20/10/2025
๐๐ข๐ข๐ | Onto the int'l stage...
Busan-bound TAU Chorale honored in send-off rites; gains univ support
Delegates of Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) for the 2025 Busan Choral Festival and Competition, set to take place in South Korea from October 30 to November 2, received a send-off concert to boost morale and showcase the artistry they have honed through years of training.
Held at the Student and Alumni Center Amphitheater on October 17, TAU-Chorale under the concert theme "Odyssey," presented two performances: a Matinee and a Gala, with Mr. Jefferson R. Manalang serving as choral conductor.
During the repertoire showcase, the Chorale performed variety of musical genres ranging from sacred compositions, traditional Filipino songs, and contemporary opus.
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TAU President Dr. Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson, in his inspirational message, urged Chorale team to make lasting representation while cherishing the one-time moment with passion and joy.
"This is your moment to showcase your dedication and harmony... Experience, soak, and learn from other choir," Dr. Salunson said, expressing support to Chorale's nearing international stint.
"Find joy in the shared language of music. Let your voice be the power of music," he added while reminding them: "We are all behind you."
Conveying similar sentiments, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs (VP-ASA), Dr. Sonny D.C. Torres, emphasized that excellence cannot be achieved overnight, noting that passion, dedication, and continuous effort are essential to attaining it.
"We are not just sending off (the Chorale members) but also celebrating their journey of growth that binds them as one voice, one spirit and one TAU," Dr. Torres stated.
"We are here standing behind you, cheering for every note and harmony," he further said.
He also encouraged audience to feel not only the rhythm of the music but also the rhythm of the performers' story.
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Choral conductor Manalang, after accepting the challenge of leading the team, shared his prior experience working with them: "I chose to be patient with them, and in return, they showed me their willingness to grow and put in the hard work."
"They remind me why I do what I do and they push me to keep improving," Manalang added.
Manalang, while reflecting on the challenges the group faced throughout their preparation and performances, called on TAU community for continuous support and prayers following their 2nd and 3rd place placements in the 2024 Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges Region III (CAASUC III) Show Choir and Standard Choral Competitions, respectively.
"This journey hasn't been easy. We've faced many challenges along the way... There were fun and fulfilling moments, but there were also times when it felt overwhelming." Manalang disclosed.
Despite that, he assured the team would perform well in the upcoming competition. "We will give our very best throughout this journey, but it's equally important to enjoy the process."
Moreover, Manalang expressed his gratitude to all individuals behind the Chorale's development and continuous improvement.
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With the TAU Chorale marking their first appearance in the global stage, Dr. Salunson, while thanking Sociocultural Development Officer (SDO) Director Dr. Cecile Lapitan for organizing the event, also challenged her to expand participation from other cultural groups.
"Sana next year naman, 'yung mga dance troupe naman ang maka-attend," Dr. Salunson said.
To continue sending delegations as part of the university's tradition, the President plans to conduct campus-wide exposition every semester to generate financial support for student participants.
"We want to generate funds for our students [competing] outside [the university]," he added.
Said concert, meanwhile, was organized by the SDO, with special performances from TAU - Ako at Kayo sa Dula at Awit (AKDA) and TAU-Performing Guild.
๐๏ธ Marc Joshua Dela Cruz and John Lloyd Pabloreรฑa
๐ท Kristia Lino and Dom Gelacio
Data Consolidated by Avery Mores