The Cultural Center of the Philippines is set to revive the esteemed Andrea O. Veneracion (AOV) International Choral Festival in collaboration with the Philippine Madrigal Singers. Scheduled to take place from July 20 to 23, 2023, at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, this biennial choral competition promises an exhilarating showcase of talent.
Named in honor of the late National Artist for Music, Andrea O. Veneracion, founder of the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, the festival will see 22 choirs from various regions vying for top honors in three categories: Folk Song, Equal Voices, and Mixed Choir.
Representing Luzon are exceptional choral groups such as The Archangel’s Journey Chorale from Caloocan City, BINHS’s Salinlahi Serenata Singers from Silang, Cavite, and Calasiao Treble Chorus from Calasiao, Pangasinan, among others. Visayas and Mindanao will be well-represented by choirs like Silay City Chorale from Negros Occidental and University of Mindanao Chorale from Davao City.
Adding an international flavor to the competition, The Bangkok Voices from Thailand will also participate, making it an exciting global event.
A distinguished panel of adjudicators, renowned in the international music scene, will determine the best choral group in the country. The jury comprises Christo Burger (Africa), Jãnis Ozols (Europe), Virginia Bono (South America), Zimfira Poloz (North America), and Mark Anthony Carpio (Asia).
Each winning choral group in the different categories will receive cash prizes and a unique conch shell trophy crafted by artist Mary Catherine Sta. Ana. The trophy’s design is inspired by the idea of listening to the sounds of the seas surrounding the Philippine islands through a conch shell’s wide opening. Additionally, the form of a bird singing is suggested, drawing inspiration from the belief that bird songs influenced the evolution of music. The conch shell, often used as a horn to gather communities or make announcements, serves as a symbolic trophy, heralding the grand champions of the choral competition.
The festival will commence with a captivating Opening Ceremony on July 20 at 7:00 PM, which is open and free to the public. The competitions for Folk Song, Equal Voices, and Mixed Choir categories will take place on subsequent days, with tickets priced at Php 300.
The Philippine Madrigal Singers will grace the stage with a gala concert on July 23 at 3:00 PM, with ticket prices ranging from Php 300 to Php 1,500. The event will culminate with the Closing and Awarding Ceremonies on the same day at 6:00 PM, open and free to the public.
Discounted tickets are available for students, government employees, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), AOV participating choirs, and group bookings. Tickets can be purchased through Ticket World at https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=INCHOFES23.
For inquiries about the AOV International Choral Festival, Manila 2023, you may visit https://Culturalcenter.Gov.Ph/Event/Andrea-O-Veneracion-International-Choral-Festival-Manila-2023/ and https://Aovchoralfestph.Com/. Stay updated with the latest news by following the AOV social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Be prepared for an unforgettable celebration of musical excellence!
