Armando Salarza - finalist ,"The Many Faces of the Teacher"

The many faces of the teacher
By Ching Jorge
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:26am (Mla time) 07/12/2008

Filipino teachers are more than just plain civil servants. They are mentors and guidance counselors, second parents and friends. They hold in their hands the minds, attitudes and values of future generations.

Though we put so much importance on the quality and standard of education in our country, it seems that an education degree is less desirable compared to other more sought-after college courses. This is a challenge by itself, and every year many NGOs and foundations seek to inspire more students to go into the teaching profession and encourage more teachers to undergo the training that is needed to improve their skills through various programs.

One such activity is “The Many Faces of the Teacher.” It is a search for the teacher that best represents the nobility of the teaching profession and who garners the inspiration not only of his students but also of each person and life that he encounters.

The search and the careful selection of each year’s nominees and finalists have become a major program of Bato Balani Foundation Inc. (BBFI), which launched its advocacy campaign for the “Many Faces of the Teacher” in 2003.

This year’s 12 finalists are some of the most inspiring teachers that we have today. They are all exemplary: Through their passion and commitment to their profession, they routinely go beyond what is expected.

The panel of judges or the Advocacy Review Board for this year is composed of: TMFT Honoree for 2004 Dr. Onofre Pagsanghan; Dr. Maria Lim Ayuyao, president of the Foundation for Worldwide People Power; Peter Perfecto of the Philippine Business for Education; former undersecretary of education Juan Miguel Luz; and BBFI chairman Saturnino G. Belen Jr.

The 12 finalists are:

• Virgina Amanon, a multi-awarded Special Education Division (SPED) teacher from Midsayap, Cotabato. She has dedicated her life to teaching “children of a lesser god.”

• Jenelyn Baylon, a mobile teacher from Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. She travels distances to reach her students and as with all mobile teachers, she handles multi-level and multi-grade students and classes.

• Leonides Bulalayao, a high school teacher from Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija. A consistent honor student from elementary to college, she has been the recipient of numerous awards for her innovative teaching programs.

• Simon Chua is a principal/school administrator from Zamboanga. The author of numerous books on Mathematics, he is also a sought-after speaker and lecturer. His experience and affiliations extend to international as well as local organizations. He is also the first Filipino to be given the Pail Erdos Award by the World Federation of National Mathematics Competitions.

• Fr. Ewald Dinter from Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. He has devoted 40 years of his life to education and development in Mindoro. He has lived among the Mangyan tribal people, who see him as their mentor and father figure. He travels as much as 19 hours, sometimes on foot, to reach his Mangyan students.

• Margarita Gabriel from Macrohon, Southern Leyte. Through her guidance and tutelage, the Amparo Elementary School was one of the schools to top the National Achievement Tests.

• Carmelito Lauron, a high school teacher from Consolacion, Cebu. He integrated the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in teaching and created innovative ICT programs for both teachers and students.

• Enrico Morilla, a mobile teacher from Bataan. He has been repeatedly cited for his innovative teaching methods and inspiring work with Bataan’s out-of-school youth and indigenous youth in the Aeta community.

• Marcelo Otinguey, a high school teacher from La Trinidad, Benguet. He focuses most of his time to youth development and cultural integration, and has been recognized by various government agencies for his work. He was also a finalist for the Gawad Genny Lopez Award.

• Marjorie Palomo, officer in charge of the Antonio Llamas Elementary School in Bataan. She has been cited as Most Outstanding Teacher in the Philippines by the Philippine Public School Teachers Association. She has also consistently maintained high rankings for their school in the National Achievement Tests.

• Armando Salarza, who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to music through the Las Piñas Boys Choir and the St. Joseph’s Academy Bamboo Organ Foundation Inc. He studied music and the performing arts in Vienna, Austria, and has committed his profession to educating the youth and pushing for excellence in music and the arts.

• Concepcion Tababa, a mobile teacher from Tubungan, Iloilo. A multi-awarded teacher, she has worked with various NGOs and LGUs to promote the causes of the underprivileged.

Four of these 12 amazing individuals will become the final four honorees. They will be presented to the public on Sept. 27, 2008 at the SMEX during the “Tribute to Teachers,” an annual event that brings together the biggest gathering of teachers for a day of togetherness, inspiration and unity for the teaching profession.

Ching Jorge is director for programs and research of Bato Balani Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization focused on uplifting the quality of education in the country. For more information you may log on to www.batobalani.wordpress.com or email bbfi@diwamail.com.

Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Thanksgiving and Victory Concert!

September 19, 8PM, Friday

Philam Life Theater, UN Avenue Manila

We would like to share with you the heartfelt joy of The Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) for bringing honor to our nation after having achieved international acclaim when they were declared World Champion in Children’s Choir category at the recently concluded 5^th WORLD CHOIR GAMES 2008 in Graz, Austria!

The LPBC received two Gold Diplomas in the qualifying rounds of Children’s Choir and Musica Sacra category, Silver Medal in the Musica Sacra competition and the Gold and World Champion title in the Children’s Choir category, having bested more than 70 choirs from all over the world in 5^th World Choir Games, so far the largest competition in the history of choir music, with a total of 450 choirs and 20,000 singers from 93 countries attending (www.worldchoirgames.com).

We would like to, once again, express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support you have given to the LPBC. It is an honor to invite you to the LPBC homecoming concert entitled “Las Piñas Boys Choir: Thanksgiving and Victory Concert!” at the Phil-am Life Theater, U.N. Avenue on September 19, 2008, Friday, 8:00 p.m.

Ticket Prices:
P2,000 VIP
P1,000
P800
P500
P300
P100

How To...

Maybe there will be people interested in doing what the Las Piñas Boys Choir did...

A ( hopefully) simple guide on how to join an international competition...
(For those who are just starting out...)

Behind competing, and winning, in an international competition, is the story of how everything began...
Details, real-life experiences that may be of help.

1. Timeframe/Logistics:
Two years preparation would be just enough.
Determine what competition to join, categories, etc.
Finish everything (travel papers, etc) five months before departure.

It is essential that one needs to communicate officially with the organizers to know the rules and regulations, etc.
Travel arrangements should be done at least a year before. The choir saves a lot when airline tickets are bought in package deals and way ahead of schedule.
Time allocation should include fund raising, preparation of travel documents, practices.

Personal experience:
We decided three years ago to come up with a 3-year development plan for the LPBC, with the third year goal as joining an international competition to test the standard of the choir.
1st Year - training of apprentices to ensure sustainability of the choirs. Prep and kinder student applicants are already trained. Local concerts, competitions were joined.
2nd Year - practices, concerts, joining of national competitions.
3rd Year - international competition.
We initially planned to join two - 2007 Athens Greece. 2008 Graz Austria. Due to logistical concerns we focused on Graz. We have to inform our sponsors, etc about this.
We planned to go on concert tour in Vienna, Berlin, Bonn, Rome after the World Choir Games.
Again, due to logistical concerns, we pushed through with Vienna only.
We approached various travel agencies and asked for reasonable prices. We chose from the bidding the balanced proposal of price and service.

2. Funds and Promotion:
Budget for the whole two years (preparations, competition proper, post-competition) should be laid out from the very start.
Plans on how to raise the said amount should be done - concerts, cd sales, company sponsors, donations, product sales (tshirts, pins, etc)
Some choirs go to competitions sponsored by an institution, company or a benefactor.
Some choirs have the members spending for their fare, food, etc, either from personal funds or group fund raising.
This has to be decided upon from the very start.

Personal experience:
We had some initial funds from savings of the choirs in past performances and concerts.
We used this funds to pay the artist and the company who made the promo materials such as new logo, folder designs, cd covers, etc.
We also used this funds to finance our fund raising projects,
We had three concerts (Philam Life, MOA, Send-Off Concert).
It also matters that if one has friends and connections with personalities who can guest in the concerts, then attention will also be generated.
Sitti was very supportive, as well as 6 Priests in the City, priests of Parañaque and Bishop Jess.
One must remember that funds during concerts are not raised thru ticket sales, they only amount to at most 20% of generated income.
Most of the funds come from sponsors, make sure you have friends and connections who will refer you to big companies.
If a choir has not yet earned a name for one’s self, then it has to do extra effort in selling the choir to sponsors. Having friends and connections is a plus factor.
Support of the government in general and the city of Las Piñas in particular, NCCA, DOTC, etc helped as well.
Support of the Diocese of Parañaque, clergy, parishioners was also crucial.
Having volunteer work done by parents, friends and supporters is also important since this not only save money but increase the fan base as well.
Viral/Guerrilla marketing also helps - word of mouth, text and email messages.

3. Team:
There are two sides to this:
Artistic and Management.


Artistic:
Choir members should have natural talent, and willing to work hard, is disciplined and a team worker.
Conductor should be good, should have good rapport with the choir.
Repertoire matters. Have a good line-up of song - not just because of what sells but what is of good quality, one that challenges the choir, exhibits the vocal abilities of the choir and appeals to the senses.
It pays to have a good accompanist. And good composer.

Costume and choreography also provides plus factor.
Theater/acting workshops hones the presentation aspect.
Get objective critiques from people about the performance of the choir.

Personal experience:
The LPBC has been in existence for 39 years.
Boys were trained as early as prep and became regular when in Grade 3 or 4.
LPBC members were constantly exposed to performances and concerts, the highlight of which is the annual international Bamboo Organ Festival.

The current conductor, Professor Armando Salarza studied in Graz and Vienna, is the Titular Organist of the Bamboo Organ, regular performer in the annual international Bamboo Organ Festival and has performed in concerts in Europe.
The accompanist, Alejandro Consolacion II, displays natural talent not only in playing skills of piano and organ but in composing as well.
Leo and Donna, as consultants, provided valuable advice and information and guidance.
The repertoire chosen was very difficult and challenging but really showcased the talents of the boys choir.
The costumes were chosen from proposed designs that displayed the unique culture of the choir, city and the country.
Beverly Vergel, together with RJ, etc, personal friends of Monsi Albert, really helped in providing the wow factor in the performance aspect of the choir.

Management:
Final decisions should be made by the management upon consultation with the artistic group
Full support should be given to the team.

Personal experience:
January and Zeny really worked hard to coordinate, prepare and make sure everything is in order.
Their hard work and zeal is very admirable, working long hours without complain, happily giving their best.
The school administration really provided all out support in terms of funding, academic considerations, etc.
The parish community was all out in support as well.
Monsi Albert really inspired the team with his leadership, presence and support.
It is really a blessing that the team was complete in all aspects with everyone working together to achieve one goal -showcase the Filipino talent.

Final word about management, though final decision should be made by management, As Fr. Hans said, management should be at the service of art.
Amen.

4. Other Concerns:

Preparations matter a lot.
But luck also played a very important role.
Im not saying one should rely on it. That would be dangerous...
Im saying, one should be grateful if one happens to be smiled upon by luck.

Personal experience:
We stayed in Graz in the seminary downtown. Food was great. And so was the place. It was due to the overwhelming generosity of Fr Hans and the care of Anni, etc.
We stayed in Vienna in the welcoming homes of the Filipino community led by Fr. Joey and thru the assistance of MT.
We were lucky, we were loved and cared for. We cannot ask for anything more. Our gratitude goes beyond words...

The preparations would take a toll on everyone what with all the stress and problems of raising money, arranging travel matters, and most essentially, practicing.
Of course there will be kinks encountered along the way,
but, if one prepares everything way ahead of time, most of the unnecessary problems are eliminated,
paving the way for a relaxed choir ready to focus on the important thing - competing.

Lastly, some words of advice:
Get a good staff - everything becomes smooth sailing when the staff is efficient. And oh, treat them well...
Get a good travel agent - believe me, traveling is one of the best moments, aside from touring, and winning, but it becomes memorable if the travel plans have been arranged well by the good
Connections, connections, connections. Media coverage is not automatic. Sponsorship is not given on a silver platter. Good accommodations, food, etc are not easy to come by. You would thank God you have developed friendships at least ten-twenty years ago.
Pray. It works.

Maybe next time, we can put up a simple guide on how to go on an international tour...

Online News Links

A simple google search about the Las Piñas Boys Choir would result to the following online news articles from Inquirer, Philippine Star, GMA7, ABS CBN2, CBCP, Malayan, etc. 

Another world-class boys choir, QC based Kilyawan Boys Choir were also featured.

The Philippine Embassy in Austria led by Consul General Issa Almojuela issued a press release that were disseminated to various media networks in the Philippines and abroad. 

The Management Team also issued a press release based on facts http://www.worldchoirgames.com and relied on friends and connections in order to get media coverage. It was not easy since the World Choir Games was not given much media coverage in the Philippines when it commenced. However, we are very thankful to the media community for giving exposure to the Las Piñas Boys Choir, Alejandro Consolacion II, accompanist and to Prof. Armando Salarza, conductor. We do believe that this is one way of affirming and recognizing their talents and hard work but of the Filipino community as well... 

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080716-148681/Las-Pias-QC-boys-choirs-win-golds-in-Austria 

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/106957/Las-Piñas-Boys-Choir-bags-gold-in-World-Choir-Games 

http://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2008/0715_villar1.asp 

http://www.malaya.com.ph/jul16/news6.htm 

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storyPage.aspx?storyId=125178 

http://209.85.175.104/search?q=cache:S0jVsXgVuQEJ:www.philstar.com/index.php%3FHeadlines%26p%3D49%26type%3D2%26sec%3D24%26aid%3D20080715141+las+piñas+boys+choir&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=10&client=safari

http://www.gmanews.tv/video/25817/Senate-pays-tribute-to-Las-Piñas-Boys-Choir 

http://isl30fvi3w.wordpress.com/2008/07/16/las-pinas-boys-choir-wins-2-golds-in-5th-world-choir-games-in-austria/ 

http://www.cbcpnews.com/?q=node/3744 

http://www.mukamo.com/las-pinas-boys-choir-kilyawan-boys-choir-win-golds-5th-world-choir-games/ 

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp/?p=2244 

http://www.pinaslink.com/view/74154-Las+Pias+Boys+Choir+wins+2+golds+in+5th+World+Choir+Games+in+Austria 

http://www.ucanews.com/2008/07/18/champion-boys-choir-returns-home-to-cheering-parish/ 

http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/july/16/yehey/top_stories/20080716top8.html 

building bridges

“singing together brings nations together” 

so the world choir games theme goes. 

music brings people together. 

nothing tugs at the heartstrings than seeing young people joining hands, hearts and voices. peacefully, joyfully. 

nothing is more touching than witnessing people of all races, age and ideologies standing together singing their hearts out with music from the soul. 

if we fight, if we exchange harsh words, 

there will be no winner. 

except ourselves and our petty, little, selfish agenda. 

and what if we win with useless arguments and left all alone. 

there are no winners in meaningless wars, 

only wounds that would take a long time to heal. 

let us not burn bridges. 

let us build them and through joined hands experience new worlds... 

that is what music should be about... 

not wars, not fights. 

but peace. love. 

“Imagine all the people, Living life in peace” 

John Lennon

New Videos in LPBC Official Youtube Site: www.youtube.com/lpbcsja

There are three new uploaded videos in the youtube site of LPBC at http://youtube.com/lpbcsja 

Concert of Champions

City of My Heart MTV

World Choir Games Awarding

Villar files resolution hailing Las Piñas Boys Choir for winning gold in the 5th World Choir Games in Austria

Press Release
July 15, 2008

Villar files resolution hailing Las Piñas Boys Choir for winning gold in the 5th World Choir Games in Austria

Senate President Manny Villar filed Senate Resolution No. 507 commending the Las Piñas Boys Choir for winning the gold medal in the children's category and silver medal in the musica sacra category in the 5th World Choir Games in Graz, Austria.

Villar said, "The feat of our very own Las Piñas Boys Choir exhibits the excellence of the global Pinoys whose dedication and commitment to their craft bring honor and pride to the country."

Held every two years in different countries, the World Choir Games is the largest international choir competition.

On July 12, the 20-member choir from St. Joseph Church in Las Piñas bested 70 choir groups from all over the world.

The choir members are George Angeles II, Bernard Paolo Caro, Alvin Joshua Cayetano, Josiah de los Santos, Justin Claude Fernandez, Jadlae Aivan Fernandez, Joseph Vincent Gregorio, Carl Paolo Hernandez, Japheth Juanillo, Herman Manalang, Jhansseen Martinez, Dhonel Martinicio, Alwyn Dominique Panoso, Rupert Kim Pastrana, Ramon Paolo Quintero, Chazz Reyes, Karlo Reyes, Francis David Salonga, Joshua Gabriel, and Samiley and Joe Sengson.

Under the artistic direction of Prof. Armando Salarza, the group is a regular performer in the annual Bamboo Organ International Music Festival.

The Las Piñas Boys Choir was founded in 1969 by Rev. Fr. Leo Reinier, CICM, who was assistant parish priest at St. Joseph Parish. The existence of the choir is also closely connected with the presence of the world-famous bamboo organ in Las Piñas.

Press Release

Las Piñas Boys Choir: World Champion!!!

The Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) emerged victorious in the two categories it competed in the World Choir Games 2008, Graz, Austria!

Once again, we have shown the world that the Filipino talent is world class!

The Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) got the Silver Medal in the Musica Sacra Category, keeping up with the best choirs of the world, pleasing the 7 judges from all over the world. 

Most importantly, it got the Gold medal and was proclaimed as World Champion in the Children’s Choir category! The LPBC proved that they are the best children’s choir in the world, 

besting almost 70 choirs from USA, Greece, Estonia, Great Britain, Russia, South Africa, etc. 

And what is amazing is that most choirs in the Musica Sacra are professional choirs and consists of around 40-60 members. The same goes for the children’s choir category. More than 70 choirs participated, around 20 choirs got the bronze medals, around 10 choirs got the silver medals and around 10 got the gold medals. Almost all children’s choirs have members ranging from 40-70. 20 boys of the Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) captivated and conquered the world! 

Professor Armando Salarza is the conductor. Alejandro Consolacion II is the accompanist. 

Staff and consultants are January Hernandez, Norie Salarza, Leo and Donna Renier. Management Team is Msgr. Albert Venus and Fr. Didoy Molina. 

The LPBC will have a concert in Vienna and will be back in the Philippines on July 16, 4PM Wednesday. 

Below is the press release of the World Choir Games: 

The 5th World Choir Games has been touted as the largest and most successful choir competition of the world.  It was held in Graz, Austria, capital city of the province of Styria, which is at the crossroads between different European cultures from the east and west, north and south and considered as the unique old city centre is one of UNESCO's world cultural heritage sites. In the year 2003 Graz was the spectacular cultural capital of Europe and in 2008 it will be the world's capital of choral singing. The 5th World Choir Games in Graz 2008 are well on the way to becoming the largest competition in the history of choir music. Until now about 450 choirs from 93 nations have registered already. The large number of participating choirs is complemented by folk dance groups and brass music bands which are going to turn this event into a unique festival of different cultures.
 
According to the status quo China, Russia, Austria and Germany are going to delegate most of the participating choirs - more than 170 of them altogether, followed closely by Indonesia, Hungary and Croatia which will be present with nearly 90 choirs. This shows that our slogan "Singing together brings nations together" will be celebrated impressively in Graz in July.
 
The choirs are going to demonstrate their abilities to the approximately 71 international jurors in more than 600 performances in 28 different categories. More than 1.000 concerts in Graz and vicinity will take place, including friendship-, gala- and special-concerts. Two-thirds of the participants at this event again are going to be children, teenager and young adults. Over 140 performances in categories concerning children and youth choirs reflect this fact. But also the categories Folklore, Musica Sacra, Popular Choir Music as well as Gospel and Spiritual enjoy great popularity so that we are looking forward to another 220 performances. 

Team LPBC Austria

The victory of the LPBC is indeed the victory of the community. 

Everyone helped. 

Not only the Filipinos but Austrians as well. 

20 boys brought glory to the country. 

The conductor is Professor Armando Salarza. 

Accompanist is Alejandro Consolacion II. 

Staff is January Hernandez. 

Norie Salarza assisted as well. 

Left behind but instrumental to the preparations is Zeny Lopez. 

Consultants are the founder, Leo Renier and with him is Donna Renier. 

Completing the management team is Monsi Albert and myself. 

When Monsi brought in to the team the creative staff of Beverly Vergel and RJ, they refined the movements and performance of the LPBC. 

The choreography is by Raul dela Cruz. 

Costume is by. 

The many sponsors made this possible as well. 

The team work of the group has been flawless. 

Every one has a part to play.

Tonight they will perform in the Concert of Champions. 

Tomorrow, the LPBC will have a concert in Vienna. 

Wednesday, the team will go back to the Philippines. 

Mission accomplished! 

It has been a spectacular journey! 

To all of you, thank you! 

This is Team LPBC Austria, signing off...

Press Release

Las Piñas Boys Choir: World Champion!!!

The Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) emerged victorious in the two categories it competed in the World Choir Games 2008, Graz, Austria!

Once again, we have shown the world that the Filipino talent is world class!

The Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) got the Silver Medal in the Musica Sacra Category, keeping up with the best choirs of the world, pleasing the 7 judges from all over the world. 

Most importantly, it got the Gold medal and was proclaimed as World Champion in the Children’s Choir category! The LPBC proved that they are the best children’s choir in the world, 

besting almost 70 choirs from USA, Greece, Estonia, Great Britain, Russia, South Africa, etc. 

And what is amazing is that most choirs in the Musica Sacra are professional choirs and consists of around 40-60 members. The same goes for the children’s choir category. More than 70 choirs participated, around 20 choirs got the bronze medals, around 10 choirs got the silver medals and around 10 got the gold medals. Almost all children’s choirs have members ranging from 40-70. 20 boys of the Las Piñas Boys Choir (LPBC) captivated and conquered the world! 

Professor Armando Salarza is the conductor. Alejandro Consolacion II is the accompanist. 

Staff and consultants are January Hernandez, Norie Salarza, Leo and Donna Renier. Management Team is Msgr. Albert Venus and Fr. Didoy Molina. 

The LPBC will have a concert in Vienna and will be back in the Philippines on July 16, 4PM Wednesday. 

Below is the press release of the World Choir Games: 

The 5th World Choir Games has been touted as the largest and most successful choir competition of the world.  It was held in Graz, Austria, capital city of the province of Styria, which is at the crossroads between different European cultures from the east and west, north and south and considered as the unique old city centre is one of UNESCO's world cultural heritage sites. In the year 2003 Graz was the spectacular cultural capital of Europe and in 2008 it will be the world's capital of choral singing. The 5th World Choir Games in Graz 2008 are well on the way to becoming the largest competition in the history of choir music. Until now about 450 choirs from 93 nations have registered already. The large number of participating choirs is complemented by folk dance groups and brass music bands which are going to turn this event into a unique festival of different cultures.
 
According to the status quo China, Russia, Austria and Germany are going to delegate most of the participating choirs - more than 170 of them altogether, followed closely by Indonesia, Hungary and Croatia which will be present with nearly 90 choirs. This shows that our slogan "Singing together brings nations together" will be celebrated impressively in Graz in July.
 
The choirs are going to demonstrate their abilities to the approximately 71 international jurors in more than 600 performances in 28 different categories. More than 1.000 concerts in Graz and vicinity will take place, including friendship-, gala- and special-concerts. Two-thirds of the participants at this event again are going to be children, teenager and young adults. Over 140 performances in categories concerning children and youth choirs reflect this fact. But also the categories Folklore, Musica Sacra, Popular Choir Music as well as Gospel and Spiritual enjoy great popularity so that we are looking forward to another 220 performances. 

World Champion!!!

After the breakfast and mass, 

we went to the Stadthalle for the Awarding Ceremonies of the 1st Part of the World Choir Games. 

It was a joyful event with all the choirs in various colorful uniforms and flags. 

There were spontaneous wave movements, singing and clapping and cheering. 

And the award ceremonies began. 

The emcees called up the winners of the various categories, with the bronze, silver and gold medals. 

The most emotional in each category is the announcement of the world champion in the particular category. 

All the members of the winning choir go up on stage and the national anthem is played while the national flag is hoisted up. 

Various emotions are displayed by the winning choirs, with loud cheering, jumping and unabashed crying. 

When the Musica Sacra category was announced, the LPBC got a silver medal! 

A tough achievement with so many choirs of all ages and nationalities joining the said category. 

The final category to be announced was the Children’s Choir category. 

There was as long list of winners of bronze medals. 

Many also qualified for the silver medals. 

When the LPBC name was not called, we were already happy to note that at least we will get the gold. 

And then, when every name was called to received the gold medal, and our name was not yet called,

most of the boys were already standing in excitement! 

And whenever another choir was called, they would cheer, since that would mean the LPBC point would be higher!

And every time a gold medalist winner was called, the drama escalates!

And then the momentous music that signals the world champion will be announced was played! 

And the Las Piñas Boys Choir was announced as the WORLD CHAMPION in the CHILDREN’S CHOIR Category! 

Team LPBC rushed to the stage!!!

The Philippine National Anthem was played and the Philippine Flag was raised! 

This is a proud moment not only for the Las Piñas Boys Choir, not only for Las Piñas but for the Filipino People!!!

20 boys proved to the world that they are world class, that they are the best! 

Divine Providence...

If ever one needs a story to be convinced about divine providence, this would be it. 

When the team decided on the development program for the LPBC, 

first on the local scene, then on the national level and then on the international level, 

little did we know that, amidst all the stress and problems encountered, 

everything would still fall into place. 

First, we planned to join two international events, 2007 in Athens and 2008 Austria. 

We were having logistical problems so we had second thoughts about going to Athens. 

We explored the possibility of going to Indonesia Asian Choir Games but decided we will pool our resources for Graz. 

We have to inform our donors and sponsors about the change of plans and proceeded to focus our energy for the World Choir Games 2008, Graz, Austria. 

It is then that everything unraveled marvelously. 

Armando studied in Graz under the tutelage of Fr. Hans. 

Fr. Hans was a regular performer in the International Bamboo Organ Festival. 

Fr. Hans came into contact with the Bamboo Organ when it was restored 33 years ago since it was restored by the same person who restored the Graz Cathedral Pipe organ at exactly the same time. 

When Fr. Hans offered the Priesterseminar, the boys seem to the luckiest among all the choirs, having a place to stay downtown where everything was accessible, a stress-free environment (except for some seminarians who were disturbed by the boys natural playfulness), enough food to eat, plenty of time for rest and relaxation,  the dining hall was baroque in design and have good acoustics with two grand pianos ideal for practice and beautiful chapel to celebrate mass.

Anni helped in making the boys feel at home. 

When we were organizing a possible concert for the boys in Vienna and Rome, we have to finally cancel Rome due to financial constraints. 

Our difficulty would be to find host families for us in Vienna and a concert venue. We considered many possibilities and we emailed the Philippine Embassy in Vienna as well.

While processing our papers in the Austrian Embassy in Makati, I happen to meet Fr. Lino who told us they will be going to Vienna this Sept. and it would be good to contact the chaplain, Fr. Joey. 

When I went back to the office to check my email, I got the reply from the Phil Embassy that they have forwarded our request to Fr. Joey. 

Since then, from the very first time that Fr. Joey extended his help to us, and through the wonderful coordination of MT, everything went well with our Vienna preparations. 

Blessings, blessings and more blessings... 

God is good. 

New Celebrities!

Another superb performance!

The boys just finished performing in the Finals of the Children's Choir category. 

The crowd gave applause to the boys even as they entered!

And the applause was even longer when they finished! 

And many went out of the hall to ask for pictures with the boys. 

Seems like the boys have become celebrities...

Another Gold!

After the breakfast, the boys heard the good news that they got the gold for the Musica Sacra category!

After the mass, they also got the second round of good news, they also got the gold for the Children's Choir category!

They will now give their best again this evening in the two categories. 

Final results can be viewed at http://www.musica-mundi.com/events/competitions/austria/wcg2008/world-choir-games-the-competitions/results.html

Gold!

We got the good news at about midnight!

The boys got the gold at the Musica Sacra category!

Full results can be viewed at http://www.musica-mundi.com/events/competitions/austria/wcg2008/world-choir-games-the-competitions/results.html

Another Gold!

After the breakfast, the boys heard the good news that they got the gold for the Musica Sacra category!

After the mass, they also got the second round of good news, they also got the gold for the Children's Choir category!

They will now give their best again this evening in the two categories. 

Final results can be viewed at http://www.musica-mundi.com/events/competitions/austria/wcg2008/world-choir-games-the-competitions/results.html

Day 7 - Children's Choir Category

After the breakfast and mass, the boys prepared their costumes and will have early lunch and go to the Stadthalle to compete in Category 1 - Children's Choir, at 3:30PM. Graz time is six hours behind Philippine time.

The Drama Unfolds...

The competition started in the afternoon yesterday. Each choir is given 15 minutes. Because of the many participants, the competition in Musica Sacra will only end this noon. 

The boys performed at around 4:10PM. The choirs who performed before them were good. Still, when the boys entered, there was hushed silence. The choir gown costume alone was an attention-getter but their opening song was even more awe-inspiring and breathtaking. I can even feel the crowd holding their breath after the song and then Armando proceeded to lead the boys in their next repertoire and song after song, the silence of the crowd was deafening if not eerie, a reaction and attention I believe given only now among the competing choirs. And when the boys ended with the rousing Halleluia, the applause was long and loud. Some even gave the boys a standing ovation. It was the LPBC at their best! We will get to know the results later this afternoon, if we will enter the finals. Waiting is the hardest part...

Day 6 - The Big Day!!!

After the breakfast and mass, the boys prepared for the 12:40PM soundcheck at the Mariahilferkirche or the Two Towers Church. 

Actual competition will be at 4:10PM. During lunch, Monsi Albert and Armando gave a pep talk to the boys.  

Sound Check, Photo Ops, Parade

After the breakfast and mass, we went to the Stadthalle for the 10 minute soundcheck. 

While waiting for the tram, we met the Land of the Lakes Boys Choir from Minnesota. They are the only boys choir, aside from LPBC, who will also be competing in the same category as the boys, Category 1 - Children's Choir and Category 17 - Musicam Sacram. 

While waiting for their turn to practice, the boys had opportunities to meet children's choir from Russia, Singapore, China and even the Kilyawan Boys Choir from the Philippines. 

93 nations, 430 choirs, 18,500 singers will be competing in the 24 categories of the 5th World Choir Games. 

Day 4

Today is registration day. Armando, AJ, Jan, Norie, Fr Hans and I went to te Stadthalle to register and get our ID's, tram tickets, brochures, etc. We also went to the two competition sites to check the venue, etc. 

The boys went out for a three hour walk around the city with Monsi Albert, Leo and Donna, getting a tour of the city at the same time lessons in European history, church architecture, renaissance, gothic, baroque, etc. 

The boys practiced in the afternoon and after dinner, had a leisurely walk in the city park. 

Practice, practice, practice

"How do you get to Carnegie Hall?"
"Practice, practice..."
So the old story goes...
And so that is what the boys did the whole day... Practice, practice, practice
In the lush, green garden.
In the elaborately designed dining hall.
After the dinner and the mass, the boys are now off to rest.
They deserve it.
Guten Nacht!

Discipline...

Many are saying the LPBC members are so lucky to have made it to the 5th World Choir Games, for the chance to compete with distinguished choirs from all over the world, for the opportunity to travel to the cultural capital, Graz.
But you have to give it to them for all the sacrifices they have made, for the great amount of discipline given to hone their talents...
Aside from hours and hours of practice they have to give up on a lot of things...
No softdrinks...
No chocolates...
No cold water...
No sweets whatsoever...
During the travel, they are not allowed to bring with them unnecesary distractions.
No ipods and psp's.
No digicams.
They have with them their journals though for them to write down their experiences and thoughts...
They have with them hungry hearts out raring to give their best, the fire within out to show the world what they are made off...
They are... the Las Piñas Boys Choir!

Angels in Human Form...

These are words I borrowed from Fr Hans. He used these words to describe MT, who was really heaven-sent, whose arrangements for our travel from Vienna made everything smooth.
I know everyone in the team will agree with me in saying that these may be used also to describe Fr Hans whose generosity is beyond compare. When he offered the Priesterseminar as a place to stay, we know we cannot ask for anything more, the seminary being a comfortable and safe place to stay in, not to mention the great amount of money saved. His support of Armando and the LPBC in particular and of music in general is something worth mentioning and emulating.
Anni also is another angel. She saw to it that the boys have a good meal and that everything is in order. Together with Jan, Norie, Donna, she really looked after the boys as a mother would and that meant a lot I believe for the boys who are finding themselves in another country far from their parents and families.

Doha-Vienna-Graz

After a three hour wait at Doha, we had a very uneventful, smooth flight to Vienna. We arrived at 6AM Vienna time and since the processing of our travel papers were very fast, it took us only around 20 minutes, we have to wait for the bus that will take us to Graz. MT, our travel angel, as Fr. Hans calls her, arranged for porter services and brought food for breakfast. We began the two hour trip to Graz with the rosary and we were given some information about Vienna and Graz by MT and Leo along the way. There is no traffic since it is a Sunday and we arrived early. Anni was there to meet us, complete with Graz costume and waving Philippine Flag. We have to walk to where we will stay, the PriesterSeminar, (a 300 year old seminary built by the Jesuits to counter the Reformation in Austria), since it is located inside the old city walls, much like our Intramuros. We rushed to attend the high mass of Fr Trummer at the cathedral which is just across the seminary. The boys tried out the acoustic of the church and sung a Philippine folk/ballad. We then had a hearty lunch and at four in the afternoon we went out for a walk to the upper part of the city.
I have posted pictures in the official website and in the multiply account of the LPBC.

Manila-Doha

We are now having three hour stop-over in Doha after almost eight hours of travel from Manila. We left at 5PM Phil time and arrived here 8:30PM Doha time. Time difference is five hour difference, I think, haven;t checked and counted, too sleepy. : ) THe boys are visibly excited during the flight, enjoying the food, and either enjoying the music on demand or the various inflight movies and games.
I remember the excited, sometime dramatic and tearful goodbyes of the parents when we departed from St. Joseph's Academy. Some of the parents and relatives event went to the airport for the final farewells. The processing of papers, etc went smoothly, thanks to the assistance of the travel agent, Mayette, who prepared everything, and also to the josephian alumni working in the airport who went out of their way to assist us, thanks esp to RJ!
Some of the boys are going around enjoying the sights of the duty free shops ere in Doha, some are resting, sleeping or writing their journals. I guess we should have told them that they bring a lot of pages for their journals, they will be having a lot of life-changing experiences to write about...

Send-Off Mass and Lunch

July 2, Thursday, the LPBC members, staff, admin and parents had thanksgiving and send-off mass at 11AM at the St. Joseph's Parish Church, Bamboo Organ, presided by Msgr. Albert Venus with Fr Didoy and Fr Joe concelebrating. After the mass, everyone had a hearty lunch prepared for by the parents.