The Sentro Rizal of the Philippine Embassy in Vientiane, Laos, in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), organized the visit of the Philippine Madrigal Singers to Vientiane from 8 to 13 June 2019, as part of the performing group’s ASEAN Tour 2019 in celebration of the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.
The MADZ performed at the Lao National Cultural Hall in Vientiane on 10 June 2019 for an audience composed of representatives from the Lao government, diplomatic corps and international organizations, private sector, academe, and the Filipino community. The MADZ sang Philippine songs, namely “Kruhay”, “O Naranniag a Bulan”, “PokPokAlimpako”, “Bahay Kubo/Chichirichit”, “Sa Ugoy ng Duyan”, and “GaanoKoIkawKamahal”; international songs “Underneath the Stars”, “EresTu”, and “You Raise Me Up”; and showtunes “You Will Be Found” and “Circle of Life”. They also sang the popular Lao song “Yen Sabai Sao Na” with Mr. KhamphanPhonthongsy, Director of the Lao National Cultural Hall. For an encore, the MADZ performed the popular Ryan Cayabyab song “Da Coconut Nut” to the delight of the audience.
The Embassy also organized a chorale workshop conducted by the MADZ on 11 June 2019 at the Australian International School in Vientiane. Choirmaster Mr. Mark Anthony Carpio and the MADZ taught the correct singing posture, breathing exercises, and techniques in utilizing pitch, volume, rhythm, and tempo in singing songs through various activities. A total of 44 students and seven (7) faculty members of AIS participated in the event.
During their visit, the MADZ sang the Philippine National Anthem during the Philippine Embassy’s Flag Raising Ceremony on 12 June 2019. Later that evening, they also featured prominently during the Embassy’s diplomatic reception in celebration of the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence held at the Lao Plaza Hotel.
The MADZ was founded in 1963 by National Artist for Music Andrea O. Veneracion, and has since became one of the most awarded chorale groups in the world. The United NationsEducational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESC) recognized them as Artists for Peace for “putting their fame and influence to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and a culture of peace.” End
