Most parents remember the early days of the pandemic as a time of uncertainty. For one Filipino family, however, a routine visit to a warehouse store in 2020 unexpectedly sparked a musical journey that would soon take their son to some of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. That young pianist is 8-year-old Xavier, a prodigy whose fingers now glide across grand pianos in places like New York and Italy—but it all started with curiosity and a simple display at Costco.
A discovery that changed everything
Xavier was only four years old when his family noticed something special. “He actually learned how to read at the age of two,” his mother, Shela Rea Ambatali, shared with TGFM. But it was the day they visited a piano setup by Music Exchange that unlocked a new passion. “Xavier sat down at one of the pianos and just started playing,” she recalled. “When it was time to leave, he cried so hard because he didn’t want to go.” Although they couldn’t afford the showroom model, they brought home the most affordable keyboard they could find. That moment marked the beginning of what has now become a globally recognized musical journey.
Stepping onto the world stage
Now in Italy for the renowned Perugia Music Festival, Xavier had the extraordinary honor of opening the festival’s marathon recital and later performing a solo piano piece with a full orchestra during concerto night. “It was a truly emotional and unforgettable experience for our family,” Shela said. Earlier this year, Xavier was also awarded First Prize at the Charleston International Music Competition and named a winner at the Golden Classical Music Awards, leading to a performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
These milestones hold even deeper meaning for Xavier’s parents, who remember the health struggles he faced as a newborn. “Xavier was a very sick baby when he was born,” Shela said. “To see him not only survive but thrive and perform on some of the world’s most prestigious stages—it’s nothing short of a miracle. We give all glory to God for carrying us through.”
A family effort, a Filipino pride
Balancing school, practice, and performances across the globe is no small feat—especially with two working parents. “His dad is a full-time Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner, and I’m an ER nurse,” said Shela. “It definitely takes a lot of juggling, planning, and sacrifice. But we make it work.” She credits their success to teamwork and the deep commitment they have to both their children’s dreams and Filipino values.
Representing the Filipino community on international platforms is something the family cherishes deeply. “We weren’t born into privilege—we worked hard for every opportunity we have,” Shela shared. “To stand on international stages and carry the Filipino name with pride is deeply humbling.”
Her message to fellow Filipino parents? “Believe in your child’s potential, no matter how big their dreams may seem. We may not always have the best resources, but what matters most is the heart we put into raising our children.”
