Mga Sariling Himig: Rey Valera, Gary Granada, and Manila Concert Choir make music on June 29

MANILA, Philippines — Want to travel back in time but can’t afford to? Filipino artists Rey Valera and Gary Granada will perform alongside the Manila Concert Choir to feature classical and modern Filipino songs from the 1950s, to folk and contemporary hits in recent decades. Entitled “Mga Sariling Himig”, the free concert is on Saturday, June 29, 5 pm, at the Cosmopolitan Church along Taft Avenue. 

Rey Valera rose to fame in the 1980s through composing and performing hit songs and movie sound tracks such as Maging Sino Ka Man, Kahit Wala Ka Na, Sinasamba Kita and many others. He has worked with various Filipino artists and entertainers like Sharon Cuneta, Vilma Santos, Rico Jay Puno and Paul Enriquez.

Gary Granada’s made his mark on the music industry through his unique compositions with nationalistic and socially relevant themes and humorous songs about relationships and Filipino experiences. He has also written full-length musicals in his career. His notable folk and pop songs include Kahit Konti, Salamat Musika,  Saranggola sa Ulan, and Tulad ng Dati.

Former National Treasurer and Social Watch Philippines Lead Convenor, Prof. Emeritus Leonor Magtolis Briones is the current president of the Manila Concert Choir.

“[The concert] is our humble way of thanking all who have supported our bid in the last election,” said Prof. Briones, referring to her candidacy as the First Nominee of the Kaakbay Party list, a party list advocating citizens’ participation in public finance, the marginalized and people’s empowerment.

MCC has been performing since 1951, and has represented the Philippines abroad. The choir is composed of singers from various professions. Their current choirmaster is Dr. Romulo G. Pizaña. The piano accompanists are Mark Olivares and Agape Manigsala Labantog.

Songs that will be performed include “Sa Mahal Kong Bayan”, “Kayumangging Malaya”, “Kahapon, Ngayon, Bukas” and many others along with the guests artists own repertoire.

“Mga Sariling Himig” is a thank you concert for all of Kaakbay Partylist’s supporters in the last elections, as well as a dedication to nationalism and the Filipino people.

The concert will be free of charge and everyone is invited to attend. 

More about the concert:


Source: Manila Concert Choir press release