Jim Paredes
IRWIN CRUZ Talks To Pinoy dream academe headmaster and apo iegend about How he inspires the next generation
the first filipino pop act to perform at NyC’s Carnegie hall and among the first to record an album on Cd, hiking society’s anthem handog ng Pilipino sa mundo remains one of the most memorable pieces of music in Philippine history. as a member of the band, this singer and songwriter’s shining musical career has spanned over three decades and 26 albums. still performing for sold-out crowds, the music genius tells us what it means to be aPo and headmaster of Pinoy dream academy.
What is the secret to apo’s longevity, and how much does your frIendship wIth Danny Javier and Buboy garovillo factor in it?
Our mission is to make original music for this generation. We believe in something bigger than ourselves. Our friendship made it possible for us to enjoy doing the task together. We don’t have a contract that keeps us together – we just really like each other and realize that together, we have a powerful synergy that works.
Who make up your fans, and what draws them to apo?
Our fans have grown older with us. We’ve discovered that we have a wide fan base in terms of age and social status. I guess it’s because of the songs we have written through the years. Over 26 years, you’ve got to have listened to and liked at least one of our songs! With the release of the new tribute album Kami nAPO Muna, we see many young people again enjoying our concerts and records with their parents.
How do you feel about the trIbute album to apo?
I love it! The wilder the interpretation, the more it impresses me. I like the way the young kids have poured their energy and style into it, and really put their mark on it.
Bescribe the PhilIppIne music scene now. Are we eetering another golden age?
The scene is dominated by bands. They are young people who are experimental, rebellious and can be fun. I want them to be able to freely express themselves, yet strive for excellence and originality at the same time. This is quite possibly another mini-golden age for OPM right now. In five years, we will know.
What Is the most difficult thing about the job as headmaster of Pinoy dream academy (Pda)?
I like the kids a lot, and having to choose one over another to save during expulsion night is excruciating. I also have to teach them that as artists, they must know how to deal with rejection without losing faith in themselves.
I visit the academy as often as I can. I hold classes on Mondays and Wednesdays, but I listen to rehearsals and make myself available for consultations with students and teachers, emergencies or special moments when I see opportunities for learning – for them and myself.
What qualities make an ideal pda scholar?
The ideal scholar is talented, professional and has mass appeal. I am hoping the graduates will be equipped enough to immediately handle themselves as professionals after their term in the academy.
My dream is to produce a batch that not only behaves and delivers professionally, but will also be wise enough to know their way around the crazy world of showbiz. I hope their stint at the academy will make them better versions of themselves as artists and as people with the right winning attitudes: persistence, striving for excellence, humility and passion.
What is the most unforgettable place that you have visited in the philippines?
I’ve had so many memorable ones. Davao is special in many ways. It has mountains, beaches and is a blend of many cultures. I also have relatives and friends there. But I must also mention Baguio. I had my honeymoon there, and have spent many happy moments there with my family.
Which provinces offer the best music or have the best singers?
I would have to say it’s probably Cebu for the singers, and Manila for the music
Have you guys actually hiked up monnt apo?
I was going to when I turned 40, but never got around to it. I couldn’t find anyone interested enough to go. I would still like to do it one of these days.
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