The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO), the Philippines’ premier symphonic institution, is set to celebrate a historic milestone in 2026: its 100th anniversary.

Marking a century of musical excellence, the MSO is presenting a year-long concert series that will highlight the rich diversity of orchestral, vocal, ballet, and Philippine music traditions.

Spanning from March 2026 to January 2027, the centennial series promises an ambitious lineup of performances that pay tribute to the orchestra’s past while embracing the future of Philippine music.

The celebrations will kick off with Concert I – Centennial Opening: “The Sleeping Beauty” from March 13 to 15, 2026, at the Aliw Theater, featuring a collaboration with Ballet Manila under the baton of Alexander Vikulov.

This grand opening will merge the timeless artistry of classical ballet with MSO’s signature orchestral depth.

On May 30, 2026, the Rising Stars of the Philippines concert will spotlight young Filipino talent at the Proscenium Theatre, Rockwell, Makati.

Violinist Jeanne Rafaella Marquez, cellist Damodar Das Castillo, and conductor Joshua Dos Santos will showcase the country’s next generation of classical musicians.

The celebration continues on August 29, 2026, with Legacies in Song: MSO’s 100 Years and the Voice of Conching Rosal at the FEU Auditorium, highlighting the rich vocal traditions that have shaped Philippine music.

The program will feature soprano Rachelle Gerodias-Park, mezzo-soprano Michelle Mariposa, baritone Byeong In Park, and conductor Marlon Chen, honoring the enduring influence of iconic singer Conching Rosal.

Philippine Master Composers, Past, Present, and Future, set for October 24, 2026, at Hyundai Hall, Areté, Ateneo de Manila University, will celebrate the nation’s compositional legacy.

The evening will include a new work by legendary composer Ryan Cayabyab, conducted by Marlon Chen, reflecting the evolution of Filipino music across generations.

The centennial series will culminate in the MSO 100 Centennial Finale in January 2027. While the venue is yet to be announced, the grand finale promises a stellar performance with world-class cellist Camille Thomas under the direction of Marlon Chen, closing a year of musical milestones with elegance and artistry.

From honoring the masters to nurturing rising talent, the MSO’s centennial series is more than a celebration of 100 years—it is a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, unite, and elevate Filipino culture.