Mangaluru: A symphony of violins by the nine siblings aged between three and eighteen mesmerised the audience to the western classicals Sitz, Donkey Doddle and Jimmy Fiddles.
This is a story of the family of Dr. Gerard Abreo and Nicole Abreo and their nine children settled in Texas, America. Natives of Mangaluru, the family is now settled in Texas. Dr. Gerald Abreo is a cardiologist by profession. All nine children-Michael (18), Daniel (17), Christine (15), Maria (13), Jane (11), Rachel (9), John (7), Luke (5), and Joseph (3) are expert violinists. Music is a legacy passed on to them by their maternal grandfather Gerald Lobo and granduncle FM Lobo and their mother Nicole, a graduate in music and also a violinist and music teacher. Except, Joseph who is three years old, the rest of the siblings can play piano but their first preference is violin. The family also performs orchestra in amphitheatres and give concerts during special occasions in Texas.
Gerard Abreo while pursuing education in Bengaluru in the 90’s used to play drums while his elder brother played guitar and his other two siblings were into tambourine and piano. While studying medicine, Gerard was part of a band called “Medicine Mann.” Later he married Nicole in 1997.
Dr. Gerard Abreo, speaking to media said,“Music helps to develop the non-dominant part of brain. Music should be encouraged in every family. Music helps you to think better and study well. It helps to inculcate perseverance, endurance and discipline in life.”
He also said that human life is more important than materialistic world.
When asked whether it would not be an economic burden to look after 9 children, Gerard Abreo said that all of them were covered under the Texas 529 College Saving Plan. This will benefit their education and financial savings are being done since every child was in the womb, he added. “Suggestion by the doctors to have fewer children is erroneous and a myth. They should not do so. If God is willing have more children”, he answered!
The short demo orchestra programme was held at HAMSMART 4th Floor City Center Mall, Mangaluru.
Maurice D’Sa managing director of HAMSMART, Sylvia D’Sa and others were present.
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