International Federation for Choral Music

As part of the WSCM tradition, six WSCM 2026 invited choirs will be paired with six commissioned composers, culminating in world premieres at their gala concerts at the Macau Cultural Centre. Reflecting the symposium’s theme, each choir will perform a newly created work by a composer from a different country, creating a dynamic space for cultural exchange and musical dialogue.

Jude Bautista Roldan holds the multifaceted position of artistic director, pianist, and resident composer for the Young Voices of the Philippines. His works have been showcased globally, including the Pacific International Choral Festival, Oregon Bach Festival, Tolosa Choral Competitions, Seghizzi Choral Competitions, Cantemus International Choral Festival, Summa Cum Laude Youth Music Festival, and the International Kodály Symposium. Jude's recent extended work for choir and orchestra, Missa Virtutum, has been performed in Carnegie Hall's Isaac Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, Dekelboum Auditorium, and Roy Thomson Hall (Toronto). Hal Leonard, Pavane Music, Cypress Choral Music, and Muziksea publish his works.

With his wife, Maria Theresa Vizconde-Roldan, their choral program has achieved milestones, including the first choir from the Philippines to perform at Carnegie Hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium Perelman Stage, world winner at Llangollen International Choral Eisteddfod, World Choir Games Champion, historic four first prizes at the Golden Gate International Choral Festival, and a performance at Piazza San Pietro in Rome for Pope Francis. Jude teaches piano, composition, music theory, score reading, and analysis at the Centro Escolar Conservatory of Music.

Jude Roldan’s Note on Pumailanglang! (Soar!)

The text of Pumailanglang! or Soar! revolves around the idea of reimagining the future by rising above current limitations and fears. The future is shaped by those who dare to take flight and envision a better tomorrow. Just as the text speaks to the courage needed to envision a better tomorrow, the music mirrors this sentiment with its driving rhythms, soaring melodies, and vocal stacking. Together, they invite the audience to experience a sense of liberation and possibility, encouraging all to take flight in pursuit of their aspirations.