Madz Archives - Touringkitty

11
Feb
2016

#KoristaAko: Jhoan Ayos

categories: #KoristaAko, Choirs, Concerts, Madz

Happy (Chinese) New Year! I know, I had backlogs for #KoristaAko. The last quarter of the year had always been busy, busy busy! But it was very musical, and I hope yours was, too.

Now, on with my latest post! Last October, my husband and I (being part of the Philippine Choral Directors Association) were invited to attend a Culminating Recital event of the Plan W Sing Philippines Choral Leadership Program at the PICC in Pasay City. Plan W is a project led by Diageo Philippines, in cooperation with the Andrea O. Veneracion Sing Philippines Initiative.

Plan W participants from all over the Philippines in a culminating choral concert. My voice teacher, Bechie Valena, was one of their voice teachers during the weeklong camp.

One of the participants is someone I knew prior this project, as our choirs were supposed to be part of one project last year (still hoping for a collaboration in the future!). And we shall get to know her more and her Plan W experience here at Korista Ako!

Jhoan Ayos is a budding conductor from Cavite. She handles the Melodic Symphony Children’s Choir, which will be having its concert on February 28. This is the second phase of Plan W, where the choirs of the participating women conductors will showcase what they have learned in a concert-recital in their own hometowns.

Indeed a Dream Come True for these little angels and their conductor. Click photo for event details.

She relays, “I started singing when I was five years old, for an Easter Sunday celebration. My cousins eventually asked me to join the choir. I continued, but they didn’t.”

“Almost three years ago, Fr. Ariel Lisama, a priest in our church, asked me if I could teach the kids. I accepted it and thought it was easy, but it wasn’t. That decision changed my life.”

Her choral heroes include Mark Carpio of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, who is also the Artistic Director of the Plan W Sing Philippines Program. She describes the Madz Choirmaster as musically gifted, very kind and patient, and exudes good vibes all around (wait, he’s my conductor, too! And yes, he is these ;D). Another is Steve Collado, her conductor in CVSU Pansayang Sining, which had brought her to places, as well as the Madz et al Choral Festival. Another conductor favourite for her is Davidson Sy, her church choir conductor, who taught her the meaning of service. She said she experienced singing for four Masses straight when they were the only choir at that time in their parish. It may be tiring and unrewarding, but she still enjoyed serving for the Lord.

I asked her more questions about the Plan W. Here is a Q and A we did over Facebook (edited some parts for clarity and conciseness, but retained most Filipino parts):

TOURINGKITTY (TK): How was the overall experience?
Plan W Sing Philippines has been a life changing experience for me. It made me realize that music is really my calling and made me ask myself, what took me so long? I once dream of inspiring people. Little did I realize I am already inspiring the children I am teaching through singing and serving. I felt so grateful and blessed to be chosen as one of the 34 scholars around the Philippines. I knew God has a purpose why I was able to be part of this a once in a lifetime experience.
I am so honored to be able to attend training with the finest mentors in the field of singing. Araw-araw siksik, liglig at umaapaw ang learnings from the mentors. They have different styles of teaching but then all of them are effective. Namamangha ka na lang na yung mga inaaral ng matagal sa schools and other trainings nagawa ng mga mentors na isqueeze sa time allotted for them. Aside from the technical stuff, there were also lots of inspiring stories from the mentors. Yung good vibes ang lakas makamagnet effect. Mapapasabi ka na lang din na ang sarap mangarap! Na someday you can experience kahit ilan lang sa mga stories na shinare nila.

Aside from the passion and love for music there is one more thing in common among all the mentors: they are all humble. Iba talaga yung galing na may kasamang right attitude.

My experience would not be the same without my co-scholars. We came from different parts of the Philippines. The youngest is 18 and the oldest is 60 but we share the same passion for music. I was roommates with Ate Vivian from Capiz and Ate Laarni from Butuan City. They made my stay more enjoyable. All 34 of us were able to have bonding moments also from breakfast to breaks and even going out at night. I love how we shared insights, knowledge and experiences. Most of them have many years of experience but never did I feel any competition. We were able to build friendships from the week long camp (Oh my I miss them) but until now most of us are still connected through social media and text messages.

TK: What were your most favourite part/s of the one week program and why?
The whole experience was memorable, though my favorites were:
Day 01 – I was so excited and at the same time so nervous. Before going to UP some of the parents of the kids I am teaching said “galingan mo Jho umaasa sayo ang mga bata.” It was both negative and positive for me. Positive because I know they are just wishing me well, negative because I can feel the pressure. Upon arriving at the hotel I was able to meet my co-scholars. Hearing all their experiences I was like, “Bakit ako nandito? Dapat ba ko dito?” Comparing my background to them, it was nothing. I cried on my first night and prayed. I was crying at comfort room thinking I am letting the kids down kasi hindi ako makasunod sa tinuturo ng mga mentors tapos maalala ko pa sinabi ng parents ng kids. Here comes my favorite part. While reviewing at the hotel one of my roommates, Vivian Berjamin from Capiz came to me and asked alin ba yung hindi mo maintindihan? baka matulungan kita nagbiro pa sya saying “akala mo naman magaling ako eh no” sabay tawa. Just a few minutes after my silent prayer, God gave me the answer. That gave me so much hope that’s why the next days have become more fun and easier to understand. This training is not just about the best mentors sharing their knowledge to us. It is also about us scholars sharing our experience and knowledge.

Day 07 – Culminating concert. I love performing and after 3 years I was able to perform again. A day before the concert, I have some tunes and lyrics on my mind then I started to arrange it. My co scholars ate Gisella from Imus Cavite, Ate Marife from Laguna and Ate Love from Las Pinas helped me to finish the song entitled “Sing Philippines.” It was my first composition and was shocked when Sir Mark told us, “you should sing this in the concert”. Seeing my choir members and my family during the concert was so priceless! Hearing my youngest brother shouting “Ate ko yan!” sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam. To be able to see how the audience liked our performance and some of them telling us thank you for insipiring us, grabe! Speechless kami! (Check out the video at the end of this post!)

TK: Three things (or more, or less) from your mentors that you think will be very useful for your conducting career.
“The Backbone of the music is the text” – Teacher Malou Hermo
Sometimes we tend to focus on the melody of the song. Maganda nga yung tunog pero yung text hindi na maintindihan. We should give importance to both.

“Teach music the way it is developed” – Teacher Joy Nilo
There are different ways on how to teach music but for them to understand music deeper you should teach on how it was developed.

“The most important discipline in the art of singing is breathing” – Sir Mark Carpio
All of us know how to breathe but only few know the proper way to breathe.

TK: Where will this training lead you to?
This training gave me empowerment, hope and more determination which leads me to dreaming many things for my choir. I want to learn more about music and share more to other people. I will continue what I have started. Two weeks after the training I already see improvements of how I rehearse with my choir and will still continue to improve in the coming days, months and years. It made me dream big for my choir. I want the kids to experience many things about performing and music.

TK: Anything you’d like to say to female conductors like you who aspire to be better at what they’re doing?

I started as “walang alam” in music, just the passion, kaya minsan na din akong napanghinaan ng loob pero hindi pala dapat. When you’re doing the right thing all problems, struggles are just temporary. God will provide! Tiwala lang dapat at wag susuko. Most of the time we conductors don’t realize how much we inspire our choir members. We fail to realize how they give importance to whatever knowledge we impart to them. Sometimes you’ll be shocked to hear them say “gusto ko din pong maging katulad nyo”. Our simple wish to share what we know caused chain reaction to our members to their future members. Keep the passion burning! Let us continue to share and inspire other people. You are on the right track! Keep going!

—

Thank you, Jhoan, for sharing your thoughts! We learned a lot from your stories, and we, too, can’t help but to feel proud of what you have achieved in those days.

If this is not enough, then check this. She even managed to write a theme song of the project, which, along with her co-participants, was performed during the culminating activity! Watch video here.
Sing Philippines buong Bansa tayo’y umawit
Sing Philippines musika sa puso natin
Dadating ang Araw, kapayapaa’y makakamtan
Kababaihan! Ating simulan.

Sing Philippines

Jhoan Ayos, composer

—

#KoristaAko is powered by Touringkitty. Tune in for the latest post every last Wednesday of the month. Follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates.

09
Jul
2015

Andrea O. Veneracion International Choral Festival: A tribute and a legacy

categories: Art and Culture, Choirs, Madz, Music, Press Releases

Time flew, fast. It has been two years since the first ever international choral competition took place at the CUltural Center of the Philippines. And I am proud to have been part of it.

Now, two years after, the second competition happens right on the month when the honoree commemorates her birth and passing on. As I type this, we remember her second birthday in heaven, two days before her actual birth date.

This year’s competition happens on the third week of July, from the 22nd to the 25th. Just as it’s about to close on the 25th, the nation will be celebrating the National Week of Filipino Music. Such a great tribute!

And as for its second season, the competition is a legacy, a beautiful one left by the honoree, Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion, Ma’am OA to many, one of the pillars of Filipino choral music. Through her legacy of excellence as founding choirmaster of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and the legions of choristers its members and alumni have trained, the Singing Philippines have reached a realization.

Competing for the second competition are six choirs from Indonesia, Italy, and Mexico, and ten Filipino choirs, vying for prizes in three categories, which are Folk Music, Chamber Choir, and Vocal Ensemble. The jury is composed of five of the best names in the choral world: Brady Allred (I once took a conducting masterclass under him back when I was pregnant), Janis Liepnis (who handles Kamer, a two-time European Grand Prix for Choral Singing winner like the Madz), Silvana Vallesi (yay for female conductors! She conducts the Coro Universitario de Mendoza in Argentina), Andre Van der Merwe (famous conductor of youth choirs in South Africa), and Mark Carpio of the Philippine Madrigal Singers.

To celebrate Filipino culture and music, the competition will premiere the obligatory piece commissioned by the CCP for the Chamber Choir category, entitled “Ang Tren,” a setting of Filipino literary giant Jose Corazon de Jesus’ poem, music composed by young award-winning composer Saunder Choi.

It’s always a learning experience watching competitions, that’s why if you are a choral conductor or chorister, you should watch this. An international level of competition right in our own land!

Watch this video to learn more about the competition.

If you’re a student or a chorister who would want to watch, email choralfestmnl2015(at)gmail(dot)com to inquire on how to avail of the 50% discount. And since the Opening and Closing Ceremonies are free and open to all, see you there!

—
ANDREA O. VENERACION INTERNATIONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL

July 22-25, 2015

Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater).

Wednesday, July 22, 2015:

5:00 PM Opening Ceremonies;
7:00 PM Folk Song Competiton

Thursday, July 23, 2015:
7:00 PM Vocal Ensemble Competition

Friday, July 24, 2015:
7:00 PM Chamber Choir Competition

Saturday, July 25, 2015:
4:00 PM Philippine Madrigal Singers Gala Concert
7:00 PM Awarding & Closing Ceremonies

Ticket Prices: P800, P700, P500, P300 (all competitions and
Madrigal Singers concert) 50% discount for students & choirs who want to watch

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: FREE/OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
For ticket inquiries/reservations please email choralfestmnl2015@gmail.com

Website: http://culturalcenter.gov.ph/single-tickets/view-event/?id=44829225

09
Dec
2014

CCP Hands-on Choral Workshop 2014: Training ground of choral champions

categories: Art and Culture, Career, Choirs, Madz, Music, Uncategorized, Working Mama

Last October, I was fortunate to be part of the team of trainors for the CCP Hands-on Choral Workshop.

This annual workshop is held on the last week of October. — This annual workshop is held on the last week of October, done in partnership with the Philippine Madrigal Singers.

Some present and alumni members of the Philippine Madrigal Singers were trainors for the five-day workshop. Marivic Llamas, Krystl Buesa, yours truly, Joel Aquino, Paolo Pardo, Bianca Lopez, Mark Carpio. — Giddy people early in the morning: some present and alumni members of the Philippine Madrigal Singers aka trainors. Marivic Llamas, Krystl Buesa, yours truly, Joel Aquino, Paolo Pardo, Bianca Lopez, Mark Carpio.

The workshop is now on its 12th season, and has attracted choral groups and conductors from all over the Philippines as well as other countries. This year, we had a choir from Kuala Lumpur participating in the workshop.

Mark Carpio conducting all participants of the choral workshop. They filled the entire stage! — Mark Carpio conducting all participants of the choral workshop. They filled the entire Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo stage!

This was not the first time for me to join as trainor, but everything seemed new to me this time around.

With the God's Heritage Chorale from Bulacan, the choir I handled back in 2006. Along with Sheen Sanchez, another Madz alumnus. — With the God’s Heritage Chorale from Bulacan, the choir I handled back in 2006. Along with Sheen Sanchez, another Madz alumnus. Photo credit: Churchill Garcia-Natoc.

This choir joined the workshop again this year, with some familiar faces and new ones who got to experience the Madz training through the workshop. I guess they find something good and new in each workshop that they’ve participated three times already!

Early this year, the Cultural Center of the Philippines called itself as a Center for Choral Performance, where major choral events are lined up in the Center until next year, the highlight being the second Andrea O. Veneracion International Choral Festival in July 2015.

This year’s choral workshop was made even special because of several factors. Aside from the fact that it had been in hiatus for two years (there were no choral workshops held in 2012 and 2013 because of Madz trips abroad–incidentally, the years I worked for the Center), the workshop also featured a special Artist Talk by no less than Mr. Ryan Cayabyab, who created a new arrangement of one of his songs, premiered by the participating choral groups.

In Mr. C’s talk, he took the audience back to the days when fate had prepared the road for his musical journey, as a son of an opera singer who did not encourage him to take the same career his mother took, as a young UPIS student who was just tinkering on the piano, and as a teenager who would try out different careers–from winning a painting contest to applying as a disc jockey, and eventually getting the biggest gig that paved the way for his musical career. His story was unbelievable, humble, yet very inspiring.

The participants were fortunate to premiere a Mr. C work, Ikaw pa rin ang mahal ko, the theme song of Sa Ngalan ng Ina, originally sung by another OPM hero, Basil Valdez. Here’s a sampling from the Madz Facebook page:

Post by Philippine Madrigal Singers.

Choirs from various schools, communities, parishes, and companies joined the workshop. Individual conductors, or choirless conductors as they called themselves, who want to be better conductors learned through the sessions with Madz Choirmaster himself, Mark Carpio.

The choirs assigned to me were the MBPS Chorale of Manulife and Musica Chorus of Quiapo Church.

The trainors were assigned two choirs each, who each sang a song of their preference, and one song which came from the trainor and will be performed together. I chose What the World needs now is love, a really simple danceable arrangement of the Bacharach song with piano. As they’ve easily learned the piece, I also gave short pieces as some sort of exercise for them.

I was surprised to know that trainors will also conduct, as I cannot remember doing that during the previous workshop I was part of. I even confirmed this to Sir Mark, to my surprise and excitement. It was my first time to conduct on the CCP’s Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo stage!

What. An. Experience. To conduct at the CCP Main Theater! With Musica Chorus and MBPS Chorale. MBPS' conductor, Ms. Orquias, assisted on piano. — What. An. Experience. To conduct at the CCP Main Theater! With Musica Chorus and MBPS Chorale. MBPS’ conductor, Ms. Oquias, assisted on piano.

Sir Mark handing over the certificate to me. It's as if I've graduated all over again! Thank you, thank you. — Ninong Mark handing over the certificate to me. It’s as if I’ve graduated all over again! Thank you, thank you.

The choral groups may have different backgrounds and reasons for participating, some of them have mentioned this during the opening ceremonies. But to me, they are definitely champions by just being a good solid group, thirsting for knowledge that will help improve themselves and their choirs as they sing for God and for their schools, churches, companies, and communities. They’ve worked hard for those five days, which seemed really short, but all did and went well.

For us, trainors, nothing is more gratifying than seeing the choirs take what you’ve taught them to heart. We’ve witnessed this during the culminating activity. And as we look back at the first day we met them, a lot of good had happened. We’re successful enough to shared a piece of the Madz way. And we hope we could share this to more choristers in the generations to come.

Huge thanks to the Madz family for the opportunity to work with these great choristers and for what seemed to be a reunion of sorts among us alumni especially during break times. Likewise to my former workmates at the CCP and the Artist Training Division for being a venue for these choirs to create more wonderful choral music.

*All photos, save for one, are from the CCP, as posted in their Artist Training Division Facebook Page. Follow them on Facebook and be updated with their upcoming projects.

~ Touringkitty

10
Jul
2014

15 and 1

categories: Choirs, Madz, Uncategorized

Yesterday, after a full day of work (faculty meeting in the morning then choir rehearsal in the afternoon), I headed off to two important celebrations: the Shrine of Jesus’ 15th Anniversary of its consecration and dedication, and OA’s first death anniversary.

These two events coincided on the same time, so I had to fix my schedule. I sang for the Mass at the Shrine, missed the boodle fight dinner, and went to the dinner gathering albeit super late, where I missed the earlier memorial ceremony and Mass for Ma’am OA.

15: Falling in love…with a church

It is no secret how much I love serving at the Shrine of Jesus. For the past eight years of serving as children’s choir conductor, and eventually, as music ministry coordinator, I was molded into the person I am now. Thanks to my mentor, Monsignor Bobby Canlas, the Shrine Rector, from being a mere choirgirl, I am in the helm of the children’s choir now, and have handled important projects of the Shrine.

The past 15 years have been a true testament of God’s love to this church. With no parishioners living around the area, the Shrine community started with tens, then hundreds, then now, thousands. From that barren land stood only that church where no public transport dared to travel. Lay people from nearby provinces were called to serve. The Shrine eventually became a popular wedding, baptism, and reception venue, and a favourite among churchgoers when important church feast days like Holy Week and Christmas seasons come nearer.

Mons Bobby explained during the Mass how the Shrine of Jesus came to be. In 1995, during the 10th World Youth Day held in Manila, Philippines, then Pope John Paul II proclaimed to build a church in honor of that well attended and successful event. After four years, the church was inaugurated and named Shrine of Jesus, the Way the Truth, and the Life. Quite a mouthful for a church name, I first thought, but it originated in John Paul’s message during that Mass, that Jesus is our way, truth, and life.

What keeps us loyal to the Shrine? It’s the community it built. It’s the welcoming atmosphere among its volunteers. It’s the solemn and meaningful celebrations of the Holy Eucharist. It’s the “pakulo” we tirelessly prepare during special occasions.

Most of all, it’s a church that gives back. In 2008, my wedding year, some music ministry members were starting to plan projects for the benefit of the church. A simple concert will do, we said. Our Rector dreamed bigger for us. And out of that dream, we were able to have the Philippine Madrigal Singers perform at the CCP, and we were able to raise 1 million pesos for the PGH pediatric cancer patients. It was more than what we dreamed of. Of course, we were able to raise more than our target amount, so the rest went to several other institutions, and whatever was left went to the Shrine. We were just humbled and proud of that project.

Apart from it, and Mons Bobby does this all the time, he fervently asks the community to dig deeper into their pockets to give more during calamities. Give until it hurts, that’s what he reminds us always. Whatever is collected, he sends straight to the affected diocese.

The Shrine has been blessed because of its priests, its talented and generous lay people and churchgoers. The church is always misconstrued as strict, or sometimes, snob, especially when kids roam around during Mass. I’d say, disciplined is the proper word for it. And I would not have it any other way.

1: In memoriam

A year ago, Ma’am OA, as we would call the founder of the world-renowned choral group, the Madz, passed on.

The Madz is the Philippine Madrigal Singers. Ma’am OA is Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion, its founder. I wrote about her necrological rites last year here, and another blogpost months prior her passing on as my tribute to her here.

I, along with two more Madz alumni, came almost at the end of the program, but we’re glad to have made it. As OA would say, Just do it. So we braved EDSA traffic (which was unusual at already eight in the evening!), were served dinner, and listened to more singing and more testimonials to our dear Ma’am OA.

And the highlight of the night: this song.

Justice Magdangal de Leon and THE Sal Malaki who originally did the guitar and flute, er, should I say, whistle of the very first Madz song I learned in my church choir in high school. Happiness.

Happy 15th Anniversary to the Shrine of Jesus, and happy first year in heaven’s choral community, Ma’am OA.

This was the fundraising concert the Shrine co-organized. It was held two weeks before my wedding, that's why I was not able to sing anymore for this. I "resigned" from being Madz member in the middle of 2008, with much sadness but much fulfillment and memories in my heart. — 45 and 10: Madz’ 45th Anniversary and 10th Shrine Fiesta. This concert was held two weeks before my wedding. I “resigned” from being Madz member in the middle of 2008, with much sadness but much fulfillment and memories in my heart.

~ Touringkitty

03
Jul
2014

Touringkitty Travels: My first international trip

categories: Madz, Travel

Ten years ago, five countries, three months, two categories in one choral competition.

It was my first international trip. First time to be away from family. First time to ride a plane. First time in Europe. First time to join an international choral competition. These many firsts I had the pleasure to share with about 20 people. We collectively call ourselves the Philippine Madrigal Singers, or Madz to the legions of choral fans it has gathered through the years.

The first time will always be the most memorable. And as I celebrate my ten years of traveling, I’d like to share highlights of it through this post.

Pre-departure: How I got into the semicircle

The Madz quartet exams is for me, one of the, if not, the toughest, exam there is. I can still remember the scene. We were waiting for our turn outside the Minihall of the UP College of Music. Paneling for that quartet exam were Sir Mark, Ma’am OA (Prof. Andrea Veneracion, Madz founder), and Anna Abeleda (now Piquero, a Madz alumna and sought-after conductor who just got off of the Madz circle at that time). We were all anxious, excited, nervous, while listening to the other singers inside. It was like American Idol, literally, where you will be critiqued after singing. Passing that exam was our golden ticket to the upcoming European tour.

If I could remember right, OA just told me to vocalize everyday. I felt even more nervous as I did not know if I passed or not. Luckily I did. And was cast to join the tour.

Homesickness is a serious sickness

The first timers were stricken by so much homesickness that we were always on the hunt for an internet connection or a phone booth to call home even for a few minutes in a week. I spent so much on calling and sending SMS and paying for internet just to update my mom, my sister, and my boyfriend (now my husband) on where I was. We’d cry over the Harana songs of the male section of the Madz during concerts. During concerts, yes. We terribly missed home!

The three of us were first time travelers. Enrico was the youngest among the group and I was the youngest among the females. That's how we were so excited to see snow for the first time in the Dolomiti mountains in Italy. — The three of us were first time travelers. Enrico was the youngest among the group and I was the youngest among the females. That’s how we were so excited to see snow for the first time in the Dolomiti mountains in Italy.

Preparing for the tour

Before we left Manila, our schedule got tighter and tighter. We just had to sing and sing together, that’s why. We would have performances and rehearsals almost everyday. This is also to prepare our bodies and voices for the upcoming trip–which was equally busy. Ma’am OA met us the day before we left Europe to share stories and give advice. We got to meet her again halfway during the tour, when she followed us in one of the stops in France, which was incidentally, on the day of her birthday.

Tough assignments for a first timer

I did not know I could play guitar until Sir Mark asked me to. I had to always practice while in Manila to prepare me for my international debut! Each concert was nerve-wracking because aside from playing guitar, Sir Mark also entrusted me the task of being the pitchgiver. But all these definitely boosted my confidence on stage.

Mission: accomplished!

We brought home the bacon! Two bacons, even. We won two first prizes in the 50th Certamen Internacional de Habaneras y Polifonia in Torrevieja, Spain. It was a big moment for the Madz, that we even got busier as we arrived Manila.

And the rest of the traveling story, as they say, is history.

This was one of the songs we sung for that competition. A tu lado by Javier Busto (a friend of the Madz) and Anton Mena. Such a simple and beautiful habanera which made us win first prizes in the Habanera and Polyphony categories of the competition.

If there was only one thing I regretted, I should have written all these down! I had a journal in 2006 which was still with me, but photos of each trip will suffice.

Will photo post on the next blog post!

Meanwhile, read more posts about my first time travel with the Madz here and here. All Madz related posts are here.

~ Touringkitty

26
Jun
2014

Madz @ 50: The culmination of the golden year

categories: Madz

The 50th year celebration of our beloved choir ends with a two-night concert this last weekend of June.

The closing concert begins a rebirth of what has been, and always will be, the Madz way.

The past year featured concerts, tours, performances, homecomings, among the current and the alumni members. Once again, we gather on stage to do what we have loved doing best–singing with the Madz.

The Madz et al family, joins the celebration, too. Participants of the recently concluded Madz et al Festival will be performing as well.

The Sing Philippines Youth Choir, a vision of our founder, Prof. Andrea Veneracion, shall sing for the first time this weekend. Gathered through auditions held the past year, in cooperation with the CCP Cultural Exchange Department, these choristers will be performing compositions by Madz resident arrangers Ily Matthew Maniano and Nilo Alcala.

Join and be part of the choral celebration that is the Madz! Here’s looking forward to the next 50 years of the Madz and beyond.

Check the Madz Facebook Page for ticket details.

~ Touringkitty

23
Apr
2014

Madz @ 50: The Baby is now 30!

categories: Madz

The “golden harvest” is now 30 years old!

The Madz et al, the first and largest network of Filipino choral groups, celebrated 30 years of singing together through a weeklong festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines last April 1-6.

Composed of over 50 choirs, the Madz et al network gathers in an annual choral festival which gained a regular following with its varied themes per year. As part of the Philippine Madrigal Singers family, the choirs are also invited to guest in different projects and concerts of their mother choir.

The choirs, by themselves, are equally exceptional. Trained, mentored, and handled by members and alumni of the Madz, the Madz et al choirs have toured and won competitions both here and abroad.

Madz founder, Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion, considers this her “golden harvest.” With her ultimate goal of having a Singing Philippines, the Madz et al is a testimony that our country is indeed blessed with such riches in choral music.

Being a Madz alumna, I am blessed to handle my own choral group, the Shrine of Jesus Children’s Choir. As I trace back my choral conducting journey, I consider myself an accidental conductor.

Almost eight years back, I just want to serve again in the church, after being inactive because of school and Madz duties. Ton (my husband, who was then my boyfriend), had started serving for the church in the Reclamation area, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus. When I found out that there is no children’s choir at the church, I opened up the idea of forming one, so we both set an appointment with the Rector, Monsignor Bobby Canlas, and he welcomed the idea very much.

Mons Bobby assisted us in setting up the group, through announcements during the Mass, and he even assigned one of his staff to assist us during auditions. After which, we had literally a handful of members–ten of them, whom we started training to serve for the monthly children’s mass every Third Sunday of the month. Unfortunately, I was about to leave for the Madz tour then, so Ton took over the kids. And on June 2006, during Father’s Day, those ten kids had sung their first mass as a group.

Since then, the kids grew in numbers, and literally grew bigger than us! Currently, we maintain a regular membership of 30, composed of students aged 10-18, from nearby cities and municipalities. The members are still singing treble voices, but we are slowly on the works of transitioning to a youth choir with mixed voices, God-willing.

For this Madz et al performance, we were asked to commission a new piece for our choir. Then we chose two other pieces. Click on the titles for our video links below:

1. Ave Maria (Alejandro Consolacion II). This was AJ’s old work, from 1996, which he wrote for our school choir.

2. Alamat (Augusto Espino). We premiered this commissioned piece with poetry written by Ramon Devora and the magnificent music of Augusto Espino.

3. Ano Kaya ang Kapalaran (Francisco Santiago). With a couple of weeks left before the performance, I hurriedly wrote arrangement and did a little choreography for this Filipino favorite. I had a very willing volunteer who sang the solo.

Here are some snapshots during the concert night:

I have very supportive parents, and this is important to a children's choir. Thy willingly assist the kids in putting makeup and fixing costumes. — I have very supportive parents, and this is important to a children’s choir. Thy willingly assist the kids in putting makeup and fixing costumes.

Certificates were awarded to the conductors, all Madz alumni: Elsie Eranista of Letran Singing Ambassador, Me (with my daughter tagging along!), Robert Delgado of UMAK Chorale and NGCP Chorale, and Mavic Llamas of Coro San Sebastian. Mark Carpio of the Madz who served as the Festival Director also conducted Pansol Choir that night.

The kids were so glad we finished another et al season! Here is one of the members, Hans Bariring, proudly showing off the certificate I received for them.

One of our staunch supporters, Mons Bobby, who happily posed with us after the concert. Thank you, Mons, for supporting these kids as much as we do!

My family, Mons Bobby, and two of our members, siblings Anna and Hans. They are Irish twins, meaning born less than 12 months apart.

We’re glad to be part of the 30th anniversary. We have consistently taken part in the et al festivals and other Madz et al projects since 2008. We are blessed with the many opportunities the Madz et al had brought about to our kids, like performances at the CCP Main Theater, and even TV guestings.

To our dear composers, AJ and Sir Agot, thank you for sharing with us God’s gift of music. To our ever dearest pianist, my good friend, Michelle Nicolasora, thank you for always being humble and available for me and my choir. To Ton, needless to say, thank you for being with me through all of this, and for assisting again in guitar.

I’d like to thank the Madz for this opportunity. Indeed the mission of Ma’am OA, through the Madz et al, is alive through all the choirs and future choirs that will be born out of love for singing.

I thank likewise Mons Bobby, for training me to be a leader, especially in the church ministry. Thank you for the constant guidance, support, and inspiration, especially when challenges arise.

To the parents of our members, a million thanks once again. We are happy that you have chosen the Shrine for your children’s church service. Thank you for believing and supporting our endeavors.

The SOJCC is rooted in church service, but as artists, we have the responsibility to also teach them to sing well so they could serve better. I am glad to be doing both things that I truly enjoy–serving the church through music making.

To the Madz et al choirs and conductors, congratulations! Here’s to 30 more years and maybe twice more the number of choirs that will be born and be minstrels of music around the world. Until the next performance.

Congratulations as well to the organizers, the Madz members themselves, for being at the forefront of this project. To Ate Pearl Reyes, coordinating all those choirs and conductors is one tough job, and you have done it well every year! To the members who served as stage managers, backstage persons, reception persons, and whathaveyou, kudos to all! To Sir Mark, for giving us challenging themes every year. This year, we really were made to THINK!

~ Touringkitty

10
Jan
2014

Madz @ 50: ppp: Pagdiriwang, Pagtitipon, Paggunita

categories: Madz

Some two weeks ago, Madz singers, past and present, were invited to a very special evening we conspicuously call the “Madrigal Dinner.”

It was indeed a great celebration of food, music, and family, and incidentally, the event was held on the Feast Day of the Holy Family on December 29th. Alumni from all batches came in gowns and some even came in authentic Renaissance costumes!

Madz from across all batches! Happy to see all of them. We missed those who missed this event! — Madz from across all batches! Happy to see all of them. We missed those who missed this event.

So, what happens during a Madrigal Dinner?

I remember during my first year with the Madz, we have done a Madrigal Dinner, which was in reality, a concert-dinner featuring us. It was a paid dinner of course, at a Makati hotel. The previous batches have done it as well. After that event, the Madz have not done a Madrigal Dinner.

What was happening then, as what also happened for this particular dinner, the Madz sings a set of songs in between courses. For this Madrigal Dinner, the fun part is when we got to sing (AND sight-sing!) our favourite Madrigals and a couple of new pieces!

The entire CCP Main Theater Lobby was turned into a dinner hall, a first probably for the venue, and with the backdrop and decor, plus the music that permeated that night, it felt really Renaissance!

Let the photos do the talking now!

First photo when we arrived: the one with Fair Oriana herself, Mavic! She was one of my closest during the tours. Here with Bianca, Sherwin, and Ate Pearl. — The one with Fair Oriana herself, Mavic! She was one of my closest during the tours. Here with Bianca, Sherwin, and Ate Pearl.

Well. Mavic, the character that she is, eventually won Best in Costume!

Along with two other alumni, Tita Bernie (who said her costume was an exact replica of their Madrigal Dinner costumes during their time!), and Tito Leo (who came in as the Sultan of Butuan. He said that so himself. We all just loved the gold in him!

Before I forget, here’s my OOTD:

Black gown and lace bolero: Karimadon. Gold brooch: Karimadon. Headpiece: Carolina's. Black platform shoes: Gibi. Black and gold bag: Jovani. — Black gown and lace bolero: Karimadon. Gold brooch: Karimadon. Headpiece: Carolina’s. Black platform shoes: Gibi. Black and gold bag: Jovani.

Check out the chair! The logo of the Madz! They had it made for the Aurum concert two weeks prior to this event:

Click on the photo for a related blog post.

The Madz had set up photobooths–one for the formal shot, the other, for the wacky ones. Like this:

We also recorded a video of us singing “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” by Peter Lutkin. You are not a certified Madz if you do not know this song! It was a timely New Year greeting as the text was also the Scripture reading for New Year’s Day.

It was a truly memorable night for everyone, which made us all celebrate, gather, and reminisce the wonderful experience that is the Madz.

~ Touringkitty

10
Dec
2013

Madz @ 50: The story behind the music

categories: Madz

Photo credit: Alfred John De Veyra (via Facebook)

Want to know the stories behind the music?

We heard their mellifluous music for five decades. Now it’s time to just read, be inspired, and learn through their words.

This is the first book that will be published in the 50 years of the Madz‘ existence. Sometime in 2001, a book called a Life Shaped by Music was written by Marjorie Evasco, but it mainly is a biographical sketch of Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion, who dedicated most of her life to developing her “other” family, the Madz.

MADZ: Almost everything about the Philippine Madrigal Singers is a collection of firsthand accounts from the singers themselves. It also includes probably the whole anatomy of the group–from its roots to its wings, from the history to the “golden harvest” called the Madz et al. One of the alumnus, Alfred John de Veyra, put our stories together in this milestone book every choir should have.

The book will be launched this weekend during the Madz concert entitled Aurum. December 14 (8:00 PM) and 15 (5:00 PM) at the CCP Main Theater. The current members and alumni, along with the Madz et al choirs plus other guests will be part of it. I will sing there, as well as my Shrine of Jesus Children’s Choir. Hope to see you there!

~ Touringkitty

21
Aug
2013

Madz @ 50: Ten things the Madz taught me

categories: Madz

It was a short and sweet five years singing and touring as an active member of the Madz, but those years were packed with memories, laughter, sharps and flats, perpetual prayers and celestial blessings. I was beyond blessed really to be part of the three batches that competed under Mark Carpio’s wings, winning all top prizes and the most coveted European Grand Prix for Choral Singing in 2007.

Those five years also taught me lots of lessons, in music and in life, all of which I carried by heart as I moved on as a Madz Alumni, as conductor of a children’s choir, as a music teacher, and as a parent. Yes, being handled and inspired by good conductors is much like being nurtured by good parents, that’s why Ma’am OA and Sir Mark continue to be my “life lights.”

Here are just ten things (I’m sure there are more) the Madz taught me:

1. Memo Number 1. I am sure every Madz know this. Memo number one simply meant common courtesy.

You will have your turn, eventually, just be patient.

2. Never forget your kadiwa. Or in short, bring your own baon. Whether the trip is short or long, sneak in snacks and instant noodles in your luggage as you will never know what food you will be served in your hotel or host family. And I am pretty sure you’d need your snacks during long plane or train rides. I’ve realized this more now that I have a daughter of my own. You’ll never know when she will cry out for food.

Bawal magutom and Madz!

3. Pack light. And I mean, really light. I have successfully done this in all the trips, and never went overweight! I pack light so I could have space for my costumes and shoes, and so I could buy new clothes (haha!) and pasalubong.

Never put liquid in your hand carry bag. Some singers forget this, so their liquid pasalubongs get confiscated in the end.

4. In line with the previous one, shop til you drop! To an extent, yes. Our founder, Ma’am OA, is well known for her love for shopping and bargain hunts, truly a world-class shopper. She told us you’ll never know when you will get back in that place, so go ahead and buy what you think you cannot find in our country.

When in Italia, always ask where the mercato is. And wear slippers or sneakers. Basta wag lang ma-shopping technique pagdating ng concert.

Now, for the more “serious” stuff:

5. Practice, practice, practice. And vocalize everyday. The Madz are known to be seated while singing, and seated beside alternating voices. So always work with your team. Have quartet rehearsals, sectionals, make sure you know your part and know the song well, too. Unless you don’t want number six to happen!

No one is indispensable, ika nga ni OA.

6. Make mistakes with conviction. As Madz trainees, we were expected to know the standard repertoire of the Madz–mass songs, concert repertoire–without the choirmaster or the members telling you. I had to learn soooo many songs in one sitting! So when you do make mistakes, don’t make it obvious.

Watermelon is the key! Just open your mouth. Or KKA–Kanya kanyang Arrangement, do your own harmony if you really can’t remember, as long as it’s in perfect harmony, that is.

7. Trust your choirmaster. They know what is best for you and the group. Sir Mark gave his complete trust to OA when he accepted the task as Madz Choirmaster in 2001. Likewise, we members gave the same trust to Mark when he assigns us a certain solo for some songs, and in my case, when he asked me to play guitar for several pieces during my first international tour, and when he assigned me a very important task in the Madz–the pitchgiver. He trusted me. I was afraid at first but he trusted me, and through his and His guidance, I was able to deliver well.

Faith, trust, and pixie dust (in our case, food and shopping!).

8. Pray. Before and after a concert or performance, especially competitions. We gather in a room for nightly prayers, worships, and rosaries before competitions. We thank the Lord after, too, and lift all up to Him.

Never underestimate the power of collective prayer.

9. Mingle. Make new friends. Meet the audience after a concert. Talk to as many new people as you can everyday. It’s one way of expanding your network, as well as building your self-confidence, conversational skills, and create friendships, which most of us had during the tour. Sometimes, love stories are made during mingling time.

Have you met anyone new today?

10. Sing from the heart. More than knowing your pieces, OA told us to sing from the heart. Simple yet true. That is a well-known Madz secret. We touch lives one song at a time. For that, we are humbled.

It’s much more meaningful if you do everything with your heart in it,

~ Touringkitty

Category: Madz

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