Monday, October 29, 2007 Thomasian writes hymn for his town
STO. TOMAS -- A budding songwriter from Barangay San Bartolome here has composed a song that he hopes would be considered as this town's official hymn.
Jose Irwin Muñoz Nucum, born and bred in the village, is a promising composer who attributes his honed talent and passion for music to the Mother of Good Counsel Seminary where he also earned his degree in Bachelor of Arts Major in Philosophy.
According to him, the song titled "Himno ning Balen Sto. Tomas," aims to become the resounding symbol and spring of unity, identity, sense of self- esteem and pride of every Thomasian.
As a composer, Nucum also bagged the grand prize in the Archdiocesan Songwriting Contest with his song "Dalit ning Jubileo," which also became the official anthem of the archdiocese on its golden jubilee as a diocese in 1998.
Although he has been residing in the City of San Fernando since 1995, Nucum remains to be a true- blooded Thomasian as he still opted to stay as a registered voter of this town.
Nucum is currently the corporate communications officer and chief consumer welfare desk officer of SFelapco.
He has created a number of hymns for different schools and parishes and several Pampango liturgical songs -- including a complete set for the holy mass -- for the archdiocese.
Among these are the official hymns of the Dominican School of Apalit, San Matias High School, Himno ning Distrito ning Sto. Tomas, Himno kang Sto. Tomas Apostol, Himno kang San Bartolome Apostol and Himno kang San Pedro Apostol.
The song was also interpreted pro bono by internationally acclaimed jazz singer Mon David. (RCG)
