The UST Singers emerged as the top choral group at the Grieg International Choir Festival in Norway, besting 31 choirs from 10 countries from Sept. 26 to 29.
Representing both the Philippines and Asia, the Thomasian chorale secured the Grand Prix or the grand prize along with first place in the mixed choir category and second place in the folk music category.
Fidel Calalang Jr., founder and conductor of the UST Singers, expressed his delight over the accolades, saying he was overjoyed by the overwhelming success of his group in the tilt.
“Our winning the grand prize along with two other top prizes was an enormous feat, a blessing we want to share with everyone,” Calalang told the Varsitarian.
“We are very happy, privileged, and beaming with pride to have given honor and recognition to our country and to UST through our music,” he added.
The UST Singers secured first place in the mixed choir category with performances of Kim Arnesen’s “Norwegian Alleluia” and Ily Maniano’s “Daluyong,” a tribute to the survivors of super typhoon “Yolanda.” The set concluded with Peter Louis van Dijk’s “Chariots.”
In the folk music category, the UST Singers impressed the audience with performances of the Ifugao song “Ahibakle” by Bienvenido Constantino Jr. and “Banwar Iti Cordillera,” meaning “Heroes of the Cordillera.”
Their performance of Nilo Alcala’s “Sagayan,” inspired by an ancient Maguindanaoan pre-battle ritual and part of the “Manga Pakalagian” suite, earned them the festival’s top prize.
“We thank God foremost for giving us the opportunity to represent our country in a prestigious and high-level competition,” Calalang said. “It is also a wonderful way to celebrate the UST Singers’ 31st anniversary with another achievement in the international competition arena.”
The UST Singers’ stint at the Grieg International Choir Festival is part of their 37th international tour, “Beyond All Praising,” which featured performances in Switzerland and Norway.
The group is eyeing a Japan tour in December and is planning another concert tour in either Europe, Australia, or New Zealand in 2025.
