About Donnie
Born in the Philippines, Mrs. Belleza, known as Donnie, began her career as a concert violinist at a young age. At the age of 8, Donnie won first prize for solo instrument in the Philippine's National Music Competition. By the age of 10, Imelda Marcos, then the First Lady of the Philippines, had begun calling her the "Little Vivaldi."
On one occasion, Donnie was summoned to the Presidential Palace to perform for the world renowned pianist Van Cliburn. When Donnie finished playing, the celebrated pianist took her small hand in his and kissed her fingers. Shortly afterward, Donnie traveled to the United States and auditioned to attend Juilliard's Pre-College Division. She later earned both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from The Juilliard School.
On one occasion, Donnie was summoned to the Presidential Palace to perform for the world renowned pianist Van Cliburn. When Donnie finished playing, the celebrated pianist took her small hand in his and kissed her fingers. Shortly afterward, Donnie traveled to the United States and auditioned to attend Juilliard's Pre-College Division. She later earned both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from The Juilliard School.
Toward the end of her life, even as she struggled with cancer, she continued to charm audiences with her violin, from presidents and prime ministers to the wider American public. In the photo here, Donnie is in the front row, beside Mrs. Bush, during a performance by the U.S. Army Strings.
Her last public appearance was in November 2010, when she performed as part of the U.S. Army Strings at Lincoln Center. Donnie passed away on Jan. 5, 2011.
To watch a video about the U.S. Army Band, click on the play button below.
Her last public appearance was in November 2010, when she performed as part of the U.S. Army Strings at Lincoln Center. Donnie passed away on Jan. 5, 2011.
To watch a video about the U.S. Army Band, click on the play button below.
