[Hear The Curator Mixtape here]
This month, hear our curator mixtape courtesy of Dominique in Sofar Makati, the Philippines. The dynamic curator’s been with Sofar for just about a year and is working hard to bring more and more young emerging Filipino artists to the stage. Hear the playlist, and hear a little more from Dominique.
Do you have a creative outlet outside Sofar?
I enjoy taking photos, exploring reels and editing videos, [and] writing in my journals, calendar, and notes. It’s a non-negotiable practice of writing what I’m thankful for or a memory highlight that day, week or month. It could just be a word of bullet points or sentence. It’s kind of my way of also getting ready for the week.
What drew you to curating shows?
My love for music and for Filipino artists to be represented locally and globally. Many Filipino-Americans or Filipino descents [like] Bruno Mars, Olivia Rodrigo, Steve Lacy, HER, Saweetie, beabadoobee, Bella Poarch are being recognized for their music. [This] made me think [about the] raw music talents working to be seen, heard, and supported.
We definitely believe that the creative industry is one of our strengths as a nation so hopefully, through Sofar we’ll make an impact. We look forward to transforming safe spaces where people can get closer to the music, [the] city, and each other. Being with people in one space who also love music is just a different energy altogether.
What’s something special about your city only locals might know?
Makati might be known as a financial center of the Philippines, but going to Saturday and Sunday markets is a good way to experience the diverse culture of the city.
Poblacion is an exciting place right now with a lot of small businesses opening. There’s something special happening with new restos, speakeasy bars, live events and startups choosing to have offices in that area.
Thoughts on a couple standout tracks from the curator mixtape?
Josh Garrels | “Always Be”
A constant in my personal playlist since 2020. It’s just so calming and peaceful. Only international song in the playlist. Most of the songs included in this playlist came from Gen-Z and millennials, [which] speaks so much of our young dynamic population. There seems to be a new wave of OPM (Original Pilipino Music) happening, and I’m here for it.
Ready to host a live music event? See details on how to get involved.
Looking to see a show in Sofar Makati or near you? Discover concerts near you.
Words by Sofar Editorial Team
