UPCC | blacktie

About UPCC

The University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (UPCC), affectionately known as Korus, has established itself as an official performing group at the University of the Philippines Diliman since its founding in 1962. Renowned for its versatility, Korus masterfully bridges various musical genres, including classical, folk, pop, and Broadway, through its signature style of “Choreocapella,” a unique blend of choreography and a cappella singing that has captivated audiences worldwide. Based in the College of Music, the group comprises students and alumni from diverse backgrounds, all united by their shared passion for music, transforming Korus from a university chorale into an internationally acclaimed performing entity.

Under the leadership of its Conductor and Artistic Director, Professor Janet Sabas-Aracama, Korus has garnered numerous awards and accolades both locally and internationally. In recognition of its significant contributions to the performing arts, Korus was named one of the “Most Outstanding Institutions” of Quezon City in 2018, receiving the Gawad Parangal from the city government for its exceptional performances in choreographed a cappella singing. This honor highlighted the group's ability to showcase the innate Filipino talent in performing arts while revolutionizing choral art, establishing a benchmark for others to emulate. Additionally, Korus was awarded the Honorific Award for Student Performing Arts Group (HASPAG) by the university’s Office for Initiatives in Culture and the Arts, further solidifying its status as a prestigious institution.

As it continues to forge its legacy, Korus embarked on its 25th International Goodwill and Cultural Concert Tour in June 2024, achieving remarkable success at the Musica Orbis Prague Festival 2024 in the Czech Republic. The group won the gold prize for the Unrestricted and Folklore Categories, alongside the overall winner prize for the Unrestricted Category and the Best Stage Performance award. With a rich history of compelling performances, vibrant choreography, theatrical expressions, and eye-catching costumes, the UP Concert Chorus remains dedicated to revolutionizing choral performance both in the Philippines and around the globe, showcasing a charisma that is distinctly Filipino.

University of the Philippines Concert Chorus

Career Highlights and Notable Events of the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (UPCC)

Founding Year (1962) – Establishment of the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (Korus) at UP Diliman, marking the beginning of a storied legacy in choral music.
Signature Style – Development of the unique “Choreocapella” style, combining choreography with a cappella singing, setting Korus apart in the performing arts scene.
International Acclaim – Transformation from a university student chorale into an internationally recognized performing group, showcasing versatility across various musical genres.
Artistic Leadership – Ongoing direction under Professor Janet Sabas-Aracama, who has played a crucial role in the group’s artistic vision and success.
Gawad Parangal (2018) – Recognition as one of Quezon City’s “Most Outstanding Institutions,” awarded for contributions to the performing arts and for showcasing Filipino talent.
Honorific Award for Student Performing Arts Group (HASPAG) – Received from the University of the Philippines’ Office for Initiatives in Culture and the Arts, acknowledging its status as a leading student performing group.
Musica Orbis Prague Festival 2024 – Achievements during the 25th International Goodwill and Cultural Concert Tour, winning:
- Gold prize in the Unrestricted and Folklore Categories.
- Overall winner prize for the Unrestricted Category.
- Best Stage Performance award.
Cultural Impact – Continual efforts to revolutionize choral performance in the Philippines and abroad, characterized by compelling performances, vibrant choreography, and a strong representation of Filipino artistry.