The Manila Times reported that University of Santo Tomas professor Fidel Calalang Jr. is directing the UST Singers alumni ensemble on a European concert tour this October, featuring performances in Spain and Germany. Titled “Musica, Amor y Amistad,” the tour reunites former choir members from the Philippines, Europe, the United States, the Middle East and Asia. The program highlights Filipino folk songs alongside sacred, Broadway and international repertoire, including popular selections from host countries to connect with local audiences.
Calalang, who has taught at UST’s Conservatory of Music for 37 years, founded the UST Singers, which the source notes has been active since 1993. He has led the group on 40 international tours, earning 91 top prizes in choral competitions. Beyond conducting, Calalang serves as a juror at global choral festivals and has facilitated workshops in nations such as Italy, China and South Korea. His work emphasizes cultural exchange and sharing meaningful experiences through music rather than solely focusing on awards.
The upcoming tour serves as a kickoff to the choir’s 35th anniversary celebrations in 2027. Calalang views the event as a reunion of friends and artists sharing a common history, aiming to carry the spirit of the UST Singers worldwide while inspiring younger musicians to pursue their own artistic journeys.
For more information, visit manilatimes.net.