MANILA, Philippines (July 2026) — A historic homecoming filled the Metropolitan Theater with music as the nation’s oldest orchestra celebrated 80 years of Pinoy freedom.
The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) held its third centennial concert titled “LIBERATION: Celebrating 80 Years of the Philippine Republic” on July 4. This event marked a symbolic return to The Met, a venue that has been part of the orchestra’s history since the theater opened in 1931. The performance also honored the original gala held on July 5, 1946, which took place just one day after the Republic was inaugurated at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
A bridge between nations
The program highlighted the cultural ties between the Philippines and the United States from the last eight decades. It featured a mix of music from Pinoy National Artists and American composers to show how the two nations have influenced each other.
Under guest conductor Jose Reyna Jr., the MSO performed “Youth,” a composition by Col. Antonino Buenaventura that first premiered at the 1946 gala. Buenaventura later became a National Artist for Music, and his piece captured the hope of a nation recovering from World War II.
Honoring Pinoy legends
The orchestra also played “Concerto in D Minor” for Violin and Orchestra by another National Artist, Lucio San Pedro. Written in 1948 after his time at the Juilliard School, it is the first complete violin concerto by a Pinoy composer. Soloist Jeanne Marquez, a recent Juilliard graduate, brought the piece to life with a performance that showcased its unique Pinoy flavor and romantic style.
Continuing the dream
This concert was more than just a look back at the past. By bringing in young artists like Reyna and the Marquez siblings, the orchestra showed its dedication to the next generation of talent.
Jeffrey Solares of the MSO Foundation, Inc. said the goal is to keep the dream of its founders alive. He hopes that in 100 years, the MSO will still be a way for talented musicians to make a living and a regular part of the cultural life of every Pinoy. Solares believes that practicing orchestral music can help transform young people by teaching them discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
The MSO presented the event alongside Standard Insurance, EastWest Bank, PAGCOR, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and The Metropolitan Theater.
Note: Ticket pricing and availability for future MSO performances were not provided in the announcement.
