Mariella Nova Oblefias

Everyone has their own story to tell. For some, music is just background noise, but for others, it becomes something deeper—something essential. It has the power to heal, to inspire, to connect people in ways words never could. For me, it’s more than just hobby—it’s a calling. Now, a lot might ask: why music?

My passion for music began when I joined the Marian Brass Band (SMCM, Bulacan) in 2017 under the guidance of Mr. Felicito Sacdalan. Our conductor helped me open my eyes to the field of music. Through this group, I was able to learn the basic fundamentals of music and discovered my interest in arranging.

The same year, I also began singing in our local church choir. At first, it was only for compliance for 2 subjects, but later on, I also discovered my love for singing. In 2019, I was able to join Himig Bulakenyo, a community choir based in Marilao, Bulacan. This group helped me open my eyes to the choral scene and meet new people trough the 6th Angeles City Choral Festival (ACCF). These groups made me realize my true purpose in life— to be a professional musician. I wanted to study music.

Then, the pandemic happened. I was terrified with my skills being “not enough” for college-level music. I sought to expand my knowledge by joining several groups, including the Madz Schola Cantorum, a scholarship training program under the Philippine Madrigal Singers led by Sir Mark Anthony Carpio. This really helped me expand my knowledge in music and my circle in the music industry.

During my senior high school years at the University of Santo Tomas, I was thrilled to be accepted in the UST Singers in 2022. The choir helped me unlock my full potential, allowing me to travel to different parts of the world through music— a dream that would have made my younger self ecstatic. Recently, I was a part of the 2024 batch to compete and win the Grand Prix and 2 top prizes at the Grieg International Choral Festival in Bergen, Norway.

As of the moment, I am a student at the UST Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of Asst. Prof. Naomi Paz Sison Nemenzo. I will continue to spread my love and artistry through music one soul at a time, and I will never stop learning! <3