On April 17, 2024, the University of Baguio Centennial Hall came alive with enchanting melodies as the KORO STELA, in collaboration with the UB Music Society, took to the stage for their very first concert. The act of navigating through a labyrinth can represent the twists and turns of life’s challenges and the process of finding one’s way through adversity. Choirmaster Emmanuel Aller, recognizing the significance of this symbol, chose “Labyrinth” as the perfect metaphor for KORO STELA’s inaugural concert—a testament to the choir’s commitment to growth, resilience, and the transformative power of music.
The concert, held in two sessions on the same day, offered audiences a choice of experiences. The 1:00 PM performance, welcomed attendees to an afternoon of musical enchantment. Moreover, the choir extended a special invitation to senior high school students, granting them free admission. This gesture not only fostered a deeper connection with the local community but also provided young minds with the opportunity to experience the magic of live music firsthand.
For those seeking an enhanced experience, the 5:00 PM performance featured an array of guest performers, promising an evening of unparalleled entertainment. Esteemed guest performers graced the stage with their talents. Among them were Laurie Amor Ventura, Viana Tejada, Acoustique Souls, David La Sol, Performing Arts Director Mr. John Glenn Gaerlan, and the accomplished pianist Dr. Jenifer Marigza. Their presence added depth and diversity to an already spectacular event, enriching the musical tapestry woven by KOROSTELA.
The audience was treated to a meticulously curated setlist that showcased the choir’s diverse talents and musical prowess. Divided into two parts, like its namesake, the performance unfolded like a journey through a labyrinth of emotions and melodies.
In the first part, the audience was swept away by enchanting renditions of beloved classics, including “Kruhay,” composed and arranged by Benny Castillion and conducted by Reuben David Supena, featuring the soloist Ms. Jabine Mackachi. This was followed by the engaging “Salmo 150,” composed and arranged by Ernani Aguiar and conducted by Viana Tejada. “Esto les Digo,” composed and arranged by Kinley Lange and conducted by Mr. Emmanuel Aller, captivated the audience with its poignant harmonies. The hauntingly beautiful “Izar Ederrak,” composed and arranged by Josu Elberdin and conducted by Mr. Emmanuel Aller, transported listeners to distant lands with its ethereal melodies. “Rosas Pandan,” composed by Minggoy Lopez and Levi Celerio, arranged by George G. Hernandez, and conducted by Vanessa Bogalin, showcased the choir’s versatility, with Ms. Jabine Mackachi shining once again as the soloist. Finally, “Eres Tu,” composed by Juan Carlos Calderon, arranged by Robert Delgado, and conducted by Mr. Emmanuel Aller, featuring the heartfelt solo by Ms. Elizabeth Hermoso, left the audience spellbound.
The second part of the concert continued to delight and inspire, starting with the captivating “Perfect Symphony,” composed by Ed Sheeran, arranged and conducted by Reuben David Supena, featuring the soulful solos of Mr. John Glenn Gaerlan and Mr. Lexter Mahusay. “You Raise Me Up,” composed by Rolf Lovland, arranged by Roger Emerson, and conducted by Edgar David Talanay, uplifted spirits with its powerful message of hope, accompanied by the angelic voice of Ms. Elizabeth Hermoso. “I Will Follow Him,” composed by Paul Mauriat and Frank Pourcel, arranged by Peter Weltens, and conducted by Edgar David Talanay, accompanied by the masterful piano of Dr. Jennifer Marigza and featuring the stirring solo of Ms. Elizabeth Hermoso, stirred the soul with its jubilant refrain.
“As Long As I Have Music,” composed and arranged by Don Besig and Nancy Price, accompanied by Dr. Jennifer Marigza, filled the hall with joy and celebration. “Why We Sing,” composed and arranged by Greg Gilpin and conducted by Mr. Emmanuel Aller, accompanied by Dr. Jennifer Marigza, reminded everyone of the unifying power of music. Finally, the iconic “Seasons of Love,” composed by Rolf Lovland, arranged by Roger Emerson, and conducted by Mr. Emmanuel Aller, accompanied by Dr. Jennifer Marigza and featuring the heartfelt solos of Ms. Elizabeth Hermoso and Mr. Lexter Mahusay, brought the concert to a poignant close, leaving hearts full and spirits uplifted.
As they took their final bows, bathed in the warmth of applause, KOROSTELA and their supporters knew that this was just the beginning of their musical odyssey. With hearts full of song and spirits ignited with passion, they eagerly anticipated the adventures that lay ahead, knowing that with each step, they would continue to navigate life’s labyrinth with grace, resilience, and the transformative power of music.
Written by Jabine Mackachi and Maria Victoria Santiago
