BRINGING Philippine choral artistry to the global stage has earned the UST Singers founder and conductor Prof. Fidel Gener Calalang Jr. the Award of Excellence in Music from the Filipino-American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) in Los Angeles.
It marks the first time the recognition was granted for choral music, honoring Calalang’s lifelong work as a conductor, composer, arranger, and mentor. Under his leadership, the UST Singers have won more than 80 top awards worldwide and produced generations of choristers.
The accolade places Calalang, who founded the UST Singers in 1992, in the company of some of the Philippines’ most respected musicians, such as Maestro Louie Ocampo and Apo Hiking Society.
“I’m very proud that as a Thomasian, this recognition is bestowed on me. And of course, it is also in recognition of my contribution to choral music,” Calalang told the Varsitarian.
Calalang first learned about the honor in 2020, but the pandemic forced the awarding to be postponed for three years. FASO honored another musician during that time but affirmed Calalang’s selection this year.
Calalang has taken the UST Singers on 38 international tours, securing major wins in Europe and Asia, including the grand prize in Norway last year.
His contributions have also been recognized with the Presidential Merit Award and the Ani ng Dangal.
Many of his former singers have gone on to become celebrated conductors and soloists, forming the UST Singers Alumni International, a global network of alumni spread across different countries.
“It’s not just about music — it’s about discipline, camaraderie, unity, teamwork, patience, commitment, and sacrifice,” he said. “When I was in Los Angeles for the tribute concert, I heard the alumni perform and realized that the sound, the spirit, and the friendship have endured.”
The UST Singers’ 28th anniversary concert in 2020 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines reflected this sense of kinship, carrying the theme Amor y Amistad (Love and Friendship).
Calalang remains active in giving workshops, judging competitions, and mentoring ensembles, believing Philippine choirs will continue to play a vital role in sustaining the country’s reputation as a global choral powerhouse.
As 2025 draws to a close, the UST Singers are set to perform in the United Kingdom, Macau, and Japan for a series of concerts and invitations. Calalang is likewise serving on the jury of several festivals this year.
But more than the accolades and invitations, Calalang remains steadfast in guiding the next generation of musicians.
“To enhance your skills, you need to have exposure. And for me, experience is the best teacher,” he said. “Passion must be forged through practice and experience — it’s the only way to grow.”
A full-time faculty member at the UST Conservatory of Music, Calalang teaches conducting, piano, and choral courses. With reports from Justin Jacob S. Urag and Billy Andrei P. Ramos
