Donna Rubio’s journey of faith, music, and purpose

by Oscar Pantaleon Jr.

Six degrees of separation perfectly illustrates how Donna Bautista Rubio’s path and mine eventually crossed. My time as Secretary General of the Philippine Choral Directors Association from 2009 to 2014 connected me with many outstanding choir leaders, including Joel Boragay, conductor of the Anima Christi Chorale in Lucena City. Through him, I became acquainted with Zscharmaine Barretto, a former member of ACC who later moved to Toronto with her husband, Mark Hipona, a percussion major at the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music. Mark, in turn, had been schoolmates at the UST Conservatory with Rafael Rubio, a trumpet player who came to Winnipeg to pursue further studies at the Desautels Faculty of Music at the University of Manitoba. Rafael was eventually joined here by his wife, Donna, bringing me to the talented pianist and music director whose story from the Philippines to Canada is nothing short of inspiring.

For Donna, life as a newcomer in Canada was filled with uncertainty. She arrived in Winnipeg in December 2022, prepared to set aside her career as a musician if necessary. However, she trusted the process, believing she would be led to where she was meant to be. Life had other plans though, and soon, she found herself doing what she loved most – making music.

“Life has a funny way of bringing you ‘home,’ so, never say never,” she reflected. Donna thanks her choirmates at St. Mary’s Cathedral for making her transition easier. Their kindness and encouragement warmed her heart and reminded her that the bayanihan spirit is alive within the Filipino community in Winnipeg. Inspired by their support, she made it her mission to pay it forward.

Her role at St. Mary’s Cathedral began as a receptionist, but it quickly became evident that her musical and management accounting background made her a perfect fit for a more significant and integral role. She now serves as both music director and administrative assistant, balancing day-to-day operations with her responsibilities as choir conductor, cantor, and organist.

“It’s physically demanding, but that’s what keeps me going. It’s very fulfilling,” she shared. She credits Fr. Geoffrey Angeles, the rector of St. Mary’s Cathedral, for paving the way for her career as a church musician here in Winnipeg. “He guides you and makes sure you thrive. The work environment is motivating, and the work culture is very nurturing,” she added.

As music director, Donna exercises her musical judgment in programming to support weekly liturgies, ensuring that every song enhances the prayerful atmosphere of the mass. Having trained in classical music, musical theatre, and collaborative performance, she has found profound purpose in using her talents to help others pray through music.

“I like to be in the background, but I’m still leading the music. People are counting on you. I don’t take that for granted,” she said. Her time at UST taught her the importance of collaboration – a lesson that has become more relevant in her role today.

Teaching has also become an important aspect of her work. Donna finds joy in mentoring young musicians who aspire to serve in the church.

“It’s heartwarming to help children nurture their talents, knowing they can use these skills beyond church activities,” she said. Through this, she sees her own growth as a musician. “I’ve learned a lot, not just as a pianist, but also as a singer and conductor. I love piano the most, but I knew I had to step up in other areas.”

Perhaps the most unexpected turn in her journey was becoming an organist. St. Mary’s Cathedral is home to a magnificent two-manual, 26-stop Casavant organ – an instrument Donna had no prior experience playing. With encouragement from Fr. Geoffrey, she embraced the challenge and was awarded a scholarship to study organ performance under Helen Suh, the organist at St. John’s Cathedral Anglican Church. Donna recalls the initial struggle of familiarizing herself with the console, describing it as one of the most difficult musical challenges she has faced. Two years into her studies, she now plays with confidence and enjoys performing on special occasions such as Easter and Christmas.

“I’m amazed. The grace given to me is overflowing,” she said, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to expand her repertoire in classical and baroque works.

Looking back on her journey, Donna sees how everything fell into place. From childhood piano lessons and high school competitions to conservatory training and eventually finding her calling in church music, every step has led her to where she is now.

“Balancing my personal and professional schedules is very challenging. I’d like to accomplish many things, but there’s not enough time,” she admitted. Still, she remains focused on her purpose, which helps her navigate the demands of her roles.

For aspiring musicians, Donna offers simple and practical advice: “Always remember the fulfillment and satisfaction of playing. When the road gets tough and pieces become more challenging, keep going.”

Through her work at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Donna Bautista Rubio continues to make music not just for performance, but as a form of service – one that enriches the faith and lives of those around her. In her own words, “Life has a way of bringing you exactly where you need to be.”