#CulturePH - A Century in Harmony: Why the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s 100th Anniversary Is the Concert of a Lifetime
How often do you get to witness a hundred years of music, history, and community come together in one unforgettable night? That’s exactly what’s happening this January, as the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) celebrates its centennial season—a milestone that feels as much about the future as it does about the past.
Picture this: the same Beethoven overture that echoed through Manila a century ago, now filling the Samsung Performing Arts Theater with the same sense of hope and triumph. It’s not just a concert—it’s a living time capsule. The MSO is bringing back Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3, the very piece that launched their journey in 1926. This time, it’s under the baton of Singaporean guest conductor Darrel Ang, and you can almost imagine the ghosts of concerts past nodding in approval.
But the night isn’t just about looking back. Rising star pianist Muyu Liu will take on Beethoven’s “Emperor Concerto,” a piece that’s all about boldness and beauty, written during a time of upheaval but brimming with optimism. It’s the kind of music that makes you sit up a little straighter and remember that even in chaos, there’s room for something majestic.
And because no Filipino celebration is complete without a touch of homegrown brilliance, the program closes with works by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab. His “Misa 2000” and “Te Deum,” performed with the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, promise a finale that’s both grand and deeply personal—a blend of Western tradition and Filipino soul, all in one sweeping, joyful sound.
What I love most about this centennial isn’t just the music (though, let’s be honest, it’s world-class). It’s the sense of gratitude and community that runs through every note. The MSO isn’t just marking a date on the calendar—they’re honoring a legacy of resilience, creativity, and service to the Filipino spirit. It’s a reminder that music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a thread that weaves us all together, generation after generation.
And the celebration doesn’t stop with one concert. The MSO’s centennial season is packed with performances that spotlight everything from rising stars to Filipino master composers, each show a new chapter in a story that’s still being written.
So whether you’re a lifelong classical fan or just curious about what a hundred years of music sounds like, this is your invitation to be part of something truly special. Grab your tickets, bring a friend, and let yourself get swept up in the magic of a century in harmony. Because moments like this don’t come around every day—and when they do, they’re worth celebrating.
Comments
Post a Comment