Ignacian Marians Secure 5th, 7th, in Vocal Duet Competition

By Stacie Cantor, Keith Diño

On the third day of the Baliwag City Private Schools Association (BaCiPriSA) competition, held at Saint Jean Baptiste Academy (S.J.B.A.), Ignacian Marian representatives made their mark in the Vocal Duet category, earning several placements through their preparation, confidence, and teamwork.

In the J.H.S. Vocal Duet category, Jewel Generish Toledo and Johanna Generie Toledo finished seventh with their performance of “Ikaw ay Ako.” Meanwhile Irish Reyes and Claire Anne Marie Sarmiento placed fifth in the S.H.S. Vocal Duet category after their performance with the song “I wanna go back”.

The Toledo duo chose the song because they connected with its message and believed their voices complemented each other.

“We performed Ikaw ay Ako as a duet. We chose this song because we really liked the message and the way our voices fit together. We also wanted to perform something that we could genuinely enjoy on stage,” Ms. Toledo said. 

According to Ms. Toledo, their preparation focused on harmonies, timing, confidence, and stage presence.

“We prepared by practicing the song repeatedly, especially our harmonies and timing. We also worked on our confidence and stage presence para mas maging comfortable kami during the actual performance,” they both shared.

During the competition, they admitted that they felt nervous but “excited and happy” at the same time. 

However, despite feeling the pressure for the contest, the Toledos still chose to “enjoy the moment” and give their best instead of focusing on the final result.

They also admitted that after their hard work and preparation, they didn’t expect to win because “there were so many talented contestants.” 

Behind the singers’ performances was Coach Mary Jane Silva—who emphasized that their greatest strength was not only their vocal ability but also their willingness to learn and improve.

“I think our greatest advantage is their willingness to learn and grow as singers,” Coach Silva said.

According to Coach Silva, their preparation is not only to compete, “but to tell a story through music.”

“In Vocal Solo and Vocal Duet, talent is important but preparation, discipline, confidence, and the ability to connect with the song also matter,” she added.

“As their coach. I saw how they accepted corrections, worked on their weaknesses, and continuously improved. I believe that growth and dedication are what they can bring to the competition,” she shared.

Coach Silva also shared the biggest challenge they have encountered which is “building confidence and consistency in their performances.”

However, despite the pressure they all felt, Coach Silva mentioned that they overcame the obstacle through “consistent rehearsals, vocal preparation, and open communication.”

“I reminded them to focus not only on hitting the right notes, but also on expressing the message and emotion of the song. We learned to trust the preparation and, most importantly, to trust themselves,” she said.

Coach Silva described their experience with the quote, “The goal is not just to sing the song, but to make people feel its story.” 

She also shared a message for the Toledo duo, “I am proud of you for having the courage to step on that stage, share your voices, and represent our school.” 

For Coach Silva, the competition served as an opportunity for the students to develop their ability to trust their preparation, manage pressure, and communicate the emotions behind their music.

Through rehearsals, vocal preparation, corrections, and open communication, the singers continued to develop not only their singing abilities but also their confidence as young performers.

The Ignacian Marian Singers’ participation in the BaCiPriSA Vocal Duet highlighted the importance of preparation, confidence, and emotional expression in performance. 

Beyond their placements, the singers gained experience in overcoming nervousness, working with fellow performers, and sharing their stories through music.