Discipline. Persistence. Harmony.

These are what the UPLB Choral Ensemble (UPLB-CE) excellently demonstrated in the few months leading up to their winning double gold in choral competitions in Tokyo, Japan.

After submitting an audition video to the Tokyo International Choir Competition (TICC), the UPLB-CE qualified in two categories in the 6th TICC held from July 26 to 28, 2024.

As early as March 2024, selected members and their conductor tirelessly dedicated endless hours every weekend to rehearse. Rehearsals even ramped up to four days a week in June to dedicate more time to practicing.

The rehearsals were no joke. Finding and maintaining a specific sound for a piece proved to be a challenge that required each singer’s earnest focus and discipline.

“Usually, [the challenge we faced] is finding the right sound and emotion for a piece. It takes a lot of internalization to figure out the correct aspect for these factors,” Michael Argañosa, one of the UPLB-CE members, said.

Amidst a university setting dominated by science, philosophy, and research, the UPLB-CE never fails to fulfill their goal of making art through chorale music. Through their emotions and harmony, notes and instruments are brought to life–serving as the paintbrushes that draw the strokes of artistic sound.

Fueled by their passion for creating music that inspires all nations, the UPLB-CE embarked on their journey toward cultivating a harmonious sound.

With overwhelming support from the UPLB and other sectors, their hard work and dedication soon came to fruition.

They shared their golden voices and talents with audiences and judges in this competition, in other concerts, and at a forum in Tokyo, Japan.

After competing in categories F (Mixed Choir) and G (Contemporary), the UPLB-CE became a qualifier for the Grand Prix Competition held on July 28, 2024.

And then, proving to be harmonious in voice and spirit, the UPLB-CE sang their way to a golden triumph. The team won two gold trophies for both categories!

Their conductor, Roijin G. Suarez, was also recognized with a Special Jury Award of the Most Promising Conductor in the same competition. “Kuya Roijin,” as the UPLB-CE calls him, is known for his dedication to the art of music, harmony, and sound.

“Kuya Roijin, as a conductor, knows what he wants for his choir and teaches it in the easiest, [most sensible], and most fun way possible,” Argañosa said.

Truly, the UPLB-CE shared themselves through notes and chimes, bringing musical pieces to life. They showcased exemplary harmony in voice, spirit, and emotion. Their achievements will fuel the passion of singers and choirs, not only in the Philippines but also around the globe.