| Photo via Kayumanggi Chorale, Inc.
NEW YORK — The Kayumanggi Chorale, Inc. (KCI) will celebrate its 35th anniversary with “Himig Pamana – A Musical Heritage” on October 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM, at Merkin Hall, highlighting the group’s legacy of cultural preservation and humanitarian service.
Founded in 1991 in response to the Mt. Pinatubo eruption, KCI began its journey by raising funds for disaster victims, sending an initial $10,000 to the Philippines. Four years later, the group organized a choral competition at Lincoln Center that generated $20,000 for the Philippine National Red Cross. These early efforts set the tone for a mission that has remained consistent for three decades: using music to uplift communities and support Filipinos in need.
Even during the COVID‑19 pandemic, when concerts were halted, KCI continued relief efforts, donating to families affected by the Taal volcano eruption, Typhoon Rolly and Ulysses, and supporting the Association of Fil‑Am Teachers (AFTA) during its shift to online programming.
A Concert Framed by Heritage and Humanity
The anniversary program carries the theme “Voices in Harmony for Humanity,” reflecting KCI’s dual purpose of artistic excellence and charitable outreach. The repertoire features patriotic, spiritual, foreign, and Filipino pieces — including the group’s signature patriotic songs such as “Bayan Ko,” “Mabuhay Ka, Pilipino,” “Lupang Hinirang,” and “Isang Dugo, Isang Lahi at Musika.”
KCI alumni will join current members onstage, alongside featured performers Liza Villamaria, Radnel Ofalsa, and Joshua Monderas. Exceptional instrumentalists will also accompany the choir.
Preserving Musical Heritage
According to KCI, the concert aims to preserve and promote Philippine musical heritage by presenting traditional songs, sacred works, and contemporary choral arrangements that reflect the richness of Filipino culture. The group hopes audiences leave “moved, inspired, and proud of the musical heritage being shared.”
Looking Ahead
After the anniversary celebration, KCI plans to expand its scholarship program for musically inclined students in the Northeast and the Philippines while continuing its humanitarian mission through future concerts and community partnerships.
