The First Asia Minstrels is the official singing group of First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities (FAITH), a school in Tanauan City, Batangas, Philippines. It has come a long way since it was formed as a college choir in 2003, led by Engr. Henry Abaca from the Philosophy Department as the adviser. The group sings during institutional masses and other sacred activities hosted by the schoo
l. They continuously perform the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the FAITH Hymn (school hymn) in school events, which eventually made them known to students and to the whole FAITH community. The group was officially launched during their first major concert entitled “A Tribute to Mary: Chorale Concert” held at FAITH Multi- Purpose Hall on October 8, 2007. After a long preparation, the event was successful and the college choir was formally introduced as The First Asia Minstrels. They got the name “Minstrels” from Medieval Europe’s wandering musicians. It was given to them by Ambassador Rey Carandang of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Manila, who is a member of the school’s board of directors. The group started to join choir competitions in 2009, such as the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) where the group qualified for the Regional Finals, and recently emerged as the grand winner among choirs from the 3rd District of Batangas in the “2nd Kay Chona May Boses Ka Choir Competition.”
The Minstrels had its share of public performances in different community events in Tanauan City and neighboring areas. Their most recent major performance was last January 15, 2010, in their third major concert entitled “Crescendo: The Music of Time” held at FAITH Multi- Purpose Hall. They showcased their own renditions of sacred/liturgical, folk, traditional, international, pop/contemporary and love songs. The First Asia Minstrels aspires to be the ambassadors of First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities through its singing achievements. The group is continuously fulfilling the promise of providing excellent performances with the guide of their conductor, Mr. Kalaw, who has been training the group since 2008.
