The Dubai-based choir, Dubai Camerata Singers bagged the first runner-up title at the Choirfest Middle East 2017 held on March 3 at Els Club in Dubai beating more than 13 choirs from Abu Dhabi and GCC countries.
“We are just testing the waters. We wanted to introduce ourselves and we are blessed to have been recognized,” Arne Sunico Lubasan, musical director told The Filipino Times.
Lubasan said it has been a challenge not only for him but for the choir members as well to get in sync with their vocal skills.
“Everyone has a different forte. Each singer has a different chorale technique, so we have to make the most out of it; and we are just thrilled to win. This recognition just goes to show that Filipinos are being recognized in this field of art,” he added.
Their winning songs were Ezekiel Saw the Wheel, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Moses Hogan, One Voice by Barry Manilow and Kruhay by Benny Castillon.
The Dubai Camerata Singers, established two months back, is a non-profit professional ensemble composed of Filipino performers from various professions. It is a start-up group of 10 alumni singers from their college choir in the Philippines and wanted to continue their passion for chorale music under the same musical direction of Lubasan.
Currently, Dubai Camerata Singers has 15 members renowned for their diverse repertoire and performing excellence.
“The aim of the group is to promote chorale music as well as support private and public sectors in their unique initiatives focusing on social responsibilities and charity events. We uphold a sense of volunteerism through chorale music and we want to support the UAE’s campaign for the ‘Year of Giving,’” Lubasan said.
Fuentes added that the choir is also looking to recruit new members.
“If you have been thinking of joining a choir, now is your time to shine. The group is looking for sopranos, altos, tenors and basses.”
Interested? Call them at 0555493054 or visit their Facebook page at Dubai Camerata Singers.
