Saturnino Halili Tiamson got the call from Hong Kong Disneyland while he was waiting in line to graduate with a diploma in music from the University of the Philippines. Mickey Mouse wanted Tiamson to join his marching band. The exceptionally talented young percussionist accepted, and has been a member of the band ever since the theme park’s opening in 2005. Tiamson has made Hong Kong his home and is now in his second year as the band leader, responsible for leading rehearsals, training sessions, and conducting the shows – of which there are seven daily, five days a week. “I’m enjoying it,” says Tiamson. “Especially that I’m interacting with the guests every day.”
The 27-year-old percussionist has been playing music since he was 11 and is proficient on the piano, French horn, trumpet, and the drums. He was a star in the Asian Youth Orchestra in 2001 and 2004 and was subsequently hired for The Philippine Philharmonic. Proving his versatility, he can also hold his own in jazz, rock, pop, and classical – but his current passion is gospel music. Keep an eye on this man.