Manila Symphony Orchestra honors Conching Rosal in ‘Opera at Kundiman’ centennial concert

Orchestra returns to FEU Auditorium for historic tribute marking Rosal’s 100th birth anniversary and its 100th season.

In a historic tribute to one of the Philippines’ defining classical voices, the Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is returning to its 1950s home, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Auditorium, on August 29.

The upcoming concert, titled “Opera at Kundiman: The Legacy of Maestra Conching Rosal,” marks a dual milestone: the MSO’s centennial season and the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary soprano.

Exactly 70 years ago, on August 29, 1956, the MSO staged Georges Bizet’s “Carmen” at the very same Art Deco venue. Uniquely, the classic French opera was performed entirely in Tagalog. A young Conching Rosal took on the title role, cementing her status as a premier Philippine opera singer.

Born in Batangas in 1926, Rosal went on to dominate the local operatic stage while simultaneously championing traditional Filipino art songs, immortalizing the works of local composers through her acclaimed kundiman recordings.

Seeking to recreate this remarkable era in Philippine musical history, MSO Music Director Maestro Marlon Chen will lead a highly celebrated roster of artists. The program will feature classical Filipino vocal works by Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Leopoldo Silos, Constancio de Guzman, and Manuel Velez, alongside historic Tagalog excerpts from Bizet’s “Carmen.”

Bringing the repertoire to life are world-class vocalists Rachelle Gerodias-Park, Michelle Mariposa, Arthur Espiritu, and Byeong-In Park, backed by the MSO, the FEU Chorale, and the FEU Dance Company.

Audiences looking to experience this cultural milestone can secure their seats through TicketWorld. Ticket tiers are set at ₱5,000 for VIP, ₱3,500 for Premium Patron, ₱3,000 for Regular Patron A, ₱2,500 for Regular Patron B, ₱2,000 for General Admission A, and ₱1,000 for General Admission B.

Students can avail of a 50 percent discount, while seniors, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and diplomats are entitled to a 20 percent markdown. Additionally, buyers can use the promo code CONCHINGEB20 to receive a 20 percent early bird discount on all purchases made before 11:59 PM on August 14.

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