Written By Geosemay E. Osalbo and Zhein Carlo Molina
To be more equipped with new musical techniques and approaches from respected choral leaders of well-known ensembles, the University of Baguio Voices Chorale (UBVC) joined the first MDS Candon City Chorale Festival, held on February 20 to 22, 2026 at Candon City, Ilocos Sur.
39 UBVC members attended a series of workshops led by prestigious and well-known choral leaders in the country. Among the facilitators were Professor Mark Anthony Carpio of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, Mr. Timothy Atencio of the University of Mindanao Chorale, and Ms. Jai Sabas Arcama of the UP Concert Chorus.
Each facilitator offered unique insights into choral performance: Prof. Carpio focused on vocal techniques and blending, emphasizing precision and unity of sound; Mr. Atencio highlighted the importance of collective music-making and storytelling in choral singing; while Ms. Arcama guided participants in conducting, sharing essential skills in leadership, gesture, and musical interpretation.
These sessions provided valuable knowledge and practical techniques that helped enhance the UBVC’s musical skills. After leaving the workshop, a member of the University of Baguio Voices Chorale shared, ‘Gano’n pala ’yon, ang dali kong naintindihan. Sobrang worth it,’ highlighting how the sessions made the concepts easier to grasp and deepened their appreciation of choral music.
Moreover, Nathaniel Brayle Laberinto, UBVC Vice President and a participant of the event, shared that their experience was valuable and eye-opening experience.
“I learned that even the most basic techniques, such as proper breathing, posture, and especially blending, play a crucial role in creating a unified choral sound. I realized that blending is not just about singing louder or softer, but about listening carefully and adjusting to others to achieve harmony,” Laberinto said.
“As a member of UBVC and a beginner in chorale singing, I will apply these learnings by being more attentive during rehearsals, practicing the fundamentals consistently, and contributing to a more disciplined and united sound,” he said.
The UB chorale vice president likewise mentioned that the UBVC, despite being an internationally acclaimed chorale group, has a lot more things to learn from these workshops. As to Laberinto, this reminds them to remain humble, disciplined, and committed to excellence.
“Attending workshops and watching other chorale performances allow us to gain new insights, techniques, and perspectives that can further enhance our artistry. These opportunities help us stay open to growth and continuous learning,” he said. “They expose us to different styles, interpretations, and rehearsal methods that we can adapt within our own group,” he added.
A highlight of the festival was a special performance by the Philippine Madrigal Singers, whose repertoire featured a variety of musical styles. The group performed “Prayer of St. Francis”, arranged by Mr. Robert Delgado, and “Paraiso”, arranged by Mr. Christopher Borella. Both pieces were delivered with great precision and emotion.
With UB’s pride and excellence, the event was chaired by the conductor of the UBVC, Mr. John Glenn Garlen. The festival was also led by its Artistic Director Harold Deane Piog, an alumnus and former UBVC President, who brought together chorale groups from across the country to celebrate the richness of Philippine choral music.
The success of the event showed the passion and unity of Koristang Pinoy. It proved that Philippine choral music is not only competitive in the country but also on the international stage. As different chorale groups came together, the experience became meaningful and enriching. It gave the chorale community the chance to learn from each other’s traditions, techniques, and experiences. More importantly, the festival promoted camaraderie, as each group supported one another, set aside competition, and lived by the words of the Philippine Madrigal Singers to “sing from the heart.”
Furthermore, the UB’s chorale group connects to the University’s advancement of supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the UB chorale group supports continuous learning and development through trainings and workshops in music (SDG 4 Quality Education); collaborates with music experts (SDG 17 Partnership for the Goals); and promotes preservation of musical traditions (SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities).
