MANILA, Philippines—The House of Representatives honored church choral group Kammerchor Manila on Wednesday night, following their win as the 2023 Choir of the World at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales, UK.
The victory was formalized through House Resolution No. 1191, with the chamber extending congratulations to the Quezon City-based choral group for adding yet another international distinction for the country.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, one of the resolution’s authors, expressed his pride in the Filipino talent.
“Even though this is no longer surprising, I am always pleased to hear about such successes of our fellow countrymen in the field of singing. Filipino talent speaks for itself through awards like these,” Romualdez said.
Apart from the coveted title, Kammerchor Manila clinched two other distinguished awards during their 2023 United Kingdom – European Tour. These are the Absolute Winner title at the 69th Certamen Internacional de Habaneras y Polifonia and the 3rd Prize-Grand Prix at the 60th Seghizzi International Choral Singing Competition.
The House members commended Kammerchor Manila for “being a testament to the abundant talent and musical prowess of Filipinos, and a source of immense national pride, uplifting the Filipino spirit, fostering unity through music, and upholding the Filipino legacy on the global stage,” adding that the group “deserves utmost recognition and commendation.”
Founded in 1992 by award-winning musician and professor Fidel Calalang Jr., Kammerchor Manila is recognized as one of the premier church choirs in the Philippines. The group has an illustrious history of success in international choral competitions and offers performances spanning various musical genres.
During the Llangollen competition, which has celebrated global talent since its establishment in 1947, Kammerchor Manila stood out among 16 global participants.
Their performances, led by esteemed conductor and pianist Anthony Go Villanueva, included “Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord” by renowned organist Alejandro Consolacion II and Latvia composer Jëkabs Jančevskis’ “Atsalums.” For their efforts, the group received the Pavarotti Trophy and a cash prize of £3,000.
Competing ensembles such as the Cantilon Chamber Choir from Canada, Delaware Choral Scholars from the USA, and Le Voci from England trailed as runners-up.
The Kammerchor Manila, comprised of 34 vocalists, has a history decorated with numerous accolades, including top prizes at international choral festivals in Italy and Spain. They’ve also been awarded the Ani ng Dangal Award from the Philippine National Commission for Culture and the Arts three times.