The MSO Centennial Season Concert II – From Mozart to Mahler

Presented by the Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation, Inc. and Standard Insurance; co-presented by EastWest Bank in partnership with the Austrian Embassy and University of Santo Tomas

Led by Venezuelan conductor Joshua Dos Santos, the Manila Symphony Orchestra continues its Centennial Season with a program that moves from the refined discipline of Classical style to the emotional breadth of the late Romantic symphony.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

The evening opens with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante in E-flat, K. 364 for violin and viola, a work celebrated for its technical precision. The piece features rising Filipino artists Emanuel John Villarin (violin) and Christian Wrona (viola), whose musical dialogue reflects the expressive restraints of Mozart’s music.

The program culminates in Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, a work that demands expressive depth. Expansive in scale and rich in emotional contrasts, Mahler’s symphony transforms simple melodies, challenging both the orchestra and the audience with its intensity. The MSO will be joined by selected members of the UST Symphony Orchestra in a side-by-side performance to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the UST Conservatory of Music, as many past and current MSO musicians have been connected to UST as students and faculty members.

From Classical to Romantic, From Mozart to Mahler highlights the versatility of the Manila Symphony Orchestra and its scholars as they continue their journey through the 100th season.

Joshua Dos Santos, guest conductor

Joshua is an internationally celebrated conductor whose career has spanned Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Trained in Venezuela's legendary El Sistema, he began music at age seven and made his conducting debut at sixteen under the mentorship of Maestro José Antonio Abreu. Appointed associate conductor of the Simon Bolivar Chamber Orchestra in 2023 he has earned major acclaim from around the world.

Emanuel John Villarin, violin

EJ is an award-winning violinist and Hanns Eisler scholar. An student at the Universität für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin and first prize winner of the New York Young Performers Prize (2021) and NAMCYA (2020), he is an acclaimed Filipino violinist and MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar, performing on a master-crafted Gencer Cerit Eskisehir violin.

Christian Wrona, viola

Christian is a Filipino-Canadian violist and Hanns Eisler scholar. Currently studying at the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, Christian is an Asian Youth Orchestra alumnus, mentored by renowned artists including Tabea Zimmermann and Kim Kashkashian.

UST Symphony Orchestra

The University of Santo Tomas Symphony Orchestra (USTSO), established in 1927, is a distinguished ensemble within the UST Conservatory of Music. It holds the unique distinction of being the only all-student symphony orchestra in the Philippines. Under the baton of Assoc. Prof. Herminigildo Ranera, the orchestra has showcased a diverse repertoire, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary works.

Tickets available at Ticketworld:

• P5000 VIP
• P3500 Orchestra Center
• P3000 Orchestra Sides
• P2000 Balcony Center
• P1500 Balcony Sides

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A Century in Symphony: MSO Opens Its Centennial Season with Sleeping Beauty

On March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 & 15, 2026 at 5PM, the MSO joins forces with Ballet Manila for a shared season opener at the Aliw Theater. Together, they present Sleeping Beauty, a production that celebrates two milestones: the MSO’s Centennial Season and Ballet Manila’s 40th Performance Season.

A Shared Milestone for Two Cultural Pillars
This collaboration is more than a performance—it is a historic convergence of two institutions that have shaped the Philippine performing arts landscape.

Both companies are among the few in the country with a sustained legacy of presenting full-length classical ballets with live orchestral accompaniment. In mounting Sleeping Beauty, they reaffirm a shared belief: that music and movement are universal languages, capable of expressing love, longing, triumph, and transcendence—even without words.

Under the baton of Russian conductor Alexander Vikulov, the MSO brings Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score to life in real time, elevating the ballet experience into something immersive and unforgettable.

Reimagining a Classic: Ballet Manila’s Sleeping Beauty
At the heart of the program is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66—presented in Ballet Manila’s distinctive version choreographed by the Philippines’ prima ballerina Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

This staging forms the third installment of Ballet Manila’s “Princess Trilogy,” following Cinderella and Snow White. But here, Princess Aurora’s story takes on deeper emotional nuance. The ballet opens with the “Dance of Aurora,” portraying her youthful innocence while subtly suggesting that her heart had already awakened to love long before her fateful slumber.

Tchaikovsky’s score moves with symphonic grandeur and lyrical elegance—from ceremonial marches and courtly dances to fairy variations and sweeping waltzes. Each character is painted in distinct musical color, shaped by intricate melodies and rich orchestration.

One of the evening’s most anticipated highlights is the Pas de Deux (No. 28), featuring a luminous solo violin passage performed by MSO Concertmaster Alessio Benvenuti. In this moment, the music does more than accompany the dancers—it carries the emotional pulse of the ballet, guiding audiences through tenderness, tension, romance, and celebration.

The Artists Behind the Magic

Ballet Manila
Known as the country’s most prolific ballet company, Ballet Manila trains its dancers in the Russian Vaganova method. Under Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s artistic direction, it has steadfastly pursued its mission: bringing ballet to the people—and bringing more people to the ballet.

Ballet Manila

Maestro Alexander Vikulov
A conductor of international distinction, Vikulov’s career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire. Having debuted at the Mariinsky Theatre in 2002, he has since collaborated with major institutions across Europe and Asia. His longstanding musical partnership with Ballet Manila ensures a seamless dialogue between orchestra and stage.

Maestro Alexander Vikulov

Manila Symphony Orchestra
Now at 100 years, the MSO remains one of the Philippines’ most active and enduring artistic institutions. Guided by Music Director Marlon Chen and Executive Director Jeffrey Solares, the orchestra continues to uphold international standards while nurturing the next generation of Filipino musicians through education and training programs.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

More Than a Concert—A Centennial Celebration
Sleeping Beauty is only the beginning of the MSO’s Centennial Season, themed “In Pursuit of Excellence.” The season lineup includes:

• Concert II – From Mozart to Mahler

• Concert III – 80 Years of Filipino-American Friendship

• Concert IV – Opera and Kundiman: The Legacy of Maestra Conching Rosal

• Concert V – Cellist Camille Thomas with the MSO

• Concert VI – World Premiere: Filipino Master Composers

(Programs, artists, dates, and venues are subject to change.)

For devoted concertgoers, the MSO All-Access Season Pass offers up to 50% savings, making it the perfect way to experience this landmark year in full.

The Manila Symphony Orchestra’s Centennial Season opens with Sleeping Beauty at the Aliw Theater, located within the CCP Complex in Pasay City. Performances are scheduled on March 13, 2026 at 8PM, and March 14 and 15, 2026 at 5PM. Tickets may be purchased via bit.ly/BuyTicketsBMSleepingBeauty. For updates, audiences may follow the Manila Symphony Orchestra on Facebook, Instagram (@manila.symphony), TikTok (@manilasymphonyorchestra), YouTube, and visit www.manilasymphony.com for more information.

As the curtain rises this March, Sleeping Beauty becomes more than a fairy tale. It becomes a symbol of legacy, resilience, and artistic excellence—proof that after a century, the music of the Manila Symphony Orchestra continues to awaken hearts.

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Manila Symphony Orchestra announces Centennial Concert Schedule for 2026

The Manila Symphony Orchestra beams with pride this 2026 as it celebrates its Centennial year bringing together music, legacy, collaboration, and learning through concerts, conversations, and community programs.

In Pursuit of Excellence: The Manila Symphony Orchestra at 100

A Celebration (1926-2026)
Presented by the Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc. and Standard Insurance

Concert I – Centennial Opening: The Sleeping Beauty
March 13 -15, 2026, Aliw Theater
Featuring Ballet Manila with Alexander Vikulov, conductor

The Manila Symphony Orchestra ushers in its Centennial Season with the timeless Tchaikovsky masterpiece, The Sleeping Beauty. This grand production brings to life the fairy-tale magic of Princess Aurora’s awakening. With lush orchestration, exquisite choreography, and visual splendor, this performance marks a truly magnificent opening to MSO’s 100th year celebration.

Ballet Manila is one of the Philippines’ foremost ballet companies, known for its high artistic standards, strong educational mission, and dedication to presenting classical and contemporary ballet to local and international audiences.

Alexander Vikulov is a Russian conductor of international distinction, trained at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, whose eminent career spans opera, symphonic, and ballet repertoire, with collaborations at leading institutions including the Mariinsky Theatre, Vienna State Opera, and Teatro Regio di Torino, and Ballet Manila.

Concert II – Rising Stars of the Philippines
May 30, 2026, Proscenium Theatre, Rockwell, Makati
Featuring: Jeanne Marquez (violin), Damodar Das Castillo (cello), and Joshua Dos Santos (conductor)

The future of Philippine music takes center stage as Jeanne Rafaella Marquez and Damodar Das Castillo join Joshua Dos Santos from Venezuela and the MSO for a showcase of youthful brilliance. The concert features Brahms’ Double Concerto in A minor, Op. 10 and other symphonic gems, celebrating both tradition and the promise of new artistic horizons. Supported by Standard Insurance, this evening shines a spotlight on the next century of Filipino talent.

Jeanne Rafaella Marquez is a Standard Insurance scholar, studying at The Juilliard School in New York. A Golden Medalist of the Vienna International Music Competition and recipient of the Philippine Ani ng Dangal Award, she has earned top prizes at major international competitions in New York, Singapore, and Manila.

Damodar Das Castillo is an MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar and a Mozarteum Alumnus in Salzburg, Austria. He is a top prize winner of five international music competitions, including Musica Goritiensis (Italy) and the International Anton Rubinstein Competition (Germany), and is the winner of the German Musical Instrument Prize 2012.

Joshua Dos Santos is recognized as one of the most accomplished young conductors to emerge from Venezuela’s National System of Youth Orchestras. He began conducting at the age of fifteen, and has conducted the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, maintaining close ties with the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth.

Concert III – Symphony of a Nation: 100 Years of Music, 80 Years of FilAm Friendship
July 4, 2026, Manila Metropolitan Theater
Featuring Emanuel John Villarin (violin) and Thanos Adamopoulos (conductor)

The MSO celebrates a century of Filipino creativity with a concert devoted to the nation’s most stirring orchestral works. The evening traces the evolution of Philippine symphonic expression, from its roots in tradition to its bold, contemporary voice. A musical portrait of a people, told through a hundred years of sound.

Emanuel John Villarin is an MSJO-Standard Insurance scholar and Hanns Eisler Scholar in Berlin, Germany. He is a first prize winner of the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (2020) and the National New York Young Performers Prize (2021). Thanos Adamopoulos is a Parisian conductor active across Europe, the United States, and Asia. He began his musical studies in Israel and, at the age of nineteen, and is the music director of the Chapelle de Larranie in Brussels and maintains a long standing artistic relationship with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, and the Asian Youth Orchestra.

Concert IV – Legacies in Song: MSO’s 100 Years and the Voice of Conching Rosal
August 29, 2026, FEU Auditorium
Featuring: Rachelle Gerodias – Park (soprano), Michelle Mariposa (mezzo-soprano), Byeong In Park (baritone), and Marlon Chen (conductor)

Celebrating the timeless union of voice and orchestra, the program includes Bizet’s Carmen excerpts and other operatic treasures, tracing the MSO’s legacy in vocal music over the past century. A lush evening of passion, drama, and melody that honors the orchestra’s lyrical heritage.

Rachelle Gerodias - Park is a winner of “The Outstanding Young Men” and “The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service” awards. She is also the first “Aliw Awards Hall of Fame” awardee for Best Female Classical Performer, thereby cementing what many have long known: that Ms. Gerodias is currently the country’s brightest gem in the field of opera and classical vocal performances.

Michelle Mariposa is a Filipino-Chinese mezzo-soprano, a Grand Finals Winner of the 2025 Metropolitan Opera Eric and Dominique Laffont Competition, and Winner of the 2023 Sullivan Foundation Award. Michelle completed her Master's degree in Voice and Opera Performance at Northwestern University, and her Bachelor’s degree in Voice and Psychology at the University of the Philippines, both summa cum laude.

Byeong In Park is an international Korean baritone who studied under acclaimed tenor Francisco Araiza at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Stuttgart, Germany. Since his studies in Germany, he has been actively performing in opera productions and concerts around Europe and Asia.

Marlon Chen is the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Manila Symphony Orchestra since 2019 who is acclaimed for his dynamic versatility across opera, ballet, symphonic, and chamber repertoire. He has guest-conducted leading orchestras worldwide, including Orchestre de Paris, MDR Leipzig, and the Baltic Sea Philharmonic, while holding key positions in the US and Mexico.

Concert V – Philippine Master Composers, Past, Present, and Future
October 24, 2026, Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University
Featuring New works by Ryan Cayabyab, Marlon Chen (conductor)

The grand finale of the Centennial Season is a sweeping tribute to the genius of Filipino composers across generations. The MSO presents the world premiere of a new work by Ryan Cayabyab, alongside masterpieces by other national icons. This historic gala concert brings together the country’s musical past and its bright creative future in one resounding celebration of national artistry.

Concert VI – MSO 100 Centennial Finale
January 2027, Venue: TBA
Featuring: Camille Thomas (cello), and Marlon Chen (conductor)

Bringing the Centennial Season to a resounding close, this grand finale celebrates a century of the MSO’s artistry and impact through a program of luminous orchestral works that reflect both gratitude for the past and hope for the future. Presented in partnership with UNICEF, the concert embodies the orchestra’s enduring mission to uplift, inspire, and give back through the universal language of music.

Franco-Belgian cellist Camille Thomas has been performing since the age of four and is acclaimed for her deeply expressive artistry, distinguished by exceptional technical refinement and emotional immediacy, qualities that have established her as one of the most compelling artists of her generation.

*program, artists, date, and venue subject to change

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The Manila Symphony Orchestra marks 100 Years with a historic anniversary concert

The Manila Symphony Orchestra opens its centennial season with a powerful evening of music and thanksgiving on January 22, 2026 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati. The MSO celebrates a hundred years of excellence by revisiting the very piece that launched its journey: Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3, performed exactly a century ago at its inaugural concert. Then conducted by founder Alexander Lippay, the work now returns under the baton of acclaimed Singaporean conductor Darrel Ang, bridging the orchestra’s rich past with its bright future.

Darren Ang, conductor

Joining the celebration is rising Chinese pianist Muyu Liu, who performs Beethoven’s majestic Emperor Concerto, a work known for its heroic opening and dazzling virtuosity. The concerto, written amid wartime tension in Vienna, remains one of Beethoven’s most beloved pieces for its grandeur and emotional depth.

Muyu Liu, pianist

The evening culminates in a resounding tribute to faith and Filipino musical spirit with two major works by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab. His award-winning Misa 2000, a sacred composition weaving together choral textures, orchestral color, and Filipino musical identity, is performed by the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers and the MSO under the direction of Prof. Mark Anthony Carpio. Cayabyab’s Te Deum follows—an uplifting, joy-filled hymn of praise that blends classical tradition with modern Filipino sensibility, offering a deeply moving finale to the centennial celebration.

Philippine Madrigal Singers

Prof. Mark Anthony Carpio

MSO Season 100 Lineup (2026–2027):

Concert I – Centennial Opening: The Sleeping Beauty
March 13–15, 2026 | Aliw Theater

Concert II – Centennial Rising Stars of the Philippines
May 30, 2026 | Proscenium Theatre

Concert III – Symphony of a Nation: 100 Years of Music, 80 Years of FilAm Friendship
July 4, 2026 | Manila Metropolitan Theater

Concert IV – Legacies in Song: MSO’s 100 Years and the Voice of Conching Rosal
August 29, 2026 | FEU Auditorium

Concert V – Centennial Finale Gala: Philippine Master Composers, Past, Present, and Future
October 2026 | Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University

Concert VI – MSO 100 Centennial Finale
January 2027 | Venue TBA

Program, artists, dates, and venues may change.

Tickets are now available via Ticketworld, with prices ranging from ₱1,800 to ₱5,000 across various seating zones. Audiences can also enjoy special offers, including a 50% student discount, 20% off for senior citizens and PWDs, and a limited 20% early bird discount using the code MSO100EB20 valid until December 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM.

Stay connected with the Manila Symphony Orchestra and get the latest updates on their centennial season by following them on YouTube and Facebook at Manila Symphony Orchestra, on Instagram at @manila.symphony, and on TikTok at @manilasymphonyorchestra. More details about their concerts, programs, and legacy are available on their official website: www.manilasymphony.com.

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11 Winners of the 2025 Manila Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition to Perform at the GSIS Theater on October 15

The stage is set for a spectacular evening of music as 11 outstanding young Filipino musicians—winners of the 2025 Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) Concerto Competition—take the spotlight in a Concert of Winners on October 15, 2025, 7:30 PM at the GSIS Theater.

These young artists were chosen from among 48 talented participants who auditioned nationwide, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry in classical performance.

The winning soloists are:

LEVEL A: 12 years old and below

  

Eliana Jimenez Mariano, Andrei Johann B. Lagda, Lois Quitane

• Eliana Jimenez Mariano, 10 – Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto in E Minor, 3rd Movement

• Andrei Johann B. Lagda, 10 – Carl Stamitz: Flute Concerto in G Major, 1st Movement

• Lois Quitane, 11 – Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole, 1st Movement

LEVEL B: 13–18 years old

  

Megan Phuan Zhiyan, Maura Mikaela Medina, Vittorio Vicenzo G. Vizcocho V

  

Zildjian Zachary N. Viray, William Hsu, Agung Dayaw A. Sicam

• Megan Phuan Zhiyan, 13 – Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 13 in C Major, 1st Movement

• Maura Mikaela Medina, 18 – Saint-Saëns: Violin Concerto No. 3 in B Minor

• Vittorio Vicenzo G. Vizcocho V, 16 – Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto in E Minor, 1st Movement

• Zildjian Zachary N. Viray, 18 – Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major, 1st Movement

• William Hsu, 18 – Paganini: Violin Concerto No. 1, Op. 6 in D Major, 1st Movement

• Agung Dayaw A. Sicam, 18 – Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez, 2nd Movement

LEVEL C: 19–25 years old

 

Joshua Agapito, Rey John C. Flores

• Joshua Agapito, 25 – Mozart: Flute Concerto in G Major, K313, 1st Movement

• Rey John C. Flores, 22 – Mozart: Flute Concerto No. 2 in D Major, 1st Movement

The winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges: Prof. Alessio Benvenuti, Ms. Mariel Ilusorio, Prof. Arnold Josue, Mr. Marc Ramirez, Mr. Angelo Mateo, Mr. Adrian Sison, and Prof. Ramoncito Carpio—all accomplished musicians and educators from the MSO and the Philippine classical music community.

The MSO Concerto Competition has a storied history dating back to the 1960s. Its past winners include legendary Filipino artists such as Cecile Licad, Raul Sunico, Corazon Pineda-Kabayao, and Cecilia Basilio-Roxas. The 2025 revival of this tradition is part of MSO’s year-long celebration leading up to its 100th Anniversary in 2026.

The concert will feature the winners performing with the MSO under the baton of Jeffrey Solares, Executive Director and Associate Conductor.

Tickets:

• Orchestra Center – ₱2,000

• Orchestra Sides – ₱1,000

• Balcony – ₱500
  50% discount for students; 20% discount for seniors and PWDs

Tickets are available at TicketWorld.

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Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert: A Night of Culture and Harmony

The Philippine Italian Association (PIA), together with the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and in partnership with Joel’s Place and 98.7 DZFE-FM The Master’s Touch, invites you to a remarkable evening of music and cultural exchange. The Filipino-Italian Chamber Music Concert will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Asia Pacific College Auditorium in Magallanes, Makati City, starting at 7:00 PM.

This unique concert brings together the richness of Filipino and Italian musical traditions in one unforgettable program. The evening features timeless works from European masters such as Rossini’s Sonata No. 1 in G Major, Tartini’s Sonata in G Minor (Didone Abbandonata), Debussy’s Piano Trio, and beloved themes from Ennio Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso and La Califfa. Adding a festive touch are classics like Funiculi Funicula.

Equally inspiring are the Filipino selections, including Nicanor Abelardo’s Cavatina, Mike Velarde’s Dahil Sa Iyo, Constancio de Guzman’s Bayan Ko, and well-loved folksongs such as Si Nanay Tatay Di Ko Babayaan, Ili-Ili Tulog Anay, and Salidumay.

At the helm of the performance is Maestro Alessio Benvenuti, concertmaster of the MSO and a distinguished violinist whose career spans more than 2,000 concerts across the world. He will be joined by an exceptional ensemble: Alfonso Encina (Violin II), Sara Gonzales (Viola), Arnold Josue (Cello), Lawrence Palad (Bass), and Mariel Ilusorio (Piano)—each bringing their artistry to create a stirring blend of sound and culture.

This collaboration reflects the shared mission of the Philippine Italian Association, now celebrating its 63rd year of fostering ties between Italy and the Philippines; the MSO, one of the oldest orchestras in Asia dedicated to nurturing Filipino musical talent; Joel’s Place, a modern lifestyle grocerant that champions global and local flavors; and 98.7 DZFE-FM, the country’s only classical music station, serving generations of listeners since 1954.

Tickets are priced at ₱1,500, with 20% discounts for Senior Citizens and PWDs and 10% off for PIA Members. For reservations, contact Ms. Jan Dacera at 0995 430 5118 or email philitalassociation@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of music, heritage, and cultural harmony. Follow the Philippine Italian Association on Facebook (The Philippine Italian Association) and Instagram (@philitalian) for updates.

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Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation announces the return of the MSO Concerto Competition 2025

The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation proudly announces the return of the MSO Concerto Competition 2025, a tradition that has shaped the country’s musical landscape since the 1960s and 1970s. For decades, this competition has provided a platform for young classical musicians to be discovered and nurtured, with many outstanding soloists having taken their first step on the MSO stage. This year, the orchestra continues its legacy of celebrating and elevating the next generation of Filipino talent.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025 gives gifted instrumentalists the chance to showcase their artistry, grow in musical expression, and experience the unique honor of performing as a soloist with a professional orchestra. The competition is open to strings, woodwinds, brasses, and piano, with three winners to be selected across three age categories: Level A (12 years old and below), Level B (13 to 18 years old), and Level C (19 to 25 years old). Applicants must prepare one complete movement from a standard Baroque, Classical, or Romantic concerto, performed from memory.

To apply, participants must submit a recent unedited video of their performance along with the official MSO application form, a valid ID, and the application fee of ₱1,000. All entries must be received by October 8, 2025. A screening panel of MSO musicians and guest adjudicators will evaluate submissions based on technical mastery, artistry, and musicality. The names of the nine winners—three from each category—will be announced by October 10, 2025.

Winners will have the chance to perform with the Manila Symphony Orchestra in the Concert of Winners on October 15, 2025, 7:30 PM at the GSIS Theater in Pasay City. Tickets are available via TicketWorld, priced at ₱2,000 for Orchestra Center, ₱1,000 for Orchestra Sides, and ₱500 for Balcony.

For more information, contact the Manila Symphony Orchestra – Circuit Makati Office at (02) 8523 5712, email info@manilasymphony.com, or visit www.manilasymphony.com.

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Dancing with Tchaikovsky: An Evening of Russian Romanticism with the MSO

 The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc., together with Standard Insurance and in partnership with EastWest Bank, proudly presents Dancing with Tchaikovsky on September 27, 2025 (Saturday), 7:30 PM at the Aliw Theater, Pasay City. This special concert highlights the timeless brilliance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed under the baton of Russian guest conductor Alexander Vikulov with cello prodigy Damodar Das Castillo, scholar of the MSJO–Standard Insurance International Scholarship Program.

The evening’s repertoire opens with Tchaikovsky’s Festival Coronation March (1883), a work of ceremonial grandeur originally composed for Tsar Alexander III’s coronation. The program continues with the Variations on a Rococo Theme (1877), a cornerstone of the cello repertoire that combines classical elegance with virtuosic brilliance, to be performed by Castillo. The concert concludes with the beloved Sleeping Beauty Suite (1889), capturing the grace of courtly dances and the enchantment of fairy-tale fantasy.

Guest conductor Alexander Vikulov brings a distinguished international career spanning opera, ballet, and symphonic music, with appearances at the Vienna State Opera, Finnish National Opera, Seoul Arts Center, Teatro Regio di Torino, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Currently musical director of Manila’s Star and Aliw Theaters, he continues to build cultural bridges through the universal language of music.

Alexander Vikulov, Russian conductor

Eighteen-year-old Damodar Das Castillo, hailed as one of the most promising young cellists of his generation, has garnered top prizes in international competitions across Europe, including Tallinn, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Vienna, and Italy. He studied at the Pre-College of Mozarteum University Salzburg under Prof. Barbara Lübke-Herzl and now performs on a George Gerl cello as part of his scholarship program.

Damodar Das Castillo, cellist

Founded in 1926, the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is one of Asia’s oldest orchestras and the Philippines’ longest surviving artistic institution. Approaching its centennial in 2026, the MSO remains committed to presenting world-class performances while nurturing Filipino musical talent under Music Director Marlon Chen and Associate Conductor Jeffrey Solares.

Manila Symphony Orchestra

Tickets are now available via TicketWorld. Prices range from ₱650 to ₱3,500, with discounts offered: 50% off for students (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYSTUDENT50), 20% off for seniors and PWDs (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYMSO20), and a 20% early bird discount until September 15, 2025 (Code: TCHAIKOVSKYEB20). Valid IDs must be presented upon entry.

Follow the Manila Symphony Orchestra on:
YouTube – Manila Symphony Orchestra
Facebook – Manila Symphony Orchestra
Instagram – @manila.symphony
TikTok – @manilasymphonyorchestra
Website – www.manilasymphony.com

For one night only, experience the grandeur of Russian Romanticism as the Manila Symphony Orchestra brings Tchaikovsky’s music to life at the Aliw Theater.

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Manila Symphony Orchestra presents Brazilian Guitar and Cello Concert on August 9

Mark your calendars: on August 9, 2025 (Saturday) at 7:30 PM, the Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc. and Standard Insurance, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil through the Guimarães Rosa Institute (IGR) and the Embassy of Brazil in Manila, present Brazilian Guitar and Cello at the Bayanihan Hall, Creative Arts Centre, British School Manila, BGC Taguig City.

This unique concert shines a spotlight on some of Brazil’s—and the world’s—most talented artists: internationally celebrated guitarist Fabio Zanon, Juilliard-trained cellist Fabio Presgrave, award-winning Filipina soprano Stephanie Quintin, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s very own dynamic conductor, Marlon Chen.

Fabio Zanon, guitarist

Fabio Presgrave, cellist

Stephanie Quintin-Avila, soprano

Maes. Marlon Chen

What makes this concert so special? It’s more than a musical performance—it’s a global fusion of cultures and styles. The repertoire spans Latin rhythms, classical masterpieces, and bold contemporary expressions. It’s a celebration of musical storytelling that speaks across borders.

PART 1 opens with Bachianas Brasileiras No. 7 by the legendary Heitor Villa-Lobos. This piece is a gorgeous mix of Brazilian folk rhythms and Baroque structure—think Bach meets Rio. Then comes Concierto de Cámara by Jeffrey Ching, a symbolic “quintuple concerto” that fuses musical influences from five different cultures. It’s abstract, poetic, and definitely something you won’t hear every day.

PART 2 gets groovy with Concerto No. 4 for Guitar and Strings by Radamés Gnattali, blending classical form with jazz, samba, and bossa nova in one smooth, lyrical ride. Le Grand Tango by Astor Piazzolla follows—an intense, sultry piece originally written for cello legend Mstislav Rostropovich. The evening closes with another Villa-Lobos gem: Ária and Dança from Bachianas Brasileiras No. 4, which will transport you straight into the heart of Brazil’s musical soul.

Fabio Zanon is a legend in the guitar world—he’s won some of the biggest international guitar competitions and has performed in over 40 countries. Fabio Presgrave, born in Rio and trained at Juilliard, has played with top orchestras around the world. Stephanie Quintin-Avila, a rising star soprano, is known for her vocal agility and expressive range, and Marlon Chen brings the entire performance together with his signature energy and flair.

This concert is also a highlight in MSO’s exciting 2025–2026 season. Look out for upcoming shows like the Philippines-China Friendship Concert on September 7, Dancing with Tchaikovsky on September 27, and MSO’s landmark 100th Anniversary Concert on January 22, 2026—a celebration nearly a century in the making!

🎟️ Tickets for Brazilian Guitar and Cello:

• VIP: ₱3,500

• Premium Patron: ₱2,800

• Regular Patron: ₱1,700

• General Admission: ₱800
  Available via TicketWorld

For more concert info, artist bios, and season updates, visit www.manilasymphony.com. Don’t miss this chance to experience a night of rhythm, harmony, and musical brilliance—Brazilian-style!

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This Epic Fairytale Show Is 50% Off for Students — But Only for One Night!

Here’s one event you don’t want to miss—especially if you’re a student looking for something fun, cultural, and totally worth your weekend. Peter and the Wolf & Little Red Riding Hood is coming to The Theatre at Solaire from August 1 to 3, and for the Sunday, August 3, 7 PM show, students get a massive 50% discount on tickets!

 

Now, what makes this show so special? For the first time in Philippine performing arts history, three iconic institutions—Ballet Philippines, Repertory Philippines, and the Manila Symphony Orchestra—are joining forces on one stage. That’s dance, theater, and live orchestral music all in one magical performance. It’s not every day you get to experience that kind of creative power in a single night.

The show features Peter and the Wolf, the beloved musical tale by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev. It’s such a fun and clever piece where every character is represented by a different instrument. The bird? A flute. The duck? An oboe. The cat is a clarinet, and so on. It’s like storytelling through sound, and when combined with visuals and movement, it becomes something truly unforgettable.

Paired with that is Little Red Riding Hood, told through ballet, with music by Camille Saint-Saëns and Edvard Grieg. It’s a fresh take on the classic fairytale, reimagined to highlight courage, curiosity, and the magic of kindness. Plus, it’s super kid-friendly—so yes, bring your siblings, cousins, even your lola if she’s into fairytales with a twist.

The production runs for just five shows from August 1 to 3, with matinees and evening performances. But if you're aiming for a steal, August 3 at 7 PM is the sweet spot for students. Just head to TicketWorld and use the promo code PETERAUG37PMSTUDENT50 to slash your ticket price in half. Don’t forget to bring your school ID on the day of the show, or they might not let you in on the deal. Here's the link to book: Ticketworld.

For bulk bookings or barkada buys, you can also shoot an email to marketing.manilasymphony@gmail.com.

Honestly, this is the kind of event that hits all the right notes—literally and figuratively. It’s fun, artistic, enriching, and yes, affordable if you’re a student. So if you're into music, theater, ballet, or just looking for something different to do, this show is the perfect way to spend your Sunday night.

Catch it while you can. Trust me, you’ll want to say you were there when three of the country’s finest came together for one unforgettable performance.

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MSO’s Triple Treat: Watch 2 Concerts, Get 1 Free Ticket!

Get ready for a whirlwind of world-class music, storytelling, and cultural celebration as the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) unveils a thrilling concert bundle that’s too good to miss! This season, MSO is giving music lovers a chance to catch two unforgettable performances and receive a complimentary ticket to one of the most anticipated events of the year: “Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto”, MSO’s 4th Season Concert.

Here’s how it works: Choose any two concerts from MSO’s exciting upcoming lineup and you’ll get one free ticket to "Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto." It’s a rare opportunity to dive deep into diverse musical experiences and enjoy a bonus performance on the house.

Concert #1: DUYOG – The 1st Bohol International Youth Orchestra Festival Celebration Concert
Featuring the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra and Children's Orchestra Society New York, this collaboration of young talent from around the globe hits the stage on July 12, 2025, 7:30PM at GSIS Theater, Pasay City. Witness the future of orchestral music in one inspiring evening!

Concert #2: Peter and the Wolf & Little Red Riding Hood
In this unique performance, MSO teams up with Ballet Philippines and Repertory Philippines to reimagine two classic tales through music, dance, and drama. Happening on August 3, 2025, 7PM at The Theater at Solaire, this family-friendly concert promises to be a magical night for all ages.

Concert #3: Brazilian Guitar and Cello
Experience a rich fusion of sound with celebrated Brazilian artists Fabio Zanon (guitar) and Fabio Presgrave (cello), joined by soprano Stephanie Quintin and conductor Marlon Chen. Set for August 9, 2025, 7:30PM at Bayanihan Hall, British School Manila, BGC, this is a must-see for lovers of Latin music and virtuosic performance.

BONUS for MSO Season 99 Subscribers: For every pair of tickets purchased—one for “Duyog” and one for “Peter and the Wolf”—subscribers get an extra complimentary ticket to “Butterfly Lovers – Yellow River Concerto,” on top of their season perks!

Secure your seats and register now via this link: https://forms.gle/kiBjAgN4NhzxQ8hX7

Whether you're into orchestral classics, theatrical fables, or cross-cultural collaborations, MSO’s Triple Treat is your passport to a season of unforgettable performances. Don’t miss out!

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