With the grand tribute concert LUWALHATI SA DIYOS: The Legacy of Fr. Honti fast approaching this October 12th, 2024, at Ateneo de Manila University’s Henry Lee Irwin Theater, the celebration of the life and legacy of the great Fr. Eduardo “Honti” Hontiveros, SJ, takes on a much deeper significance.
LUWALHATI SA DIYOS, which serves as the centerpiece event of the Honti@100 year-long celebration, not only honors the past contributions of the ‘Father of Filipino Liturgical Music’ but also fervently looks to the future. Undoubtedly, Fr. Honti’s legacy continues to both inspire and challenge new talents to contribute to the rich landscape of Filipino liturgical music.
Fr. Honti’s Influence and the Jesuit Music Tradition
Fr. Honti’s pioneering work in composing Mass hymns in Tagalog in response to Vatican II marked a turning point in Filipino Church music. His iconic compositions like Pananagutan and Ama Namin set the tone for a new era, blending Filipino identity with worship. Fr. Honti’s influence sparked a wave of acclaimed Jesuit composers that notably include Fr. Manoling Francisco SJ, Fr. Arnel Aquino SJ, Fr. Fruto Ramirez SJ, Fr. Nemesio Que SJ, Fr. Charlie Cenzon SJ, Fr. Jboy Gonzales SJ, and Fr. Danny Isidro SJ, all of whom have continued to enrich liturgical music through their soulful compositions.
Even notable lay musicians, such as choir conductor Maestro Jerry Olaguer who was mentored under the esteemed Jesuit’s tutelage, would carry forth Fr. Honti’s trailblazing spirit into their respective music ministries.
This tradition of musical excellence, all rooted in Fr. Honti’s vision, serves as the hallmark of the Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM)—producing liturgical, as well as inspirational and religious music as the official music ministry of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus.
PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN: Encouraging a New Generation of Composers
At the heart of Honti@100 is the PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN: The Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros, SJ Liturgical Music Competition, a platform designed to inspire a new generation of composers. The competition calls on musicians and choirs to create original compositions that not only celebrate the legacy of Fr. Honti but also bring fresh perspectives to the liturgical music scene. This initiative highlights the importance of liturgical music in evangelization, particularly in engaging younger generations and preserving Filipino cultural traditions.
Indeed, music has always played a central role in Filipino Catholic worship, serving as a bridge between faith and culture. Through the PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN competition, JMM aims to foster creativity and build community, ensuring that the future of Filipino liturgical music remains vibrant and ever-evolving.
Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
The upcoming LUWALHATI SA DIYOS grand concert is not just a reflection of Fr. Honti’s time-honored works, but also a celebration of the composers who followed in his path. Performances by Bukas Palad, Hangad, and other renowned choral groups will pay tribute to his timeless hymns. Meanwhile, newer choirs like the Young Voices of the Philippines will showcase the future of Filipino liturgical music- proving that Fr. Honti’s legacy continues to resonate in the hearts of younger generations.
A Call to Action
As the landmark Honti@100 celebration culminates with LUWALHATI SA DIYOS, the Jesuit Music Ministry invites everyone to be part of this historic moment. By attending the concert and participating in the PURIHI’T PASALAMATAN competition, you can help shape the promising future of Filipino liturgical music.
Together, we honor Fr. Honti’s remarkable legacy by ensuring that his love for music and devotion to faith continue to flourish in a new generation. Be part of this monumental concert, paying homage to the storied past and celebrating the bright future of Filipino liturgical music.
For ticket information please visit: https://jescom.ph/product/luwalhati-sa-diyos-the-legacy-of-fr-honti-tickets/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFfTN5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHSUQMF_OlrIpkf83FqryGpgZDOhSZ0ZfOlFnlk0c1HObXMOxz4lJzPF1mQ_aem_I12G9LclKHzdvtLuLJT3Tg.
Reserve your seat now. Email us via sales@jescom.ph, or call 0929 864 9010 / 8-426-59-71 local 127
Leave a Reply