By Honorary Reporter Sarah Eve Perlawan from Philippines
Photos = Ryle Nicole Q. Custodio 

Ryle Nicole Q. Custodio from the Philippines in August won first place in composition at this year's Busan Choral Festival and Competition for his work "Tagu-Taguan" (Hide and Seek), beating out 53 other entries from 28 countries. 

The following are excerpts from an interview with Cusodio on his win and his music.

How did you hear about the competition?
I learned about this festival back in 2013, when the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers were invited to perform at the event's opening concert. 

Why did you enter? 
I try to enter as many competitions and festivals that I can so long as there are no application fees. The Busan competition is superior to most choral contests because it invites world-renowned composers and choral conductors as judges. 

What does winning first prize in your division at the competition mean to you and your country?
It means so much to me in that I've proven that Philippine music is something Filipinos and the world should be very proud of.

What inspired you to compose your winning composition "Tagu-Taguan?"
I wanted to reminisce about my childhood and playing hide-and-seek with my classmates and neighbors and showcase Philippine culture in my music. I also wanted to challenge myself by using non-music material to make music. 

How does it feel to have your work presented on an international platform?
Nothing beats the rare opportunity to have a famous ensemble such as the Philippine Madrigal Singers perform my work. My piece was released on Oct. 23 on the Busan competition's YouTube channel.

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.