innovation. He is the Managing Director of Sonart Acoustics Inc., a company specializing in acoustic treatment and soundproofing, and co-founder of Turtulele Fiberglass Ukuleles, where he combines music and product innovation.
At present, he serves as a Graduate Teaching Fellow at the College of Performing and Visual Arts, Silliman University, while pursuing advanced studies in instrumental conducting.
Harit Chunhanantasap
Harit Chunhanantasap began his music studies at the age of 13 at Vajiravudh College, where he first discovered his passion for music. At the age of 16, he studied piano performance with Poom Prommachart in the program school of young talent, an experience that greatly shaped his musical foundation.
At the age of 19, Harit moved to Moscow, Russia, to pursue a professional training in music performance and pedagogy. He was accepted into the Piano Faculty of the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree on a full scholarship provided by Vajiravudh College. During his studies, he has actively participated in masterclasses with the great artists and professors. He has participated in competitions and won numerous awards particularly in Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, Germany. Moreover, he has had the opportunity to perform abroad and at music festivals such as in Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Spain, and Canada.
In 2023, Harit completed his Bachelor’s degree. He honed his craft under the guidance of Vladimir Tropp and Alexander Kudryavtsev, in a piano solo performance. In addition, he trained in Chamber music with Natalia Latyusheva, and accompaniment with Elena Strikovskaya.
In 2025, he graduated with his advanced studies, a Master’s degree of Music Performance with First Class Honors at the same institute with First-Class Honours. Currently, he is a piano instructor at the School of Arts, Sunway University, and pursuing his PhD program at the same time.
Ensemble Melayu Nusantara Trio
Ensemble Melayu Nusantara is an exceptionally skilled musical group united by their passion for traditional Malay music and performance. Their members hail from diverse backgrounds, drawing inspiration from the ethnic Malay-Bornean rhythms of Sarawak and the Arabic-heritage melodies of Kuala Lumpur.
The ensemble’s performances are a seamless blend of traditional and modern music, creating a rich and captivating sound that includes the enchanting melodies of the bamboo flute and Gambus alongside the energetic beats of the percussion.Ensemble Melayu Nusantara has graced major stages such as the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) and the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2025. Their vibrant shows highlight Nusantara heritage, showcasing how Malay traditional music can evolve while honoring its roots.
April Merced-Misa
April Merced-Misa, a pianist born and raised, and trained in the Philippines with some of the country’s best mentors. She honed her craft from an early age, studying on full scholarship at the Philippine High School for the Arts. She has won several competitions, notably the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) and two concerto competitions, paving the way for her orchestral debut playing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto in B-flat minor. Other notable performances include Beethoven’s Piano Concerto in C Major with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under Maestro Tetsuji Honna, as well as collaborations with Japanese musicians such as the 1966 Quartet, Hiroko Kokubu Trio, and violinist Lina Matsuda. She also ventured into songwriting with her composition Pag-ibig, featuring lyrics by Philippine writer and poet Dr. Vim Nadera, which won the National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Timpalak Kundiman. April is currently an Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of the Philippines College of Music.
Mahaka Music (Indonesia)
MAHAKA is a music group that specializes in the collaboration between traditional bamboo music and modern musical instruments. The group’s style is ethnic pop, which is a blend of pop music and Sundanese ethnic music. MAHAKA aims to present musical pieces that are accepted by the wider community while preserving existing traditions by continuing to use bamboo instruments in their creation.
MAHAKA has performed at a number of local and international events, including:
Suc Song Moi Traditional Orchestra & Carmen Dance Group
SUC SONG MOI TRADITIONAL ORCHESTRA
Established in 2013, Suc Song Moi (“The New Vitality”) has been the only bamboo ensemble in Vietnam which performs its own symphonically orchestrated repertoire purely by bamboo musical instruments, exclusively made by artist Dong Van Minh – a prominent maestro of bamboo music. Not only frequently featured on various prestigious domestic stages, Suc Song Moi Bamboo Ensemble is often invited to join international music festivals. From 2022, the Orchestra has expanded into the Suc Song Moi Traditional Orchestra, with a larger number of artists, musical instruments not only in the range of bamboo but also from ethnic groups across 3 regions of the country. The ensemble is now managed and operated by Suc Song Moi Bamboo Music Company. In October 2023, Suc Song Moi and its founder Dong Quang Vinh were invited by the Japanese Government to perform along with the Vietnam – Japan Dream Symphony Orchestra, which includes artists selected from typical orchestras of Vietnam and Japan, traveling to Japan, taking place in 6 cities of Japan, under the baton of Dong Quang Vinh as the conductor, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam – Japan Diplomatic Relations. Many non profit and charity concerts are organized by SSM social enterprises in Vietnam. We hope to bring Vietnamese and international music to a larger audience from everywhere in the world.
CARMEN DANCE GROUP
Founded in 2003, Carmen Dance Group has been a prominent presence in the performing arts for over 20 years. Carmen has performed successfully at a wide range of events — from small private shows to major festivals and large-scale programs — both in Vietnam and internationally, including France, the United States, Germany, Finland, Denmark, India, Egypt, Thailand, Laos, South Korea, China, Japan, and more.
At Carmen, professionalism and artistic excellence are our top priorities. Our dancers are not only graceful and expressive but also professionally trained at prestigious art institutions. With dedication and creativity, Carmen delivers unique, captivating performances of the highest artistic quality.
Halili-Cruz School of Dance (HCSD)
The Halili-Cruz School of Dance (HCSD) stands as a premier institution in the Philippines, renowned for its commitment to dance excellence. Under the inspired leadership of Artistic Director Shirley Halili-Cruz and Associate Directors Grace Garalde-Perez and Anna Kathrina Halili-Cruz Bueno, HCSD fosters an environment where young performers develop both skill and confidence, preparing them to shine on stage.
With a mission to honor the timeless beauty of ballet while embracing contemporary styles like jazz, hip hop, lyrical, tap, and musical theater, HCSD’s curriculum embodies versatility and innovation. This artistic breadth has earned HCSD international recognition, proudly showcasing Filipino talent at prestigious festivals and competitions worldwide.
HCSD’s accomplishments are extensive, including numerous national and international awards. Among them, the school holds the Hall of Fame distinction from the Aliw Awards and multiple Ani ng Dangal Awards, celebrating its outstanding impact on the global dance stage. From Asia to Europe and North America, HCSD’s students captivate audiences and judges with their extraordinary performances, reinforcing the school’s reputation as a beacon of dance excellence.
Follow HCSD on social media for the latest updates: @halilicruzballet on Facebook and Instagram, and @halilicruzschoolofdance on TikTok.
Taiwan Bamboo Orchestra
Taiwan Bamboo Orchestra (TBO) is Taiwan’s first officially registered bamboo music ensemble, founded and directed by Luo Cheng-Hun, winner of the 31st Golden Melody Award for Traditional Arts and Music. The ensemble performs on a wide range of bamboo percussion and wind instruments, many newly developed under the guidance of Professor Wu Shih-Yin, including the Soprano Bamboo Xylophone and Tube Xylophone.
Blending tradition with innovation, TBO draws inspiration from Taiwanese folk and Indigenous songs, reimagined through original compositions and vibrant stage presentations. Since its debut album “The Sounds of Bamboo “(2014), nominated for the Golden Melody Awards, TBO has continued to expand its impact with acclaimed projects such as “A Distant Memory “(2016).
Renowned for dynamic and creative performances, the orchestra has appeared at major venues and festivals across New Zealand, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, China, and Hong Kong, earning international praise for its unique sound and artistic vision.
Gonzalo Noel Villanueva Misa (Philippines)
Gonzalo Noel Villanueva Misa, a guitarist with a Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Major in Music Performance (Guitar) from the Philippine Women’s University, has performed as a guest artist at the Saigon International Guitar Festival, Silpakorn International Guitar Festival, Manila Guitar Fest, Asia International Guitar Festival, Asian Youth Guitar Camp, and Southeast Asia Guitar Festival and Performance Awards, among others. He was also a prizewinner, earning second place in the Singapore 11th International Guitar Festival and Competition in 2013. Currently, he is a full-time instructor at Silliman University College of Performing and Visual Arts, teaching Music Theory, Music History, and Guitar.
Professor Gilbert De Greeve (Belgium)
Professor Gilbert De Greeve, a distinguished Belgian pianist, composer, and educator, to SIFMA 6.0! Professor De Greeve’s illustrious career began with early music lessons from his father, leading him to the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, where he studied under Eugene Traey and Jan Decadt, majoring in Piano Performance and Composition. Further honing his artistry in the USA with mentors such as Rudolf Serkin and Eugene Ormandy, Professor De Greeve has since become a respected figure on the global stage, performing, conducting masterclasses, and lecturing worldwide.
At just 25, he became one of the youngest professors at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp and later served as the Director of the State Music Academy of Antwerp, which he developed into a major institution serving over 4,200 students. His compositions, including the notable Chamber Music Lied Cycle based on James Joyce’s poetry, as well as various instrumental, chamber, orchestral, and choral works, reflect his deep dedication to musical expression and innovation.
As a past President of the International Kodály Society (IKS), based in Budapest, Professor De Greeve has also contributed significantly to advancing music education globally. Today, he remains a sought-after lecturer, sharing his vast knowledge and passion for music with audiences worldwide.
Dancer Interface Performing Arts Studio
“Dancer Interface Performing Arts Studio” was founded by Kelvin Bong in August 2008, dedicated to the study and promotion of Chinese ethnic and folk dance. It emphasizes a teaching approach that tightly integrates classroom instruction with artistic practice. Based on a non-profit philosophy, the “Dancer Interface Performing Arts Studio” actively organizes students to participate in various cultural and charity performance events, advocating for open dance education and enriching the cultural life of the community.
At the same time, it strives to be close to everyday life and the people, with full enthusiasm and innovative awareness, to enhance the level of community cultural activities and provide a richer dance art experience for the broader population. It consistently adheres to the mission of cultivating dance artistic talent and promoting healthy dance culture, strictly follows the laws of art and education, and diligently implements the principles of dance aesthetics, carrying forward the traditional spirit of Chinese ethnic and folk dance.
Dance Space (Kuala Lumpur)
Since 1993, Dance Space has been dedicated to providing quality ballet training for students of all ages.
Our mission is to nurture each child’s passion and creativity through dance, helping them grow in confidence, discipline, and artistry. We aspire to develop professional and passionate dancers who can enrich society through their love of the performing arts.
At Dance Space, we believe in creating a supportive environment where students and teachers feel inspired and empowered. Guided by our core values of quality, growth, passion, joy, empathy, respect, and teamwork, we are more than just a school—we are a community that grows together through dance.
Nattaya Thai Dance (Thailand)
Nattaya Thai Dance is dedicated to preserving and sharing the cultural beauty of Thai classical dance. Our performances embody the elegance and artistry of traditional Thai dance forms, capturing both the aesthetic grace and intricate movements unique to this rich cultural heritage. Each performance is crafted to highlight the symbolic gestures and postures that communicate stories of Thai history, mythology, and folklore.
Founded with a passion for Thai culture, Nattaya Thai Dance showcases forms such as Khon (classical masked dance-drama) and Lakorn (theatrical dance) and emphasizes the importance of Natyasa, a term signifying the seamless flow of beauty and grace essential to Thai dance. Through our dedication, we aim to engage audiences and offer them an authentic experience of Thai performing arts, bridging traditional values with contemporary appreciation.
Glorious Dance & Art
Established with a passion for artistic excellence, Glorious Dance & Art is a leading dance academy dedicated to providing high-quality training in both traditional and contemporary dance forms. With a faculty of certified instructors trained at prestigious national and international dance institutions, Glorious Dance & Art is committed to developing students’ technical skills, creativity, and passion for performance.
The academy’s students have achieved significant recognition, securing awards in various local and international dance competitions. Glorious Dance & Art frequently collaborates with cultural organizations and participates in community events, embodying its mission to bridge cultural traditions and modern expression.
As a promoter of cultural exchange, Glorious Dance & Art strives to highlight the richness of diverse cultures, serving as a cultural bridge by showcasing Malaysian and Chinese heritage through performances, workshops, and international events. The academy continues to cultivate the next generation of dancers while fostering an appreciation for dance as an art form and a tool for cross-cultural connection.
The Band Lab
Founded by Jesmond Siew Heng Jie, The Band Lab has been a transformative force in Sarawak’s music education landscape since its establishment on April 8, 2018. Jesmond, motivated by his own experiences growing up with limited access to live orchestral performances, created The Band Lab as Sarawak’s first non-affiliated Youth Community Wind Band Education Program. His mission: to provide young musicians with a nurturing environment that promotes artistic growth and accessibility to quality music education. Through outreach, education programs, and consulting services, The Band Lab not only hones musical talent but also cultivates essential life skills, encouraging cultural exchange and collaborative learning.
Under Jesmond’s visionary leadership, The Band Lab has become an integral part of Sarawak’s cultural fabric, inspiring the next generation of musicians. This year, their participation in SIFMA 5.0 promises to bring uplifting performances and empower local talent as we celebrate Sarawak’s rich musical heritage together.
Wendy Yong
Wendy Yong, one of Malaysia’s most esteemed sopranos, hailing from the “Cat City” of Kuching, Wendy embarked on her musical journey at the age of six, initially studying piano before discovering her passion for classical singing. She is a graduate of Singapore’s Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, where she majored in piano and classical singing, and further honed her craft in London at Middlesex University under the guidance of the renowned soprano Jennifer Caren.
In addition to her vocal accomplishments, Wendy is a versatile musician skilled in traditional Chinese instruments like the Yang Qin and Gu Zheng, contributing significantly to the growth of Chinese ensemble music in Malaysia. Over the years, she has performed locally and internationally with prominent groups, including the SONS Symphony Orchestra and the Singapore Keat Hong Chinese Orchestra. Wendy’s artistry also extends to recording poetry recitations for Sarawak-born poet Wu-An, imbuing his words with powerful emotion.
In 2019, Wendy captivated audiences with her solo recital My Music My Life, featuring French chansons and musical theatre pieces. In 2022, she was invited by Majlis Seni Sarawak to give singing lectures at Talent Sarawak, inspiring the next generation of performers with her expertise. Known for her expressive voice and emotive performances, she is a cherished performer at state functions across Sarawak.
Professor Gilbert De Greeve
Professor Gilbert De Greeve, a distinguished Belgian pianist, composer, and educator, to SIFMA 5.0! Professor De Greeve’s illustrious career began with early music lessons from his father, leading him to the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, where he studied under Eugene Traey and Jan Decadt, majoring in Piano Performance and Composition. Further honing his artistry in the USA with mentors such as Rudolf Serkin and Eugene Ormandy, Professor De Greeve has since become a respected figure on the global stage, performing, conducting masterclasses, and lecturing worldwide.
At just 25, he became one of the youngest professors at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp and later served as the Director of the State Music Academy of Antwerp, which he developed into a major institution serving over 4,200 students. His compositions, including the notable Chamber Music Lied Cycle based on James Joyce’s poetry, as well as various instrumental, chamber, orchestral, and choral works, reflect his deep dedication to musical expression and innovation.
As a past President of the International Kodály Society (IKS), based in Budapest, Professor De Greeve has also contributed significantly to advancing music education globally. Today, he remains a sought-after lecturer, sharing his vast knowledge and passion for music with audiences worldwide.
Karya Terindah
Established in 2017 through the initiative of the group’s co-founders, Adzhar bin Julaihi as Artistic Director and choreographer, Sharifah Pura binti Wan Hamid.
The organization provides opportunities for local artists, especially in Kuching Sarawak, to continue pursuing their passion in the art of dance. Karya Terindah Performing Arts is often selected to perform at arts and cultural events, official openings, and formal dinners organized by the Sarawak Government, federal authorities, private sectors, NGOs, and others, at both state and international levels.
KL Dance Works
KL Dance Works Sdn. Bhd., established in 2014, is an extension of the original Danceworks Production, founded in 1998. The company focuses on dance education, especially ballet, and aims to support young talents, stage performances, and international events. KL Dance Works is committed to helping promising dancers in Malaysia reach their potential and build careers in dance.
Previously known as Danceworks Production, this non-profit organization was founded by Malaysian dance enthusiasts to elevate the standard of dance in the country and also assist local charities. Since 1998, KL Dance Works has staged 13 productions and raised over RM700,000 for 33 local charities. The organization has annually collaborated with Istana Budaya Kuala Lumpur (except in 2016-2017 due to renovations) and partnered with the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Culture as well as various embassies from countries such as Japan, Australia, and China.
KL Dance Works’ productions often involve foreign guest artists from prominent ballet companies, along with Malaysian artists and students, facilitating cultural exchange and enriching the local dance community. The KL Dance Works Ballet Academy, offering Vaganova-based ballet training, aims to prepare students for professional dance careers. The academy emphasizes performance opportunities and international-level productions.
Notable productions include Carmen & Paquita (2010), Don Quixote (2011), La Bayadere (2015), and Giselle (2018). The company has also collaborated with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (Carmen in Dance, 2015) and the Selangor Symphony Youth Orchestra (Swan Lake, 2023). KL Dance Works hosts annual showcases and has expanded its activities through live streaming productions since 2020.
Students from the KL Dance Works Ballet Academy, such as Ling Jong Yi and Ryan Chai Zhi Xuen, have achieved notable successes in international ballet competitions, representing the academy at events like SIFMA 2024.
Kai Laird and Joyce Zhou (Kinderspiel Piano Duo)
Kai Laird (born 2013) is a young, multi-instrumental musician from Perth, Australia, proficient in piano, pipe organ, cello, and drums. He began piano lessons at four, first with his mother, Beverly Chan, and now studies with his father, Robert Wallace Laird. Kai also receives guidance from renowned teachers like Lee Yin Hwa (Malaysia) and Beate Toyka (England). He is the youngest scholarship recipient in the Young Organists program at St Mary’s Cathedral, Perth, under Jacinta Jakovcevic.
Kai has performed in various venues across Australia, Malaysia, and England and has won several international piano competitions, including First Prize at the Rising Talents of Asia and Oceania International Music Competition. He tours with his piano duet partner, Joyce Zhou, as part of the Kinderspiel Piano Duo and has received standing ovations for his performances.
Joyce Zhou (born 2013) is a pianist and flautist from Perth, Australia. She began learning piano at age five with Beverly Chan and now studies under Robert Wallace Laird. Joyce is also a member of the Flute Choir at the Western Australian Youth Orchestra (WAYO). She has performed locally and internationally and has won numerous piano competitions, including First Prize in the Malaysian International Piano Competition and the VII Valletta International Piano Competition in Malta.
Alongside Kai Laird, Joyce forms the Kinderspiel Piano Duo. The duo has performed across Western Australia, winning top prizes in multiple international competitions.
Robert Wallace Laird (born 1987) is a Scottish pianist, composer, and teacher. He began his music education in Scotland and earned a Bachelor of Music with Honours from Edinburgh Napier University. After moving to Perth, Australia, he founded a successful music school, where he teaches alongside his wife, Beverly Chan. Robert’s students have achieved international success, and he has performed at venues such as the University of Western Australia. He is also involved in self-publishing his music and home-schooling his children, Kai and Kenzie.
Gonzalo Noel Villanueva Misa
Gonzalo Noel Villanueva Misa, a guitarist with a Doctor of Philosophy in Music, Major in Music Performance (Guitar) from the Philippine Women’s University, has performed as a guest artist at the Saigon International Guitar Festival, Silpakorn International Guitar Festival, Manila Guitar Fest, Asia International Guitar Festival, Asian Youth Guitar Camp, and Southeast Asia Guitar Festival and Performance Awards, among others. He was also a prizewinner, earning second place in the Singapore 11th International Guitar Festival and Competition in 2013. Currently, he is a full-time instructor at Silliman University College of Performing and Visual Arts, teaching Music Theory, Music History, and Guitar.
Samuel Lin Tian
Samuel Lin Tian, born on April 11, 2007, is a talented young pianist from Indonesia with an impressive track record in music competitions. He began making his mark early, securing 3rd place in the Yamaha Music School AudioSen Piano Competition 2014 (Junior Fantasy category) and winning 1st place in the Yamaha Piano Competition (Category A, ages 6–8) at the music school level. His accomplishments continued with a 1st place win in the Aneka Musika Piano Competition 2016 (Advanced category) and another 1st place at the Yamaha Piano Competition Junior A Regional Level the same year. At the national level, Samuel achieved 3rd place in the Yamaha Piano Competition Junior A Category. In 2019, he clinched 1st prize in the ABRSM High Scorers’ Competition. Samuel has scored distinction in all his practical exams and is currently preparing for his ABRSM diploma. His consistent success reflects his dedication, skill, and passion for music.
Tee Jau Jer
Tee Jau Jer (age 13) started his journey in piano learning at age 3 and the violin learning at age 5. He is currently working on Diploma in both Piano & Violin.
Jau Jer has been actively participating in various music festivals and competitions both at local and international levels.
He just awarded Gold Prize(Young Artist Junior Category) in the Malaysia Piano Competition 2024 this October and advanced to the grand final round in November. Also, He awarded the 1st Prize in the MIA Young Musician Competition in July 2024; The Finalists of UCSI International Piano Competition in June 2024; The 1st Prize in the Malaysia Piano Competition 2023; The 1st Prize in the St. Petersburg International Piano Competition in February 2023 in Hong Kong and won multiple award at VIVACE International Piano Competition, Graceful Piano Competition, The VI International Liszt Ferenc Competition and more.
For Violin, he awarded both Gold Prize in Euroasia Strings Competition 2024, Young Artist Junior & Age Category this October and advanced to the grand finals in November and the 5th Prize in Thailand Strings Competition 2024 this October. He performed as part of the MPYO Opening Performance of MENARA MERDEKA 118 in January 2024 and the MPYO Strings in Harmony Concert showcase in December 2023 in Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS.
Jau Jer aspires to be a pianist and violinist, he has strong enthusiasm and passions; he aims to gain more experiences, hone his skills, and meet many more musicians. Other than the violin & piano, he plays other instruments like the marimba(Currently working on ABRSM grade 8) & acoustic guitar for leisure
