Himig SorSUeños, a choir group from Sorsogon State University, made their mark at the 6th Penabur International Choir Festival 2024 in Jakarta, Indonesia, bagging two gold medals in the competition that brought together 130 choirs from across the globe.
The event was held from September 9 to 14, 2024.
The Himig Sorsueños brought home two Gold Level II awards—one for the Mixed Choir Level B Category and another for the Pop and Jazz Category.
THE FEELING
Representing Sorsogon and the Philippines on the global stage was a life-changing experience for the members of Himig SorSUeños.
For the choir, this wasn’t just about winning medals—it was about showcasing Filipino talent.
"Iba po pala ang pakiramdam if you win a competition na dala-dala mo ang bandila ng Pilipinas. It gives more meaning and substance sa pagka-Pilipino natin," Prof. Edwin Balgemino, the group’s choirmaster, said.
The sense of national pride was echoed by 22-year-old tenor Ajaypal J. Singhlitt who recalled his musical journey from humble beginnings to international success.
"Nag-start lang ako sa wala... never I have expected na magko-compete kami in an international stage," Singhlitt said.
Competing internationally for the first time, Singhlitt emphasized how the unique sound of Filipino choirs gave them confidence.
"Dala namin yung Sorsogon State University, the whole province of Sorsogon and the Philippines. We are honored and privileged to represent it," he added.
THE CHALLENGE
Preparing for the competition was no easy feat. Balancing academic commitments and choir rehearsals was a major hurdle for the university-based group.
"Driven by passion and love on what we are doing, we were able to surpass it," Balgemino said.
Despite sacrificing their vacation for long rehearsals, the choir's determination paid off.
Singhlitt also shared the difficulties they faced within the group.
"Hindi biro yung pinagdaanan namin... isa na din ay ang disiplina ng bawat isa," he said.
With members coming from different provinces and backgrounds, managing differences in personalities proved challenging.
However, through teamwork and the guidance of their choirmaster, they were able to overcome these obstacles, strengthened by prayer and unity.
THE IMPACT
The success of Himig SorSUeños not only brought pride to the group but also inspired the local music scene in Sorsogon.
Their achievement demonstrates the potential of local talent to excel on the world stage.
Balgemino shared that the choir has been flooded with congratulatory messages.
"We will invite them to our homecoming Thanksgiving concert," he said.
Singhlitt believes that this accomplishment will motivate others in Sorsogon to aim for higher musical standards.
"Pinapakita ito yung potential ng mga talents dito... and I think it will inspire more artists and musicians to aim for higher standards," he said.
He hopes that their victory will encourage the younger generation to pursue music, proving that dreams can be realized with hard work and dedication.
The group’s success was made possible through the support of their choirmaster, their families, and the entire Sorsogon community, including local government officials.
Above all, the choir members remain grateful for the divine guidance that brought them this triumph in Jakarta.
