CKS College alumnus Jet Stephen C. Chong captivated audiences with his remarkable artistry during the “Evening of Chamber Music” concert held on July 25, 2026, at the Varlez Pianos Showroom in Greenhills, San Juan City.

As the featured pianist of the evening, Chong delivered an exceptional performance alongside violinist Emanuel John Villarin and cellist Damodar del Castillo. The trio showcased outstanding musical synergy as they performed a diverse repertoire of technically demanding classical and contemporary chamber music works.

The concert opened with Anton Dvořák’s Piano Trio No. 4 in E Minor, Op. 90 “Dumky”, in which Chong masterfully conveyed the work’s striking contrasts between melancholy and exuberance. Following the intermission, he performed the second movement (Andante con moto) of Franz Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 2 in E-flat Major, D. 928, demonstrating refined musical sensitivity and expressive depth.

One of the evening’s highlights was the trio’s stirring interpretation of Astor Piazzolla’s Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas (The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires). Supported by the dynamic collaboration of his fellow musicians, Chong vividly brought the passionate rhythms of Argentine tango to life, seamlessly guiding the audience from the sultry atmosphere of “Summer” to the hopeful spirit of “Spring,” earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Chong’s musical journey has deep roots at CKS College, where he completed his elementary education. He later earned a scholarship to attend the Philippine High School for the Arts for his junior high school studies before returning to CKS College to complete his senior high school education, graduating with distinction in 2019.

Building upon the strong educational foundation he received, Chong was awarded a full scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Music with Honours in Piano Performance at the prestigious Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music in Singapore. He subsequently earned a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University in the United States, where he also served as an Associate Instructor in the Secondary Piano Program. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Georgia, while serving as an Interdisciplinary Arts Graduate Assistant and teaching at the UGA Community Music School.

The concert was made even more meaningful by the presence of representatives from Chong’s alma mater and the mentors who played significant roles in his musical development. Among those in attendance were CKS College President Dr. Judelio Yap, former Director of the School of Music Mrs. Emilia Tan, his first piano teacher and fellow CKS alumnus Mr. Anthony Yu Say,  who laid the foundation of his musical training, and Mr. Enrico Amante, current faculty member of the CKS College Music and Arts Center. Their attendance reflected the enduring bond between the school and its distinguished alumni and celebrated Chong’s continued artistic growth.

The concert was organized by the Cultural Arts Foundation Organizer (CAFO) in partnership with Varlez Pianos and 98.7 DZFE FM, providing music enthusiasts with an intimate and elegant setting to experience Chong’s exceptional musicianship up close.

Although Chong is currently pursuing doctoral studies in the United States and actively building an international career as a pianist, he remains deeply connected to his homeland and his alma mater. His return to the Philippines for this special performance not only showcased his continued artistic excellence but also filled the CKS College community and his former mentors with immense pride and admiration.