MANILA, Philippines - It certainly was a pleasure to hear again the fine pianism of Carmencita Sipin-Aspiras. The venue was the Palo Arts Center, California, an intimate hall perfect for solo recitals.

The recital was Aspiras? seventh. She has gotten quite a sizable following among Americans and Filipinos who are awed by her sensitive playing.

The recital was held in memory of Philippine-born American, Sally Valente Kreisler, a long-time president of Neighbors Abroad, the concert sponsor. It is an organization that promotes international and intercultural understanding. The late Kreisler was credited for promoting cultural events of Filipino and American artists.

The audience marveled at Aspiras? clear and luminous tones. She displayed the confidence of a seasoned performer. Cool, she played without choreographic bravura, the sound she carved out enough to define a musical idea and taste.

At once, the pianist proved her undiminished capability. Élan wrapped her playing, which she delivered with solid dispatch, vividly delineating each section.

The varied moods of Brahms? Eight Piano Pieces, Op. 76 were excellently etched. She was glorious in Capriccio (No.8), which ended her playing literally with a bang.

All the seven pieces were notably rendered. The warmth of a murmur of the Intermezzo (No.4) reminded that one was in Palo Alto spring, serene (Intermezzo, No. 3) and magical (Capriccio, No.2).

Gershwin?s Three Preludes was a veritable tour de force. The rendition was vibrant, bringing out catchy melodic lines and dynamic jazz rhythm that produced a jovial mood.

In the final number?five preludes culled from Rachmaninoff?s Twenty Four Preludes?Aspiras was an infectious romantic. She brought out the haunting melodies with finesse. The melodic lines were clear, and the embellishments enhancing rather than overpowering.

First played was No.12, whose inherent charm has made it so popular, followed by number 4, 7, 6 and capped jubilantly by No. 2.

Backstage, Ms. Aspiras quipped humbly, ?Tumatanda na tayo, [We are getting old].? Her playing belied her words. She is still full of energy.

Aspiras was a sought-after pianist in Manila before she emigrated to the US. She took her graduate education at the Vienna Academy of Music, now the Vienna Music University. She has performed in Europe and the US.

In the cocktails that followed, Aspiras greeted her Filipino and American well-wishers.

?The Racelis sisters, Maggie, a dentist, Jidesse and Susie, saw to it that I would not miss the concert, and, therefore, drove me to the venue. To them my sincerest thanks.?