Himig Singers compete in 5th World Choir Games

A community choir based in Davao City arrived in Vienna, Austria to compete in the 5th World Choir Games from July 9 to 13, 2008 in Graz.

"We will be competing in the 5th World Choir Games in Graz. We are representing the Philippines under the pop song category. Himig Singer Choir is very proud to represent the Philippines in this grand competition, and we hope that we would be taking honors for our beloved country, " Harold Pedida, adviser of the Himig Singers, told ABS-CBN Austria News.

The group has won several International Choral competitions, including the recently-concluded 1st Asian Choir Games in Jakarta, Indonesia in November 2007, placing the Philippines, specifically Davao City, on the world map in terms of choral music.

Prior to the scheduled concert, the group performed before various Filipino groups in Vienna. Since the choir is a master of gospel songs, the members were asked by Philippinische Gottesdienst Gemeinde (Philippine Catholic Community Church Service) to sing during the Sunday Mass. It was also an opportunity for them to invite their kababayans to watch their concerts throughout their stay in Austria.

Maria Lourdes Aviles, a choir member, was thankful for the hospitality of Filipinos in the city. "Ang mga Pilipino dito sa Vienna ay talagang maasahan. They all went out of their way just to fetch us from the airport, para mapakain at mapatulog. Indeed, the hospitality of Filipinos is really amazing."

After the choir competition in Graz, the group is again expected to perform in several key cities in Austria. The Himig Singers is also scheduled to perform in Brussels and in other European countries.