MSO celebrated its 100 years with a Centennial Season Concert featuring cellist Camille Thomas, PUP BHS, and the world premiere of Pasasalamat.
Words Rolan Muyot
Photo courtesy of Manila Symphony Orchestra
November 11, 2026
At its heart, music has its way to connect people. It can be through the shared relatability to the lyrics or just simply having the same way of appreciating its melodies.
And beyond words, music allows everyone to experience and be thankful for life’s journey worthy of Pasasalamat. That is what the Manila Symphony Orchestra made everyone feel during their Centennial Concert V at the Proscenium Theatre last October 22.
As part of their year-long centennial season concert, MSO celebrated its journey as the longest surviving institution that has been part of Philippine musical life and history, inviting the audiences to see the role of music in bringing people together and strengthening the communities it serves.
The two-part concert featured the internationally acclaimed Franco-Belgian cellist Camille Thomas and Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ very own Bagong Himig Serenata.
Under the baton of Maestro Marlon Chen, PUP BHS opened the night with Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, Op. 48. It was followed by the performances from two featured soloists Ruzzel Clemeno (baritone) and Angeli Benipayo (soprano).
After the intermission, cellist Thomas, in her yellow dress, graced the stage with her heartfelt performance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Variations on Rococo Theme, Op. 33. With her performances of exceptional and emotional depth and technical elegance, the cellist received multiple standing ovations from the members of the audience.
The night concluded with the world premiere of Pasasalamat for choir and orchestra composed by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab and text by National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario.
Pasasalamat reflects on the meaning of gratitude not only as a feeling, but a responsibility to the community, showcasing how music serves as a way to bring people together.
In January 2027, MSO will have its Concert VI with World Premier: Filipino Master Composers. Other details will be announced further.
