Author

Ariel E. Yncierto
Centro Escolar University – Manila
9 Mendiola Street, San Miguel, City of Manila, Philippines
Email: arielyncierto@gmail.com

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the compositional process and performance practice of Ang Pitong Huling Salita ni Hesus, a contemporary sacred choral suite by Filipino liturgical composer Lester Delgado, premiered on January 25, 2025, at St. John Bosco Parish in Makati City. Situated within the tradition of musical settings of the Seven Last Words, the work reflects the intersection of personal spirituality, cultural identity, and liturgical function in Filipino sacred music. Drawing on a practice-based research approach that integrates score analysis, written interviews with the composer and two conductors of its initial performances, rehearsal observation, and a lecture-recital performance, the study examines how theological meaning is constructed through musical structure and realized in performance. Findings indicate that harmonic design, tonal planning, and character-based text setting function as theological narrative devices, while performance practice—particularly conductor-led phrasing, tempo flexibility, and ensemble coordination—acts as a mediating layer in shaping musical expression. Interpretive decisions, including the reassignment of vocal roles and the application of selected Laban Movement Analysis efforts, contributed to enhanced narrative clarity and ensemble responsiveness. These approaches were implemented in a lecture-recital conducted by the researcher, representing the third documented performance of the work. The study demonstrates that musical meaning is not fixed in the score but emerges through the interaction of composition, performance, and embodied pedagogy. It contributes to ongoing discussions in ethnomusicology and performance studies by highlighting sacred composition as both a devotional act and a dynamic site of musical and cultural expression.

Keywords: Sacred Choral Music; Performance Practice; Ethnomusicology; Choral Conducting; Philippines

DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0501851

Recommended citation:
Yncierto, A. E. (2026). Compositional Process and Performance Practice of Ang Pitong Huling Salita ni Hesus: A Practice-Based Study in Sacred Choral Music. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (1), 9601-9609. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0501851

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