The Sola Gratia Chorale from the Philippines, a choral group based at the Adventist University of the Philippines, brought honor to the country and the global Adventist community after winning the Grand Prize at the 5th Vox Lucensis Concorso Corale Internazionale, held March 28 to April 1, 2026 in Lucca, Italy.
Under the direction of conductor Cyril Punay, the choir also received the Gold IV Award in the Sacred Category and the Gold VIII Award, recognizing them as the top ensemble in the Youth Mixed Choir division. The international competition gathered choirs from various countries, showcasing diverse musical traditions and excellence in choral performance.
For Punay, the experience marked both a milestone and a moment of reflection. As a first-time conductor in a European competition, he described the journey as one of growth, learning, and grace.
“Our journey to the Vox Lucensis competition has been more than a competition; it has been an experience of learning, growth, and grace,” Punay shared. “We receive this recognition not as a measure of distinction, but as a testament to God’s goodness and faithfulness.”
Despite facing seasoned and highly refined ensembles, the choir embraced the experience as part of its continuing pursuit of excellence. Punay emphasized that the group’s journey highlights the value of perseverance and humility, noting that true excellence extends beyond rankings and is shaped through continuous growth and dedication.
The choir’s performance in the Youth Mixed Choir category secured them a place in the final round, where they ultimately received the competition’s highest honor. Punay credited this achievement to God’s guidance and the collective commitment of the choir members to offer their best in every performance.
Beyond the awards, the group described the opportunity to interact with international jurors and fellow choristers as one of the most meaningful aspects of the event. These exchanges provided valuable insights and affirmed their mission to pursue music not only as an art form but as a lifelong discipline.
Founded with a mission-centered vision, the Sola Gratia Chorale continues to use music as a platform to share messages of hope, faith, and the love of God. Their repertoire often reflects sacred themes, aligning with the Adventist Church’s commitment to ministry through music.
This latest recognition builds on the choir’s growing reputation for excellence on the international stage. In 2024, the Sola Gratia Chorale was named Grand Prix Champion of the 8th Singapore International Choral Festival and qualified for the 4th Asia Choral Grand Prix 2025, held at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at the Esplanade Concert Hall. Alongside other international distinctions in recent years, these achievements highlight the group’s consistent commitment to musical excellence and its dedication to using music as a ministry that uplifts and inspires.
The choir acknowledged the support of mentors, sponsors, parents, and the Adventist University of the Philippines community, recognizing that their accomplishment reflects a shared journey.
“To all our mentors, sponsors, supporters, and our school, this achievement is yours too,” Punay said. “Thank you for your unwavering belief and support.”
As the Sola Gratia Chorale returns home, its members carry not only awards but also renewed inspiration to continue their mission. Through every note sung, they seek to point listeners to a greater message—one that transcends stages and competitions.
“We give back all glory to God, the Master Musician,” Punay added. “It is by His grace that we sing, that we learn, and that we are given opportunities like this.”
The choir’s victory serves as a reminder that music, when offered with purpose and faith, becomes more than performance—it becomes ministry.