Philippine Adventist Choir Become First Filipino Choir to Win Rimini International Choral Competition, Lifting Their Victory to God
Edward RodriguezNov 19, 2025, 7:00 AM
The Philippine Meistersingers, an ensemble composed of students, alumni, and faculty from the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP), made history today, November 16, 2025, as the first Filipino choir to win the prestigious Rimini International Choral Competition. Their Grand Prix victory marks a defining moment in Philippine choral music and reflects AUP’s mission to cultivate excellence grounded in Scripture, character, and service.
Recognized globally as one of the premier stages for choral excellence, the Rimini competition brought together outstanding ensembles from around the world. The Philippine Meistersingers rose above the field as they earned Golden Diplomas and Category Winner status in two categories—96.08 points in Category A and 96.58 points in Category B—before advancing to the final round. Under the direction of Ramon Molina Lijauco Jr., they were declared Grand Prix Winner, marking the Philippines’ first triumph in the competition’s history.
Their exceptional performance also secured their place as Rimini’s official representative to the 2026 World Choral Championship (WCC). A certificate issued today confirms that the choir will stand among the world’s finest ensembles at the International Krakow Choir Festival Cracovia Cantans on June 14, 2026, in Krakow, Poland.
A Victory Offered to God
The choir’s journey to the Grand Prix stage was shaped by a repertoire that blended sacred choral literature with Filipino artistic expression. They opened their performance with Alleluia by Ivo Antognini, a soaring and contemplative piece that immediately revealed their tonal purity and disciplined blend. They followed with O Vos Omnes by Lorenzo Donati, whose reflective and emotionally rich musical lines allowed the ensemble to display their interpretive maturity and spiritual depth. The program concluded with Arimaonga by Filipino composer Nilo Alcala, a vibrant and rhythmically dynamic work that showcased the richness of Philippine musical heritage through powerful storytelling and energetic choral textures. Together, these pieces enabled the Meistersingers to deliver a compelling musical narrative grounded in technical excellence and heartfelt devotion.
For the ensemble, the victory goes beyond scores and trophies. They dedicated the accomplishment to God, recognizing Him as the source of their strength, artistry, and unity. Their journey embodies the message of 1 Corinthians 10:31, which reminds believers to do all things for the glory of God. Each rehearsal and performance became an expression of gratitude and an offering of praise.
Their intergenerational composition—students harmonizing with alumni and guided by faculty mentors—mirrors AUP’s Christ-centered academic environment. Their unity echoes the invitation of Psalm 33:3 to “sing to Him a new song” and “play skillfully” as an act of worship and witness.
AUP’s Mission Amplified
While the Rimini victory elevates the Philippines on the global choral stage, it also amplifies AUP’s continuing mission to prepare individuals who excel academically and artistically while remaining rooted in faith and service. The Philippine Meistersingers embody the vision of the university: to nurture talents that uplift, inspire, and glorify God.
From their home in Silang, Cavite, to one of the world’s most respected choral platforms, the ensemble demonstrated what becomes possible when talent is shaped by discipline and a deep spiritual calling. Their performance stands as a testimony that excellence flourishes where faith and purpose intertwine.
A Triumph That Resonates Beyond Today
As the Philippine Meistersingers return home carrying the Grand Prix title earned today, their victory becomes a song of praise and a celebration of God’s faithfulness. Their historic achievement at the Rimini International Choral Competition on November 16, 2025, offers a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when voices, hearts, and mission unite to honor the Creator—“for from Him and through Him and to Him are all things” (Romans 11:36).
Their journey continues toward the World Choral Championship in 2026, where they will once again lift their voices to inspire, to witness, and to glorify God.
The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.
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