Ministry of Culture pays tribute to Dominican parents with artistic merits

The event took place at the National Theater, prior to a concert offered by the National Youth Symphony Orchestra

Santo Domingo.– As part of a memorable day, the Ministry of Culture (MINC) paid tribute to five fathers distinguished by their admirable career in the arts, whose lives and works have left a deep mark on Dominican culture.

The recognition took place within the framework of a special night, which included a concert offered by the National Youth Symphony Orchestra on the occasion of its relaunch, an initiative that the MINC and the Filarmonía Foundation have developed jointly. The ceremony, led by the Minister of Culture, Roberto Ángel Salcedo, took place on Saturday night in the Carlos Piantini hall of the National Theater and also included the presence of the Vice Minister of Creativity and Artistic Training, Amaury Sánchez. The ceremony began with the presentation of awards to Augusto Feria, Edilio Paredes, Frank Lendor, Freddie Cabral, and Francisco “Cuqui” Batista, five personalities whose careers combine artistic excellence with deep family commitment. Master Augusto Feria, actor, playwright, and cultural manager, was recognized for his intense stage work and for his defense of Dominican theater as a tool for identity and memory. His role as a father and guide stands out for his commitment to artistic truth and the training of new generations. From the world of visual arts, Freddie Cabral was honored for his sculptural legacy, his generous spirit as a teacher, and his contribution to art education. His family life, shared with his wife and cultural project partner, has been a demonstration of coherence between creation, love, and community. For his part, Frank Lendor, an emblematic figure of national lyricism, was highlighted not only for his powerful bass-baritone voice and his defense of Dominican classical music, but also for having instilled in his home the same values that he projected on stage: sensitivity, discipline and love for the authentic. The legendary guitarist Edilio Paredes, a pioneer of the bachata sound, was honored as a shaper of a musical tradition and as the father of three musicians who continue his legacy. His figure symbolizes the living transmission of art as heritage and vocation. Finally, Francisco “Cuqui” Batista, dean of Dominican architecture, was celebrated for his urban sensibility, his humanist vision of public space, and his exemplary family dedication. At one hundred years old, he continues to be a reference for creativity, ethics, and perseverance. The tribute to these outstanding artist fathers took place prior to the gala that marked the beginning of a new stage for the National Youth Symphony Orchestra and the National Program of Youth and Children’s Orchestras, Bands and Choirs, an effort articulated by the Ministry of Culture in alliance with the Philharmonia Foundation. With this joint action, both institutions reaffirm their commitment to musical excellence and the training of new generations of artists.