Founded in 1982 by its current conductor, Dr. Carmen Acevedo Lucío, Coralia -Concert Choir of the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus- was established with the mission of exploring choral repertoire of significant artistic, academic, and interpretive complexity. Conceived as an elite extension of the university’s longstanding choral tradition, the ensemble brings together select students and alumni of the University of Puerto Rico, admitted through rigorous auditions and distinguished by their solid musical training, discipline, expressive musicality, and technical precision.

Coralia’s repertoire encompasses all historical musical periods, from Renaissance polyphony and Baroque masterworks to Romantic literature and contemporary choral compositions. A defining artistic pillar of the ensemble is its strong commitment to Puerto Rican, Latin American, and folk repertoire, through which it preserves, promotes, and reimagines the rich musical heritage of the island. Each performance is marked by stylistic awareness, interpretive depth, and a warm, refined choral sound that connects technical excellence with emotional expression.

Widely regarded as the Puerto Rican choral ensemble with the greatest international presence, Coralia has represented Puerto Rican culture on prominent stages worldwide. The choir has performed in Spain, Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, France, Canada, the United States, South America, and the Caribbean, earning recognition among the world’s leading university choirs.

Throughout its trajectory, Coralia has received 15 first-place prizes in categories including polyphony and sacred music, as well as four second-place and four third-place prizes. The ensemble has also earned special distinctions for the best interpretation of a folk piece, Renaissance polyphonic music, and the Heinrich Schütz Perpetual Trophy, among others. On two occasions, Coralia has been awarded Best Choir among all participating ensembles in prestigious international competitions.

Beyond competition and performance, Coralia maintains a strong commitment to cultural advocacy and community engagement. Following Hurricane María, and in collaboration with the University of Puerto Rico Choir, the ensemble created Canta y Siembra, Resuena la Esperanza, a landmark initiative combining music with humanitarian service. Through benefit concerts, the distribution of essential supplies, and the planting of native trees, Coralia contributed both spiritual and physical relief to communities most affected by the disaster.

With a legacy shaped by more than 150 former and current members, Coralia stands as a deeply rooted Puerto Rican musical institution. Serving as a formative space for future performers, music educators, and conductors, the ensemble continues to bridge tradition and innovation while offering audiences a profound and elevated choral experience. Guided by an unwavering commitment to excellence, Coralia remains a distinguished ambassador of Puerto Rican choral artistry on the global stage.