Ascension is a first collaboration between Toronto composers Onofrio Virdo and Rodney Ronquillo. Both men are accomplished in their own music careers. The songs are all inspired by our Lord, who is the true creator of all music and art. We realized that there are many of us who are seeking peace, consolation, inspiration and hope in a world that is challenged with fear, stress and despair. Through music, we believe that all these can transform to courage, love, faith and hope. Ascension was the title we chose, in dedication to Jesus Christ's ascent to heaven on his last meeting with the Apostles. It is a reminder that he and his love for all humanity will always remain with us, until the end of time. Each song in this album is based on that inspiration. Throughout each piece, there is a growth from the classics to the modern, yet still grounded in the foundation of Christ's teachings. This was our first attempt to take risks and experiment, to trust in the Lord and also each other in the process. We wanted to do something that we have never done before in both our musical careers and discover new horizons. Imagine an inspiration classical guitar piece that is set to orchestra, to r n'b, or even pop. It has been a rewarding and inspiring journey. We are also fortunate to have our wives as special guest singers, Sally Hines and Chyrell Samson, on a song entitled "True Friend". It is our hope that the songs in this album serve as inspiration and bring you closer to God, regardless of where you are in your life. ONOFRIO'S BIO --------------- Onofrio Virdo was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. His journey with music began at the age of 13. A major influence of the style of music he plays comes from his passion for classical and jazz guitar. Music to Onofrio is not only notes, but has become a way of expressing his thanks for this gift of music to our savior, Jesus Christ. RODNEY'S BIO -------------- Rodney Ronquillo sings, plays piano, songwrites, composes, arranges, directs and produces music. He has been playing piano since the age of 4, but his musical journey began at the age of 12. He has produced over 14 albums internationally and has had his music played in radio stations in Europe, the Caribbean, Philippines, USA and Canada. He also worked on the sound effects for the 90′s sci-fi thriller, Johnny Nemonic, featuring Keannu Reves and Dennis Akiyama. He was also part of a praise and worship band, both as a keyboardist and on mere occassions, as a singer. Some of the music he produces today is influenced heavily by music from Hillsongs, Stephen Curtis Chapman and many other Christian Artists. Rodney gives thanks and praise to God for all the blessings in his life. Guitar: Onofrio Virdo Keyboards: Rodney Ronquillo Arrangements: Rodney Ronquillo & Onofrio virdo Orchestral Arrangements: Rodney Ronquillo Mastering: Didac Corbi Produced by Rodney Ronquillo Cover Art Design: Rodney Ronquillo Featuring Sally Hines Virdo and Chyrell Samson