ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra to hold inaugural concert on August 18

Composed of 40 musicians under the baton of Gerard Salonga, ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra is established through the collaborative efforts of ABS-CBN and Philippine Holdings Corp. Recently, the orchestra performed at the Dolphy Theater of ABS-CBN for a press conference, which sported the famous “Laki sa Layaw” that was appreciated by many. Salonga interacted with the audience and exhorted the importance of music. He also removed any inhibitions of the audience for appreciation of symphony music like for instance, clapping. The mission of the orchestra, according to Salonga, is to perform, do recordings, conduct outreach programs and make symphony music be known to the country. The inaugural concert is slated at the BDO Francisco Santiago Hall in Makati on August 18 and on September 2 the orchestra will hold a tribute concert for John Williams, American composer and conductor, at the Meralco Theater. Williams is best known for his movie themes for Indiana Jones, E.T., Star Wars and Superman. (Philippine Daily Inquirer)