Choral Arts Society of Washington Brings Musical Holiday Cheer with a Philippine Accent

A highlight of the Washington DC holiday season was the 45th Annual Concert “O Night Divine,” at the Kennedy Center, December 15, 2025. Performing for Washingtonians, local civic leaders and foreign dignitaries, the breathtaking performance was a smash hit. A gala and silent auction fundraising with sponsors, donors and supporters followed.

Congratulations to Artistic Director Marie Bucoy-Calavan, a Filipino American, and the entire Choral Arts Society! The US-Philippines Society recognizes Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, who was the Concert and Gala’s Honorary Patron.

On the eve of their popular annual concert, US-Philippines Society and the Philippine Embassy co-hosted a December 13 holiday reception featuring a Choral Arts Society ensemble to celebrate partnerships and future collaborations while honoring heritage. Toasts were dedicated to the launch of the 80th anniversary of U.S-Philippines Diplomatic Relations in 2026 signifying an enduring and resilient friendship. Shared love of music serves as a cultural bridge between the two nations. In addition to holiday songs, the choral group performed two Philippine songs in original language, “Rosas Pandan” and “Hindi Kita Malilimutan,” about a beautiful mountain maiden and about God’s expression of love.

As the Choral Arts Society’s artistic director and conductor, Marie Bucoy-Calavan, a first generation Filipino American, felt with deep honor of her role “amplifying the Philippine culture through our partners, through our chorus members, our staff, and most importantly, our audience and our donors, so we can be able to make sure a Filipino story is seen and heard.”

Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez raises a toast with (l-r) DCM Jaime Ascalon, President emeritus Amb John Maisto, founding director Amb Thomas Hubbard, Gala Chair Eric Broyles, Choral Arts Society Executive Director Maria Mathieson, and USPHS Executive Director Hank Hendrickson, December 13, 2025, Philippine Embassy.