“Today, we celebrate the harmonious union of tradition and innovation as this exceptional music instrument is at the heart of our esteemed institution,” Dr. Maria Kathleen Tiglao, the Director of the Institutional Advancement Division, said in her opening remarks during the Unveiling Ceremony of the San Beda College Alabang (SBCA) Pipe Organ and Concerto Prelude last Feb. 12 at the Fr. Roberto De Jesus Auditorium.

The audience was composed of administrators, faculty, students from the Tertiary Schools, esteemed guests, and the relatives of the performers. The attendees spared no expense as the event had free admission. 

The unveiling showcased enchanting performances from Prof. Armando V. Salazara, an international concert organist; Dcn. Dom Eugiom Labrague, OSB, a solemn Professed monk of the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat Manila; Darren Vega, a prominent composer-arranger and conductor based in Los Banos, Laguna; Coro San Benedetto, the official choir of SBCA; and the Saxum Children’s Chorus with their choirmaster, Dr. Abby De Leon.

The pipe organ was introduced in Rome during the 17th century to improve the congregation's singing. By the 13th century, it was used within churches and was deeply involved in the musical and liturgical traditions of the church. The Second Vatican Council stated, “The pipe organ adds a wonderful splendor to the church's ceremonies and powerfully lifts man’s minds to God and higher things.” 

The James Jepson (J.J) Binns pipe organ is in the Fr. Roberto De Jesus Auditorium, while the Johannes Klains pipe organ is in the St. Benedict Chapel. The organs were restored faithfully in their new homes at SBCA by the world-renowned Diego Cera Organ-Builders, Inc. “Their presence here at the San Beda College Alabang Center for Performing Arts and the St. Benedict Chapel is more than just an acquisition; it’s a testament to the power of music to uplift the soul and connect us to something far greater than ourselves,” said Rev. Fr. Gerardo Ma. De Villa, OSB, in his speech after the blessing of the J.J. Binns pipe organ. “They are vessels of divine expression,” he added.

As the SBCA Pipe Organs have been restored, this gives the opportunity for chorale and liturgical accompaniment to celebrate artistry while still tapping into one’s spiritual expression and devotion.