The first Lajes do Pico Choral Masterclass has come to a close, capping a week of intensive and rewarding musical study and exchange promoted by the Municipality of Lajes do Pico. Led by conductors Fernando Malão and José Carlos Bago D’Uva, the initiative offered participants a rare opportunity for focused training, artistic growth, and shared musical discovery.

Marked by good spirits, artistic rigor, and a strong sense of collaboration—and attended by City Councilor Amílcar Goulat—the masterclass proved to be a valuable space for learning and development. The week culminated in a final concert that reflected the commitment, discipline, and enthusiasm of everyone involved.

Organizers extended special thanks for the essential support provided by the Municipality of Lajes do Pico, as well as the Cultural Association Terra Baleeira, the Azores Regional Directorate for Culture, the Filarmónica Liberdade Lajense, the Lajes do Pico Basic and Secondary School, and Miguel Santos Chu, whose contributions were instrumental to the success of the initiative.

Heartfelt appreciation was also directed to all the singers who took part in the masterclass—for their trust in the project, their dedication throughout the week, and the high-quality performance presented at the final concert. Sharing this journey, singing among friends, and celebrating music together was described as a true privilege.

The musicians and instructors were praised for their professionalism, generosity, and willingness to share their expertise. Special recognition was given to Aníbal Rosado and Jaime Batista for their adaptability to the group’s needs and the demands of the concert; to Professor and Maestro José Carlos Bago D’Uva for his rigor, high standards, and musical sensitivity; and to Maestro Fernando Malão for the energy, creativity, and depth of experience he brought to the program.

Despite challenging weather conditions, the audience filled the hall of the Filarmónica Liberdade Lajense, earning sincere thanks for their presence and for making the occasion even more meaningful and welcoming.

Finally, the organizers expressed deep gratitude to the singers of the Animae Vox Ensemble and their families for their dedication, availability, and strong sense of commitment throughout the week. It is thanks to the generosity of every member—current singers, former participants, and those who, though part of the group, were unable to attend—that the ensemble celebrates ten years of existence, keeping alive a project built on shared effort, collective spirit, and a profound love of music.

From Press Release

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.