When I first interviewed Frenvee Andra in 2022, he was a bassoonist with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO). Today, he has risen to become principal bassoonist of the PPO while also serving as resident trainer and conductor of the Lasallian Youth Orchestra (LYO). His journey reflects not only his growth as a professional musician but also his commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. In our recent conversation, we looked back at the milestones that have shaped his career since 2022, the challenges of balancing his responsibilities as a performer, conductor and mentor, and the lessons he hopes to impart to his students. “One of the biggest highlights for me was the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra’s UK tour in 2025, where I had the privilege of performing as principal bassoon. It was a memorable experience to represent Filipino musicians on an international stage and to share our music with audiences abroad. Experiences like these remind me that no matter how long you have been in the profession, there is always something new to learn and a higher level of artistry to aspire to. “Another important part of my journey has been my work with the Lasallian Youth Orchestra, particularly our Forte 2025 and Forte 2026 concert productions. These performances are very special to me because they allow us to showcase the talents, hard work and individuality of our young musicians. It is not just about putting up a show; it is about giving our students the opportunity to shine, take on challenges and discover what they are capable of achieving. Seeing them grow in confidence and perform music they can truly be proud of is one of the most rewarding parts of the work.” These two experiences have influenced Frenvee’s creative work in different ways. The PPO’s UK tour challenged him as a professional orchestral musician, while his continuing work with the LYO has pushed him to become more creative as a conductor, musical director and mentor. His sons’ musical journeys have also inspired him. Franz Andra, a Cultural Center of the Philippines scholar, is studying in Valencia, Spain, and is set to join a clarinet competition in Carlino, Italy. His other son, Francis Johann Andra, is a voice scholar at the Philippine High School for the Arts. As both a father and a musician, Frenvee sees their pursuit of artistic dreams as a reminder of the importance of nurturing talent and providing the next generation with opportunities to grow. Balancing his various responsibilities requires discipline, time management and commitment. As principal bassoonist of the PPO, he must maintain a high level of musicianship and preparation. “Performing with the PPO requires focus, discipline and a constant desire to grow as a musician,” he said. His work with the LYO and the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth, however, calls for a different set of skills. “As a performer, I focus on my own instrument and contribute to the orchestra. But as a conductor and mentor, I have to look at the bigger picture, understand the music as a whole, guide the musicians and help them discover their own potential. “These responsibilities complement each other. Being a professional orchestral musician helps me become a better conductor, while teaching and conducting young musicians remind me of the importance of patience, communication and keeping the joy of music alive.” For Frenvee, the challenge is not simply about wearing many hats but about giving his best to every responsibility entrusted to him. He shares this principle with his students: “When you love what you do, work becomes more meaningful because you know you are doing it not only for yourself but also for the people you inspire along the way.” This sense of responsibility toward others is also what drew him to his role as resident trainer and conductor of the LYO. Through his work with the PPO, he has seen how music can shape a person’s discipline, character and outlook on life. He hopes to pass on the experiences and lessons he has gained throughout his musical journey. The LYO holds a special place in his work because its members come from different backgrounds and have varied interests and aspirations. Not all of them will pursue music professionally, and Frenvee understands that. What matters to him is that their experience in the orchestra prepares them for whichever path they eventually choose. “Through music, they learn discipline, teamwork, patience, responsibility and the importance of working toward a common goal. These are values that will serve them well long after their time in the orchestra.” He also encourages his students to attend PPO concerts so they can experience orchestral music firsthand, appreciate the dedication of professional musicians and understand the value of pursuing excellence in whatever they do. “Beyond performances and rehearsals, I hope to serve as a father figure to these young musicians — someone who can guide them, encourage them and remind them that their dreams and ambitions matter. I want them to know that they can always learn something from music, even if they eventually choose a different career. “Being their conductor is not just about teaching them to play together. It is about helping them grow as individuals, building their confidence and giving them experiences and values that they can carry with them throughout their lives. If years from now they look back at their time with the LYO and realize that being part of the orchestra helped shape the people they have become, then I know I have done something meaningful.” At the heart of his approach to teaching is a guiding principle that he hopes his students will carry with them throughout their lives. “Always remain humble, always be grateful and always consider yourself an eternal student,” he said. “Always look back with gratitude, live in the present with humility and move forward with a willingness to keep learning.” This philosophy also informs how he recognizes potential among the young musicians under his guidance. For Frenvee, talent alone does not determine a student’s prospects. He considers musical ability, sense of rhythm and learning skills, along with a student’s attitude, discipline and willingness to improve. A student may already be a strong player, but determination matters just as much. He looks for those who listen carefully, accept corrections and persevere even when the music becomes difficult. The LYO’s training also extends beyond individual musicianship. Senior members and section leaders mentor younger players, creating a culture in which learning is shared and experienced musicians understand their responsibility to the next generation. Students also learn how to organize and manage the orchestra, work behind the scenes and contribute to productions. While some discover their strengths as performers, others build confidence through leadership, organization or production work. Frenvee does not give special treatment to particular students. Instead, he offers encouragement, instills discipline and makes himself available to those who need someone to talk to. For him, the orchestra’s success cannot be measured solely by the quality of its performances. Equally important is how much the students grow, learn to support one another and eventually become mentors and leaders themselves. Looking five years ahead, Frenvee hopes to continue developing as a professional musician with the PPO while pursuing more opportunities to conduct, collaborate and train young musicians. One of his goals is to revive the General Trias Youth Symphonic Band, which would give young musicians a place to train, perform and discover opportunities in music. He also wants to establish the GenTri Big Band, providing another avenue for musicians to explore jazz, improvisation, ensemble playing and a different musical tradition. With the LYO, he hopes to help the orchestra reach greater heights. Its plans include participating in an international orchestra festival in 2027 and preparing for a major Forte concert that will showcase its musicians. He will also continue supporting the musical pursuits of his sons, Franz and Francis Johann, as they develop their own artistic paths. Ultimately, Frenvee’s ambitions extend beyond his own performances and career milestones. He hopes to build opportunities and institutions that will allow future generations to continue learning and making music. “I want to leave something meaningful behind, not just performances or concerts, but musical institutions, opportunities and young people who will continue this work long after I have stepped away from the podium. For me, that would be the legacy worth working for.” *** We are proud of all your achievements Frenvee and we know all your musical aspirations will succeed. Bravo! For more information about the Lasallian Youth Orchestra, follow its official channels and those of De La Salle University.
The Manila Times
Original source
