Madz Cosmic ignites at the Ayala Museum

For over six decades of devotion and dedication, the world-acclaimed, multi-awarded Philippine Madrigal Singers — fondly known as the Madz — have captivated audiences here and abroad with their melodious harmonious voices. In all their standing-room-only performances, they have inspired countless attendees who sincerely believed in their laudable and committed hardcore mission with an unshakeable tranquility to promote world peace through the magical world of music.

This honored, awe-inspiring belief has brought to a focus a remarkable assembly of exceptional artists — all who have pledged their musically-gifted talents to the Madz’s noble vision. Today, they are indispensable members of the Madz Cosmic, a company of singers and musicians of international caliber, fostering the admirable legacy of National Artist for music, Professor Andrea O. Veneracion.

“The Philippine Madrigal Singers, or the Madz, in its 60 years, has produced close to 300 singers. While actively performing with the choir, individual abilities have always been nurtured and developed, so even as they end the stints with the Madz, a number of them have gone and continued performing, this time as soloists,” said Margarita Galura, a De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde almuna and the Madz’s administrative manager.

On a recent enchanting evening at the Ayala Museum, the collective body presented the well-applauded A Serenade of Gratitude, a concert which spotlighted six soloists and groups, each with their own unique style and melodious fashion, yet all solidly unified in their absolute commitment to the Madz’s declared mission.

In quick succession, one by one, they embraced the stage and had their deserved time under the spotlight. Let’s meet them.

The Nightingales, composed of former Madz soprano soloists Bianca Lopez, Bernadette Mamauag, Katrina Marie Saga and Keiko Cayanga, were the night’s curtain raisers with their signature bel canto style. Their numbers were a matching blend of opera arias, Broadway classics, and Filipino folk songs, all accomplished with glamor and elegance. Their captivating rendition of Casta Diva from Bellini’s Norma was a standout deserving of huge applause.

The Male Ensemble Philippines (MEN), an emerging group of singers from various prize-winning chorales, brought a robust and dynamic energy to the platform. Their performance of “El Día Que Me Quieras,” arranged by Robert Delgado, was a heartfelt tribute to love and longing. The group’s mission to encourage and nurture Philippine culture through music was evident in their stirring adaptation of “Mutya ng Pasig,” a timeless kundiman by the beloved composer Nicanor Abelardo.

The Song Weavers Philippines, with its artistic director Alfred Allan Samonte, is a group of young, talented singers who represent the future of Philippine choral music. Many of them aspire to join the Madz, and their performance at the concert was a full-of-hope glimpse into the potential of these rising stars. Their rendition of “Mapa,” a touching ode to parents — the title being a reference to “mama” and “papa” — was one of the highlights of the program.

Jenny and Jeff, the Lakbai Guitar Duo, brought a different flavor to the concert with their masterful guitar ensemble music. Their performance of Diablo Rojo, inspired by Rodrigo y Gabriela’s rollercoaster ride in Copenhagen, was a thrilling heart-pounding display of masterful technical skill. The duo’s ability to blend classical guitar with other musical styles was further exemplified in their rendition of “Hotel California,” a rock favorite which they transformed into a hypnotizing acoustic piece.

Bry Cimafranca, a rising virtuoso violinist, charmed the audience with his solo performances. His interpretation of “Summer” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons was a masterclass in precision and emotion. Cimafranca’s versatility was further highlighted in Golden Hour, a piece inspired by Franz Liszt, which painted a serene and beautiful snapshot of the past.

Juan Paolo Panagsagan, a gifted pianist, and the backbone of the evening, provided flawless accompaniment. His solo rendition of Piano Sonata No. 1 by Okir de Leon — which he recorded for the National Commission for Culture and the Arts — was a memorable display of deft skill on the musical instrument.

The concert’s program was a carefully curated mix of classical, folk and contemporary music, all a reflection of the various influences and diverse skillset of the Madz Cosmic.

Other stellar numbers included the “Philippine Folk Medley,” arranged by Robert Delgado, which celebrated the rich musical heritage through songs in eight major languages of our country. “The Dream Medley,” featuring “When You Wish Upon a Star “and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” was a sentimental journey through timeless melodies that left the audience dreaming of a brighter future.

The evening concluded with “Kumukutikutitap” by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, a joyful Filipino Christmas song that encapsulated the spirit of gratitude and celebration — with all six soloists and groups uniting on stage for the curtain call. Bravo!

¡Enhorabuena!, Madz Cosmic!