Sylvia La Torre, the so-called Queen of Kundiman and the First Lady of Philippine Television, has passed away.
Sylvia’s granddaughter, Filipino-American singer-actress Anna Maria Perez de Tagle, confirmed her grandmother’s dėath in California on Thursday, December 1, 2022.
She is 89.
Anna stated, “RIP to my grandmother, Ms. Sylvia La Torre Perez de Tagle.
“First Lady of Philippine Television, Queen of Kundiman and Tandang Sora Awardee, devoted wife of Dr. Celso Perez de Tagle, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, caring auntie, and affectionate friend, died peacefully in her sleep on December 1st at 7:02 am.
“At the time of her death, she was with her husband of 68 years and her children, Artie, Bernie and Che-Che.
“My grandmother was my first inspiration when it came to singing and acting. She was my first vocal coach and taught me all of her kundimans. Thank you for passing on your love of music to me and I will surely continue your legacy.
“Gone too soon but always in our hearts. Your song has ended but your melody will linger on. Love you Mama Cita.”
Some of the memorable songs Sylvia made famous in the 1950s include “Sa Kabukirin,” “Galawgaw,” and “Waray Waray.”
Sylvia also performed the immortal “Maalaala Mo Kaya.”
Sylvia’s clear singing voice is classified as coloratura soprano, a type of operatic soprano voice distinguished by agile runs and leaps attrills.
Dr. Celso Perez de Tagle and Sylvia La Torres
Sylvia is the daughter of actress Leonora Reyes and Sampaguita Pictures director Olive La Torre.
Sylvia entered and won a singing competition in Manila when she was five years old.
When he was seven years old, he made his acting debut in Sampaguita Pictures’ 1941 film Ang Maestra.
Sylvia was born into a musical family and graduated with a music major in voice and a minor in piano from the University of St. Thomas.
Tang Tarang Tang and Oras ng Ligaya were two of Sylvia’s popular TV shows during her career.
Sylvia’s final project was the 1997 film Biyudo si Mommy, Biyudo si Daddy, starring Vic Sotto and Coney Reyes.
She chose to relocate her entire family to America.
