Profiles: Tots Tolentino

Forget the writer of that disturbing Business World press item. Forget the purveyors of all those dizzying talks about mergers, buy-ins and but-outs. And please forget Leo Echegaray or whoever is next in line.

It's time to focus our attention and put the limelight on someone who is definitely as newsworthy as all of the above, but not as intimidating, confusing, and uh…well, lethal. I'm talking about Tots Tolentino, A solo artist on MildSeven Promotional tour in 1990, Bobby Enriquez, The Master in Concert in 1991, Bobby Enriquez, Provincial tour in 1992, Filipino Artist Series, CCP in 1992-1996, Interpeople Conference, Osaka, Japan 1993, Appeared at Sky Lounge, Diamond, Captain's Bar, Manila Mandarin Hotel, Conway"s Shangrila Manila Hotel, Music Hall, Music Museum and Kiko's Music Bar, the man is charmer on the music floor.

Born on July 2 1959, studied flute under the tutelage of Prof. Eric Barcelo at U.P. Conservatory of music (1977-1978) . Continued studies on soprano, alto and tenor saxophones under Joseph Viola at Berklee College of Music, Boston, Mass. USA (1980-1982). Graduated Magna Cum Laude, Professional Music, Berklee College of Music (1982), Worked as session musician for almost every major artist on the Philippine concert scene from 1984-1990. Started a solo career in 1990, releasing three albums, Tots Tolentino, (1990, Vicor Music Corporation, Gold record award given on July 1992), Inah (1991) Vicor- Best Jazz Recording - 1991 Awit Awards) and Color Real (1993, Dyna) .

Presently pursuing a solo career here and abroad. Being a member of the Asian Jazz All- Stars, he has toured the US and Asia.

At the rate: Tot's career is blossoming here and abroad, yes! he's so KAKA (inggit?)