In celebration of the Ignatian Month, the Ateneo Boys Choir of the Ateneo de Manila Grade School, has released a new single titled “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola). The hymn proudly honors St. Ignatius of Loyola, the esteemed founder of the Society of Jesus and the patron saint of the Ateneo de Manila University. Officially released last July 22, 2024, “Fundador” is now available on digital streaming platforms.
A Tribute to Ignatian Heritage
The new recording of “Fundador” is inspired by a traditional folk tune from Loyola, Spain, the hometown of St. Ignatius. Sung in Spanish by the Ateneo Boys Choir, this version reflects the melodious marching beat associated with the General Curia of the Society of Jesus in Rome. “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola) stands as an ode to the militant spirit of the Society of Jesus, echoing the enduring legacy of St. Ignatius.
This release follows the choir’s previous recording of “Fundador,” featured in their 2004 CD “A Time to Fly.” That album marked the Ateneo Grade School’s 50th anniversary in the Loyola Heights campus and showcased a diverse repertoire from Filipino folk music to international classics, children’s songs, and beloved Ateneo hymns.
Inspiring a New Generation
Twenty years later, the Ateneo Boys Choir hopes to inspire a new generation of Ateneans with their rendition of “Fundador.” The choir, one of the oldest student organizations in Ateneo de Manila Grade School, comprises students from Grades 4 through 6. These young choristers have represented the school in various concerts and performances across Metro Manila and have competed in choral competitions, including the international “Sing n Joy” competition in 2013 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Upcoming Mini-Album Release
The release of “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola) marks the beginning of a series of monthly song releases by the Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM), leading up to a full mini-album titled “Sa Atin Siya’y Mamamalagi,” scheduled for December 2024. This mini-album is a heartfelt tribute to the late Ms. Daisy N. Marasigan, fondly known as ‘Coach Daisy’, who was the longtime mentor of the Ateneo Boys Choir and a dedicated music teacher at the Ateneo de Manila Grade School for over three decades. Ms. Marasigan sadly passed away on October 17, 2022, at the age of 59.
Honoring Coach Daisy
“Sa Atin Siya’y Mamamalagi,” the title of the mini-album and one of Ms. Marasigan’s compositions, honors her significant contributions to the Ateneo community. Ms. Marasigan devotedly taught music for 36 years, served as the Faculty Development Coordinator, and was part of the Executive Council of the Association of Faculty and Staff of the Ateneo Grade School (AFSAGS). Her dedication shaped generations of young Ateneans and left a lasting legacy in the school’s musical and theatrical programs.
Gratitude and Support
The Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) congratulates the Ateneo Boys Choir on their new release of “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola) and extends its gratitude to the entire Ateneo Grade School community for their unwavering support of this musical endeavor.
As the songs are released each month, they will collectively build toward the December launch of “Sa Atin Siya’y Mamamalagi,” thus enriching the Jesuit musical landscape with heartfelt tributes and inspiring compositions. AMDG!
Listen to “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola) by the Ateneo Boys Choir (Ateneo de Manila Grade School) here:https://lnk.fuga.com/fundador
Get your free copy of the “Fundador” (Marcha de San Ignacio de Loyola) music sheet here.
