Opera Belles debuts with pop, classic medley

BRINGING a new sound to the Filipino music scene, the Opera Belles are taking the stage to reinvigorate the Filipino pop sensation with a fusion of classical tones. The new lineup is composed of Sheena Bentoy, Nicolah Lim and Daniella Silab. Although coming from various fields — Bentoy and Silab in various stage performances and Lim in choir singing — the group came together to share their passion for singing. "We mix the sound of powerful vocals with relatable themes, which makes it much more engaging and relatable for everyone," Lim said. This new girl group aims to reconnect classical music and introduce opera to the young audience, who often connotates this genre as "boring" "We really would like to share a new genre — well, I guess there's been these sorts of genre before, but we wanted to elevate it more. We want to make it more different and open, so that the new generation will be encouraged to listen to classical music more," Bentoy said. "Nowadays, there are a lot of musical groups in the Philippines, but we are not taking the same path as them by incorporating pop with classical music; so, I think our group is a fresh take on everything," Silab said. Their debut single, "In the mood," reflects the energy and personality of the Opera Belles. It has an upbeat and modern sound that is commonly heard in pop songs, blending in with the solemn tunes of classical melodies. "It's 'in the mood,' and we are moving together and having fun. We like to think of it as a girls' night out," Nicola said.Their debut track will be released on March 14, with the official music video being released a week after. According to Philippine Opera Company Founder and Artistic Director Karla Gutierrez, the Philippine Opera Company created the Opera Belles to encourage people to have a wide perspective on new genres. "We're also trying to educate the kids — the younger generation — to have your own voice. Look for that voice and create your own identity," she said. The Opera Belles are managed by The Philippine Opera Company.