Originally Published on June 08, 2021
Written by Lailah Labas
Last June 6, the University of Caloocan City (UCC) Chorale performed its first heart-warming song on a virtual stage. Through the new normal setup in the midst of pandemic, the UCC chorale touches the heart of the viewers by performing the song entitled “A Child’s Prayer”.
According to the UCC chorale conductor Mark Salvador, it was his first time arranging this kind of project and it wasn’t easy. Although he performed already as a virtual performer, organizing such event like this is not his forte. Salvador said that he applied the learnings and experiences he acquired from the Philippine Madrigal Singers and to National Artist for Music Prof. Andrea O. Veneracion to make this event successful.
One of the biggest challenges they’ve encountered is the audiovisual recording, in which they required to record audios in dry sound and quiet places. He stated that they need to do that during midnight to avoid unnecessary noises.
Salvador said that, “Doing online rehearsal is not a joke. I have to discuss the song first and the emotions binded to the song.”
Mr. Mark Salvador chooses the song “A Child’s Prayer” because for him, students and working adults have been dealing with too much work loads and sometimes people felt like they are at their lowest, questioning if there has really God in these trying times. Salvador explained that from the lyrics itself “Are You really there?”, means that we are asking God and we pray to Him, and let’s be all reminded that God is always with us no matter what.
“We just need to keep our faith and keep our connection with him,” Salvador said.
The song choice served as a key to touch every person’s heart that there is God and he is always with us whatever happens and wherever we are. No matter how hard our situation right now, believe that we always have him.
The chorale fulfilled the emotion of the song and delivered the message victoriously. Each of them is happy and proud to accomplish a bright performance for all. The chorale conductor is also looking forward to perform an online concert after their debut.
“Our first event is just a start of more virtual performances, hopefully, we can have an online concert to serenade you all,” Salvador added.
He also leave a message to his beloved UCC chorale, “Let’s keep the passion for our mission: bring love, hope, and peace through harmony,” he ended.
UCC Chorale is always open for all aspiring singers who are interested to join. You may send a direct message to their official Facebook page.
For the latest performance of UCC Chorale, you may refer to this link: https://bit.ly/3hemFYl
TNC of the North 