U.S.A. Troubadours stage Manila concert

MANILA, Philippines - The U.S.A. Troubadours will stage an intimate concert at the Nuestra Señora de Gracia Parish Church in Guadalupe Viejo, Makati at 8 p.m. on Aug. 9, launching the Augustinian friars’ month-long celebrations for the feast of St. Augustine.

Based at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo, the Troubadours comprise a world-class group that has earned accolades both here and abroad. It first gained national acclaim when it won in the College Choir Category of the National Music Competition for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1996 and 2002. A year later, they were adjudged grand national champion of the Department of Tourism’s WOW Philippines Himig Pinoy Choral Competition. They also participated in the 2005 APEC International Choral Festival in Busan, Korea.

Conducted by Arne Lubasan, the University of San Agustin Troubadours are considered the choir to beat in Western Visayas and emerged regional champions in Manila Broadcasting Company’s National Choral Competitions in 2010 and 2011. They are taking part in this week’s highly awaited Andrea Veneracion International Music Competition hosted by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and likewise hope to represent the country in Sing N Joy Manila, the international music competition being staged in December by Interkultur Germany (organizers of the World Choir Games).

For details, log on to http://nsdg.ph or e-mail [email protected]; or call 896-8444.

Admission is free.