The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is thrilled to announce its grand 25th anniversary concert, “Lights, Camera, Encore” happening this October 29, 7 p.m. at The Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Ayala Malls Circuit Makati.
From the soaring melodies of Broadway classics to the heart-wrenching themes of iconic movie and television soundtracks, “Lights, Camera, Encore” will take listeners on a captivating musical journey to commemorate over two decades of Manila’s premier orchestra.
Audiences can look forward to a stacked setlist with songs from the likes of Hamilton, A Star is Born, Star Wars, La La Land, Les Misérables, Game of Thrones, and select Studio Ghibli films.
These songs will be performed by MPO members past and present, forming an over 80-piece orchestra. They will be accompanied by musical guests Bituin Escalante, Lara Maigue, Arman Ferrer, the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and the University of Santo Tomas Singers.
Leading the orchestra that night will be its founder and music director, Maestro Rodel Colmenar, a renowned conductor known for inspiring audiences through the beauty and power of music. As a conductor, Colmenar has collaborated with several outstanding local and foreign classical artists, including French pianist Alexandre Tharaud, as well as FilipinoOPM greats Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Lani Misalucha, and Regine Velasquez. More recently, the MPO also collaborated with Icelandic jazz-pop sensation, Laufey for two sold-out shows last May.
Founded in 1998, the MPO began with the goal of bringing the symphony closer to Filipino audiences through performances of classics and contemporary music. It has since established itself as a premier orchestra in the Philippines known for its world-class performances.
“Reflecting on the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra’s journey to its 25th anniversary, the feeling is one of profound achievement and fulfillment,” shares Manila Philharmonic Vice President Marijo Colmenar. “What began as a ‘sideline gig’ has transformed into a cornerstone of the Philippine music scene. ‘Lights, Camera, Encore’ is a celebration of MPO’s commitment to its mission and we are thrilled to have had the opportunity to touch so many lives through our music.”
The concert is a way for the orchestra to give back. Proceeds from the event will go to PARCaralan, a project of MPO and the PARC Foundation that serves as a creative hub for underprivileged youth and struggling local artists to excel in performing arts.
A portion will also be used for the benefit of MPO’s member musicians, many of who endured financial and health-related hardships during the pandemic. “It is our sincere hope that through this event, we can provide much-needed support to our musicians and alleviate some of the burdens they have endured,” adds Colmenar.
“Lights, Camera, Encore” marks a significant milestone in the orchestra’s journey, and it promises to be a night to remember. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate 25 years of musical excellence with the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.
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