Last Sunday, I had the privilege of hosting (and supporting) the Here We Go Again concert by the Thomasian Chamber Choir (TCC). As I stood before the packed venue of Manila Piano’s Recital Hall in Paseo de Magallanes, I was amazed—not just by the melodies that filled the room but by the incredible passion and dedication of the choir.
From the very beginning, it was clear that this performance was a labor of love. Many members juggled demanding professional lives, yet their unwavering commitment to rehearsals and their shared love for music brought this event to life. Witnessing their journey—from preparation to performance—made me even more proud to be part of this magical evening.
The concert began with a bang as TCC performed popular Broadway hits, including Masquerade and Think of Me from The Phantom of the Opera, Seasons of Love from Rent, and Why We Tell the Story from Once on This Island. Each performance was rich with emotion, leaving the audience (including me) mesmerized by their harmonious blend and dynamic delivery.
The solo performances were equally impressive. Tenor Rovic Solomo sang Sampaguita with so much emotion, while soprano Charice Gacutan gave a heartfelt performance of Part of Your World from The Little Mermaid. The versatility of their voices—from soaring high notes to velvety lows—was a testament to their artistry.
The second part of the program, my favorite part of the concert, transported us through timeless OPM classics, including Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin and a medley of Manila, Limang Dipang Tao, and Kagandahan. The intricate arrangements of our choirmaster, Mr. Nobel Gabasan, highlighted the ability to breathe new life into beloved Filipino music.
As the evening drew to a close, TCC ushered in the holiday spirit with classic English Christmas carols, ending with the upbeat and iconic Kumukutikutitap by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. The joy onstage was palpable, and it radiated into the crowd.
The Venue and the Audience
The venue was perfect for the concert—cozy, intimate, and designed for recitals, with every seat occupied. The audience’s energy was infectious—smiling, swaying, and quietly singing along to familiar tunes. It was heartwarming to see how music brought people together, bridging generational gaps and creating an atmosphere of shared joy.
My Take
One of the most striking elements of TCC is its diversity. The choir comprises individuals from different generations, UST alumni and students, and friends bound by their love for choral singing. Watching them perform, it was clear that the camaraderie and passion transcended age and background, making their performance both inspiring and fun.
The evening wasn’t just about showcasing talent—it was a celebration of shared effort, love for music, and the support of a community. From their international tours to upcoming performances in Hong Kong, TCC continues to make the Philippines proud with their heartfelt artistry.
As the final notes faded and continuous applause filled the room, I couldn’t help but feel immense pride. Music has the power to unite, inspire, and uplift, and the Thomasian Chamber Choir embodies that spirit in every note they sing. To the entire team, thank you for letting me witness and be part of this beautiful journey.
Here’s to many more magical performances— congratulations and good luck, TCC!
Check out their page to know more about their latest performances and schedules!