In celebration of the Centennial Birth Anniversary of the “Father of Filipino Liturgical Music”
The Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM) is set to commemorate the Centennial Birth Anniversary of the revered Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ, with a special album launch and concert by the Pansol Choir on August 24, 2024. Entitled “Tubig at Liwanag” (Mga Awitin Para Sa Pagdiriwang At Paggawad Ng Mga Sakramento), the album is a heartfelt tribute to Fr. Hontiveros, known affectionately as ‘Fr. Honti,’ who is widely recognized as the “Father of Filipino Liturgical Music.”
Taking place at the Church of the Gesu, Ateneo de Manila University, the event will showcase the Pansol Choir’s renditions of both published and unpublished songs by Fr. Hontiveros, many of which have become cherished staples in Filipino liturgical celebrations. The album “Tubig at Liwanag” is a comprehensive collection that highlights Fr. Honti’s musical contributions to the celebration of the sacraments within the Catholic Church. These compositions, presented in a mix of both original and new choral arrangements, are poised to inspire both long-time admirers of Fr. Honti’s work and a new generation of Filipino Catholics.
Schedule of Events
The Saturday celebration begins at 4:00 PM with a choral workshop led by Mark Anthony Carpio, the esteemed conductor of the Philippine Madrigal Singers and the choirmaster of the Pansol Choir. This workshop will be an excellent opportunity for participants to learn from one of the country’s leading figures in choral music.
Following the workshop, at 5:00 PM, the Pansol Choir will officially launch the “Tubig at Liwanag” album with a concert that promises to be a moving experience of sacred music. The concert will feature songs specifically composed by Fr. Hontiveros for various sacraments, such as baptism, confirmation, and holy orders, all of which hold significant places in the spiritual lives of the faithful.
The day’s events will culminate with a Misa ng Pasasalamat (Thanksgiving Mass) at 6:00 PM, offering a fitting end to a day dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Fr. Honti. The mass will be a moment of reflection and gratitude for the enduring impact of his music on the Filipino Catholic community.
A Legacy of Liturgical Music
Fr. Hontiveros’ influence on Filipino liturgical music truly is profound. He began working with the Pansol Choir in the 1980s, guiding them in performing and recording his liturgical compositions. Under his tutelage, the choir became an instrument of evangelization, bringing his sacred music to various parishes across the country. Despite Fr. Honti’s passing in 2008, his legacy continues through the Pansol Choir’s ongoing commitment to performing his works, which remain central to the liturgical life of many Filipino Catholics.
The “Tubig at Liwanag” album is the latest in a series of tributes that have honored Fr. Hontiveros’ contributions to the Church. Through this new collection, the Pansol Choir seeks to not only preserve but also to rekindle the deep spiritual connection that his music fosters among the faithful.
For more details about the “Tubig at Liwanag” album launch and concert, and to stay updated on all JMM events, follow the ministry’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/jesuitmusicministry).
Admission to the choral workshop and “Tubig at Liwanag” album launch and concert is free. Register now via: https://forms.office.com/r/CxTXVWgV0S?origin=lprLink
