CEBU, Philippines – Cebu beams with pride as the University of the Visayas (UV) Chorale is set to represent Cebu and the country in a series of international choir competitions in Europe. They are also scheduled to visit Rome to perform in one of the activities leading to the canonization of Beato Pedro Calungsod.
While not every Cebuano can witness the group perform in Europe, everyone is invited to the SM Northwing Atrium on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 5 p.m. for a glimpse of what they will be performing in the competition circuit. In a public performance entitled “KuyogsaDuyog” which means, “to be of company through music”, the UV Chorale will be sharing their talent and music.
The UV Chorale is the only and first Cebuano choir to qualify and be invited to this series of competitions in different countries in Europe this October and November. This will also serve as a platform for Cebuano talent to shine and another gleaming opportunity that will place Cebu and the Philippines on the map.
Embarking on this tour will however entail considerable costs, and the UV chorale calls upon every Cebuano to support them in their cause to promote Cebuano talent and music. GCash, a micro payment service for Globe and TM subscribers will be accepting donations so everyone can do their part in helping send the UV Chorale to Europe.
Register your Globe or TM simcards to the GCash service by dialing *143# and choose GCash. Once you have registered, convert your cash to GCash through the Cash-in system in selected retail stores such as Prime Asia branches, Villarica Pawnshops, Rural Bank of Bogo and Katipunan, Globe Telecom and other authorized Gcash outlets. Text DONATE<space>AMOUNT<space>MPIN<UV_CHORALE>. Send this message to 2882. (Example: DONATE 500 1234 UV_CHORALE send to 2882). Kindhearted individuals and patrons of the arts can also donate directly by contacting Mr. Marvin Mantalaba at the University of the Visayas at (032) 416 8826 or 0905 410 4289.
The UV Chorale is an internationally acclaimed choir created in 1999 by University of the Visayas Executive Vice President, Jose "Dodong" R. Gullas to give full scholarships to vocally and musically gifted students. Since its inception, it has garnered several local and international awards.
The chorale has been granted prestigious awards in and out of the country. They were bestowed with the “AningDangal Award” or “Harvest of Honors” in 2010 by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a recognition granted to exemplary Filipino Artists. They also won the 4th MusicaFeuropa last April, which is the only choral competition in the Philippines supported by the Europian Union.
The group's first stop will be Germany on October 4-7, to compete in the Rimini International Choir Competition. Next is to best other renowned choirs in the Cantaal Mar Choir Competition in Barcelona, Spain on October 17-21. On October 31 to November 4, they will participate in the 44th Tolosa Choir Competition in Spain. The UV Chorale is ably managed by the founder's wife, Mrs. Nena B. Gullas.
The Cebuanos are known for their prowess in music, most especially in singing. Let’s do our part in making Cebuano talent shine globally. Show your support by texting or calling in your donations and sending the UV Chorale to Europe.