Manila Symphony Orchestra Launches Its 99th Season with "Music for Peace" Concert on May 24

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Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and meaning!

The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) proudly opens its 99th season with a powerful and inspiring concert, "Music for Peace," happening on May 24, 2025, 7:30 PM at the Aliw Theater, CCP Grounds, Pasay City.

This marks the beginning of the MSO’s Season 99: In Pursuit of Excellence, a historic milestone leading up to their 100th anniversary celebration in 2026. Founded in 1926, the MSO remains one of Asia’s oldest orchestras and the Philippines' longest-surviving artistic institution—an enduring symbol of resilience, culture, and unity.

A Tribute to Peace and Renewal

The "Music for Peace" concert commemorates the 80th anniversary of MSO’s post-liberation concerts from 1945–1946, honoring music’s role in rebuilding a nation. It will feature two monumental works:

🎻 Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61, with Berlin-based Filipino violinist Emanuel John Villarin as soloist
🎼 Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 "From the New World", a timeless tribute to hope and new beginnings

These pieces were part of MSO’s postwar concerts and symbolize how music healed a country scarred by conflict.

World-Class Talent on One Stage

Conducting the evening’s program is Marlon Chen, MSO’s dynamic Music Director and Principal Conductor. His international artistry has graced opera houses and concert halls across four continents, from Paris to Singapore to Brazil.

Joining him is the incredible Emanuel John Villarin (EJ), a shining star of Filipino classical music. A proud pioneer of the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra and an awardee of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts' Ani ng Dangal, EJ is currently honing his craft at the prestigious Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler in Berlin.

Their collaboration promises a night of world-class performances that honor the past while looking to the future.

A Season to Celebrate: The Road to 100

Following "Music for Peace," the MSO’s Season 99 promises a rich and diverse lineup:

  • June 28, 2025: A Night in Hollywood — Film music and cello highlights

  • August 9, 2025: Brazilian Guitar and Cello — A vibrant tribute to South American sounds

  • September 7, 2025: Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto — Featuring music for orchestra and children's choir

  • September 27, 2025: Dancing with Tchaikovsky — Ballet suites and cello masterpieces

  • January 22, 2026: The MSO 100th Anniversary Concert — A grand centennial event at Samsung Performing Arts Theater

(*Dates and venues subject to change.)

The 2025–2026 season reflects MSO’s commitment to cultural excellence, international collaborations, and showcasing the next generation of Filipino talents.

Tickets and Exclusive Discounts

Tickets are now available at TicketWorld:
🔗 Click here to book

🎟️ Early Bird Offer: 20% off with code MUSICFORPEACEEB20 (until April 25, 2025)
🎟️ 20% off for Senior Citizens, PWDs, and Diplomats
🎟️ 50% off for Students with code MUSICFORPEACESTUDENT50 (valid ID required on concert day)
🎟️ Save up to 50% with a Season 99 All-Access Membership: Become a Member

For subscription inquiries, contact Ms. Riva Ferrer, MSO Marketing Manager, at +63 917-850-1774 or visit www.manilasymphony.com.

Let’s Celebrate Music, Peace, and Excellence Together

The Manila Symphony Orchestra’s journey—through wars, liberation, and renewal—has made it a cornerstone of Filipino cultural heritage. As the MSO steps closer to its centennial, each concert in Season 99 offers a chance to reflect, rejoice, and reimagine what the next century of Philippine music will look like.

Don't miss the start of this extraordinary celebration.
See you at "Music for Peace" on May 24!

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

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