Singers impressed by student chorales

MANILA, Philippines - Some of the country’s noted singers joined one of Makati’s festive traditions that has become bigger and better every year. Recording artists/singers Richard Reynoso, Moy Ortiz of The CompanY and Frenchie Dy, together with Joy Nilo, secretary of the Philippine Choral Directors Association, acted as judges at The Festival of Carols in Makati, the fifth edition of the annual Christmas caroling competition among Makati high schools.

The Festival of Carols has become more than just a competition as it has provided a venue for high school chorale groups to showcase songs that have the power to make meaningful Christmas celebrations possible. Regaling Makati denizens and visitors alike with their angelic voices and joyful musicality, students from nine participating schools, namely Pitago High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, Benigno Ninoy Aquino High School, St. Paul Makati, Don Bosco, San Isidro High School, Makati High School, Makati Science High School and Pio Del Pilar High School rendered two choir pieces each during the tilt held at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.

“The participating schools and their respective students surprised me with their fresh take on well-loved Christmas carols,” said Richard.

“Nothing compares to the enthusiasm of young people,” added Moy.

“What is even more admirable is that you can feel that the students were not only concerned about winning the cash prizes at stake but more importantly, they wanted to share their God-given talents to everyone in this most joyous season,” noted Frenchie.

“Now on its fifth year, we wanted our annual Makati Inter-High School Christmas Caroling Competition to remind us of the real essence of Christmas — the joy found in giving inspiration and hope to others,” says Mel Ignacio, AVP of Ayala Land.

More than anything else, the Festival of Carols in Makati is about the students bringing honor to their respective schools and the city, as well as providing a melodious spectacle to the people who live and work in Makati.

This year’s roster of winners were the Benigno Ninoy Aquino High School as champion, and the St. Paul Makati and Pio Del Pilar High School as first and second runners-up, respectively.