Filipino-American artist Tiana Kocher is co-hosting a music camp in Manila, alongside fellow artist Kiana V., titled Building Bridges Manila. Said event features 10 Filipino-American creatives as they collaborate with prominent Filipino artists like James Reid, Ace Banzuelo, Clara Benin, Paolo Sandejas, Jolianne, Kai Buzon, and dwta.
In an interview with Tiana, the singer-songwriter shared what excites her the most about this endeavor. “One of the things that excites me the most is to be able to bring in Fil-Am talent to the Philippines. For a few of the Fil-Ams that are coming in for this camp, it’s going to be their first time in the Philippines. It’s going to be such a great way to connect with their roots and what better way to do it than through music. We have lots of really fun things planned for the week like cultural trips and different tours for the talent to connect with their motherland and I’m really excited to be able to be a cohost for the inaugural Building Bridges initiative,” she said.
WATCH: Tiana Kocher talks music and embracing her Filipino roots | PUSH Bets
The camp, organized by Mono Stereo Groove in partnership with Sony Music Philippines, is scheduled from January 20 to January 24, 2025. It takes place at Wild Grass Recording Studio where the participants will work on creating music in collaboration with Filipino talents. These participants include songwriters and producers who have worked with international acts such as BTS, Black Eyed Peas, Missy Elliott, Lizzo, Syd, and more.
What does it mean for Tiana to take part in an activity like this? “It’s a bit cliché but it definitely means a lot for me to be able to do this for my home country. Again, I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this year’s camp and to work closely with Rose from Mono Stereo Groove to bring this project to life,” she said, referring to Rosemarie Tan, the founder of Mono Stereo Groove.
“As you know Filipinos are some, if not one of the most talented people in the world, and to be able to bring talent from the US to work with local artists is really such a big deal for all parties involved. I’m grateful for Sony for also seeing what we have to offer and we are so ready to make hits,” she added.
When asked about her thoughts on the recognition that Filipino artists are getting in the global music scene, Tiana talked about advocating for Filipino talent. She said, “It’s a great and it’s about time that Filipino talent is recognized on a global scale. I am really looking forward to seeing how far Filipino talent can go within the next year and I am grateful to play a small role in that. I will always be an advocate for Filipino talent and will strive to do my best to help spread the word and show the world what the Philippines has to offer.”
The granddaughter of political figure Juan Ponce Enrile also gave a piece of advice for aspiring artists. “You know, we all started from nothing when it comes to music so my suggestion is to keep going because you never know who’s going to come across your work,” she said.